Sometimes the pigmentation occurs in dark patches on the face and neck or appears on the body in other instances. There are many causes behind this issue, but if you are always out in the sun for whatever reason, these patches can appear or get flared up quickly.

The following write-up includes the causes, types, and treatments for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Keep scrolling for more information!

In This Article

What Causes Dark Spots On The Face?

Dark spots or hyperpigmentation occurs due to excess melanin production in certain areas of your skin. Melanin is a pigment produced by your body that gives your hair, eyes, and skin color.

Factors that may contribute to dark spots include:

• Exposure to peak sunlight every day can cause the appearance of dark spots on your skin (1). This is because it increases the production of melanin on the surface of your skin.
• Hormonal imbalances can also cause hyperpigmentation (2). This, in turn, can lead to the appearance of dark spots on your skin.
• Certain medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), psychotropic drugsⁱ  XDrugs that produce a change in the psychological states of an individual, including their mood, behavior, thoughts, and perceptions. , or tetracyclines can lead to increased melanin production (3). This can result in dark spots.

Dark spots can be classified into different types, depending on how they are caused.

Types Of Dark Spots

Shutterstock

• Melasma – It is caused by hormonal fluctuations and is more prominent during pregnancy or menopauseⁱ  XThe natural decline of the reproductive hormones in women that usually happens after their 40s or 50s. (4).
• Lentigines – They are caused by excess sun exposure and are more common in old age (over 60 years) (5).
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – It is caused by skin conditions like acne, burns, etc. (6).

Sometimes, acne can also cause spots on your skin. These spots are usually formed when sebum gets oxidized, and they do not indicate skin damage. Wondering how to get rid of dark spots on face? We have you covered.

Dark spots can take a while to fade or disappear, and, in some cases, you may have to consult your dermatologist. Here are a few natural remedies to lighten dark spots.

Natural Ways To Lighten Dark Spots

1. Lemon Juice

Shutterstock

Lemons are rich sources of flavonoidsⁱ  XA large family of polyphenolic compounds that protect against oxidative damage and prevent diseases. and other antioxidants, which may help lighten the dark spots on your face (7).

What To Do: You will need a teaspoon of lemon juice, water, and cotton swabs. Mix the lemon juice and water. Dip a cotton swab in the solution and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Rinse with water. You may do this once daily.

Note: Lemon juice can cause a stinging sensation on some skin types. If you are allergic to lemon juice, you must avoid this remedy. If you use this remedy, ensure you apply sunscreen before heading out.

Related: 9 Home Remedies To Remove Dark Spots On Face With Lemon Juice

2. Parsley

Parsley exhibits skin-lightening properties as it is rich in vitamin C. This may help treat dark spots and other similar conditions, including epidermal melasma (8).

What To Do: You will need 1-2 tablespoons of parsley leaves and sterile cotton pads. Blend the parsley leaves in a blender. Apply the mixture to the entire face. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and rinse with water. Do this once daily or every alternate day.

3. Aloe Vera

Shutterstock

Aloe vera contains aloin, a compound with melanocytic effects that can help depigment dark spots (9).

What To Do: You will need aloe vera gel and cotton pads. Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf. Whisk the gel using a fork. Dip a cotton swab into the whisked gel and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing. You may do this once daily for best results.

Related: Aloe Vera For Acne: 9 Ways To Use Aloe Vera For Pimples

4. Orange Peel

Orange peel contains hesperidin, a potent flavonoid, which has skin-lightening effects. This may help eliminate the dark spots on your skin (10).

What To Do: You will need half a teaspoon of dried orange peel powder, water, and a cotton pad. Mix a few drops of water with the dried orange peel powder. Apply the mixture to the affected areas using a cotton swab. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and rinse with water. You may do this once daily.

5. Turmeric

Shutterstock

Turmeric contains curcumin, an antioxidant with anti-melanogenicⁱ  XThe property of a compound meant to block or prevent the production of melanin, helping in skin-lightening. effects (11). This may help lighten dark spots.

What To Do: You will need a teaspoon of turmeric, some water, and cotton pads. Mix the turmeric powder with a few drops of water to form a thick paste. Apply the mixture to the affected areas. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Rinse with water. You may do this once daily.

Note: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to turmeric paste. If you are allergic to turmeric, you must avoid this remedy.

Related: Turmeric For Acne And Pimples: How To Use It Effectively

6. Cucumber

Cucumber is a rich source of antioxidants and silica-rich compounds that possess skin-lightening properties (12). This may help minimize the appearance of dark spots.

What To Do: Take a fresh cucumber and blend it. Apply this paste on the areas with dark spots. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and rinse with water. You may do this 1-2 times daily.

Related: 22 Easy Homemade Cucumber Face Mask Recipes To Nourish Skin

Use any or a combination of these remedies to lighten stubborn dark spots. The dark spots treatment with home remedies may not always show the desired results. Also, avoid ingredients like toothpaste or baking soda for dark spots. “They can be over-drying and may have adverse effects on your skin, especially for those who have dry and sensitive skin,” says Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD.

You need to consult a dermatologist if you are dealing with a severe case of hyperpigmentation (or dark spots).

How Does A Dermatologist Treat Dark Spots?

Shutterstock

The common dermatologist treatment for dark spots on face include:

• Laser therapy, which uses laser rays to target melanin deposition and fade dark spots (13).
• Chemical peels, which involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate the surface layer, thereby helping lighten the dark spots (14).
• Microdermabrasion, which removes the outermost layer of the skin using a special device to promote collagen growth and reduce dark spots (15).

Now that you know how to get rid of dark spots on skin, it is best to know how to prevent them from appearing again.

Prevention Tips

• Always wear sunscreen with SPF 40 or above before stepping out in the sun. Reapply every four hours in case of continued sun exposure.
• Wear sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from the harmful sun rays.
• Treat inflammatory skin conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis immediately to prevent the development of dark spots on the skin.
• Avoid going out between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun rays are the most intense.

Stylecraze SaysUse products with sun-blocking ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. This may help prevent spots.Stylecraze SaysAvoid skin lightening products that contain mercury, as this ingredient may damage the skin. It may appear on the list as “mercuric” or “calomel.”

These tips can complement the remedies and give you better results.

Infographic Excerpt: Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Facial Dark Spots

Dark spots on the face can be triggered due to various reasons. However, a few tips and home remedies can reduce their appearance.

The following infographic provides information about a few effective home remedies that help lighten dark spots. Check them put.

Sun exposure, certain medications, or hormonal imbalances may lead to hyperpigmentation or dark spots on different patches on the face. There are three main types of dark spots, namely, melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and lentigines. To get rid of dark spots, you can apply home remedies involving the use of lemon juice, parsley, aloe vera, orange peel, turmeric, or cucumber. Other treatment options include laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and chemical peeling. To prevent dark spots, use sunscreen with a minimum SPF value of 40, protect your face by wearing sunglasses or wide-brimmed hats, and treat acne immediately.

Did You Know? If you are making your own goat milk soap, you can also use apricot kernel oil, palm oil, shea butter, or castor oil.

Goat Milk Soap Benefits

iStock

Our bathing soap does much more than just cleansing our body. And when it comes to goat milk soap, you can expect a lot more!

In This Article

Lemon Myrtle – A Brief

Shutterstock

Lemon myrtle, (Backhousia citriodora) is basically a flowering plant, native to Australia. This lemon myrtle tree grows up to a height of 60 feet. Other common names are sweet verbena tree, sweet verbena myrtle, lemon scented verbena, and lemon scented backhousia (1).

As the names say, it is heavily aromatic and has a characteristic taste. It contains about 90-98% of citral. It also contains minerals like calcium, zinc and magnesium in good amounts., as well as vitamins A and E.

Lemon myrtle is used in food to enhance flavour and aroma. It is used in making dips, sauces, salads, curries and cooking chicken, fish, prawns, etc. It is also used in confectionaries for making breads, cakes, desserts, etc.

Apart from food it is used in skin care products like lotions, lip balms, etc. It is also used in hair care products like shampoos and conditioners. It is widely used as beverages like tea due to its therapeutic values.

Stylecraze Trivia The botanical name of lemon myrtle, ‘Backhousia citriodora’, is named after the English botanist James Backhouse.

Benefits of Lemon Myrtle

1. Sinus Infection

Shutterstock

If you are having sinusitisⁱ  XA condition in which the air-filled cavities around the nasal passage become inflamed due to infection, allergic reaction, and cold. problem, then Lemon myrtle oil can be of great help. This is because lemon myrtle has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing the inflammation of the nasal passage while its anti- infection property combats infection that causes sinus problem.

Related: How To Use Essential Oils To Treat Sinus Infections

2. Bronchitis

Shutterstock

Lemon myrtle essential oil has been found effective in the treatment of bronchitis. Since bronchitis is the inflammation of the mucous membrane in the bronchial passage, the use of lemon myrtle oil can reduce the inflammation as well as fight the infection, which is the cause of bronchitis.

3. Indigestion And Irritable Gastrointestinal Disorders

Shutterstock

Lemon myrtle has been found helpful in treating indigestion and gastrointestinal disorders like bloating, etc. Certain properties of lemon myrtle help in stimulating the digestion process. You can consume lemon myrtle in oil form, grounded form, as a spice or tea.

Lemon myrtle juice helps promote digestion and relieve stomach cramps. It contains pectin, which aids in the breakdown of food into smaller particles that can easily pass through the digestive system. Pectin also promotes healthy intestinal flora.

Related: 10 Home Remedies For Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) + Prevention Tips

4. Molluscum Contagious

Molluscum contagious is a viral infection of the skin that causes red colored bumps or lesions on the skin. Studies have shown that Lemon Myrtle is a natural way of treating molluscum contagious. The anti-viral property of lemon myrtle makes it a remedy to treat molluscum contagious.

Did You Know? Indigenous Australians used lemon myrtle to relieve their headaches by crushing its leaves and inhaling the aroma.

5. Sore Throat

Shutterstock

A sore throat can be very painful and hard to bear. The antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of lemon myrtle help in treating sore throat by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. You can take lemon myrtle essential oil with honey for relief from sore throat.

Related: 7 Ways To Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Sore Throat

6. Acne

Acne is a big problem, especially for girls. Lemon myrtle is a wonderful natural remedy for acne problem. It is helpful in treating oily skin that is one of the main causes of acne. Use of lemon myrtle essential oil can help you in getting rid of acne. You can add its oil in your lotion also.

Related: 13 Tips And Remedies To Prevent Acne And Pimples Naturally

7. Depression

Lemon myrtle can be your stress reliever. It provides a calming effect by inducing better sleep, promoting relaxation, filling you with positive feelings, etc. You can massage your foot with lemon myrtle oil. It can be added in aromatic lamps as its aroma soothes  the mind and uplifts the mood.

8. Oral Health

Lemon myrtle can be helpful in treating oral health issues like ulcers, irritation, tooth problems, etc. The use of this herb cleanses the mouth thus providing protection from various infection causing bacteria and viruses. You can add lemon myrtle powder in your toothpaste for regular use. It can also be used in tea.

9. Boosts Immune System

A healthy immune system means fewer health issues because of a stronger immune system that is vital to combat diseases. Consumption of lemon myrtle strengthens your immune system, thus providing you protection against several health issues. You can use lemon myrtle in the form of tea, powder or oil for benefitting your immune system.

10. Antioxidant

Lemon myrtle has antioxidant properties that eliminate free radicals from your system. Free radicals are linked to cell and DNA damage and may cause diseases like Alzheimer’s diseaseⁱ  XIt is a progressive neurological disorder that causes brain cells to shrink, affecting memory and other cognitive functions. , cancer, diabetes, arthritisⁱ  XA condition affecting the joints and causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation, which may worsen with age. , tumors, heart diseases, etc.

11. Fights Bad Odor

The refreshing aroma of lemon myrtle helps you in getting rid of bad body odor and bad breath. Its anti-microbial property prevents body odor by killing odor causing microbes. You can add lemon myrtle oil to your bathtub or apply a few drops of it to your body. To get rid of bad breath, you can add a few drops of lemon myrtle oil to water and gargle it.

12. Headache

If you are troubled by headache, lemon myrtle can help in providing relief. The soothing aroma of lemon myrtle causes headache. You can inhale steam by adding lemon myrtle for a headache remedy. Another way of treating headache is to massage your temples with lemon myrtle essential oil.

13. Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection, which causes scaly, red itchiness in the foot sole and between toes. The anti-fungal property of lemon myrtle fights this infection by killing such fungus.

14. Asthma

Lemon myrtle helps in combating asthma. Asthma is a lung disease in which the air passage swells and narrows causing difficulty in breathing. Steaming with lemon myrtle in water can be helpful in easing asthma problems.

15. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is one of the common bone joint problems faced by people. It is an inflammatory disorder that results in painfully swelled joints. The anti-inflammatory property of lemon myrtle helps in reducing inflammation and gives relief. In case of rheumatoid arthritis, you can massage your joints with lemon myrtle essential oil for relief.

16. Cramps

Cramp can be defined as an involuntary muscle contraction which causes pain. Lemon Myrtle helps in reducing the muscle cramps and menstrual cramps. The chemicals found in it help the muscles to relax, thus reducing the cramp to a significant extent.

17. Insect Bites

Lemon myrtle oil can be used to treat insect bites. Its application soothes the affected area and also reduces inflammation. Lemon myrtle can also be added to any lotion to prevent insect bites as it acts as an insect repellant because of its strong aroma.

18. Better Sleep

Lemon myrtle is particularly beneficial for those who cannot sleep peacefully. The relaxing effect of this herb can calm your mind and promote peaceful sleeping. For this purpose you can bath by adding lemon myrtle oil in a bathtub before going to sleep or drink lemon myrtle tea before bed.

19. Influenza/ Flu

The anti-viral property of lemon myrtle helps in treating influenza as well. Taking steam with few drops of lemon myrtle oil or leaves may help you in fighting influenza.

20. Elimination Of Accumulated Mucus And Phlegm

Sometimes our body starts producing excess mucus and phlegm due to cold, flu or infection. This phlegm accumulates in the lungs and respiratory passage causing difficulty in breathing. Steaming with a few drops of lemon myrtle oil in water can be helpful in this regard by eliminating excess accumulated phlegm and mucus.

Recipes With Lemon Myrtle

As stated above, lemon myrtle not only provides an array of health benefits but also imparts a distinct taste and aroma to your dishes. Given below are a few lemon myrtle recipes that you can try.

1. Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake:

This yummy cheesecake combines the flavor of lemon myrtle and the crunchiness of nuts. It can be used as a dessert.

Ingredients For Base:

• 1 Tablespoon Wattle seed
• 1 cup plain flour
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 cup macadamia nuts
• 120 ml Macadamia Oil

Ingredients For Filling:

• 2 Tablespoons Lemon Myrtle
• 500 gm cream cheese
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs.

Method:

1. Blend all the above-given base ingredients and bake them in a preheated oven at 180 degrees.
2. After baking, let this crust rest until it cools down at room temperature.
3. Now blend all the filling ingredients until the batter gets fluffy and smooth.
4. Pour this batter into the crust and bake again for 20 minutes.

2. Lemon Myrtle And Macadamia Biscuits Recipe:

Biscuits are light and easy snacks to have in between meals. And when they are prepared from lemon myrtle you get a bonus of health benefits. You can prepare these biscuits trying this simple recipe given below.

Ingredients:

• 200 g margarine
• 100 g white sugar
• 225 g macadamias, whole or chopped
• 225 g self-raised flour
• 1 tsp ground lemon myrtle

Method:

1. Blend margarine and butter.
2. Add macadamias and mix until they distribute evenly in the mixture.
3. Add ground lemon myrtle and flour to make the resulting mixture crumbled, sticky and easily mouldable.
4. Make flat balls using this mixture and bake them for 15-20 minutes until you get golden brown colored biscuits.

3. Crispy Prawns With Lemon Myrtle:

If you thought lemon myrtle can only be used in desserts, you can have a look at this recipe of prawns cooked in a lemon myrtle powder!

Ingredients:

• One tablespoon Lemon Myrtle Ground
• One teaspoon Paprika Smoked, Sweet
• Chilli Powder, optional
• Salt
• 1/2 cup cooking oil
• Two fresh chillies, finely chopped
• Lime wedges for serving

Method:

1. Toss or marinate the prawns with a mixture of rice flour, lemon myrtle powder, paprika, chilli powder and salt.
2. Heat oil in a frying pan and cook the prawns until they become crispy.
3. Drain on an oil absorbent paper and serve hot with lemon wedges.

4. Lemon Myrtle Iced Tea:

This aromatic tea is a tasty and healthy alternative to your regular tea. Given below is the recipe.

Ingredients:

• Lemon myrtle leaves
• Water for boiling
• Sugar or honey
• Lemon
• Ice

Method:

1. Boil lemon myrtle leaves in water for 10 minutes.
2. Let the boiled water rest until the leaves get infused.
3. Strain the water and add sugar or honey for sweetening.
4. Dilute with water if necessary, add few drops of lemon juice and served chilled by adding ice to it.

5. Lemon Myrtle Chicken:

If you are a chicken lover, you can try out this exotic dish using lemon myrtle for your meals.

Ingredients:

• 6 large cloves garlic
• 6 sprigs fresh lemon myrtle
• 6 chicken thigh chops
• 60 ml olive oil
• 60 ml chicken stock
• 1 lime/lemon
• Salt & pepper to taste

Method:

1. Grind lemon myrtle sprigs and garlic cloves in olive oil.
2. Marinate the chicken pieces with this ground paste for at least 10 minutes.
3. Heat some oil in a pan and fry the chicken until it turns golden brown in colour.
4. Add chicken stock and lime or lemon. Cook for 20 minutes and serve hot.

6. Lemon Myrtle Shortbread:

This crispy bread will definitely please your taste buds. Given below is the recipe for lemon myrtle shortbread.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain flour
• 2 tablespoons rice flour
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon Ground Lemon Myrtle (or 2 tsp if you prefer stronger flavour)
• 220 g unsalted butter softened

Method:

1. Sieve all the ingredients except butter.
2. Mix them well.
3. Then add butter and make small balls.
4. Now roll these balls flat (1cm).
5. You can give the desired shape to these by using a cutter.
6. After this, put them on a baking tray or use baking paper or grease tray.
7. Bake them at 60°C for 25- 30 minutes.
8. Serve them when they cool down.

7. Spicy Lemon Yogurt Dip:

Here is the recipe for a yummy spicy lemon yogurt dip which you can have with breads, fish, prawns etc.

Ingredients:

• 400 g Greek yogurt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp crushed lemon myrtle
• Grilled strips pitta bread, to serve

Method:

1. Take yogurt in a bowl and blend well.
2. Add black pepper powder, lemon myrtle and mix well.
3. Serve the dip with grilled bread strips.

Lemon myrtle adds a dash of enticing aroma and flavor to many savory dishes. It is loaded with beneficial nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. This rich nutritional profile helps promote overall health. Lemon myrtle benefits are many. It eases gastrointestinal issues, helps relieve depression, and helps you sleep. It boosts immunity and oral health. Lemon myrtle may also help ease respiratory issues such as bronchitis and flu and clear up the respiratory tract. However, overuse may have unpleasant side effects. If you experience any adverse effects, limit its use and seek medical advice.

Corn not only tastes great but also offers many health benefits. It can effectively manage many ailments. Did you know that it can promote hair growth and effectively combat inflammation? Learn more about the health benefits offered by this bright veggie by reading the article below. Keep scrolling!

In This Article

Corn: An In-depth Insight

Corn (Zea mays) is the edible grain (seed) of the cereal plant belonging to the grass family (Poaceae). This domesticated crop originated in the Americas and is one of the most widely distributed food crops in the world.

Corn is used as livestock feed, human food, biofuel, and raw material in several industries. The most popular varieties for consumption are yellow and white corn.

Shutterstock

There are also varieties of corn with red, blue, pink, and black kernels that are often banded, spotted, or striped. That’s the result of some incredible genetic interplay!

Stylecraze Trivia Corn played a significant role in Mexican culture. Some indigenous societies worshiped it and saw it as the most important crop, a gift from the gods.

There are different types of corn based on kernel texture. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Types Of Corn

Dent Corn: Has a depression in the crown of the kernel that is caused by unequal drying of the hard and soft starch making up the kernel.

Flint Corn: Contains a little soft starch and has no depression.

Flour Corn: Largely made up of soft starch and has soft, mealy, easily ground kernels.

Sweet Corn: Has wrinkled translucent seeds. The plant sugar is not converted to starch as in other types, thus imparting it sweetness.

Popcorn: An extreme type of flint corn that is characterized by small, hard kernels devoid of soft starch. Heating it causes the moisture in the cells to expand, making the kernels explode.

Corn is not only composed of starch but is also loaded with fiber, carbs, mineral, vitamins, and other micronutrients. Check out the next section for its nutritional value.

Nutrition Profile Of Corn

Yellow corn is the most commonly used variety of corn. White corn has the same nutritional value, with one exception – yellow corn has more fiber than the white variety.

Corn has an interesting phytochemical profile too.

Among cereals, corn has one of the highest levels of phenolic compounds. This means it has excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.

Anthocyanins, coumarins, trihydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, hydroxyphenyl acetic acid are present in corn.

Also, flavonoids like quercetin, rutin, hirsutrin, morin, kaempferol, naringenin, hesperitin, zeaxanthin, lutein, and their derivatives are commonly seen in this cereal (1).

Wait A Minute!

• Out of all the colors available in corn, purple corn is said to be the healthiest option because it is a reservoir of anthocyanin.
• The total flavonoid content in purple corn ranges from 307.42 to 337.51 mg/kg, while yellow-hued corn contains between 248.64 to 281.20 mg/kg.

Since corn is a treasure chest of phytochemicals, eating it will give you a total health makeover.

The antioxidants present in corn help cure a broad spectrum of diseases. Want to know which ones?

Alright, then! Brace yourselves for a healthy dose of science and evidence.

What Are The Benefits Of Eating Corn?

1. Controls Diabetes

Hyperglycemia (increased blood glucose levels) results in hypoxia (low oxygen level in blood). Hypoxia gets aggravated when there are free radicals in your blood.

These free radicals or reactive oxygen species trigger inflammation of tissues and undesired proliferation of cells.

The anthocyanins and flavonoids present in corn are potent free radical scavengers. They eliminate free radicals, improve blood flow, protect pancreatic β-cells, increase insulin secretion and sensitivity, and prevent renal failure (2), (3).

Related: Easy Ways To Lower Blood Sugar Naturally And Safely

2. Might Aid Weight Loss

Corn silk – which is the stigma of maize – is a soft, thread-like waste material that is either green or yellow. Corn silk has many essential flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, sitosterol, along with calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

These phytochemicals in corn silk regulate the genes that control fat accumulation, fat cell (adipocytes) differentiation while increasing the rate of lipolysisⁱ  XA metabolic process that breaks down fat cells in the body to reduce the volume of fatty tissue and tightens the skin. , and fatty acid metabolism. This can potentially help you lose weight (4).

However, many papers have demonstrated the role of corn and its starch in weight gain and obesity (5).

3. Could Reduce Inflammation

Shutterstock

Inflammation is your body’s way of responding to threats like pathogens, free radicals, heavy metals, toxic intermediates, overdose, deficiency, external stimuli, and any other unfavorable physiological stress.

The proteins and phytochemicals present in different part of maize offer protection to your body from such pro-inflammatory agents. Corn gluten is one such protein. Flavonoids like quercetin, naringenin, and lutein, along with anthocyanins, also inhibit the activation of several pro-inflammatory genes and cellular mechanisms (6), (7).

As per this theory, a corn-rich diet can reduce constipation, asthma, arthritis, irritable bowel disease, GERD, and dermatitis.

However, there is extensive evidence out there that shows corn is a pro-inflammatory agent. Blame the starch and fats!

Related: Skin Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, And Treatment

4. Boosts Iron levels

Anemia develops as a result of iron deficiency in your body. A fall in hemoglobin levels leads to several developmental issues. Anemic children have stunted growth, retarded cognitive and psychomotor development, and weak/underdeveloped immune system.

Iron plays a vital role in oxygen and nutrient transport, energy metabolism, and menstruation.

You must have noticed in the nutritional profile of corn that it contains iron in abundance.

Adding maize or corn derivatives to your diet in required amounts can solve issues related to anemia, particularly in children and women. Having optimum iron in your body is also essential for the health of your eyes, hair, and skin (8).

Related: 11 Benefits Of Iron For Your Skin, Hair, And Health

5. Enhances Endurance And Physique

Shutterstock

All scientists agree that carbohydrates are the best fuel for your body during prolonged exercise. Our hero – corn – oozes carbs.

What’s even better is that corn has a moderate glycemic index of about 56 to 69.

The fiber and carbs present in corn help in building your dream body. Though carbs digest quickly compared to protein or fat, they can be stored in your cells for a long time without triggering inflammation. Therefore, corn is the solution, especially for athletes and regular heavy-duty gymmers (9).

6. Improves Vision

Lutein and zeaxanthin are two carotenoidsⁱ  XNaturally occurring pigments in plants that are rich in antioxidants and enhance immunity and vision. that play an important role in vision development. Deficiency of these carotenoids causes cataract, macular degenerationⁱ  XAn eye disease that causes the macula (the central section of the retina) to deteriorate and lead to loss of vision. , and age-related ophthalmologic disorders.

Corn contains 21.9 μgg of lutein and 10.3 μg/g of zeaxanthin, along with ß-cryptoxanthin and ß-carotene.

When white, yellow, high-carotenoid, blue and red corns were tested for their lutein content, it was found to be the highest in yellow corn (406 µg/100 g) and lowest in blue and white corns (5.2 and 5.7 µg/100 g, respectively) (10).

Want to get rid of those thick spectacles? Binge on some fresh corn.

What’s the best way to have corn? By adding it to your daily diet, of course. I’ve collected some simple, quick, and healthy recipes with corn for you. Let’s see how they turn out!

Healthy Recipes With Corn

1. Tangy Corn Salsa

Shutterstock

What You Need

• Corn on the cob: 4 ears, with husk
• Black beans: 2 cans (15 oz.), unsalted, drained, and rinsed
• Plum tomatoes: 6, chopped
• Green bell pepper: 1, chopped
• Red onion: 1, diced
• Jalapeno peppers: 2, chopped
• Lime juice: 1 lime (equivalent)
• Cilantro: 2 teaspoons, freshly chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato juice: 14 oz.
• Tomato sauce: 14 oz.
• Kosher salt: 1 pinch or to taste
• Black pepper: 1 pinch, ground, or to taste

Let’s Make It!

1. Preheat the grill on medium heat and lightly oil the grate.
2. Place the corn ears on the heated grill and roast them until the husks show burn marks on all sides, and the corn kernels are cooked through.
3. This could take about 20 minutes. Keep turning the corn ears at regular intervals.
4. Let the corn ears cool down until they can be touched.
5. Pull back the husks and remove the roasted kernels from the ears. Place the cooked kernels in a large salad bowl.
6. Lightly toss the corn with black beans, plum tomatoes, green bell pepper, red onion, jalapeno peppers, lime juice, cilantro, and garlic.
7. Pour the tomato juice and tomato sauce over the salsa and toss all the veggies again.
8. Season the salsa with kosher salt and black pepper.
9. Chill the salsa for at least an hour, preferably overnight.
10. Serve it along with some crispy nachos or tortillas.

2. Quick-n-Creamy Corn Cake

Shutterstock

What You Need

• Butter: ½ cup, melted
• Eggs: 2, beaten
• Dry cornbread mix: 1 packet (8.5 oz)
• Whole kernel corn: 1 can (15 oz), drained
• Creamed corn: 1 can (14.75 oz)
• Sour cream: 1 cup

Let’s Make It!

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), and lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the butter, eggs, corn bread mix, whole corn, creamed corn, and sour cream.
3. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake the mix in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
5. Serve fresh and warm with some cranberry crush or homemade cream.

Once you taste these dishes, you will not want to stop cooking and experimenting with corn. Corn is one of the tastiest additions to any dish.

Stylecraze Trivia When coffee was too costly and difficult to come by in the 1800s, Americans used dried corn as a substitute and burned corn cobs as a source of baking soda.

But does that mean you should have it every day? How do you think your body would react to high doses of corn? Read on to find out.

Does Corn Have Any Side Effects?

Yes, it does!

The high starch, fatty acids, and linoleic acid content of corn can cause the following side effects (11), (12):

• Inflammation
• Stomach cramps
• Constipation
• Acute dermatitis or skin allergy (if you are allergic to grass)
• Bloating and gas
• Intestinal blockage
• Hemorrhoids
• Sudden weight gain

Infographic: Sweet Corn Vs. Field Corn

There are different varieties of corn based on their kernel texture. Out of all, sweet corn and field corn are the most popular types. While sweet corn is widely used for human consumption, field corn is used as animal feed or for flour production. Click on the infographic below to learn about sweet corn and field corn.

Corn is a popular edible cereal grain with a rich nutritional profile. It contains various vitamins and minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The benefits of corn can also be attributed to its phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, and carotenoids. Corn exhibits excellent anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that help treat many ailments. Consumption of corn may control blood glucose levels, aid in weight loss, reduce inflammation, boost iron levels, and enhance one’s endurance and physique. You can prepare many healthy, delicious recipes with corn, including tangy corn salsa and cake. However, its high linoleic acid and starch content may cause some side effects. Excess consumption may cause inflammation, constipation, stomach cramps, bloating and gas, intestinal blockage, and hemorrhoids. Hence, consume corn in moderation – and stop intake when you experience any side effects. Also, consult your doctor in case of any emergencies.

It is an integral part of traditional medicine in South American countries. Guarana is rich in caffeine. Hence, it alleviates pain and promotes neurostimulation and weight loss. It has many other health benefits.

Continue reading to learn further about the benefits, facts, rituals, and possible risks associated with guarana.

Stylecraze TriviaBrazil is the world’s largest producer of guarana and the state of Bahia is the main guarana producer in Brazil (71%) , (14).

In This Article

What Is Guarana? Why Is It So Special?

Shutterstock

Guarana is a caffeine-rich fruit that is native to the central Amazon basin. It is well known for its medicinal properties. It grows in Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Republic of Guyana, and some other surrounding countries.

The plant, seeds, and fruits of guarana are used in traditional medicine and are also linked to many tribal traditions.

Traditionally, its roasted seeds and raw fruits were used to make beverages combining maté and other herbs. These drinks are said to act as stimulants, aphrodisiacsⁱ  XAny substance, like a drug or food, that stimulate sexual desire, performance, arousal, or pleasure in people. , painkillers, memory boosters, antidepressantsⁱ  XIt refers to a substance that may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders. , and anti-aging and antibacterial agents.

The fruit of guarana (Paullinia cupana Kunth.) looks very beautiful. It has a red, winged outer case that encases white flesh. The flesh holds one or two black or dark brown seeds that are responsible for most of guarana’s goodness.

Stylecraze TriviaDuring the colonial period, guarana was sold as a fortifier, tonic, stimulant, and a potential remedy for fever, hardened arteries, and migraines (15).

At one glance, the fruit resembles an eyeball and is known to exert positive effects on ophthalmic health. How true is it? What are the other benefits of guarana? Find all these answers in the next section!

Mind-blowing Guarana!

• Guarana seeds are known to contain the highest natural dose of caffeine in the world (2%-8%)
• These seeds also contain an active ingredient called ‘guaranine’ that is structurally similar to caffeine.
• Many weight loss and health drinks contain guarana extracts because it has antioxidant, fat burning, and appetite-controlling properties.
• Guarana is added to processed water and is consumed daily as a ritual among the tribes around the Amazon river. This drink is said to give them strength, prevent hunger pangs, and increase urine output (diuretic).

Why Should You Have Guarana?

1. Helps In Appetite Suppression

iStock

Guarana is rich in bioactive compounds like caffeine, theobromine, theophylline, tannins, saponins, catechins, epicatechins, and proanthocyanins.

When teamed with yerba mate and damiana, guarana managed to suppress appetite in obese women. In other words, their hunger pangs and desire to eat reduced, leading to weight loss (1).

Guarana has also been found to control the expression of genes that are involved in fat accumulation. It downregulates the expression of pro-adipogenic genes while promoting the expression of anti-adipogenic genes (2).

Hence, it can be used to stimulate healthy weight loss in obese individuals and treat eating disorders.

2. Stimulant And Energy Boosting Effect

Along with caffeine, guarana has tannins, alkaloids, catechins, and epicatechins. This is why it has many stimulant mechanisms.

It mobilizes calcium, helps in the binding of caffeine to its receptors in the CNS, triggers the production of ATP (energy), and ultimately improves cognitive performance and alertness.

Research says that it is the cumulative effect of caffeine along with other active components that make guarana an effective stimulant and energy booster.

Guarana has no significant effects on long-term psychological well-being, anxiety, and mood (3), (4). Therefore, it is used in many energy drinks and dietary supplements.

Related: How To Increase Stamina Naturally Through Food

3. Manages Anxiety And Neurodegenerative Disorders

Shutterstock

Guarana powder can have protective effects on your brain and nervous system. It prevents amyloid plaque formation (or accumulation) and protein glycation, reduces oxidative stress, eliminates reactive oxygen species (ROS or free radicals), and decreases acetylcholinesterase activity.

All these effects prevent neuronal death, thus proving beneficial for treating cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases in model organisms.

Thanks to its interesting phytochemical composition, guarana improves memory and lifespan of organisms suffering from anxiety despite having a high caffeine content (5).

Related: Does Anxiety Cause Itching? How Do You Treat It?

4. Antibacterial Properties

Tannins make up a significant fraction of the bioactive ingredients in guarana. Along with other phytochemicals, tannins pose a threat to several notorious bacterial strains, such as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), Streptococcus mutans, and Streptococcus sobrinus.

Guarana also reduces the levels of pro-inflammatory compounds (viz. interferons and interleukins) in your body. This indirectly shows that it can be a potent anti-inflammatory agent and protect you from bacteria-induced hypersensitivity (6).

5. Might Improve Quality Of Life In Cancer Patients

Shutterstock

Due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of guarana, it can be used as an inexpensive and non-toxic alternative for treating fatigue, anxiety, anorexia, and other chemotherapy-induced disturbances.

Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy showed improvement in their behavior, appetite, body weight, and quality of life when given various forms of guarana extract.

Alcoholic extracts of guarana have free radical-scavenging, antimicrobial, antiproliferativeⁱ  XIt refers to the property of a substance to inhibit the spread of malignant cells into the surrounding tissues. , and antineoplasticⁱ  XIt refers to the property of a medicine or substance to prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells. properties.

Hence, along with treating the side effects, guarana could also help in limiting the growth and spread of certain cancers. However, there is scope for further in-depth research in this dimension (7), (8), (9).

6. Cleanses Skin And Scalp

Shutterstock

The seeds of guarana have potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties as they contain high amounts of methylxanthines (caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline), saponins, pigments, and choline.

Guarana is used in skin and hair products due to these properties.

Guarana can give you young and glowing skin, shiny hair that is free of dandruff, and also cure most of the pathogenic infections on your skin and scalp.

Some products used to treat cellulitis have also incorporated guarana and its various parts because of its high caffeine content (10).

What is it in guarana that gives it the benefits mentioned above? Read the next section to find out.

Related: 23 Effective Home Remedies For Skin Infection

Biochemical Profile Of Guarana

Apart from caffeine, guarana has many phytochemicals in its leaves, fruits, and seeds. The seeds of guarana contain methylxanthines, saponins, starch, polysaccharidesⁱ  XNaturally occurring plant carbohydrates present in plant cells, and acts as a crucial source of energy for animal cells. , pigments, fats, acylglycerols, cyanolipids, and choline.

Its beans contain catechutannic acid, catechic acid, starch, protein, oils, calcium, phosphorus, and tannins, along with caffeine. So, it’s not just caffeine that’s responsible for its stimulant effect.

There is little to no information about the macro- and micronutrients present in guarana. So, until we find out more about its nutrient profile, let’s just eat guarana for its loaded phytochemical profile.

You must be wondering – where can you get an exotic Amazonian fruit like guarana? Is it available in any other forms? Of course, it is! You will have to read the next section to find out.

Do You Get Guarana Everywhere? In What Forms Is It Available?

Importing guarana is an expensive affair. Climate also plays an important factor in keeping the fruits viable. A relatively cheaper and more practical way is to use its supplements.

The recommended dosage for guarana is about 200 mg to 800 mg (or 2-3 mg/kg). Long-term dosage is not recommended because it contains high levels of caffeine and other methylxanthines (11).

Wondering what can happen to your body if you exceed that limit? Or if you loved guarana too much and gorged on a whole basket of it? Nothing pleasant – that’s for sure.

Scroll down to find out the side effects and risks associated with guarana and its supplements.

What Are The Side Effects Of Guarana?

Most of the side effects of guarana stem from its abundance of caffeine. Since many health supplements and nutraceuticals contain significant amounts of guarana, it is imperative to keep the following risks and adverse effects in mind:

• Cardiovascular diseases (12)
• Difficulty during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Hypersensitivity (allergies)
• Diarrhea
• Flatulence
• Nausea
• Cardiac arrhythmia and related troubles in athletes engaged in strenuous physical activity

What’s The Verdict?

Guarana is one of the most exotic contributions of the Amazon. In addition to its attractive appearance, this fruit has bountiful benefits.

It has potent antioxidant, antinociceptiveⁱ  XIt refers to the property (of a substance) to reduce the sensation of pain or increase pain tolerance. , diuretic, lipolytic, neurostimulating, antipyreticⁱ  XRefers to the property of a substance or medicine to reduce a high body temperature to normal. , rejuvenating, and invigorating effects on your body.

So pick up a guarana supplement from the list mentioned above or buy some guarana fruits from a store!

Caffeine-rich guarana is native to the Amazon rainforest. Traditional medicine uses the fruits, seeds, and leaves of guarana. Guarana benefits can be attributed to its wide spectrum of nutrients, including saponins, polysaccharides, fats, acylglycerols, and choline. These nutrients may help relieve anxiety and boost energy levels. Furthermore, guarana is good for your skin and hair. It may also inhibit the growth of bacteria and can suppress appetite. You can take guarana supplements to reap its benefits. It may, however, cause allergies, diarrhea, nausea, and heart problems if taken in excess. Consult your health care provider before consumption.

StyleCraze TriviaGoji berries are known by many different names, such as Tibetan berries, wolfberries, and Chinese wolfberries.

In This Article

Are Goji Berries Good For You?

These berries are popular amongst celebrities like Madonna and Miranda Kerr, and they are so for a reason. Studies have shown that consuming the berries can boost brain activity and a feeling of wellness (1). Another Chinese study found how these berries could make cancer regress. Well, there are several studies that speak so highly of goji berries that one can’t help but try them. And in the coming section, we discuss the studies that talk about the various benefits of these berries.

Did You Know?

A raw goji berry is about the size of the tip of your pinky finger!

What Are The Benefits Of Goji Berries?

Do keep in mind that the consistency, quantity, and color of the discharge may change due to where you are in the menstrual cycle (4). In this article, we look at the symptoms and causes along with some of the best natural remedies you can try at home to get rid of vaginal discharge odor. Keep scrolling!

Note: You should consult your doctor for treatment if you experience itching and irritation along with a vaginal smell.

In This Article

Vaginal Odor Symptoms

The symptoms of the feminine odor coming from your private parts vary among women (5). The most common symptoms are:

• Excessive white discharge
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Metallic-smelling discharge
• Thick, white discharge
• Fishy smell
• Green or yellow discharge
• Itching or pain in the vagina
• Pain in the lower abdomen area
• Pain during intercourse

What Causes Of Vaginal Odor?

There are many factors that can lead to a change in your vaginal discharge and/or cause that foul odor down there. The following are the usual causes of various types of vaginal odor (6):

• Vaginal yeast infection resulting in thick, white discharge.

• Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydiaⁱ  XA sexually transmitted disease, common in men and women, but may severely damage the female reproductive system. , gonorrheaⁱ  XA sexually transmitted bacterial infection that may cause painful urination and abnormal discharge from the penis or vagina. , andtrichomoniasisⁱ  XA non-viral sexually transmitted disease that causes foul-smelling vaginal discharge, painful urination, and genital itching. causing green, yellow, or gray discharge with a foul odor. This can also be accompanied by pain in the pelvic area.

• Bacterial infections (bacterial vaginosis) that result in that fishy, foul smell.

• Change in estrogen levels due to pregnancy, breastfeeding or menopause.

• A forgotten tampon, which is producing the foul odor.

• Thongs! As tempting, colorful, and fancy as thongs may be, avoid wearing them. They can lead to irritation and excessive perspiration and odor. Wear cotton undergarments because your private parts need to breathe.

• Soap! Using too much soap in the vaginal area can cause dryness and lead to an imbalance in the production of natural chemicals, which leads to an unpleasant odor.

Apart from the causes mentioned above, certain serious diseases can also be responsible for abnormal vaginal discharge and disgusting smell. These include cancer of the cervix or vagina. However, these conditions will be accompanied by pain and even vaginal bleeding.

Top 22 Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Vaginal Odor

To get rid of vaginal odor, all you need are some natural items that you can find right at your home. Here are the fastest and safest DIY remedies with which you can easily reduce and eliminate vaginal odor.

1. Tea Tree Oil
2. Baking Soda
3. Pineapple
4. Hydrogen Peroxide For Bacterial Vaginosis
5. Vitamin C With Rose Hips
6. Betel Leaves
7. Vinegar
8. Garlic
9. Chlorophyll
10. Yogurt
11. Herbal Capsules
12. Alum
13. Gooseberry (Amla)
14. Neem
15. Fenugreek
16. Cranberry
17. Turmeric
18. Citrus Fruits
19. Seeds & Nuts
20. Guava Leaves
21. Lavender Oil
22. Boric Acid

1. Tea Tree Oil

Image: Shutterstock

If you use scented commercial wipes and vaginal deodorants, it’s time to throw them in the trash bin. The chemicals in these products can disrupt the vagina’s pH balance and induce infection and foul odor. To get rid of odors, use natural tea tree oil diluted in water as a vaginal wash.

You Will Need

• A few drops of tea tree oil
• A cup of water

What You Have To Do

1. Mix three to four drops of tea tree oil in water and use this to rinse the vaginal area.
2. You can also mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil in a small amount of olive oil and dip a tampon in the mixture and insert the tampon. Leave it in for an hour.

How Often You Should Do This

Wash with the tea tree oil water daily or several times a week. As for the ‘tampon and oil’ treatment, you can repeat it several times a week.

Why This Works

Tea tree oil is both antibacterial and antifungal, and thus will curb the infection while fighting the odor (7).

Caution

Always do a test patch on your forearm as tea tree oil might not suit everybody. Tea tree oil is very strong and that’s why you dilute it in water or olive oil.

Stylecraze SaysYou can add a few drops of witch hazel to your tea tree oil to help soothe your vaginal itching.

2. Baking Soda

Image: Shutterstock

If you thought baking soda finds its use only in cakes and bread recipes, you are wrong. You will be surprised to see how this tested method helps you to get rid of vaginal odor quickly.

You Will Need

1/2 cup of baking soda

What You Have To Do

1. Add baking soda to your bath and soak your lower body in it for 20-30 minutes.
2. You can also mix a tablespoon of baking soda in 2 cups of water and use it as a vaginal douche.

Why This Works

The vaginal odor intensifies when the pH level of the body goes awry. Baking soda helps bring your pH levels back to normal, thus controlling the excess of bacteria and fungi. This treats the infection and eliminates the vaginal odor instantly. You can also use baking soda water as a vaginal wash (8).

3. Pineapple

Image: Shutterstock

This amazing fruit is said to be beneficial for your vaginal health and odor.

You Will Need

Pineapple or pineapple juice

What You Have To Do

Include raw pineapple and pineapple juice in your regular diet.

How Often You Should Do This

You can drink one to two glasses of fresh pineapple juice every day for a few days.

Why This Works

The high sugar and high enzyme content of pineapples improves the odor of your vaginal secretions.

Stylecraze SaysYou can add holy basil, ginger, and cumin powder to enhance the flavor of your pineapple juice.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide For Bacterial Vaginosis

Hydrogen peroxide is a multipurpose chemical that can be used to treat bacterial vaginosis and remove bad vaginal odor. It is one of the most effective feminine odor remedies.

You Will Need

• 3% hydrogen peroxide
• 1 tampon
• Water

What You Have To Do

1. Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Make sure it’s only a 3% concentration.
2. Dip a tampon in this mixture and quickly insert it into the vagina. Leave it in for not more than 30 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

You can repeat this every few hours until the foul odor subsides.

Why This Works

The natural disinfecting properties of hydrogen peroxide kill the bad bacteria in the vagina. This leads to an increase in the number of the good bacteria that are naturally present there. Many studies have been conducted, and they all prove the infection-treating capabilities of hydrogen peroxide (9, 10).

5. Vitamin C With Rose Hips

Image: Shutterstock

Rose hips are the seeds of the rose plant, and they contain high levels of vitamin C. Rose hips, by themselves, or in combination with a vitamin C tablet can be used to get rid of vaginal odor.

You Will Need

• Vitamin C tablet
• Rose hip powder
• 1 tampon

What You Have To Do

Crush the vitamin C tablet and mix with half a teaspoon of rose hip powder in 2 ounces of water. Dip a tampon into the mixture and insert into the vagina. Leave in place for 1 hour.

How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this every day until the malodorous vaginal discharge goes away.

Why This Works

Vitamin C is an immunity booster and helps remove harmful toxins from the body. The tablet, when used in combination with rose hips, has an acidic pH and is an effective and safe method to treat bacterial vaginosis, one of the major causes of foul odor in the vagina area (11). An efficacy study conducted in 2013 also showed that using vitamin C tablets for six days a month for six months can reduce the recurrence of this infection by half (12).

6. Betel Leaves

Image: Shutterstock

Who knew betel leaves (paan) could be used to cure a smelly discharge problem? Read on to find out how.

You Will Need

• A few betel leaves
• Tampon

What You Have To Do

1. Tear the leaves into small pieces and boil them. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
2. Cool the decoction until it reaches lukewarm temperature.
3. Dip the tampon in this liquid and insert it into the vagina.
4. Keep it there for 15 minutes. Remove and discard.

How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this daily for one week. You could also drink this decoction twice a day or use the water as a vaginal wash.

Why This Works

The extract of betel leaves is used in ointments for its antibacterial properties. It also acts as an astringentⁱ  XA chemical agent or substance that helps draw out water from the tissues, causing them to shrink and dry up secretions. (13).

Related: 5 Health Benefits Of Betel Leaves And Possible Side Effects

7. Vinegar

Image: Shutterstock

Vinegar, especially ACV, is yet another potent remedy that is foolproof when it comes to fighting vaginal odor.

You Will Need

1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

What You Have To Do

1. Mix two cups of vinegar in your bathwater and soak in it for 20 minutes.
2. You can also mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in 8 oz of water and drink it.
3. You can also mix one tablespoon of vinegar in one quart of water and use it as a douche.

How Often You Should Do This

Soak in vinegar water once daily till the foul smell discharge is treated. Drink vinegar water twice daily. Douche every two days for 2 weeks.

Why This Works

Vinegar gets rid of the toxins that cause the fishy vaginal odor. It is acidic in nature and is loaded with antibacterial properties that will help kill the odor-causing germs (14).

Caution

Rarely, a person may be allergic to vinegar. Step into the bathtub lightly, and if you experience a burning sensation, step out immediately and wash the area.

Related: 17 Surprising Ways To Use Vinegar For Your Skin

8. Garlic

Image: Shutterstock

Many may question the potency of garlic in treating odor, but thanks to its own pungent smell, it works amazingly. Believe us when we say that this is certainly one of the best-known home remedies to kill overpowering vaginal odor.

You Will Need

• A garlic clove
• A cheesecloth
• String

What You Have To Do

1. Peel the fresh garlic clove, and wrap it in a 6-inch square of cheesecloth.
2. Attach a small string to it. Insert it into the vagina and leave it there overnight.
3. Remove it in the morning with the help of the string.

How Often You Should Do This

Do it once overnight. The pungent vaginal odor should be gone by the morning. You can repeat if the infection and the bad odor is still there.

Why This Works

Garlic has been used since ancient times to treat infections. Various studies have proved that it has antibacterial activity against a wide range of bacteria (15, 16).

Caution: If you experience localized burning from the garlic clove, remove it immediately.

Related: 31 Benefits Of Garlic For Health, Skin, & Hair + How To Use It

9. Chlorophyll

Image: Shutterstock

Do you remember reading about chlorophyll that plants use to make their own food with the use of sunlight and water? Yes, that very chlorophyll can work wonders in reducing the vaginal smell.

You Will Need

Liquid chlorophyll or chlorophyll tablets

What You Have To Do

1. Drink one tablespoon of chlorophyll diluted with 8 oz of water, and you may never have to visit the doctor to get rid of vaginal odor.
2. You can take one tablet in the night and one in the morning if you cannot find the liquid version in the pharmacy.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink or take the tablet twice a day till the fishy smell from the vagina is gone.

Why This Works

Liquid chlorophyll works as a good deodorant and helps reduce the strong and unpleasant odor (17). It is easily available with most pharmacists.

Related: 8 Suprising Benefits Of Chlorophyll And Its Side Effects

10. Yogurt

Image: Shutterstock

Yogurt might not be your favorite food, but it can help diminish and reduce vaginal odor considerably. Simply have two cups of unsweetened yogurt a day, preferably with meals, to restore the normal pH of the vagina. You can also insert yogurt into the vagina.

You Will Need

• 1-2 teaspoons of yogurt
• 1 tampon

What You Have To Do

1. Dip the tampon in the yogurt and gently insert it into your vagina.
2. Let it be there for an hour or two. Remove and rinse the area.

Additionally, if you suffer from a very strong vaginal odor, you can also dip cotton pads in the yogurt and gently rub them on the vagina.

How Often You Should Do This

You can repeat the cotton pads method three to four times a day. The tampon method will help you to eliminate the vaginal odor overnight.

Why This Works

A strong vaginal odor can be an indication of a yeast infection. The good probiotic bacteria in yogurt can help fight the infection and reduce the odor as well. Dan Jackowiak, HHP, NC, Holistic Health Practitioner and Nutritional Consultant, says, “Probiotics can help decrease vaginal odor by decreasing the amount of bad bacteria in your body and increasing the amount of good bacteria. They also help keep your immune system healthy so that it can fight off infections more effectively, preventing future issues that could cause an odor.” The acidic nature of yogurt helps bring the vaginal pH back to normal, and the lactobacillus bacteria present in it will help treat the infection. This is a natural and effective method to remove the fishy smell from your vagina (18, 19).

Related: 10 Amazing Benefits Of Yogurt For Skin And Hair

11. Herbal Capsules

An alkaline vaginal pH leads to bacterial growth and foul smell. Therefore, it is important to maintain an acidic vaginal pH. One of the best ways to maintain acidic vaginal pH is by consuming homemade herbal capsules for two consecutive weeks.

Here is how to prepare the herbal capsule:

You Will Need

• Comfrey root powder – 2 tablespoons
• Myrrh gum powder –  2 tablespoons
• Slippery elm bark – 2 tablespoons
• Goldenseal root powder – 4 tablespoons
• Echinacea root powder – 2 tablespoons
• Yellow dock root powder – 2 tablespoons
• Gelatin capsules – size 00

What You Have To Do

1. Mix all the herbal powders.
2. Fill 84 of the size 00 capsules with the herbal powder mix.
3. Store in a safe and cool place.
4. Take two capsules thrice a day.

How Often You Should Do This

Take six capsules per day for one or two weeks.

Why This Works

These homemade herbal capsules have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which will help boost your overall health and prevent microbial growth in the vaginal area. (20, 21, 22, 23, 24)

12. Alum

Aluminum potassium sulfate is known as alum. It is widely used to clean water tanks, as a traditional aftershave ointment, and in pickles. Alum is mixed with water to kill bacteria and eliminate body odor or vaginal odor. If the vaginal odor is due to excessive white discharge, alum can be helpful in preventing the odor.

Here is how to use alum to prevent vaginal odor.

You Will Need

• Water
• Alum

What You Have To Do

1. Mix half a teaspoon of alum with a glass of water and drink it twice a day. This will help manage excess white discharge and vaginal odor.
2. Soak an alum stick in water and rub it gently near the mouth of the vagina. Alum sticks are available in the market. Do this once or twice daily until you get the desired results.
2. Mix one-fourth tablespoon of alum powder in a liter of water and wash your vagina with this water.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink alum water twice a day. Wash your vagina with alum water daily for two weeks.

Why This Works

Alum arrests bacterial growth by preventing bacterial adhesion to the vaginal wall, which is one of the reasons for vaginal odor.

13. Gooseberry (Amla)

Image: iStock

One of the best and effective herbal home remedies to get rid of vaginal odor is to eat gooseberry or amla every day until you get the desired results. Gooseberry has a lot of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

You Will Need

• 2 gooseberries
• ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1 glass water

What You Have To Do

1. Use a mortar and pestle to grind the gooseberries.
2. In a glass of water, add the gooseberry paste, roasted cumin powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well before drinking. Do this for two weeks.
3. You can also slice a gooseberry, add salt to it and let it dry in the sun for two days. Eat two or three pieces of the dried gooseberry per day for a week.
4. Cut a gooseberry in half and put it in a glass of water and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, add a little salt and roasted cumin powder and sip this water throughout the day. Do this for two weeks.
5. Juice the gooseberries and consume two tablespoons of the juice first thing in the morning every alternate day for two weeks.

How Often You Should Do This

Follow any of the above mentioned methods for at least two weeks for effective results.

Why This Works

The juice of the gooseberry contains vitamin C while cumin aids digestion and improves immunity. Both the ingredients help to boost immunity and kill bacterial growth (25, 26).

14. Neem

Image: iStock

Neem leaves (Indian lilac) and neem bark have antimicrobial properties. Neem leaves have been used for ages to cure many skin diseases, smallpox, gut parasites, and wounds. Since vaginal odor can also be due to bacterial overgrowth, neem leaves can be used to treat vaginal odor effectively.

You Will Need

• 10 neem leaves
• 1 inch neem bark
• 1 liter water

What You Have To Do

Wash the neem leaves thoroughly and add them in water. Boil the water until the quantity reduces to half. Use this water to wash your vagina daily. Do this for at least one week.

1. Wash the neem leaves thoroughly and let them soak in water overnight. Use this water to wash your vagina.
2. Wash the neem leaves thoroughly and grind them using a mortar and pestle. Do not add water. Take the neem paste and use your palm to make five small “neem balls”. Gulp one neem ball every morning. Wash it down with water.
3. Put the neem bark in the water and boil it till the water reduces to half. Drink this water the first thing in the morning.

How Often You Should Do This

Wash your vagina with neem water twice daily for two weeks. Drink neem water every morning for two weeks.

Why This Works

Since neem leaves and bark have antimicrobial properties, a daily dose of this herbal medicine will help prevent microbial growth and clean your system from within (27).

15. Fenugreek

Image: iStock

The leaves and seeds of fenugreek are both beneficial for women. It helps to maintain hormonal balance, reduces abdominal fat, improves digestion, reduces blood sugar levels, and reduces menstrual cramps (28). To use fenugreek to eliminate vaginal odor, follow these steps:

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1 liter water

What You Have To Do

1. Boil the fenugreek seeds in water until the quantity of water reduces to half. Cool it and drink it before breakfast every day.
2. Soak the fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Drink it the first thing in the morning every day.

How Often You Should Do This

For best results, drink fenugreek water for two weeks.

Why This Works

Fenugreek water has a subtle bitter-sweet taste. Apart from providing the body with vitamins and minerals, it balances female hormones and thus can reduce foul vaginal odor.

16. Cranberry

Image: iStock

You might be aware that cranberry juice is highly effective in treating urinary tract infection (UTI). Cranberries have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, they will help reduce foul vaginal odor.

You Will Need

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 liter water

What You Have To Do

1. Soak the cranberries in the water overnight. Sip this water all throughout the day. This will help to flush out toxins and prevent bacterial infections.
2. Blend or juice the cranberries and drink the juice without removing the pulp. Remove the pulp if you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink a glass of cranberry juice every day to eliminate vaginal odor.

Why This Works

Cranberries are highly effective against bacteria that affect the vagina and urinary tract. Cranberries prevent the adhesion of the bacteria on the vaginal wall, therefore preventing bacterial growth (29).

Stylecraze SaysYou can add orange juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, and honey to impart some spice and sweetness to your cranberry juice.

17. Turmeric

Image: iStock

Turmeric has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It is one of the best home remedies to treat microbial infections and wounds (30).

Here is how to use turmeric to eliminate vaginal odor.

You Will Need

• 1 inch turmeric root or 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 glass milk

What You Have To Do

1. Wash the turmeric root thoroughly. Peel it and chew on it the first thing in the morning.
2. Add turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk and drink it before going to bed.
3. Wash the turmeric root thoroughly. Peel it and boil it in a liter of water until the quantity of water reduces to half. Use this water to wash your vagina.

How Often You Should Do This

Wash your vagina with this water twice a week.

Why This Works

Turmeric, if consumed in the raw and natural form, helps to kill bacteria and boost immunity. You will see a visible difference in your skin and your vaginal odor.

18. Citrus Fruits

Image: iStock

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, sweet lime, lemon, grapes, etc., are excellent sources of vitamin C that boosts immunity (31). Citrus fruits help the body to fight against bacterial growth in the vagina. Therefore, eating them or drinking fresh citrus fruit juices will help to get rid of vaginal odor.

You Will Need

• 1 sweet lime or orange
• 1 liter water

What You Have To Do

1. Eat the citrus fruits.
2. Slice the fruits and toss them into a jar containing a liter of water. Let them soak overnight. Sip this water all throughout the day.
3. Juice the citrus fruits and drink.

How Often You Should Do This

Eat citrus fruits or drink juices daily to eliminate vaginal odor.

Why This Works

Citrus fruit juice or detox water will help to maintain the body’s pH balance and prevent microbial infection and itching in the vagina.

19. Seeds & Nuts

Image: iStock

Nuts and seeds have a good amount of vitamin E, which prevents vaginal dryness and itching. Pumpkin seeds and almonds are rich in zinc, which helps to prevent vaginal dryness, itching, bacterial growth and odor. Other nuts, such as walnuts, flax seeds (rich in omega-3-fatty acid and polyestrogenⁱ  XA naturally-occurring estrogen-like compound derived from plants, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. ), hazelnuts, and sunflower seeds, are also helpful in regulating the menstrual cycle and preventing vaginal dryness and hormone imbalance (32).

You Will Need

• 4 almonds
• 2 hazelnuts
• 1 tablespoon flax seed powder
• 1 cup milk

What You Have To Do

1. Soak the almond seeds in water for four hours.
2. Peel the skin of the almonds and toss into the blender.
3. Toss in the hazelnuts.
4. Pour the milk and give it a spin.
5. Pour out the milk into a cup.
6. Add the flaxseed powder and stir well.

Why This Works

Nuts and milk will help strengthen your bones, improve brain function, scavenge oxygen radicals, and boost immunity.

20. Guava Leaves

Image: iStock

Guava leaves contain tannins, antioxidants, antibacterial, and anti-proactive properties. Guava leaves have been used to treat wounds and prevent microbial infections. Here is how to use guava leaves to treat foul vaginal odor.

You Will Need

• 4-5 guava leaves
• 1 liter water

What You Have To Do

Throw in the guava leaves into the water and boil the water until it reduces to half.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink this before breakfast every alternate day for two weeks.

Why This Works

Guava leaves have antimicrobial properties that make them one of the best herbal remedies to treat vaginal odor (33).

21. Lavender Oil

Image: iStock

This sweet smelling and mood uplifting oil will help to reduce vaginal itching and irritation. Here is how to use it.

You Will Need

• 2 drops lavender oil
• 1 drop mint oil

What You Have To Do

1. Add the oils to your bath water and soak your body in the water for at least 10 minutes.
2. Add the oils to a liter of water and store in a bottle. Refrigerate it. Use cotton to dab this solution on the mouth of your vagina and vaginal area.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this every alternate day for a couple of weeks.

Why This Works

The aroma of this oil will make you feel rejuvenated, smell good all the day long, and curb the problem of vaginal odor.

22. Use Boric Acid

To prevent bacterial growth and vaginal itching, it is important to maintain an acidic pH in the vagina. Lactobacillus (the good bacteria) from yogurt help to maintain the acidic pH levels in the vagina. However, menstrual blood and semen increase the pH levels and make it favorable for bacterial growth. Using boric acid, a mild antiseptic, will help to lower the pH levels and prevent bacterial vaginosis,

Here is how to use boric acid to get rid of vaginal odor.

You Will Need

• Boric Acid
• Gelatin capsules – size “00”

What You Have To Do

1. Fill the gelatin capsules with boric acid and keep them safe in an airtight container. Store it in a cool and dry place.
2. Insert one boric acid filled capsule into your vagina. Keep it in overnight.

How Often You Should Do This

Use these capsules for three consecutive nights if you have bacterial vaginosis (use an increased amount of boric acid). After that, use these capsules twice a week.

Caution: Do not swallow the boric acid capsules. Make sure you label the container properly. Also, do not try this method if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. Keep the boric acid capsule container away from children.

Note: Boric acid is safely used externally. It is a very powerful, but gentle eyewash. But it should not be taken internally.

Why Does My Vagina Smell?

Normally, the vagina consists of the perfect combination of healthy bacteria that maintain the pH in that region. When this balance is altered due to the different reasons listed above like other bacteria and yeast, there is a change in this pH. The number of healthy bacteria goes down, and the other unhealthy bacteria and yeast grow. These organisms can cause a change in the color and consistency of vaginal secretions and also result in a foul smell in your private parts (34, 35).

Body secretions are also a result of what you eat and drink. An unhealthy lifestyle can result in strong smelling sweat, breath, flatulence, and vaginal discharge.

Vaginal Odor After Intercourse

After intercourse, women may experience a change in their vaginal discharge accompanied by a foul smell. This is because most bacterial and fungal infections are spread through sex (36). Having vaginal, oral, or anal sex, or any sexual contact involving touching fluids of an infected person can pass on the infection. These infections can cause rashes, abnormal vaginal discharge, and that peculiar fishy smell from your vagina (37). Urinate before and after sex and also wash your vaginal area with soap and r lukewarm water before and after having sex. These measures will help prevent any unwanted bacterial growth, itching, and yeast infections. You may also encourage your partner to urinate and wash before sex as well.

Using condoms is the safest way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

Vaginal Odor During Pregnancy

Vaginal odor due to infections can cause severe complications during pregnancy (38). If you are planning to get pregnant, it is advisable to get tested for any vaginal infections and treat them as soon as possible.

Extra care needs to be taken during the course of your pregnancy to avoid contracting any infections that result in alterations in your normal vaginal discharge and smell. Consult your doctor in case you notice any strong foul odor.

How To Make Your Vagina Smell Good Fast

It makes sense to pay attention to what you eat and strike off food that triggers the bad odor. Sweet food that contains a lot of sugar or foods rich in yeast can often cause vaginal odor. You should avoid them to reduce yeast infection, and, in turn, reduce the vaginal odor. Several vegetables like kale and celery and fruits like pineapple and cranberry are said to make your vagina smell good.

Dan Jackowiak says, “First, you should check the type of soap you are using to clean your genital area. Be sure to avoid douching or using feminine hygiene sprays or perfumes internally or externally.” He also adds, “You should also avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes and underwear made out of synthetic fabrics, such as nylon or spandex. You can introduce changes to your diets, such as eating more yogurt, greens like celery, and fruits like pineapples and apples. Remember that your doctor can also prescribe an antifungal cream or oral pill to help clear up any infection.”

Also, remember, panty liners, pads, or any other commercial lining products held in close contact with your private parts can lead to the production of yeast or bacteria, giving way to foul vaginal smell. Avoid the use or limit the use of liners and pads, unless absolutely necessary. The idea is to stay natural and play it safe by visiting your doctor if you have a vaginal discharge that doesn’t respond to the above remedies.

• Drink Enough Water Daily

Water helps to maintain the body’s temperature and cell integrity and flush out the harmful toxins. Dehydration is one of the causes of foul vaginal odor. Therefore, you need to stay hydrated. The amount of water you need to drink will depend on your height, weight, and activity levels. You will require more water if you are highly active. Our medical advisor recommends dividing your weight in pounds by half and drinking that many ounces of water every day. You can put ¼ teaspoon of unrefined sea salt in every quart of water to help replace minerals that are being filtered from your water supply.

• Avoid Bathing In Hot Water

Hot water kills the body’s natural bacteria. The prolonged use of hot water for bathing can lead to vaginal odor. Take cold water baths or use lukewarm water to bathe. You can also add essential oils, rose petals, or camphor to your bath water.

• Avoid High Yeast And Sugar Foods

High yeast and high sugar foods can lead to vaginal odor. Avoid eating bread, cakes, pastries, sweets, alcohol, donuts, etc. Nibble on dark chocolate when you crave something sweet.

• Eat Veggies And Fruits Every Day

Fruits and veggies are loaded with nutrients that help to fight a lot of health problems, including bacterial and yeast infections, heart disease, etc. Eat at least three servings of veggies and two servings of fruits to avoid foul vaginal odor. You can also make smoothies with vegetables or fruits for breakfast. Avoid spicy food and starchy veggies.

• Stop Using Soaps And Fragrances

Soaps and fragrances contain chemicals that affect the pH balance of the vagina, which leads to bacterial growth. These chemicals also kill the natural bacteria present in the vaginal area. Therefore, to eliminate vaginal odor, avoid using soaps or fragrances in the vaginal area. Also, do not use daily water sprays or douches to wash your vaginal area. Water sprays or douches wash away the natural bacteria, leading to vaginal odor.

• Wipe The Toilet Seat

The surface of toilet seats is a good place for many pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, when away from home always wipe the toilet seat, even if it looks clean, before sitting down on it. Or use the toilet seat covers provided in most establishments. Do not flush while sitting on the seat. Be very careful while using public toilets.

• Avoid Too Much Oil Or Meat During Periods

Vaginal odor during your periods can be avoided by avoiding meat and a lot of oil in your food for the first three days of your period. Consume green leafy veggies, vegetable soup, smoothies, fresh fruits, fresh fruit juices, and fruit detox water. This will help prevent bacterial growth and any extra oil secretion through sweat glands, flush out toxins from the body, and maintain the pH balance.

• Say Yes To Soft Panty Liners

Using uncomfortable pads or panty liners can cause vaginal irritation and itching. This may kill the natural vaginal bacteria and help in the growth of harmful bacteria. Switch to a panty liner that is soft and more comfortable for you. This will prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and eliminate vaginal odor.

• Change Panty Liners Frequently

Panty liners should be changed after every three to four hours. Using a panty liner for more than four hours will aid bacterial growth, which can lead to foul odor. Also, try not to use tampons as they aid bacterial growth and cause itching and vaginal discomfort.

• Change Underwear After Exercising

Sweaty, dark, and covered areas are ideal for bacterial growth. Therefore, change your underwear after exercising. It will help prevent itching, irritation, and foul odor.

• Wash Your Underwear Regularly In Warm Water

Make sure to wash your underwear regularly in warm water. Soak your underwear in warm detergent water for 10 minutes before switching the washer on. This will help wash away any bacteria in your underwear. Also, dry your underwear properly before wearing it again.

• Shed The Thigh Fat

Extra thigh fat causes extra sweat as the thighs constantly touch each other. This leads to bacterial growth and vaginal odor. Exercise regularly to shed a few pounds from the thigh area to completely eliminate vaginal itching and odor.

• Check Your Hormones

Women who are undergoing hormonal changes or suffering from hormonal imbalance may have vaginal secretions that have a foul or fishy odor. Check with your gynecologist to know how these hormonal imbalances can be treated or the underlying reason for vaginal secretions. Use an antibacterial and antifungal powder on your inner thighs to get rid of vaginal odor temporarily.

• Play It Safe

Always have safe sex if you suffer from foul vaginal odor. Safe sex will limit bacterial growth and also keep you away from harmful diseases.

• Change Your Panties Twice A Day

One of the best ways to get rid of vaginal odor is to change panties twice a day or every 12 hours. Also, wear cotton panties rather than silk or satin. You may wear silk or satin panties, but do not wear them for longer hours. Satin and silk entrap sweat and urine, which leads to bacterial growth, and hence the foul smell. Change to a more comfortable cotton panty before going to sleep every night. Also, buy panties of different types so that the bacteria doesn’t get a favorable condition to grow. If you change into a panty that is of the same type as the other, the bacteria will grow back in the same area as they will get the ideal conditions to proliferate.

Infographic: 3 Home Remedies To Treat Vaginal Odor Issues

Fortunately, there are some more home remedies you can try to reduce vaginal odor apart from the ones mentioned above. These include stryphnodendron bark, fig, and rose water. Check out the infographic below to learn more home remedies to improve vaginal hygiene along with tips on how to use them.

Vagina produces a whitish fluid called vaginal discharge. It provides lubrication, protects the vagina against infection, and maintains its overall health. However, sometimes it may carry a strong, pungent smell that may cause inconvenience to the vagina owners and affect their sexual life. Excessive white discharge, metallic-smelling discharge, foul-smelling discharge, and thick discharge are some of the most common symptoms of unhealthy vaginal discharge. Many factors can cause a foul vaginal odor and discharge, which you can treat with simple home remedies and precautions mentioned above.

In This Article

20 Simple Home Remedies That Can Support Your Idea Of Flawless Skin

1. Apple Cider Vinegar
2. Aloe Vera
3. Alum
4. Coconut Oil
5. Castor Oil
6. Rosehip Oil
7. Almond Oil
8. Green Tea Ice Cubes
9. Garlic
10. Honey
11. Best Juices
12. Oats
13. Rice Water
14. Rose Water
15. Turmeric
16. Ubtan
17. Yogurt
18. Sugar Scrub
19. Papaya
20. Raw Milk

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV contains mild acids that can exfoliate the dull and pigmented skin cells and lighten scars and blemishes. ACV is thought to have astringent properties that can tone your skin and improve its appearance. It also helps balance your skin’s pH level.

Note: Add some aloe vera gel to counter the acidity of the vinegar. However, you may want to use this remedy with caution as ACV may cause contact dermatitisⁱ  XAn allergic skin condition where you experience skin rashes and irritation after coming in contact with an irritant or allergen. , hyperpigmentation,ⁱ  XA harmless and common skin condition in which skin patches become darker than the surrounding areas due to excess melanin production. and skin damage with improper use in some individuals. Avoid aloe vera on the skin as well if you have allergy-prone or sensitive skin.

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons rose water
• Cotton ball

What You Have To Do

1. Mix ACV and rose water and dab this mixture on the spots, blemishes, scars, and pigmented areas of your face.
2. Let it dry for 10 minutes.
3. Rinse it off with water.

How Often You Should Do This

Once every day.

Related: 17 Surprising Ways To Use Vinegar For Your Skin

2. Aloe Vera

Shutterstock

Aloe vera contains bradykinase, an enzyme that helps reduce skin inflammation. It also contains essential amino acids and salicylic acid that possess antibacterial properties. Aloe vera has a moisturizing and anti-aging effect on your skin. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays. Overall, it is a wonderful remedy for healthy, hydrated, and soft skin (1).

You Will Need

An aloe vera leaf

What You Have To Do

1. Cut the leaf from the aloe plant and slice it
2. Be wary of the thorns present on the leaf’s edges.
3. Scoop out the gel present inside and transfer it to an airtight container.
4. Apply some of this gel to your entire face and massage it in.
5. Leave this on for at least an hour before washing it off with warm water.
6. Store the remaining gel in a cool place.

If you do not own an aloe vera plant, buy a bottle of organic aloe gel from the market.

Note: Conduct a patch test on your arm before using aloe vera on your face as some individuals react adversely to the natural plant gel. Avoid if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

How Often You Should Do This

Once every day.

3. Alum

Alum can help protect your skin against certain allergies (2). It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (3). These properties can protect your skin from free radical damage and reduce acne. 

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon alum powder
• 1 tablespoon honey

What You Have To Do

1. Make a paste with the ingredients.
2. Apply this as a face pack and leave it to dry for 10 minutes.
3. Wash the pack off with tepid water.

How Often You Should Do This

2 times a week.

4. Coconut Oil

Shutterstock

The benefits of coconut oil for maintaining healthy skin are not unknown. It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin moisturizing properties (4),(5).

You Will Need

A few drops of organic coconut oil

What You Have To Do

1. Cleanse your face and pat it dry.
2. Massage the facial skin with coconut oil and leave it on overnight.
3. People with oily skin can add a drop or two of coconut oil to their regular moisturizer and apply it every night.

Note: Coconut oil is comedogenic and should be avoided by those with oily or acne-prone skin.

How Often You Should Do This

Every night before going to bed. 

5. Castor Oil

Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that is a skin-conditioning agent (6). It can also help restore the natural sebum production. The steam will open up your pores and allow the oil to penetrate the deeper layers of your skin.

You Will Need

• 2-3 drops castor oil
• Hot water (in a bowl)
• A big towel

What You Have To Do

1. Steam your face by bending over the hot water bowl and covering your head with the towel.
2. After 2-3 minutes, pat your skin dry gently and apply the castor oil.
3. Massage it in thoroughly.
4. Leave it on overnight.

How Often You Should Do This

Once every 4-5 days. Castor oil can be applied (without steam) every night as well.

StyleCraze SaysYou may mix castor oil with a carrier oil like jojoba and coconut oil, other vegetable oils, and plant butter before application.

6. Rosehip Oil

This essential oil is a natural moisturizer as it contains a high amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (7). It can protect your skin from inflammation and oxidative stress. Rosehip oilcan also improve skin tone and texture and has shown promising effects on inflammatory skin conditions (8).

You Will Need

3-4 drops rosehip oil

What You Have To Do

Pat the oil on your face after you have cleansed it.

How Often You Should Do This

Every night.

Related: DIY Rosehip Face Serum: How To Make Rosehip Seed Oil Face Serum At Home

7. Almond Oil

Shutterstock

Almond oil is anemollientⁱ  XAn agent or substance that helps hydrate the skin by forming a protective barrier and sealing the moisture in the skin. and can keep the skin hydrated. It also rejuvenates the skin, improves skin tone, and reduces the appearance of scars or marks (9).

You Will Need

2-3 drops almond oil

What You Have To Do

1. Warm up the oil between your fingertips and massage it into your face.
2. Leave the oil on overnight.

How Often You Should Do This

Every night.

8. Green Tea Ice Cubes

The antioxidants in green tea can protect your skin from the damage caused by UV rays. It also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that prevent and treat acne and skin disorders (10).

You Will Need

• 1 green tea bag
• A cup of hot water
• An ice tray

What You Have To Do

1. Brew some fresh green tea by steeping the tea bag in hot water for a few minutes.
2. Remove the teabag and allow it to cool down.
3. Pour it into the ice tray and freeze it.
4. Pat the green tea ice cube gently all over your face. Let it dry naturally.
5. Rinse your face with plain water.

How Often You Should Do This

Onc every day.

Related: 12 Green Tea Face Packs For Different Skin Types

9. Garlic

Shutterstock

Garlic can be used for spot treatment of scars, acne, and other marks on the face. It can help in treating skin conditions, like psoriasis, and also exhibits anti-aging and skin rejuvenating effects (11).

You Will Need

1 garlic clove

What You Have To Do

1. Crush the garlic and apply it to the marks and scars on your face.
2. Leave it on for five minutes and then rinse it off.
3. Pat dry and apply a moisturizer.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this daily.

10. Honey

Shutterstock

Honey has humectantⁱ  XA hydrating agent that can attract water from the air and deep skin layers to keep its surface moist and hydrated. properties that can moisturize your skin and make it supple. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can also help treat acne, burns, wounds, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin disorders (12).

You Will Need

• 1-2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder

What You Have To Do

1. Make a thick paste with the honey and cinnamon powder.
2. Apply it to the face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
3. Wash your face clean with water.

How Often You Should Do This

1-2 times a week.

11. Best Juices For Flawless Skin

(a) Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has acidic properties and acts as a natural bleach for the skin. It is one of the most commonly used skin-lightening agents (13). It contains citric acid that can help reduce acne (14).

You Will Need

1/2 lemon

What You Have To Do

1. Rub the lemon on the face.
2. Leave the juice on for 5-7 minutes.
3. Wash it off with lukewarm water.

How Often You Should Do This

Once every day for a few days and then reduce usage to 2 times a week.

(b) Vegetable Juice

Vegetables contain antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial compounds, vitamins, and minerals that can promote skin health. Ginger exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, while the nutrients from carrots can rejuvenate your skin from the inside (15), (16).

You Will Need

• 4 carrots
• 1/2 inch-long piece ginger
• ½ cup of water

What You Have To Do

1. Peel the carrots and ginger and cut both of them into small pieces.
2. Blend them with water to get a thick juice.
3. Drink this at room temperature or after chilling.

How Often You Should Do This

Every day.

(c) Green Juice

The nutrients from the ingredients of green juice can help refresh, restore, and rejuvenate the skin.

You Will Need

• 3 cucumbers
• ½ cup romaine lettuce
• A handful of mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ½ cup of water

What You Have To Do

1. Chop everything into small pieces and blend well.
2. Add lemon juice and water to get a juice-like consistency.
3. Drink this healthy green juice.

How Often You Should Do This

Every day.

(d) Potato Juice

Potato is packed with anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated skin and reduce acne (17). Anecdotal evidence suggests that many people have benefited from using potato on the skin. It can help reduce sunburn, tan, and spots and promote glowing skin.

You Will Need

½ potato

What You Have To Do

1. Grate the potato and squeeze out the juice from it.
2. Apply this juice to the face and let it dry for 10-12 minutes.
3. Rinse it off with tepid water.

How Often You Should Do This

Once daily.

(e) Tomato Juice

Tomato has anti-aging properties and also acts as a sunscreen. It also contains lycopene, an antioxidant that can help you achieve clear and healthy skin (18).

You Will Need

1 small tomato

What You Have To Do

1. Chop and mash the tomato.
2. Apply this pulp to the face.
3. Keep it on for 10-12 minutes and then rinse it off.

How Often You Should Do This

Once every day for a week. Continue using tomato juice on your face once every 4-5 days.

12. Oats

This pack helps in brightening the skin and also reduces dark spots, scars, and blemishes. Oatmeal cleanses the skin and soothes inflammation on the skin surface. It also helps to tighten the pores, balances skin pH, and makes it smooth and even (19), (20), (21).

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon tomato pulp
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• 1-2 teaspoons oatmeal

What You Have To Do

1. Mix all the ingredients to get a paste.
2. Apply it to the face and leave it on for 15 minutes.
3. Wash the face pack off with cold water.

How Often You Should Do This

1-2 times a week.

13. Rice Water

Rice water contains vitamins, minerals, and other anti-aging agents that rejuvenate the skin and tighten it (22). It also helps to exfoliate the skin and remove dead cells and impurities.

You Will Need

• ½ cup of raw rice grains
• 2-3 cups water

What You Have To Do

1. Rinse the rice with a cup of water.
2. Throw away this water and soak the rice in the remaining water for 15-30 minutes.
3. Rub the rice with your fingers in the water so that the water turns cloudy.
4. Strain the rice and store the water in an airtight bottle.
5. After waiting for a day, apply some of this water to your face and massage for a few minutes.
6. Rinse the rice water after 10 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

Once every day.

14. Rose Water

Rosewater is commonly used as a skin toner (23). It balances the skin’s pH and improves circulation. It helps soothe irritated skin and fight infections.  It can also heal acne scars and other marks on the skin. Anecdotal evidence states that it has skin refreshing and skin brightening effects.

You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons rose water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or 5-6 drops olive oil

What You Have To Do

1. Add lemon juice to the rose water if you have acne-prone and/or oily skin. For dry skin, add the olive oil.
2. Mix well and apply the mixture to the face.
3. Let this sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off.

How Often You Should Do This

Once every alternate day.

15. Turmeric

The curcumin in turmeric has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can promote skin health and give it a natural glow. Turmeric also possesses wound healing properties and can help treat scars, marks, and other spots (24).

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder

What You Have To Do

1. Add the turmeric to the yogurt and mix well.
2. Apply this as a thin layer on your face.
3. Wash it off after 15 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

2 times a week.

StyleCraze SaysA turmeric face mask can leave yellow stains on your face if you keep it on for an extended period. So, pay attention to the time.

16. Ubtan

Ubtan exhibits free radical scavenging and tyrosinaseⁱ  XA copper-containing enzyme in skin tissues that activates melanin production and may darken the skin. inhibiting activities (25). This means that it can protect your skin from free radical damage and lighten the skin tone with consistent use. While gram flour cleanses and exfoliates the skin, sandalwood powder soothes and smoothens the skin. Together, they make a potent combination to treat blackheads, acne, dark spots, and blemishes. Regular use will leave your skin radiant, soft, and supple.

You Will Need

• 2 teaspoons gram flour
• 1 teaspoon sandalwood powder
• Milk or rose water

What You Have To Do

1. Mix the gram flour and sandalwood powder.
2. Add milk to this mixture and mix well. Use rose water instead of milk if you have acne-prone skin or oily skin or are allergic to dairy.
3. Apply the face pack and let it dry.
4. Rinse it off with lukewarm water.

How Often You Should Do This

Once a week.

Related: How To Make Ubtan At Home For A Glowing Skin

17. Yogurt

Studies show that yogurt facial masks can improve moisture, brightness, and elasticity of the skin(26). The lactic acid in yogurt unclogs pores, reduces pore size, and exfoliates the dead skin cells. This results in a tightening effect on your skin and lightens blemishes.

Caution:

Avoid this remedy if you are allergic to dairy products.

You Will Need

1-2 tablespoons yogurt

What You Have To Do

1. Apply the yogurt on your face and leave it on for 10 minutes.
2. Rinse your face with lukewarm water.

How Often You Should Do This

Every alternate day.

18. Sugar Scrub

Sugar acts as a good exfoliator. It removes dead cells, excess oils, and impurities. Blood circulation to the skin also improves due to the scrubbing motion. This scrub will leave your skin glowing and youthful. 

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Water

What You Have To Do

1. Add some water to both the sugars in a bowl and mix well.
2. Rub this mixture gently on the face for 2-3 minutes.
3. Wash it off with lukewarm water.

How Often You Should Do This

Once every 4-5 days.

19. Papaya

Papaya contains antioxidants like lycopene, which helps delay wrinkles and fine lines. It also contains skin brightening and exfoliating enzymes like papain (27). It unclogs your pores and eliminates blackheads. It contains vitamins A and C that are essential for optimum skin health.

You Will Need

2-3 pieces ripe papaya

What You Have To Do

1. Mash the papaya and apply it to the face.
2. Massage for 2-3 minutes and then leave the papaya pulp on for another 10 minutes.
3. Wash it off with cold water.

How Often You Should Do This

Once a week.

20. Raw Milk For Flawless Skin

Raw milk contains lactic acid, which can help exfoliate the skin. It improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and keeps your skin soft (28). It also moisturizes the skin and keeps it supple.

Caution: People with an allergy to milk should not use this remedy.

You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons of raw milk
• Cotton ball

What You Have To Do

1. Dip the cotton ball in milk and apply it on your face.
2. Let it dry naturally for 10-12 minutes and then rinse it off.

How Often You Should Do This

2-3 times a week. 

These remedies can help you get clear and flawless skin naturally at home. Apart from these home remedies, we have also listed a few tips you can follow. 

Tips For Flawless Skin

1. Eat Healthy

The lesser fried and processed foods you eat, the lesser your skin has to work to keep it oil-free and healthy.

2. Cleanse Well

Dirt, grime, and pollution can leave your skin looking dull and lifeless. Your skin needs a rigorous cleansing regimen with the right products to ensure that it remains clean and supple. Remember to wash your face after you are back home.

3. Exfoliate

Your skin needs to get rid of the constantly accumulating dead skin, dirt, and grime that simple cleansing cannot get rid of. Hence, exfoliating with a good scrub, like the sugar scrub we have mentioned in the remedies above, at least once every two days can help.

4. Pamper Your Skin

The best way to show your skin some love is by pampering it as much as you can. Apart from following a regular skincare regimen, regular clean-ups, massages, and such treatments will help increase blood circulation and refresh your skin.

5. Water Is Essential

Hydration is the key to well-nourished, soft, and glowing skin. Drink 8-10 glasses of water every day. You can also drink healthy juices and smoothies to keep your skin hydrated.

6. Protect Your Skin From The Sun

There’s no point in helping your skin so much from the inside if you are not going to help it from the outside as well. Cover yourself when you are out in the afternoon sun. Also, use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays.

7. Clean Your Hair

Sometimes, bumps, acne, and other skin problems can be caused due to dandruff from the hair coming in contact with the skin. Wash your hair with a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo to take that step towards healthy skin.

8. Go Natural

Natural skin care products are safer than chemical ones as the chances of side effects with them are remarkably low. Hence, try to go for natural remedies whenever possible.

9. Use Cosmetic Products Judiciously

Give your skin a breather. Ditch makeup once in a while and go au naturel.

10. Get Proper Sleep

While sleeping, your body goes into the repair mode and rejuvenates the skin cells. Lack of sleep shows on your skin in the form of dark circles, saggy skin, and a dull complexion. Sleep for at least 8 hours. Make sure you sleep with your hair tied back as the residue of the hair oils can clog the skin pores, resulting in blackheads and dull skin.

11. Avoid Stress

Stress causes excess oil secretion, which, in turn, causes your skin to absorb more dirt. This can lead to skin problems. Relax by doing yoga or meditation.

Here are some recommendations for what you should eat to get flawless skin.

What To Eat To Get Flawless Skin Fast

• Healthy fats from foods, like avocado, olive oil, and nuts.
• Foods rich in antioxidants, like tomato, kale, spinach, Swiss chard, wheat germ, carrots, pumpkin, celery, cucumber, watermelon, papaya, sweet potatoes, etc.
• Omega-3-containing foods, like sardines, flax seeds, walnuts, and chia seeds.
• Protein foods, such as lean meat, turkey, chicken, eggs, and soybeans.

Infographic: 5 Best Home Remedies For Flawless Skin

Most of us rely on natural remedies for our skin care woes. The ingredients are readily available, sustainable, and rarely cause side effects unless you are allergic to them and know how to use them properly. While you can use any of the remedies discussed in the article, we have picked the top 5 ingredients that are safe, can reduce hyperpigmentation and acne, and keep your skin radiant, hydrated, and smooth. Scroll down to check them out.

To get flawless skin, you need to maintain a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. In addition, you can make use of several natural ingredients like aloe vera gel, coconut oil, castor oil, green tea ice cubes, rosehip oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, turmeric, papaya, raw milk, and yogurt that help to attain radiant skin. However, it is always essential to conduct a patch test for DIY recipes and wait for at least 24 hours before applying them to the face. If you are struggling with major skin issues, it is recommended to consult your dermatologist before using home remedies. Certain foods to include in your diet for good skin are those that are rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fats, and proteins. In addition, you must apply sun protection, stay hydrated, and mitigate stress for flawless skin.

This article discusses the benefits of gram flour, its nutritional profile, how to use it, and any potential side effects. Take a look.

In This Article

What Is Gram Flour?

Simply put, this is a pulse flour made from ground chickpea (also known as Bengal gram or garbanzo beans). A staple diet in the cuisine from the Indian subcontinent, this flour can be made either from raw or roasted chickpeas. The raw variety is slightly bitter, while the roasted variety is more flavorful.

Gram flour, also known as besan flour (channa ka aata in Hindi, sanagapindi in Telugu, kadalai maav in Tamil, cikkam maav in Malayalam, kadale hittu in Kannada, kaḍala piṭi in Sinhala and Unga Wa Gramu in Swahili), is popularly used as a facial exfoliant in India. The flour can also be used in the place of eggs in vegan cooking – all you need to do is mix it with an equal amount of water.

StyleCraze Trivia The earliest records of chickpeas appear in Turkey from about 3500 B.C; and India produces the most chickpeas worldwide.

The flour is rich in carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. It also contains no gluten.

But hold on – even before we get to the benefits of Gram flour, how about amusing ourselves with a few super cool facts?

What Are The Facts About Chickpea I Need To Know?

• 90 million tons of chickpeas are produced every year, with India being the greatest producer and exporter of the peas in the world.
• The green parts of the plant and the immature pods are extensively used in Asian cuisine.
• In 18th century Europe, roasted chickpeas were used as a substitute for coffee.
• The discarded husks and the green and dry stems of chickpea are used as animal fodder.
• The leaves of chickpea are used in the manufacturing of blue dyes.
• Chickpea is an annual plant – it completes its life cycle in one year.
• The stems, leaves, and pods of chickpeas secrete a fluid that contains oxalic and malic acids – these possess aphrodisiac properties.

StyleCraze Trivia Chickpeas are the world’s oldest cultivated legumes, and their remains were found from 7500 years ago.

That’s about the facts. But why discuss the facts? What is so special about this flour?

Why Is Gram Flour Healthy?

What we need to understand first is that the nutrition in gram flour is the same as that of in chickpeas. Because the flour is made from just one ingredient – ground chickpeas.

One major benefit of this flour is that you can enjoy a higher dose of fiber and protein with no gluten. As it is a great source of fiber, the flour can ease your digestive system and treat any related disorders. It also stabilizes your blood sugar levels – thereby aiding diabetes treatment. The flour works great for heart health and can also help with weight loss.

In fact, according to one Indian study, gram flour is rich in linoleic and oleic acids, which are nutritionally important unsaturated fatty acidsⁱ  XHealthy dietary fats that help stabilize cholesterol levels and are beneficial for health. . It is also a great source of other vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, folate, and beta-carotene. The flour might also contain certain antinutritional factors that can be eliminated with the cooking process. All in all, the flour is made from an important pulse crop with diverse benefits (1).

All of what we spoke about, all of these benefits, are because of the nutrients present in gram flour. Which is what we will look at now.
So that was about chickpea flour nutrition facts. And now, we head to the real deal.

What Are The Benefits Of Gram Flour For Skin?

Using besan or gram flour for the face and the skin is an age-old trick that we still use. Check out here what are the benefits of applying besan on face.

Note: Consult a doctor immediately if the swollen lips persist even after trying home remedies.

In This Article

Causes Of Swollen Lips

Swelling of the lips may happen due to any trauma to the soft tissue. However, there are various other reasons that may cause swollen lips. Some of the common reasons are:

• • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Dehydration
  • Viral infection
  • Dryness
  • Injury or cut
  • Allergic reaction to a food product
  • Insect bite
  • Bad lip care products
  • Extreme climatic conditions

Often, swollen lips may be accompanied by cuts and bleeding. This may make it difficult for the person to eat, drink, or talk properly. Use the remedies listed below to treat this condition.

Home Remedies For Swollen Lips

1. Ice Cubes
2. Warm Water
3. Turmeric Powder
4. Aloe Vera
5. Baking Soda
6. Honey
7. Witch Hazel Extract And Salt
8. Tea Tree Oil And Aloe Vera
9. Coconut Oil
10. Epsom Salt
11. Apple Cider Vinegar

1. Ice Cubes

Shutterstock

Ice may reduce edema by decreasing the amount of blood flowing to the affected site (1). Using ice cubes on the affected area may help in healing the swollen lips.

You Will Need

• 1-2 ice cubes
• A soft washcloth

What You Have To Do

1. Wrap the ice cubes in the wash cloth and press the ice pack gently on the affected area for 8-10 minutes.
2. Take a break of 10 minutes and repeat the process.

How Often You Should Do This

Repeat every few hours.

Note: Avoid applying ice cubes directly on the skin as it may result in mild frostbite or soreness. 

Stylecraze SaysYou can also use readymade frozen gel packs for the same effect.

2. Warm Water

Warm water therapy promotes blood circulation in the human body (2). Applying warm water on the affected area may cure swollen lips. It may also soothe the pain one might experience from the swelling.

You Will Need

• Warm water
• A washcloth

What You Have To Do

1. Soak the washcloth in warm water and wring out the excess water from the cloth.
2. Place the washcloth on the lips for 8-10 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this process every hour (if required).

3. Turmeric Powder

Shutterstock

The curcumin present in turmeric exhibits anti-inflammatory properties (3). Turmeric is also known for its antiseptic and healing properties (4). Hence, using turmeric powder may help in treating swollen lips.

You Will Need

• Fuller’s earth
• Turmeric powder
• Cold water

What You Have To Do

1. Prepare a herbal ointment by mixing turmeric powder with Fuller’s earth and cold water.
2. Apply the prepared ointment on the swollen area.
3. Allow it to dry completely.
4. Wash your lips with lukewarm water.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 2 times a day. 

Related: 18 Health Benefits Of Turmeric, How To Use It, & Side Effects

4. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera exhibits anti-inflammatory and healing properties (5). Using aloe vera may reduce swollen lips caused by mosquito bite, insect bite, or allergic reactions.

You Will Need

Aloe Vera Leaf

What You Have To Do

1. Extract the aloe vera gel present inside the leaf.
2. Apply a small amount of gel on the affected area and massage gently.
3. Leave it on for as long as possible.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 2 times a day. 

5. Baking Soda

Shutterstock

Baking soda exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties (6). It may help in treating swollen lips caused due to fever blisters, allergic reactions, or insect bites.

You Will Need

• Baking soda
• Water

What You Have To Do

1. Mix the baking soda with some water.
2. Apply a thick coat of this paste on the swollen area.
3. Keep it on for 10 minutes and wash it off with cold water.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this once every 3-4 hours. 

Related: 20 Beauty Benefits Of Baking Soda You Must Know!

6. Honey

Honey has natural healing and antibacterial properties (7). It may also help soothe any itching or irritation that may accompany a swollen lip.

You Will Need

• Honey
• Cotton ball or cotton swab

What You Have To Do

1. Use a cotton ball to apply honey on the affected area.
2. Wash it off with cold water after 20 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 2-3 times a day. 

Related: 10 Types Of Honey: What, How, And Why Should You Know About Them!

7. Witch Hazel

Shutterstock

Witch hazel is a popular astringent that cleans and disinfects the skin surface (8). It may reduce the inflammation around the swollen lips.

You Will Need

• Witch hazel extract
• Salt
• Cotton ball

What You Have To Do

1. Mix salt and witch hazel.
2. Apply the mixture to the affected area with a cotton ball.
3. Rinse it off with cool water after 30 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 1-2 times a day.

Related: 24 Amazing Witch Hazel Benefits, How To Use, & Side Effects

8. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a strong antimicrobial agent (9). It may help reduce swelling caused by infections and insect bites.

You Will Need

• A few drops of tea tree oil
• 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel

What You Have To Do

1. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil and a teaspoon of aloe vera gel.
2. Apply this mixture on the lips and massage gently for a minute or two.
3. Rinse with cool water after 10 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 1-2 times a day. 

9. Coconut Oil

Shutterstock

The lauric acid in coconut oil exhibits strong antimicrobial properties (10). These properties may eliminate harmful bacteria, fungi, or viruses while absorbing all impurities from the skin pores. It may also act as an emollient and keep the skin nourished and supple.

You Will Need

Organic coconut oil

What You Have To Do

1. Massage a few drops of coconut oil on the swollen lips.
2. Leave it on for a couple of hours.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this once a day until the swelling goes down. 

10. Epsom Salt

It is believed that Epsom salt may soothe the swollen lips and help them heal quickly. However, there is no scientific research to back this claim.

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt
• 1 cup of warm water
• Washcloth

What You Have To Do

1. Mix the Epsom salt in the water and dip the washcloth in this solution.
2. Place the washcloth dipped in the warm water on the swollen lips for 15 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this procedure a few times a day until swelling subsides. 

11. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, it may help in treating swollen lips.

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of water
• Cotton ball

What You Have To Do

1. Dilute the apple cider vinegar and apply it on the lips with the cotton ball.
2. Leave it on for a couple of minutes.
3. Rinse with water.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 2 times a day.

Stylecraze SaysSeek emergency medical aid if you experience symptoms such as trouble swallowing, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, high fever, numbness or increasing pain along with swollen lips.

Infographic: Top 5 Easy Home Remedies To Manage Swollen Lips

Whether the swollen lips are caused by an injury, allergic reaction, or a bug bite, you can use any remedy from the list to ease discomfort. However, a few of them are really effective and show faster results. Check out the infographic below to learn more about them.

Swelling of the lips generally occurs as a result of any trauma to the soft tissue of the lips. Nutritional deficiencies, infections, injury, harsh climatic conditions, and allergic reactions are a few of the most common causes of swollen lips. Common home remedies for swollen lips include the use of ice cubes, aloe vera, honey, coconut oil, or witch hazel extract with salt. Along with your preferred home remedy, it is important that you also follow and balanced and healthy diet rich in vitamins. In case your lips continue to remain swollen despite using appropriate home remedies, consult your healthcare provider.