15 Things You Didn't Know About Fruits

15 Things You Didn't Know About Fruits

Watermelon beats the scorching summer heat with 95% water and its electrolytes. It wards off unwanted pesticides with its think rind and harbours enormous vitamin A, lycopene and an antioxidant - glutathione preroxidase present at the red pulpy area close to the rind. The white rind which we commonly discard as tasteless contains Citrulline, an amino acid that produces the vasodilator - nitric oxide.  The ability of citrulline to convert to L-arginine promotes heart health. It is worthy to note the edible watermelon seeds hide tryptophan, B vitamins and are relatively rich in proteins and lipids.

Cantaloupe/muskmelon is an excellent source of phytochemicals – vitamin A and C. Lesser known is it being rich in an enzymatic antioxidant known as superoxide dismutase (SOD) which is essential for maintaining strong defence with enhanced reactive oxygen species scavenging capacity to combat stress in the human body.

Kiwi fruit with vitamin C, vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids from its numerous edible seeds have potential properties of a natural blood thinner. It also has a protein-dissolving enzyme actinidin that digests proteins. Skip Kiwi in desserts containing milk or dairy  as it will dissolve milk

Pomegranate an exotic fruit is an antidote for heart ailments due to its polyphenolic anti-oxidant compound - punicalagin. Pomegranate seeds are high in inflammatory fighting elagitannins, quercetin and anthocyanins. Pomegranate tea is known to lower cholesterol and reduce LDL oxidation. What you may have not known is Pomegranate rind or peel extract which is a decoction, is packed with phenolics, flavonoids and proanthocyanidines that is traditionally used to treat diarrhoea, dysentery or intestinal parasites.

Citrus fruits are synonymous to vitamin C and vitality. Well you may be allured with vitamin C loaded orange juice but ascorbic acid on exposure to light and air gets oxidized to dehydroascorbic acid, highly unstable and further breaks down to 2,3-diketo-L-gulonic acid. It is wise to eat citrus fruits whole.

Star fruit, Bilimbi or Carambola with its high vitamin A, vitamin C and zinc content is used as a cure for acne and oily skin. The extract of the fruit possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties. The scientists were awed with high total oxidizing activity or TAA of Star fruit due to proanythocyanidin compound epicatechin.

Rope in raw Papaya as meat tenderizer, as it has a powerful digestive enzyme papain/papinase that breaks down tough meat fibres. Marinating meat with chunks of raw papaya, especially the deeply pared skin yields a sumptuous and soft texture to the meat. Papain is also anti-inflammatory.  Unripe papaya in large amounts can be an effective abortant.

Amla is a powerhouse of vitamin C, harbouring 20 times more that of an Orange. Many are averse to the pungent - astringent¬ taste of Amla. The vitamin C in Amla is present in a complex form. What is intriguing is Amla retains substantial vitamin C, unlike other sources in spite of drying, powdering or even when boiled for a few minutes. Traditionally, Amla murabba ( Amla soaked in honey) was used early morning for its health benefits.

Our own berry of India – Zizyphus, commonly known as Ber or Jujuba is under-utilized. It is very high in vitamin C. The extract of boiled fruit is used medicinally as tea, to treat sore throat. Jujuboside A – a chemical found in Ber is used to treat insomnia and anxiety as the saponins of the extract mimic sedation.

Avocado, the only fruit with high fat content of 25% is high in mono-unsaturated fats. It is an antioxidant that increases the good cholesterol - HDL. The seed or pit of the Avocado is rich in nutrition and has a long history of medicinal use in traditional culture. The ground Avocado seed can be used in smoothies and other foods. The aqueous extract of the seed is known to control hyperglycemia(high blood sugar).

Pineapple, an excellent source of vitamin C is a natural digestive aid and a meat tenderizer as it contains a proteolytic enzyme - bromelain. It has potent anti-inflammatory properties and significantly alleviates symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, sinusitis, gout, sore throat or inflammation due to surgery or physical injury. It also helps in fat burning and weight loss due to its thermic effect.

Guava, a powerhouse of vitamin C, protects us from cold and flu with 4 - 10 times more vitamin C than citrus fruits.. Some are dissuaded from consuming this marvellous fruit due to its seedy core.  Those may seek solace in the rind that contains exceptionally higher levels of vitamin C than the seedy central pulp.

Apples contain quercetin an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It also has considerable amounts of pectin, a soluble dietary fibre, known to reduce blood cholesterol level, help burn body fat, improve gut flora and help in binding loose stools, typically therefore used in diarrhoea.

Grapes have garnered attention due to its polyphenol - resveratrol that promotes longevity and several antioxidants shielding cardiovascular system. Grapes contain ellagic acid. Anthocyanins, found abundantly in red grapes and Catechins, a type of flavonoid found in green varieties also have health promoting effects. Grapes seeds also offer essential fatty acids and tocopherol. 

Tamarind pulp is commonly used in Asian cuisine and Worcestershire sauce due to its pleasing sour flavor. It aids constipation due to its laxative effect and is anti-helmintic, antibacterial and hypolipidemic. The fruit may promote eye health as it moistens cornea and researchers are investigating its chemical content similar to mucin that is known to wet the eye.

Some fruits like apple, banana, when cut turn brown on exposure to air. This unappealing browning can be avoided by coating the sliced fruit with a layer of sugar, salt or lime juice.

Fruits in rainbow colors synergistically boost immunity, revive and rejuvenate health and well-being.

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6 rare - and healthy - fruits

6 rare - and healthy - fruits 

Our supermarket aisles store only a small portion of Mother Nature’s true bounty.

Strolling down your supermarket aisles you feel the satisfaction of finding a wide variety of fruits to choose from right. But those are just small portions of Mother Nature’s true bounty, which has many more exotic treats to offer. There are many exotic varieties of fruit that you might have missed out on. These fruits are not only unusual but healthy as well. Allow us to introduce you to six such exotic fruits and their health benefits.

Dragon Fruit

The name of this beautiful dark red fruit with scaly thin rind may bring in a little hostility towards it, but Dragon Fruit is quite beneficial in treating skin problems such as acne and aging. Also known as Pitaya, it is helpful in regulating cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This fruit is rich source of antioxidants that prevent the development of chronic diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and cataracts.

Cherimoya

Also known as the custard apple, this ‘magic’ fruit is believed to be high in calories but has no saturated fats or cholesterol. It is a rich source of Vitamin C, which would add powerful natural antioxidants in your body. Cherimoya is quite beneficial for those suffering with anaemia, diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, stomach cramps, and other related problems. Cherimoya has a sweet and pleasant flavor that has been described as a cross between banana and pineapple. Little left to doubt as to why Mark Twain had called Cherimoya, “The most delicious fruit known to men.”

Sharon Fruit

It is a variety of Persimmons, which comes from Israel. Sharon fruit is rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C and Beta-carotene, which is an organic compound. It is a rich source of dietary fabric and it has antioxidants that are quite good for the skin. It is a sweet tasting fruit and is a fine source of minerals like sodium, magnesium, iron, potassium and manganese. 

Pomelo

Popularly called the grandfather of grapefruit, Pomelo is native to Malaysia and Southeast Asia. It is highly loaded with Vitamin C which strengthens your immune system. This citrus fruit is good for the heart and contains enzymes that help burn fat faster. Pomelo also helps in getting rid impurities and toxins out of the body. For all the dieters and people with gym subscriptions, Pomelo could prove to be a good addition to the table fruit basket, as it is low in calories and fat.

Kiwi Fruit

Most of us have heard and eaten Kiwi, but the unusual part about this fruit is its benefits. It is a storehouse of vitamins, flavonoids and minerals. Kiwi helps in reducing age-related macular degeneration. Study has also shown that Kiwi fruit helps in reducing shortness of breath by 32 per cent and chronic cough by 25 per cent. In a nutshell, it provides an effective prevention against asthma, colon cancer and it is also good for skin and digestive health.

Durain

This exotic fruit, native to South East Asia, has bagged mixed reviews from the people, due to its unusal taste. It is usually imported only on special demand by select fruit stores in India. Durian is revered as the ‘king of fruits’ by South Africans because of its various health benefits. It is good for cleaning out blood impurities and is good for muscle build up. It is also considered to be a powerful aphrodisiac fruit that enhances sexual desires. There are people who are absolutely in love with the fruit and say it takes time to grow on you but it shall definitely be an experience worth trying.

So, next time you are thinking about buying fruits, include some of these exotic varieties in your basket.

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Natural Wonders – Oats

Natural Wonders – Oats

Kick-start your day with a low-calorie, energy giving breakfast to take you through your hectic morning schedule!

Oats and its nutrients:

Oats is a species of cereal grain grown for its seed. High in fibre, while oats are primarily used as livestock feed, it is suitable for human consumption in the form of oatmeal and rolled oats. This grain gains its distinctive flavour from the roasting process it undergoes after it’s harvested and cleaned. This process, however, does not strip it off its fibre and other nutrients.

Oats are high in magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, selenium, magnesium and zinc. It’s a good source of carbohydrates and proteins; in addition it is high in dietary fibre content and is also low fat.

Health benefits of oats:

Lowers cholesterol: One of the biggest known benefits of oats is its cholesterol lowering properties. Oats contain a soluble fibre called beta-glucans. This soluble fibre helps reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) and thereby cuts risk of heart disease. One study indicates that a bowl of oatmeal daily reduces risk of cardiovascular disease by 10%.

Reduces high blood sugar: Oats has a low-glycaemic index and contains high amounts of fibre, which helps normalise sugar spikes. Type 2 diabetes patients can benefit tremendously by eating oats daily.

Reduces weight: The soluble fibre in oats forms a gel when digested. This increases the viscosity in the small intestine and stomach, leaving one feeling fuller for longer thus aiding weight loss. In addition to that oats is a low-fat food making it ideal for weight loss.

Boosts immunity: Selenium and vitamin-E present in oats strengthens the immune system aiding its fight against infections. Oats also cinatins zinc, which helps heal wounds and growth of new cells.

Improves digestion: The high fibre content in oats makes it an ideal food for those suffering from constipation, colitis and other digestive problems.

Reduces risk of cancer: Phytochemicals present in oats help prevent cancer, especially breast and colon cancer.

Strengthens bones: Oats are rich in calcium, phosphorous and magnesium which helps strengthen bones and cut risk of osteoporosis.

Good for skin: Oatmeal makes for a good skin exfoliator. It also helps heal dry and flaky skin, eczema and other skin conditions.

Energy giver: Oats has a high carbohydrate content, which it makes it an excellent source of energy. Other nutrients such as phosphorus, vitamin-B, magnesium and iron — all of which help in energy production.

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Natural wonders: Dark Chocolate

Natural wonders: Dark Chocolate

It’s probably the best news you’d hear… medical studies have shown that dark chocolate can be mighty good for you!

Dark chocolate, it’s good for you!

Chocolate comes from cocoa beans, that grow on a cocoa tree. Research shows that a high percentage of cocoa, as found in dark chocolate, packs in a variety of plant nutrients that can be good for your cardiovascular health, your skin and more.

Loaded with flavonoids, essential minerals and antioxidants, some experts equate dark chocolate and cocoa with the goodness of green tea and blueberries. But, remember to not go on a binging spree, but to eat in moderation.

Health benefits of dark chocolate:

A healthy dose of antioxidants: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants found aplenty in nuts, berries, green tea and the likes, which helps fight free radicals that can damage your health. Research has shown that the antioxidants found in this delicacy can help protect you against cancer, premature ageing, cardiovascular disease and even cancer.

Sweet news for your blood sugar: Dark chocolate, a healthy dessert option, can fulfill your cravings for sweets and also keep your blood sugar in check. Dark chocolate has a low glycaemic index, which means it won’t raise your blood sugar levels, of course, when eaten in moderation. 

Minerals your body needs: Dark chocolate packs in many essential minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron that do your body good in many ways.

The feel good factor: There is no denying that chocolate is a mood enhancer. Chocolate contains chemical compounds like theobromine, caffeine and phenylethylamine, which release endorphins that create a pleasurable feeling. So if you’re feeling blue, bite into a piece of dark chocolate to feel better. Sans any guilt!

Toast to a healthy heart: Polyphenols found in dark chocolate inhibit oxidation of LDL known as bad cholesterol (Read more about cholesterol reducing foods here), thereby preventing heart disease. When this waxy substance (LDL) sticks to your artery walls (through the process of oxidation), it can put you at risk of heart disease.

Keeps blood pressure in check: Another means by which dark chocolate benefits cardiovascular health  is by keeping your blood pressure under check (Watch cardiologist Dr Devi Shetty speak about symptoms of heart attack). Studies show that eating dark chocolate in moderation can help lower blood pressure, so eat a small piece everyday and reap its benefits.

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Natural Wonders – Tender Coconut Water

Natural Wonders – Tender Coconut Water

This summer, ditch those unhealthy colas and go for the goodness of tender coconut water instead.

Nature really went all out when creating the wonderful and full-of-goodness tender coconut water – the liquid found in young or unripe coconuts. This mildly sweet tasting drink is easily available in India, especially south India, and makes for a delicious and refreshing beverage.

While tender coconut water is nourishing when had anywhere in the world, people living in humid countries specially stand to benefit from it as it contains nutrients that fight the heat of tropical regions. And great news for weight watchers – consumed in its natural form, it has just about 16 – 18 calories per 100 grams.

Coconut water is considered as a “fluid of life”. The complex composition of coconut water comprises ascorbic acid, vitamin B, iron, protein, fructose, nitrogen and some basic minerals like potassium, phosphoric acid, calcium and magnesium. It’s best to consume it in its natural form because any kind of process done on coconut water may destroy its nutrients.

Health benefits of tender coconut water:

Helps in managing urinary symptoms: Tender coconut water helps to relieve to control urinary infections. The diuretic quality of coconut water increases flow of urine and dissolves kidney/urethral stones in a natural way, thereby keeping the urinary passage clean. In case of a urinary tract infection, coconut water works as an antiseptic that helps to remove poisonous minerals.

Fights dehydration: The isotonic qualities present in coconut water help to regain natural salts and fluids that are otherwise lost by physical activities and exhaustion. Coconut water is considered better than commercial sports drink because it is the richest source of electrolytes and contains more potassium than a banana.

Helps in intestinal disturbances: It even treats intestinal disturbances in all age groups. Coconut water taken with one teaspoon of olive oil for 3 days will kill the worms present in the intestine thereby improving the digestion. Coconut water is sweet and a little oily in nature It’s especially recommended for the old and sick who are facing problems in digesting solid and semi solid foods.

Good for pregnant women: Tender coconut water is helpful to pregnant women who usually suffer from acidity, heartburn and indigestion. It is an outstanding energizer that helps a woman keep up with the changes that come at different points of the pregnancy. It helps to boost the levels of amniotic fluid, which plays a vital role in the overall wellness of the baby.

Increases immunity: Tender coconut water is a good source of Lauric acid, which is believed to have antimicrobial properties. It helps in the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections caused by pathogenic bacteria and viruses like Herpes, HIV and flu. In fevers like malaria, typhoid, measles and chicken pox vomiting is common, the electrolytes present in coconut water help to settle the stomach and thereby control nausea.

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Natural Wonders – Ragi

Natural Wonders – Ragi

The humble ragi, considered an inexpensive staple food, is rich in many nutritional benefits, making it a truly wonder food we should all incorporate into our diets.

Ragi – A humble grain that is a true natural wonder

Ragi – the humble grain

Ragi, also called finger millet, is a cereal crop. India is a major cultivator of this crop, with the state of Karnataka being the largest producer of ragi in the country. Being a cheap crop, it is widely used by the poorer sections of the society.

The nutritional benefits of ragi

Nutritionally, when ragi is used as a whole grain, it is higher in protein and minerals in comparison to rice.  Red millet is primarily a source of energy in the diet with each serving of ragi (20g) providing 66kcal. It is also rich in fibre and therefore suitable for people trying to lose weight. Ragi, unlike wheat does not contain gluten (a protein found in wheat), and can be easily consumed by people with wheat intolerance.

Ragi is a wonder cereal grain as it has numerous health benefits:

Good source of calcium – Amongst cereals, ragi is particularly rich in calcium, a mineral essential for good bone health. It is a very good source of natural calcium for growing children and older adults, and helps improve bone strengthening.

Energy for weight watchers – Finger millet is a good source of energy for weight watchers, as it contains the amino acid tryptophan that reduces the appetite. Besides, being high in fibre, it provides a feeling of fullness when consumed, and keeps the urge to eat frequently under control.

Beats high sugar and cholesterol – Ragi is beneficial for diabetics as well as those with high cholesterol, as the high fibre content of Ragi makes it a food item with low glycaemic index. That is, it results in slow increase in blood sugar level.

Find out about the glycaemic index of different foods.

Good mix of amino acids – Due to a good amino acid mix in ragi, it is beneficial for tissue repair, relieving migraine, improving the metabolic rate of the body, optimal muscle coordination, and helps reduce the bad cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol). The amino acids lecithin and methionine eliminate excessive fat from the liver, and in turn reduce the cholesterol content of the body.

Source of iron – Being a good source of iron, it is beneficial of individuals with low haemoglobin level.

Excellent baby food – As ragi is low in fat, and is gluten free, it is easily digested. It is therefore, given as first foods to babies in the form of Ragi Seri. Being a good source of calcium in the diet, it is good for bone development in babies.

Also good for new moms – Besides, it is also given to new mother to improve the haemoglobin levels. Lactating mothers are made to eat green ragi, as it improves milk production.

Ragi mudde is a common preparation of ragi eaten with sambar. Being high in fibre, ragi is incorporated in multi-grain biscuits and bread to enhance the fibre content of the product. Ragi can be used to make porridge, upma, cakes, biscuits, dosas and many other preparations.

Though a cheap crop, but it is high in nutritive value and extremely beneficial.

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Natural Wonders – Pomegranate

Natural Wonders – Pomegranate

They are delicious and tangy and have a mellow fragrance you can’t miss. The delicious pomegranate is a natural wonder if there ever was one.

Pomegranate and its nutrients: 

Native to Persia and the western Himalayan range, this wonder fruit is credited with being one of the healthiest fruits. A cluster of red, plump flesh covering seeds, they are rich in antioxidants and  vitamins, and make for an excellent source of fibre, too.

These health-giving seeds or arils as they are also called, are perfectly suited for juicing or eating whole on salads, yoghurt, or as a topping on any other food you love.

Health benefits of pomegranate:

Fights cancer: Studies claim that pomegranate juice helps in the fight against breast, lung and prostate cancer. If consumed regularly, studies show that it can even help inhibit the development of cancer.

Buffers free radical damage: Free radicals are produced by functions within the body and elements outside the body. Since we can’t stop its occurrence, it become important to consume foods that can help neutralize the damage. Pomegranates contain a high content of antioxidants, which helps fight against the damage that free radicals do to your cells.

Prevention of Alzheimer’s disease: Research shows that regular consumption of pomegranate can significantly reduce accumulation of amyloid plaque, which puts you at lesser risk of Alzheimer’s.

More oxygen: Recent studies reveal that eating pomegranate seeds and drinking pomegranate juice can increase oxygen levels, which mean your blood will be better oxygenated – and you will be healthier.

Can treat erectile dysfunction: Did you know that pomegranates might help treat erectile dysfunction? A research published in the International Journal of Impotence Research showed that drinking 8 ounces of pomegranate juice every day can help treat erectile dysfunction.

Protects the neonatal brain: Many advocate consumption of pomegranate juice during pregnancy. Latest research shows that it is indeed good, because drinking pomegranate juice during pregnancy might help protect neonatal brain from damage after injury.

For arthritis: If you’re suffering from arthritis, then this wonder fruit may be good for you. Pomegranates are known to reduce inflammation of arthritis by slowing down the enzymes that break down cartilage, thereby preventing cartilage deterioration.

Protects arteries: Pomegranates help prevent plaque build-up in you arteries and may even help reverse plaque build-up, and is therefore, good for you heart health.

Reduces cholesterol: Pomegranates help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and raise HDL (good cholesterol).

Lowers blood pressure: One study indicated that consumption of 1.7 ounces of pomegranate juice per day, lowered systolic blood pressure by as much as 5%.

Dental protection: Want good, healthy teeth? Then pomegranates can come to your rescue. A natural way to prevent dental plaque might be drinking pomegranate juice daily.

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Natural Wonders: Tomato

Natural Wonders: Tomato

They are sweet, juicy, delicious, and considered to be one of world’s healthiest foods! Umm, wondering what we are talking about? Yes, you are right, we are talking about tomatoes!

Did you know that tomatoes are also called ‘love apples’? It was a name that the French adoringly gave this lovely fruit in the 16th century!

Well, what’s not to adore about tomatoes – they are fat-free, low in calories and packed with vitamins C. However, there’s more to these tomatoes. Today, let’s take a look at why this fruit is considered so amazingly healthy.

Health benefits of tomatoes

Tomatoes are loaded with vitamin A, C, K, folate and potassium. They also provide magnesium, copper, vitamin B6 and thiamin. As tomatoes are high in water content, they are quite filling and protect you against heart disease, strokes, blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Tomatoes are great for your skin. The beta-carotene found in tomatoes protect your skin from sun damage. Also, lycopene, the anti-oxidant which givestomato its colour stops the occurrence of fine lines and wrinkles.

This fruit/vegetable is also good for your bones. The vitamin K and calcium in tomatoes are excellent for strengthening and repairing your bones. And so, eating tomatoes is a great way to keep osteoporosis at bay!

Tomatoes are cancer fighters, thanks to the lycopene in it! It helps reduce the risk of cancers such as throat, esophagus, stomach, colon, prostate and ovarian cancer.

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8 Health Reasons You Should Never Skip Breakfast

8 Health Reasons You Should Never Skip Breakfast

Breakfast is the most important part of your diet. If you are in the habit of skipping your breakfast, here are some very important reasons why you should not.

Break-the-fast, after going hours without food you, finally get up in the morning and need lots of energy to kick start the day. Only breakfast can provide you with this energy.

If you’re of those who’re still not having your breakfast, now is the time to change that habit. 

Here are some extremely important reasons why!

Why you should never avoid breakfast

1. Breakfast improves your metabolism:

Your blood sugar level drops down in the morning. You need food that can provide you energy to get through the morning. Body needs fuel to keep it runningand the night is the longest gap in the refueling process. To make sure your metabolism keeps on going you need to have something within 2 hours of waking up.

2. Keeps you on track if you’re looking to lose weight:

Researchers have found that those who eat breakfast tend to maintain and lose weight. Though people skip breakfast in the hope of losing weight they tend to eat more during lunch or even choose unhealthier options later on which results into weight gain.

3. Helps to maintain insulin response:

Skipping meals leads to a hyper insulin response when calories are consumed later on. That means the level of insulin in blood is more than the glucose level which can lead to metabolic disorder. This in turn results in to fat accumulation.

4. Helps perform better at work/school:

Hungry employees and students don’t do any good at work/school. When you are hungry you are irritable and disinterested which reflects on your work too. Breakfast helps you to wake up and makes you attentive.

5. Burns those calories early:

If you have breakfast you can burn those calories early! How is that? Well, instead of going hungry till lunch and then hogging on something loaded with calories with fewer hours left in the day to burn it consider refueling yourself early and getting enough time to burn those calories.

6. Aids in setting a good example:

If you have kids, you always want to set a good example for them. By having breakfast on time you will show the quality of leadership by example.

7. Gets you your essential nutrients first thing in the morning:

There are food which we have only as a part of our breakfast like cereals, fruits and milk. If you bypass your breakfast you might never get those nutrients.

8. Skipping breakfast can make you grumpy:

Oh yes! If you have been skipping breakfast and are in bad mood, you probably should know why. Not having breakfast makes you grouchy. You might not even realize it and keep wondering why you’re so irritable!

Apart from all these reasons to have your breakfast there are few things you should always keep in mind:

    *  Never have dessert for breakfast, it will cause blood sugar loss later on and you will be tempted to eat even more.

    *  Read the labels carefully, even if it says ‘nutritious’ look into the details and understand if your body needs that kind of food to start the day.

Stay full, stay happy!

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7 Easy Tips to Increase Hair Volume Naturally

7 Easy Tips to Increase Hair Volume Naturally

With the onset of monsoon, you are surely getting worried seeing all those additional strands of hair in your comb. Well, it is natural to lose up to 100 strands of hair in a day, but, excessive hair loss is definitely something that you need to worry about. Your lustrous locks need as much care as your face. So, here are some simple ways to increase your hair volume naturally. 

Oil massage:

Massaging your scalp is very important as it improves the blood circulation and makes your roots healthy. Use warm oil to massage your hair and scalp. Always massage your scalp in circular motion. It is best to use either coconut or jojoba oil. Use rosemary oil to combat dandruff. After the massage, wrap your hair in a warm towel for a few minutes, to provide extra conditioning to your hair. It is important to keep scalp clean. Shampooing three or four times a week is plenty

Conditioning:

Conditioning your hair with good a conditioner, after shampoo is a must. A conditioner makes your hair more manageable and easier to untangle. It also helps to return the moisture that your hair strands would have lost during shampooing. But always remember to apply the conditioner at least 1-2 inches away from your scalp.

Balanced diet:

A healthy and balanced diet is very important to enhance the volume of your hair naturally. Include necessary vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B, C, zinc, iron and copper in your diet. They will promote hair growth by strengthening your hair follicles. Also, drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday to keep your body and hair hydrated. 

Use Aloe Vera:

It can work wonders if used sensibly. Aloe vera is a natural remedy to bring hair fall under control. It provides essential moisture and nutrients to your scalp; thus, boosting hair growth. Apply aloe vera gel directly to scalp and let it stay for one hour. Then shampoo your hair to rinse it out. Regular use of this will definitely reduce hair fall.

No chemicals:

It is best to avoid unnecessary hair procedures, like perming, straightening, and colouring. Such processes leave your hair dull and dry. Not only this, they also make your hair fragile and weaken your roots, thus leaving you more prone to hair loss.

Beneficial Amla:

Alma is an important natural ingredient, which is used in many hair products as well. Amla helps to cure hair loss and lustre to dull and dry hair. It is important to include Amla in your diet. For best results eat at least one amla everyday, on an empty stomach. It is best to go for an amla hair oil massage. This will strenthen your hair roots and also enrich your natural hair colour as well.

De-stress:

Stress is seen as a major culprit behind hair loss. Excess stress can lead to hair thinning and hair greying as well. Some of the good ways to distress is to include yoga or exercise in your daily routine. This would not only help you to de-stress but also boost the flow of oxygen and blood to your scalp.

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