Effective Home Remedies Using Manuka Honey: Treat Sore Throats, Upset Stomachs and Eczema with Active Honey

Manuka honey has developed a reputation as having even more health benefits than regular honey. Because it comes from bees that pollinate the Manuka bushes (Leptospemum species) that grow almost exclusively in the East Cape region of New Zealand, it has rarity value. This makes it a little more expensive.

Properties of Manuka Honey

More than 80% of honey is made up of glucose and fructose, leaving an extremely low water content. Most organisms, including bacteria, need a fairly high percentage of water to stay alive, so honey is a hostile environment for them.

The health benefits of all types of honey are mostly due to these antibacterial properties. The reason Manuka honey has even more powerful antibacterial properties is that unlike most other honey, it is not affected by heat and light. It is far more stable, meaning its healing properties work longer.

UMF Manuka Honey

There are different grades of Manuka honey. Those with the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating of 10 or more are the strongest as this measures its antibacterial strength. This is called “active honey”. The strong UMF Manuka Honey is used in New Zealand to fight wound infecting bacteria. It is a powerful sterilizer of cuts and burns and prevents further infection.

In July 2009, a hospital in England started using Manuka honey to treat wounds.

Home Remedies with Manuka Honey

For everyday use in the home, Manuka honey can be used to treat

  • Stomach upsets and indigestion – a teaspoonful on a slice of bread three times a day will help to settle the stomach. Or try a teaspoonful of active honey stirred into a cup of herbal tea. Keep stomachs working well by eating plain yogurt every day, topped with a spoonful of honey.
  • Sore throats – a teaspoonful three times a day will ease the throat as well as reduce infection. Alternatively, add a teaspoonful of Manuka honey to hot water and a thin slice of ginger. Leave to steep for 5 minutes and sip.

Active Honey as a Treatment for Skin Complaints

  • Grazes and minor burns – spread a little on the wound and leave it to dry. The Manuka honey will keep the wound clean as well as promoting skin healing.
  • Eczema – apply straight from the jar with a spatula and leave it on for about 20 minutes and then wash off. Manuka honey is also effective in removing the dead skin and seems to help with the growth of new skin. Skin care products containing active honey have been popular for many years.

Keep Manuka and other honey in an airtight container and it will last indefinitely. Substitute honey for sugar in drinks and in use in healthy recipes such as Bread and Honey Pudding.

Suppliers of Manuka honey recommend that it is not given to children under the age of 2.

How to Formulate Your Own Week-Long Diet Meal Plan

Preplanned or prescribed diet meal plans, like the grapefruit diet and the chicken soup diet, are very cheap and easy to follow. Although such is the case, these diets may not be successful for every person. Even the highly detailed cabbage soup diet, for instance, may prove to be ineffective as it may not go well with your specific recommended daily intake (RDI), exercise patterns, or daily work schedules.

This is why it can come in handy if you know how to create a personalized week-long diet. Whether if it is for rapid or gradual weight loss, following these simple steps will let you create your very own and accurately effective meal plan.

Monitor your current statistics

Prior to going on a diet, you need to know where your starting line is. Take note of all of the meals you take in one average, non-dietary week. Do this while keeping track of your weight, as well.

Afterwards, compute the total amount of calories that you consumed for that week. You can do this by checking the packages of food, or by downloading calorie calculator applications in your computer or smartphone. The total amount of calories you usually eat is what contributes to your current average weight.

If you get the average number of calories for that entire week (dividing the total by seven), you will get an idea on how much calories you eat a day. From there on, you can set tangible and more realistic goals.

Start decreasing that number

Gradual weight loss has proven to last longer in comparison to crash diets. If you prefer to go on a rapid weight loss diet, you should know that it is not healthy, and the results do not last long. Shedding off one pound a week is the healthiest and safest amount of body weight to lose.

One pound is equivalent to 3,500 calories. If you aim to lose one in a week, then subtract 500 from your daily calorie intake for that week. You can do this by eating smaller amounts of food and drinking more water before eating, or by substituting your ordinary meals for food with lesser calories:

  • Soy milk or nonfat milk instead of whole milk
  • Mustard instead of mayo, which is made from eggs
  • Popcorn instead of potato chips, which contain huge amounts of starch and sugar
  • Nuts and almonds to satiate midday hunger instead of packed snacks
  • High fiber cereals and bread instead of average ones

Put some variety in your meals

One of the main reasons why weight-loss diets are hard to stick with is because of monotony. The lack of interesting flavors will definitely make you crave the food that will ruin your meal plan. This is why it is important to be creative when designing your week-long menu.

Tropical fruits like papayas, pineapples, and kiwi can replace the usual apples or oranges. Tropical fruits also contain huge amounts of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, and are yummier.

Surf the net for interesting but low-calorie and low-fat recipes, too. You will be surprised at how much calories you can cut off by simply changing the method of cooking.

The diversity of flavors will give you motivation to look forward to completing your weekly diet, whether if it is for rapid or gradual weight loss.

Pair diet with exercise

It can be hard to go on a strict exercise program, especially if you have a hectic schedule every day. However, it is important to squeeze in this activity somewhere, as it not only contributes to burning some of those extra calories, they are also very healthy for your body, in overall.

If you do not have time to go out jogging early in the morning, or if you cannot go to the local gym, know that there exercises that can be done at home:

  • An hour of indoor cycling burns up to 950 calories per hour
  • Skipping with a jumping rope can burn up to 800 calories per hour
  • The classic jumping jacks burn 200 calories and are good for your heart
  • Jumping and squatting can get rid of a good 200 calories in minutes

A word on diets

Like everything else, diets work best if they are planned out carefully. Once you formulate your very own diet that suits you well, you can keep at it until you reach your desired figure. Just remember that you need to have carbohydrates, healthy fats, and proteins each day to stay nourished.

Of course, not everything goes well on your first try. It is okay to partake on a slice of cake or a bar of chocolate on the first few attempts to lose weight. Just make sure to stay on track and pair your personalized week-long diet meal plan with a healthy amount of exercise to compensate.

Francisco Pizarro Facts – His implications in history

Francisco Pizarro was a famous conquistador from Spanish who became popular because of his Inca Empire conquest. This happened in the year 1530. This made him wealthy that he even got to have a chance to win the Spain a new and improved rich New World colony. These are seen on most Francisco Pizarro facts.

The Life of Francisco Pizarro

Pizarro rose from zero to richness. When he died in the year 1541, he was dubbed and perceived as the Marquis de la Conquista. He was then a wealthy noble man who owned a tenfold of lands. These are vast and are prestige enough to be of great influence. This was known to be his far cry coming from all of his beginnings. He was then born sometime 1470. The exact date was not really known. By then, he was still an illegitimate child of a soldier from Spaniard. He was also a household servant during that time. Young Francisco then tended his family swine. He was still a boy during that time. He never got the opportunity to learn the art of writing and reading.

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Pizarro did not expect so much in terms of inheritance because he was a bastard. This was the main reason why he was forced to become a soldier instead. There was no possibility of him following the footsteps of his own father. However, it happened. Before he knew it, he was also in the battlefields of Italy and this occurred for a long time. This transpired even before he heard the riches of America. He initially went to New World. This was way back in 1502. This was a part of his colonization expedition which was then founded and led by Nicolas de Ovando.

It was in the year 1508 when Pizarro decided to join Alonso de Hojeda. This expedition was undertaken in the mainland. This was a battle against the natives. This was the time when they were able to come up with a settlement termed as San Sebastian de Uraba. They were welcomed by angry natives this time. Even if there was low number of supplies, Hojeda still had that courage to set out for reinforcements on Santo Domingo. However, Hojeda was not able to return for almost fifty days. This was the moment Pizzzaro, together with other surviving settlers, decided to set out together to Santo Domingo. When they were along the way, they took part in the Darien region expedition. Pizarro was considered the second-in-command this time. He worked next to Vasco Nunez de Balboa.

As for Panama, Pizarro was able to establish a great deal of partnership with his fellow conquistador named Diego de Almagro. There were news surfacing the conquest of Herman Cortes too. This was done to explore what Aztec Empire has to offer. Basically, this was driven with the desire to find gold. This would even be the inspiration so that other two expeditions are to be undertaken under the same people mentioned.

Pill Bug Facts – Fascinating Information

There are many names given to pill bug. Such maybe wood louse, roly poly, potato bug and armadillo bug. Whatever the chosen name for it is, one thing is for sure – the mentioned is just nothing but a fascinating creature. There is always a bunch of Pill Bug facts to learn about. What are these?

It will definitely be surprising to know that the bug is actually a crustacean. This is one of the facts about it. While many mistaken it for an insect, it has never been one. Do not get this wrong though because they are sometimes connected and associated to insects because they are referred to as bugs. But then, it will be shocking to know that they are actually from the subphylum Crustacea.

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The mentioned is connected to crayfish and shrimp. They are way close than insects.

Another shocking revelation is that these pillbugs breathe will the assistance and help of their gills. Well, this is related to the fact that they are like they are synonymous to their marine cousins. These terrestrial pill bugs make use of their gill-like structure in order for gases to be exchanged. They need moist in the environment so they can breathe. This is some sort of a requirement. Do not get this wrong though because there is no way they will be able to submerge themselves in it.

Juvenile pill bugs can most likely molt in two myriad sections. They resemble arthropods in such a way that pill bugs can grow through the molting of their hard exoskeleton. However, pill bugs will not be able to shed their cuticle. They will not be able to achieve this at once. Initially, half of its back will split away. Afterwards, it will slide off. After a couple of days, the pill bug will shed its front section. If you see any pill bug that is brown or gray on one of its end, then it is still molting. This is the only answer to this.

Usually, the mothers of the pill bug will carry the eggs in the pouch. This is true just like that of crustaceans and crabs. Pill bugs have the tendency to tote their very own eggs. They can do this whenever such are around them. There is a special pouch in which overlapping thoracic plates may be seen around. This is called as marsupium. This is on the underside of the pill bug. Once it has hatched, the juvenile pill bugs will then remain situated in the pouch itself. This is going to occur for a number of days. This is going to be observed prior to them really exploring the whole world.

Even before, pill bugs do not urinate. There are many animals out there which have to convert their waste. This must be in high ammonia. This may be in the urea prior to the excretion of the body. These pill bugs are commended though for its ability to have ammonia gas tolerated. This may pass directly to that of exoskeleton. Pill bugs also drink in the most old-fashioned way. They do this through their mouthparts.

What is Attention Deficit Disorder? ADHD Inattentive Type Signs

According to the National Resource Center on ADHD, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is an older term that has recently been replaced. Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD or AD/HD) now includes three subtypes:

  • predominately inattentive (most likely formerly called ADD)
  • predominately hyperactive/impulsive
  • combined

Signs of all types of ADHD typically appear in childhood, but the symptoms can persist into adulthood. Diagnosing AD/HD of any subtype is difficult because many children will have problems focusing at some point in life; however, those who are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD tend to experience persistent symptoms that negatively affect more than area of their lives.

Symptoms of ADHD Inattentive Type

According to the above web site, in order to be diagnosed with AD/HD Predominately Inattentive Type, a person must have at least six of the following symptoms for at least six months:

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  • makes mistakes that are careless or fails to give needed attention to details
  • has problems paying attention or focusing
  • appears not to be listening
  • has problems following instructions
  • has difficulty with organization
  • tries to avoid or does not like tasks that require sustained mental focus
  • frequently loses items
  • becomes distracted easily
  • forgets daily activities

Because all people will display at least some of the above symptoms at some time, ADHD in children is considered if the behaviors occur more often or are more pronounced than one would expect in a child of that age. Adults with ADHD would be considered for diagnosis if they have symptoms that adversely affect how he or she functions in daily life. Those with these symptoms plus hyperactive tendencies may be diagnosed with the combined subtype, which tended to be called simply ADHD in the past.

ADHD Affects Many Areas of a Person’s Life

In order to make a diagnosis at any age, the above ADHD predominately inattentive type symptoms must negatively affect at least two areas of the affected person’s life, such as:

  • home
  • school
  • work
  • social settings

A variety of behavioral issues may appear as a result of any subtype of ADHD. Interpersonal relationships may be strained between the child and parent and/or caregivers as well as with other siblings. In children, problems with school academic performance as well as behavioral issues may arise in the classroom, while adults may find it difficult to function well at work.

Those with sensory processing disorder may experience issues with simple tasks such as getting dressed. Someone with ADHD may find it difficult to develop and maintain friendships, and those who are leading groups such as scout or church activities for youngsters may be ill-equipped to handle behavioral issues resulting from ADHD.

Other Conditions Related to and Occurring With ADHD

Various other health conditions would need to be ruled out before a healthcare provider can make a diagnosis of ADHD of any subtype. For example, a child who is experiencing hearing problems may simply not hear directions or be aware of homework assignments. Children with vision problems may easily misplace items and find it difficult to complete written work. Children may become easily frustrated if they cannot make themselves understood due to speech issues and may be helped by interventions such as speech therapy. Those who are anxious about stressful situations in the home may find it difficult to concentrate.

Children who have AD/HD may also have coexisting conditions such as:

  • behavioral disorders (conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder)
  • mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder)
  • anxiety disorders
  • tic disorders (Tourette’s disorder)
  • learning disabilities (difficulties with motor skills, math, language, reading, writing, or auditory and visual processing)

People who have pervasive developmental disorders such as autism and Asperger’s tend to have difficulties in social situations and may display some behaviors similar to ADHD. These difficulties might be difficult to distinguish, particularly in those with multiple disorders. Children with other conditions, such as celiac disease and GERD and colic, may exhibit similar behavioral issues that may benefit from treatment and dietary changes. Those with nutritional deficiencies and all people can benefit from a healthy diet and a regular exercise program.

Effective Treatment for ADHD

Effective treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of approaches:

  • educating the parent/caregiver and child or adult affected about ADHD
  • developing specific behavior management techniques (also known as behavior modification or behavior therapy)
  • incorporation of an educational program that will help meet the special needs of someone with ADHD (such as an accommodation plan)

According to studies cited by the National Resource Center for ADHD, the only well-researched, well-documented non-medical treatment for ADHD that has demonstrated effectiveness is behavior therapy. Some large studies have shown best results with a combination of medication and behavioral therapy including targeted social and psychological therapies with the next highest success rates achieved with medication alone, followed by targeted behavioral therapy by itself.

ADHD is Complex Condition Requiring Targeted Approach

A person can have ADHD at any age, but typically the symptoms will appear in childhood. Those symptoms negatively affect multiple areas of life such as school, work, and/or family and social relationships. Many other conditions may appear with ADHD or may mimic the symptoms of ADHD, so a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to adequately diagnose and properly treat this common condition.

Interesting facts about the mesosphere

There are five different kinds of layers of the atmosphere are surrounded our planet earth.  They are troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, exosphere and the ionosphere.  In this way, the mesosphere is the third layer of the atmosphere.  Actually, it is located 50 km from the earth’s surface and extended for nearly 85 km. Moreover, it is situated above the stratosphere and below the thermosphere. In fact, the word mesosphere is derived from the Greek word called the ‘mesos sphaira’ which denotes the middle sphere. For this reason, the mesosphere has lowest temperature and the coldest.  This mesosphere is too high for the airplanes, weather balloons. As well as, it is too low for the satellites. Since, the scientist has used some other techniques to do the research about the mesosphere with a number of experiments. In this article, you will see about the mesosphere facts in the most effective manner.

Burning meteors in the mesosphere

As the mesosphere is located in the highest layer, it is quite difficult to research it by using the scientific research equipment’s like satellites or rockets.  Actually, the mesosphere is the most important thing for the protection of the earth. As well as, mesosphere can burn the asteroids and the meteors.  In that way, it is estimated that nearly 40 tonnes of the meteors are fallen near the earth in each day. So, the mesosphere is responsible for this burning process.

  • The burning of meteors in the mesosphere can be seen when it is made at the night time on the sky. Most of the people called this incident as the shooting stars.
  • Basically, the mesosphere is spread at the lowest density and it filled up with some gases like carbondioxide, oxygen and nitrogen.
  • Even though, the burned meteors can arrive the surface of the earth, some of its materials can be hung out which includes the iron and the metallic atoms.

Giving protection for the earth

Sometimes, the lighting process is occurring in the mesosphere and this kind of lighting is referred as the elves or the sprites. The mesosphere with the other layers can help to protect the earth from the greenhouse gases. So, it can act as the blanket of the insulation surrounding the planet.

  • As well as, the mesosphere can also help to keep the climate of the earth and the weather patterns in the regular way. Furthermore, the mesosphere transitions into the thermosphere are known as the mesospouse and it is the coldest part of the mesosphere.
  • Some of the research rockets in the mesosphere are called the sounding rockets which are made with the surplus military rocket motors.

The weather condition of the mesosphere is changed than the atmosphere of the earth. In that manner, the temperature of the mesosphere can drop to -140 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, it can also reach -5, which depends upon the season.  In this manner, you can know about the mesosphere facts and you can know more by searching through the internet.