Spotlight- Malika Ghalib Shah

Malika, a successful lawyer from Kashmir decided to follow her passion of crafting organic, herbal beauty products and thus brand Masha by Malika was born. Let’s know more about the lawyer -cum -entrepreneur, Malika Ghalib Shah.

Born and brought up in the beautiful valleys of Rajbagh in Srinagar, 31 year old Malika had always been inclined towards academics. She was an LLB topper and a gold medallist in Kashmir University and then pursued her LLM degree from University College, London through the prestigious Chevening Scholarship. Malika is also a recipient of the Young India Fellowship (YIF) programme at Ashoka University. While studying at YIF she got the opportunity to interact with people from all over India and learn about their cultures, lifestyles and even traditional beauty recipes. Malika fondly recalls a roommate coming from a village in south India who had shared a few of her traditional south Indian hair oil recipes with her. Malika says she uses them in her products, Masha by Malika

Kashmir; more than a paradise

Kashmir is no doubt a wonderful tourist destination with its snow-capped mountains, scenic lakes and lush green gardens but it is also abundant with diverse flora and fauna. This Heaven on earth, grows herbs (gautheer roohun, handoon), trees (sandalwood), flowers (rose, lotus, marigold, jasmine, sunflower, lavender) fruits (apples, peach, cherries, olives, papaya, pomegranate) dry fruits (walnuts, almonds, cashews, apricots) spices (turmeric, saffron) and much more. Malika uses many of those homegrown herbs, fruits, flowers etc. in her beauty products and while doing so encourages Kashmiri women to cultivate native plants. Organic raw materual like coconuts (that doesn’t grow in Kashmir) is also sourced from across the country to prepare her products.

Fascinated by dadima’s beauty!

While growing up, Malika was intrigued by the beauty of Kashmiri women, moreso by the beauty of women of previous generations, like those of her grandmothers age. They never used beauty products like creams, shampoos, conditioners (as we do now) and yet had flawless skin and maintained their beautiful, thick and long hair very well. Nevertheless, the cool, soothibg climate, genetics and pollution- free environment are also responsible for their beautiful, silken complexions but there was more to it, she thought. Malika gradually learnt that earlier women used malai and oils instead of creams and lotions to moisturise their skin and exfoliated their skin with powdered almonds and walnuts. They also added pure saffron to face packs which gave that pink hue and youthful glow to their skin. Homemade, herbal hair oils made their hair thick, dark and strong.

With busy lives and tight schedules, no one has the time to formulate oils and moisturisers at home. We are bound to use bottled beauty products for our daily requirements. But we have to make sure what we are using is made from pure and natural ingredients. And Malika’s products are exactly that; they are harmless as they are made from organic, natural ingredients, free from chemicals, artificial colours and fragrances and prepared using traditional techniques and recipes.

The story behind MaSha by Malika

After completing her Masters degree in Law from London, when Malika returned to her hometown.she had some free time on hand. Malika says that she is very creative and a creative person is always edgy and vying to try something new and interesting in his/ her spare time. It was the same with her. She somehow got her hands onto her grandmothers heirloom beauty recipes and formulated some skin oils which did wonders for her complexion. She went on to prepare a few more handmade products with locally available resources for family and friends. These included a Kashmir soap and an illuminating face pack. She used rose petals pure saffron, pure Kashmiri honey, almond oil, goat milk in those products. Those who used them just loved her products. This encouraged Malika to advertise and sell them and so she put ads on social media. She was surprised when she got an overwhelming response for her homemade beauty products. By then Malika registered the brand under the name Masha by Malika in 2019. After some time as the demand for her products increased, she started manufacturing the products in a small factory. Malika employs local women who work under her supervision. That way she also provides employment to women belonging to economically weak backgrounds which helps them become financially independent, strong women.

Malika also feels blessed to have a family like hers; they have always supported her even when she decided to give her Law career a backseat and turn her hobby (of making beauty products) into a business. They believe that if a person is honest, dedicated and courageous he/she can be successful in any field.

Another advantage is that now the goverment of Kashmir is supporting Kashmiri women, by bringing new schemes for the women. So many women in Kashmir are becoming entrepreneurs and starting their own business ventures in the field of fashion or beauty. They are tech- savvy and business- oriented. Malika herself connects with people on social media and ships products throughout India. This is a fantastic means for marketing, because of which products can be delivered to more people and also orders can be obtained.

Spotlight- Malika Ghalib Shah

Malika feels that people have gradually started to realise the value of organic and herbal products. She says rhat chemicals have become an inseparable part of women’s lives, which is not the right thing They (organic products) are slower in showing results unlike the chemical-based ones that give instant results but organic beauty products are safer for your health whereas the latter can cause illnesses after prolonged use. Consequently the demand for Malikas organic beauty products has also been increasing and customers are reaching out to her giving her feedback and thanking her for the positive results after having used her products. Malika says her products are handmade and she doesn’t compromise on quality at all. They also believe in inclusivity, from the sourcing stage to production and consumption.

The present and the future of MaSha by Malika

Malikas makes about 35 products that include face serums, cleansers, face packs and hair packs, handmade soaps, different types of hair oils and face oils, moisturisers, powders, lotions, aloe vera gel, cosmetics etc. Most of her products are sold locally but people outside Jammu and Kashmir also purchase her products and many Kashmiris living abroad have also become her regular customers. She also sells some famous traditional Kashmiri food products such as honey and ghee. Malika says that when she launched the company, there was a strong desire to turn indigenous Kashmiri herbs into affordable natural beauty products and also empower communities while doing so. Masha by Malikas skincare and haircare business was started with the sole aim, “Fitness for everyone”. They believe in affordable luxury since wellness shouldn’t be exclusive

To gain more expert knowledge, Malika says she pursued some short- term courses in herbalism from London. Malika is eager to expand her business into a bigger factory very soon to manufacture more products and provide employment to more people

At present, Malika is working as an assistant law professor at a law college in India.

Hibiscus tea

There are many species of the Hibiscus flower but only a few are edible. The red hibiscus flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is widely used for culinary as well as medicinal purposes. It is used to prepare floral herbal tea. This tea not only looks amazing because of the gorgeous crimson -red colour, the hibiscus flower gives it but it also has a delicious and refreshing taste. It is packed with loads of health benefits. You can prepare hibiscus tea with both fresh as well as dried hibiscus flowers. Besides, this tea can be had hot or chilled. You can brew yourself a cup of hot hibiscus tea or then make iced tea if you want. Hibiscus tea is also known as Jamaica tea or Agua de Jamaica or Karkade Tea. It is a rather healthy and delicious alternative to caffeinated drinks.

The world over people are becoming health conscious and many have their own versions of their favourite herbal teas. It may appear difficult to make herbal tea with flowers but the truth is brewing hibiscus tea is absolutely easy because it is simply a hibiscus infusion.

Recipe of hot hibiscus tea:

Ingredients:

2 cups water

3- 4 fresh hibiscus flowers

honey or sugar (or any other suitable sweetener like maple syrup, agave syrup etc. that you prefer)

some fresh lime juice

Method:

Seperate the petals from the flowers and wash them properly.

Heat the water in a vessel and bring it to a boil. Add the petals to the water and cook for 4 – 5 mins. The flower petals lose colour and leave a lovely deep purplush or pinkish hue in the water

Shut the gas and strain the water. Discard the petals. This is the basic recipe of the tea. This tea has a slightly tart flavour therefore adding any sweetener will balance its tartness.

For flavour add a squirt of lime. The lime will also give the tea a deep ruby red colour.

Do not add milk

If fresh flowers are not available you can use dried hibiscus flowers to prepare tea. They are easily available in health food stores, grocery stores and online and they are packaged as tea bags. You can brew the tea in the same manner but add 1/2 cup of dried flowers for 2 cups of water. You can squire lemon juice for flavour and add any sweetener if you want.

To add a spicy note to the floral tea you could add some ginger, clove, cinnamon, black pepper, a few mint leaves, some basil/ tulsi leaves to the boiling water along with the flowers. If you are fond of black tea, additionally add black tea bags to the hot water. This will enhance its taste and turn it into a healthy kahwa

In summers everyone loves a tall glass of chilled sorbet or ice tea. For that let the hot hibiscus tea cool down completely, pour it into a glass and add the ice. Garnish with a wedge of lime and some mint leaves.

Health benefuts of Hibiscus tea

It is rich in antioxidants like Viramin C and Betacarotebe. It is a good source of Vitamin A and B1 and Iron and Calcium,

Lowers blood pressure

Lowers cholestrol

Reduces blood sugar

Helps increase hemoglobin

Reduces the risk of heart diseases

Boosts your immune system

Boosts metabolism and promites weight loss

Fights inflammation

It has anti- cancer properties

Do keep in mind: If consumed in moderation this herbal tea can be rather benefucial for your health. Though there aren’t any strong sude effects of the tea those who suffer from low bp should avoid it as this tea is believed to lower blood pressure. It should also be avoided if you are pregnant or plan to concieve or feeding a baby. Those consuming hormonal medicines should not consume and those who are on blood sugar lowering medication should avoid hibiscus tea.

Being Natural

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When nature bestows its own colours why should you use artificial dyes to colour food.

As they say, ‘You eat with your eyes first’, therefore food has to be delicious (obviously) but it has to look attractive at the same time. No wonder chefs and cooks the world over put in so much effort to make food look eye- catching. And one way to make food appetising is to make it colourful. Hence restaurants and eateries resort to adding food dyes to give that pop of colour to enhance the appearance of their dishes. In fact even housewives invest in food colours to make their eats more attractive since kids always want to eat colourful food. Whether its pastries, candies, mithais, cakes or any other dessert they all need that splash of colour to look mouthwatering. Gravies, curries, sauces, pulavs, beverages and other food and drinks also need to be bright and colourful. Artificial food dyes are easily available in the form of coloured powders, liquids and gels but those synthetic colours are known to cause disorders like allergies, rashes and also lead to hyperactivity in kids. Hence the best way to make food colouful is by using natural ingredients. It makes food look appetising without compromising on the health factor. To colour food naturally you can add suitable, colourful ingredients like vegetables (red beets, carrots, bright red tomatoes) fruits (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), spices (saffron; turmeric, kashmiri red chillies), flowers (rose, marigold, hibiscus, cornflower) etc. when preparing food. They are easily available and convenient to use. But if you can spare some time, you can even prepare natural food colours on your own and store them to use when required. The best part is that unlike artificial food dyes, those veggies or fruits (imparting colour to the food) are actually good for your health. For e.g. spinach ( which lends a green colour to your gravies as well as desserts) is packed with nutrition and helps stabilise your blood glucose levels, reduces your risk of developing cancer and is good for your bones too. Turmeric is packed with protein, fibre and carbohydrates. It has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. It’s good for your heart and beneficial for your brain as well. Beets are packed with fibre so they are good for your digestive health. They contain a high amount of manganese which makes your bones stronger. Beets are also rich in copper which is vital for energy production. Therefore the best thing is to learn ways to colour food naturally.

Let’s know more about natural food colours.

How to colour food with natural ingredients,

Contrary to what it seems, colouring food naturally is not a very difficult task. All you need to do is add the extra colourful (suitable) ingredient whether its a vegetable or a spice and give your meals that perfect hue to make them look more palatable.

For reds and pinks, beets, strawberries, carrots, kashmiri red chillies, hibiscus flowers and tomatoes give a rich red colour. Beets give away a magenta colour and usually have a mild sweet taste so they can be added to savouries and sweets as well. You can skin a red beet, wash it, finely grare it and squeeze it to get instant and fresh red colour to be used in frostings, icings etc. Beets can be pureed and mixed with dips, dumpling batter, brownie batters or yoghurt.

Kashmiri red chilli powder and its paste are the perfect ingredient to add that mild heat, depth of flavor and a vibrant red colour to gravies. They are largely used in Indian cuisine, Mexican food, Thai cooking and Chinese recipes. They give a beautiful red colour to Rogan josh, Vindaloo and even to salsas, sauces and soups. Pav bhaji, a lip smacking, popular street food in India gets its fantastic, rich red colour because of the bright red tomatoes, carrots, kashmiri red chillies and most importantly the addition of red beets in the dish.

There is also the technique often used by chefs using sugar to give gravies that deep red colouf. When preparing red gravies add a little sugar in the smoking oil and let it caramelise. Then reduce the heat and add other ingredients (onion, garlic, ginger etc). The caramelised sugar can lend a reddish tinge to curries. In the same manner sugar can also be added to ghee or oil when preparing pulavs. The sugar caramalises and gives a light brown shade to the rice dish

To give a yellow or orange tinge, saffron, can be used. Saffron is an exotic and flavourful spice imparting a yellow or orange shade, an exotic flavour and a classy aroma to mithais, kulfus and desserts. Moghlai cuisine gets that luxurious touch because of the pinch of saffron added to its gravies, pulavs and biryanis. Turmeric is also used to lend a beautiful yellow colour to curries. Turmeric has a strong flavour which can overpower the dish if you add too much thereforeffort a little bit of the spice is enough. So you should start by adding very little and then add more if required. Surprisingly, though turmeric is a spice you can use its powder to give colour to sweets and mithais too. You can add some to jalebi batters or halwas instead of adding the usual, saffron to give them a lovely yellow tinge.

Tea and coffee also colour food. To impart a greyish colour tea is used. When cooking chole bhature a tea bag can be put in the cooker along with the chole to give them a blackish tinge.

Spinach gives a natural green colour to your food. Boiled and pureed spinach can be added to flour to prepare healthy and appealing green palak parathas, puris or mix them with batters of idli or dosa or wraps, combine with sauces, add to vegetarian or non- veg gravies, sandwich chutneys, soups, rice dishes etc.


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Being Natural

How to make natural food colours at home:

Just like adding veggies, fruits etc. to your recipes to add colour, you can even prepare natural food colours from those ingredients beforehand and store them to use as required. Making food colours by yourself is an interesting and fun- filled activity. Natural food dyes are also available in the market but the advantage of using home-made colours is that they are free from preservatives and you know exactly what has gone into making them. Even if you are a beginner, experimenting and trial and error will make you a pro at the art of making food dyes. Once you learn the technique of crafting and using food dyes you can substitute artificial, store -bought colours with home- made food dyes. You can even go a step further and formulate secondary colours by mixing primary colours. It is a known fact that a commercially produced dye can give you a much deeper colour but with home made dyes you can rest assured that the colours are safe and free from chemicals and preservatives. Natural food colours give lovely pastel shades to foods but if you are expecting very bright and neon colour then you cannot get them from home made natural colours.

As mentioned before colours can be prepared from vegetables, fruits, flowers, spices etc. You can use beets, carrots, spinach, pomegranates, strawberries, blueberries and even spices like turmeric and saffron. And also add different hues to frostings; icings, glazes; doughnuts, confectioneries, candies etc. In some cases you need to monitor the amount of colour being added to the recipe. Again, if you are preparing dessert and need to add a yellow colour made from turmeric then even a little more can cause the sweets to get the taste of turmeric so you need to be careful at such times.

It has been noticed that colours made from vegetables turn brown when baked therefore they should preferably not be used in baked foods unless you add an acidic ingredient like buttermilk, lemon juice or vinegar to the dough or batter. Then the vegetable based dye will work well enough to colour the food. Eceryones favourite, Red velvet cake can get a beautiful red colur using colour made fron beets.

To prepare yellow food colour add 1/2 tsp turmeric powder to 1/4 cup water and boil the water and turmeric for 3 to 5 minutes in a vessel. Let cool naturally. You can store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. You can add about 1 teaspoon to icings, frostings etc. to impart a yellow hue. Add more coloring, if necessary.

To make green food dye you need about a cupfull of spinach. Boil the spinach (in enough water to cover) for about 5 minutes. Drain and discard the liquid. Blend the spinach and water in a food processor until completely smooth. Add spoonfuls of water as needed if you cannot get a smooth puree. Strain, if desired, and let cool. You can store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Add 1 teaspoon to icings, frostings or batter to impart a green hue. Add more coloring, if necessary

For red colour, skin raw beets and wash and chop the vegetable and puree it in a food processor. This will give you a dark red colour liquid. Or you can boil them with the skin on. Cook until tender. Remove beets from the water and cool slightly. Remove the skins and blend them in a food processo with some water. You can strain it to get smooth liquid. If you store in an airtight container it can last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Add 1 teaspoon to icings, frostings, or batter for a pink hue.

To use pomegranates to colour food you can replace the water in a recipe with pomegranate juice. Or you can reduce it by heating it until the volume is roughly a quarter of what it was. This will give you a very potent food coloring. Its sweet taste makes it suitable for desserts

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Secrets de beauté

Tasneem, a homemaker from Bengaluru shares her beauty secret with us.

In spite of belonging to an affluent family, Tastneem was a real simpleton all through her school life. She would mostly be dressed in plain long frocks and decent salwar- kameez except for her last schooling year when she had enrolled herself into study classes. That’s when being influenced by others in her class, she became a little fashionable and got hooked on to wearing jeans and stylish t-shirts. With her tall and slender frane she looked quite nice in those clothes. But that was all to it since tenth standard was also very busy with lots of studying to do. Once out of school, life became a little relaxed. Tasneem made new friends in college and they would chill out watching movies and shopping. Tasneem says, “One of my college friends visited a beautician, Mrs. Sabrina for her haircuts, manicure and other beauty treatments. The lady also prepared herbal beauty products like shampoos and cleansers. Mrs. Sabrina’s parlour was close to my friends house so the next time I went to her house, I insisted she take me to her beautician. Though I had a clear and dusky complexion (except for some suntan) my skin was a bit dry and lacklustre. I always wanted glowing skin”. When she met Sabrina, Tasneem insisted the beautician give her a facial so that she could also have luscious skin like others.

Mrs. Sabrina advised her not to indulge in any such thing since she was too young for a facial. She complimented Tasneem saying she looked quite nice with her decent features and clear complexion. But Tasneem went on and on asking her for tips to give her a glow on her skin and clear the tan on her face. So Mrs. Sabrina mentioned about a DIY recipe of a face mask made of dried apricots. Tasneem said she knew about the scrub made from the apricots kernel as she had read about it in a women’s magazine. (The apricot kernel looks like an almond and is present inside the hard seed found in the apricot fruit). She asked if she could scrub her skin with the kernel powder to give it a glow. But Sabrina agaib explained that exfoliating the skin at such a tender age is not advisable. Sabrina then gave her the recipe of dry apricots powder and honey. Dried apricots powder can be made by grinding the fruit part of the dried apricots.

Tasneem says, “I would use this mask occasionally (dry fruits are expensive!) and it would just make my skin glow. My face would look clear and fairer and the tan narks slowly faded. My skin would feel very fresh and soft like a baby’s skin. All my friends would give me compliments saying that I was looking radiant and pretty and ask me what I’d done for my skin. But I wouldn’t tell anyone about my beauty secret at tgat time. I was quite good at keeping secrets !”

Tasneems apricot and honey mask:

What you need:

1/ 2 cup dried apricots powder

Some honey

1 tsp milk powder

Method:

Mix the apricot powder and milk powder and add enough honey to get a smooth paste. Cleanse your skin and apply the mask on your face leavibg the eye area. Leave it on for about 15- 20 minutes. Rinse it off with lukewarm water. You can apply this mask twice a month for best results.

How it works:

Apricot, honey and milk powder are very nourishing for your skin. This mask rejuvenates your skin, moisturises it and make it soft, smooth and supple. Apricots and honey are rich in antioxidants, vitamin A and C which makes your skin tone lighter and also gives an instant natural glow to your complexion. Besides, it combats signs of aging and lightens scars and blemishes. The mask also helps you achieve an even skin tone,

Product review: Iba lipsticks

Iba cosmetics:

Iba is an Arabic word meaning self -respect and pride in oneself. Iba believes, ‘What makes you beautiful should also be beautiful’. And Iba products are exactly as their belief; beautiful and pure.

Iba is Indias first halal certified beauty products brand. The products are also PETA certified and cruelty- free; they are not tested on animals. They are vegan, with no animal derived ingredients making them suitable for vegetarians and even vegans. Their products do not contain alcohol or harsh chemicals like parabens, sulphate, ammonia and bleaching agents. Iba also does not use any preservatives in their products. The products are pure, safe and efficacious, all at once.

Ibas story

It all started when two sisters, Mauli Teli and Grishma Teli dreamed of starting their own personal care and beauty products brand. They both quit their lucrative careers in the US where Mauli worked in a management consulting company and Grishma, in Biotech research and returned to their hometown, Ahmedabad in India. They wanted to develop a new range of products using absolutely pure and potent natural ingredients that would assure positive results to their customers. Their passion for crafting and formulating eco- ethical products led them to start Iba cosmetics in 2014 and the rest is evident with the ever- growing demand for Ibas products.

Iba is pure beauty without impurity.

Ibas product range:

Ibas personal care products for your skin include skin creams, serums, sunscreens, face washes, body washes etc. and for your hair they have crafted shampoos, conditioners, hair oils etc. Their makeup products are a variety of lipsticks, foundations, compact powders, lip balms, eye makeup and much more. And last but not the least, Iba manufactures perfumes too.

Iba uses natural extracts of neem, orange peel, dates etc.,nourishing oils like olive oil, coconut oil, etc. and even uses heena, coconut water and natural clays in their products.

Review of Ibas lip makeup: Matte lipstick, Moisture rich lipstick, Liquid lipstick and Lip gloss:

Ibas lip makeup:

The products are PETA certified, cruelty free, vegan and halal

They are free from parabens, petroleum jelly, preservatives, silicones and mineral oil.

Ibas products are chemical- free and natural so their lipsticks and glosses suit all skin types and are even safe for sensitive skins and for those who are allergic to harsh chemicals

The lipsticks and glosses are smudge- proof, water -proof and non-transferable

The lip products are light -weight, non-sticky and comfortable for all day wear.

Iba has an array of beautiful colours in their lip makeup range. They have a variety of shades that suit women of all ages and amazing colours apt for different skin tones. From vibrant tints like Urban red to natural shades like Cinnamon chai and from peppy hues of Perry pink to earthy tones of Blissful mocha, Iba has a colour for every occasion. The lipsticks are highly pigmented and smooth and glide easily on the lips.

Ibas lip products are infused with nourishing ingredients like olive oil, sweet almond oil, coconut oil, moroccan oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, avocado and Vitamin E. They are non drying and long wear and easily last for 5 to 7 hours so you may not need to re-apply. Moreover the lipsticks fade evenly from the centre of the lips (after a few hours) leaving a light tint behind and do not crack up your lips (which can make them look unsightly). Though the Moisture rich lipsticks are slightly creamier than the Matte ones, the matte lip colours are also non- drying since they have a creamy- matte formula. The lip products are also light-weight so they feel comfortable and light on the lips.

The stick lipsticks are encased in a simple, neat plastic case while the liquid lipsticks and gloss are available in decent tube containes. They have a thin applicator which is comfortable to use and since the texture of the liquid lipstick and gloss is smooth and non- sticky, it’s easy to apply even with one or two swipes.

The Matte Liquid lipsticks have a transfer- proof formula so they stay put all day long. They have gorgeous colours which give a perfect matte look but do not dry your lips. They are infused with Moroccan argan oil which is rich in antioxidants, hydrating marula oil and almond oil.

Iba’s Must Have Lip Plumping gloss are enriched with avocado oil, almond oil, jojoba oil and shea butter which moisturises your lips and makes your lips soft, supple and glossy. The texture is beautiful; smooth and creamy and does not feel heavy on the lips. Ibas glosses give a shimmer finish and a glossy look to your lips which can glam up your appearance and make you party- ready without looking gaudy. The gloss plumps the lips and volumizes them so even if you have thin lips they will look fuller. It hydrates the lips and gives a soothing and cooling effect. Iba uses mineral colours.

Just like Iba’s other products users agree that the lipsticks and gloss are affordable and with its combo packs and discount offers they turn out to be absolutely pocket-friendly

When you use Iba lip makeup you will not feel the guilt when you wear the tint

You can purchase Iba products from Iba stores and if they are unavailable in your city then you can order from their website, http://www.ibacosmetics.com and even from other leading online stores/ websites .

Information has been taken from Ibas website

Wooden foot roller

Feeling tired and sleepy after an entire day of slogging at work and you still have a few errands to run! But where can you get the stamina from; your mind and body are drained of energy. What can you do? The answer lies in your hands (and your feet- literally)! Massaging your hands can give you instant energy and reduce tiredness. You just need to know the right way to massage and acupressure has all the answers to yoir questions.

What is acupressure?

Acupressure is an alternative medicine technique from traditional Chinese medicine. It is a type of massage therapy in which manual pressure is applied to specific points on the body to relieve symptoms from common disorders like backache, headache, nausea, motion sickness and even problems related to the spine, joints, muscles and nerves. It is used to promote deep states of relaxation, decrease body pains, increase blood circulation etc. It is believed that acupressure can improve your emotional as well as your physical well-being since it also helps with conditions like fatigue, anxiety, stress and immune system deficiencies. Skilled practitioners need to be appointed for the therapy if you want treatment for a particular condition. They mostly use their hands to gradually press onto key points around the body to stimulate pain relief and muscle relaxation. The pressure is administered for a few seconds or then even a few minutes depending on the treatment. But you can also learn basic acupressure techniques by following books that will give you step-by-step instructions on the topic. Alternatuvely you could refer to reliable online videos or even enroll yourself in an acupressure school to learn the technique well.

Acupressure is similar to acupuncture (also a type of traditional Chinese medicine) but acupressure is safer as it is non -invasive and gentle since it uses fingertip pressure. Acupuncture is more methodical and involves the insertion of very thin needles through your skin at trigger points on your body. In acupressure physical pressure is applied to acupoints within muscles and soft tissues either by hand (fingers and thumb) elbows and even with various devices. Once you have learnt acupressure, it can be done on your own, anywhere (mostly) and anytime. You can do the therapy on yourself while watching TV, when travelling to work by bus/ car and even as you are waiting for your eats at a food joint. For instance, you can simply massage your hand/s and press the acupoints in your hands/ palms while chatting with your friends at an informal gathering.

Acupressurists explain that a person is fit and healthy as long as Qi (pronounced chee) -the body’s life force energy, circulates freely in the body. But when this flow of energy is blocked it causes imbalances in the body which further leads to bodily pains, discomfort and diseases. Acupoints are present all over the body but many of the points are located in the area experiencing pain or discomfort. Acupressure uses the traditional Chinese map of the body’s meridians– energetic highway in your body. Meridians exist in corresponding pairs with each meridian having multiple acupoints along the pathway. To put it in simple words, your feet have a few reflex points that are connected to your stomach. Stimulation of these particular points increases blood flow to your stomach which can help improve digestion, relieve bloating, constipation, acid reflux etc. Massaging and applying pressure on these key healing points helps encourage energy flow throughout the body and stimulates a person’s self-healing abilities. Similarly Acupressure is helpful in improving the functioning of the heart, lungs, gall bladder, kidneys and other organs too. It has been noted that acupressure is rather effective in treating diseases of muscles, joints and bones (the musculo-skeletal system). Whether you are suffering from any type of chronic pain or a pain arising from an injury, acupressure can help in alleviating the symptoms to a large extent. flows along invisible channels called meridians

Modern medicine has not accepted acupressure therapy completely but more and more people are now using it alongside doctor recommended treatments. When combined with modern medicine acupressure can be used as an alternative healing therapy so that recovery is increased.

Do keep in mind:

People who have high blood pressure and pregnant women should not follow acupressure

Though adequate pressure should be applied on the acupoints, acupressure should not be painful.

Wooden foot roller

As mentioned before, acupressure can be done with devices as well and one such device is an acupressure foot roller. Using the same principles of acupressure, a foot roller has uniform ridges and elongated tips to massage and release trigger points within your feet. Rolling your feet on it is not only relaxing but it also relieves foot aches, cramps and foot pain. Even a few minutes of such a foot massage daily can increase blood circulation and improve your health in many ways.

Benefits of using a roller:

Stress and worry are part and parcel of todays modern life. It has been noticed that certain types of pain are linked with feelings of anxiety and worry. Stress can cause headaches, backaches, sore muscles, pain in your feet and a host of other disorders. Using a roller foot massager is a simple, cost -efficient and effective means to relieve stress.

A foot roller can be used as an acupressure point device which can relieve foot aches, sore muscles and pains by massaging and releasing trigger points within the feet. Thus it is ideal for alleviating symptoms of arthritis, gouts, leg pain and tired feet. The roller bars are designed to provide relief to your feet and relax your nerves. .

The stimulation from the massaging motion also helps to increase blood circulation.

The soles of your feet have acupoints for digestion. Rolling your feet on the device stimulates those acupressure points located in the feet which eventually improves digestion.

You can indulge into foot rolling from the comfort of your home or even while travelling or then at your workplace. You can use it when sitting on your desk and working on your laptop simultaneously It is lightweight, compact and portable. So you can tuck it (if it is a compact foot roller) into a bag or a large purse and conveniently carry it with you wherever you go.

How to use the roller?

You do not need any training or guidance to use the roller. Anyone can use it. People of any age can use; even children and the aged can conveniently use a roller. It’s rather simple; you just have to place yourbare foot/ feet on it and roll the roller on the entire length of the soles of your feet. It is preferable when you use the roller in a seated position. Sit on a chair in a comfortable position and place the roller on a stable floor. Press firmly and roll it from the toes to the heel. It would be beneficial if you do this for about 5- 10 minutes at least daily. It presses the acupressure points and activates the pressure points located under the feet. It stimulates each reflex area of the soles of your feet and provides a fast foot massage at home or at work.

Do keep in mind:

Do not use roller on broken, sore or bruised skin.

Picture is for representation purpose. There are various types of foot rollers you can choose from. You can purchse them from local drugstores or health stores or online. Since a simple roller doesn’t cost much, it is an inexpensive form of exercise.

It is preferable to use a wooden roller since wood is a natural material. It is softer but more durable.

Is your cellphone harming your skin?

Skin disorders are becoming more and more common now and you don’t know exactly what to blame. From pollution to UV rays and synthetics absorbed through personal care products to chemicals ingested via food and medication, you pinpoint every possible aspect for the cause of your dry, dull and darkened skin. But there’s one factor that’s neglected;; radiations. Wireless devices like mobile phones, laptops, ipads, computers, routers, smart TV’s etc. all give away electro- magnetic radiations. These rays can cause serious health issues in the human body. Electromagnetic radiation is one of the prime reasons for many of our modern-day lifestyle diseases like short-term memory loss, anxiety issues, loss of concentration, stress, fatigue, sleep disorders, weakened immune system, severe headaches and much more.

In the present age smartphones are the most widely used gadgets along with laptops and computers. Furthermore with changing times your mobile phones have become an all -in -one device. Besides the obvious, a mode of communication, it is your alarm clock, camera, newspaper, source of education and even your means of entertainment. And smartphones are necessary for your careers too. Let’s face it these gadgets are here to stay since they have brought convenience into your life and you cannot do without them.

How do these gadgets harm your skin?

Smartphones, laptops, TV’s and tablets are gadgets you regularly use in your day to day life. These electronic devices have always been known to cause poor eyesight and damage your retina but what they do to your skin is a lesser known but a serious issue. Laptops and other electronic gadgets give away blue light (a short wavelength light emitting high amount of energy) which causes oxidative blue light damage. Your skin can get affected by it as phone radiation has a high energy level. Blue light can penetrate deep into your skin and lead to prominent pigment changes.

The suns UV radiation also harms your skin and over exposure makes it tanned and leathery but the suns rays do have a few benefits too. It supplies vitamin D, raises energy levels in your body etc. Whereas this artificial blue light (from gadgets) which is man- made has absolutely no benefits. It can give only detrimental results

Is your cellphone harming your skin?

To make matters worse, a smartphone is held rather close of your face. Long hours spent with these gadgets leads to too much exposure to blue light. And with human dependency on such devices there’s no escaping it. This kind of exposure can cause premature skin ageing, hyper-pigmentation, uneven skin tone, skin inflammations, darkening of skin, wrinkles, dull skin, dark spots on the skin. It affects the collagen of your skin and damages skins elasticity.

How can you save your skin from the harm caused by the blue lights?

The basic advice that dermatologists give is to lessen screen time. Resist the urge to watch every video or forwarded message sent by others. This can help you tackle mobile addiction to a certain extent. You will spend fewer hours on the cellphone. . Having a ten minute talk (with a friend, a colleague or an acquaintance) instead of typing away for an hour or so (on your smartphones app) can always save your skin from the unwanted rays and it’s consequential harm. Also take a break in between when using such devices

Keep a minimum distance (18 inches) between the screen and your body specially your face. You may not realise that you are leaning forward towards the computer screen or then placing the laptop on your lap when busy working which make the gadget very close to you.

Splash your face with water throughout the day, always before going to bed and after prolonged use of any gadget.

Wear a mineral based, broad spectrum sunscreen and reapply it in between if you intend to further use the laptop, smartphone etc.

Just like beauty products (lipsticks, foundations etc.) have SPF to save your skin from the suns rays, now there are beauty products like moisturisers, face oils, sunscreens and serums to protect your skin from the blue rays of such gadgets or then lessen the damage done.

Keep yourself hydrated and follow a healthy, nutritious diet rich in anti oxidants. Drinking enough water will keep your skin from drying which is caused by the heat of the laptop screens.

Q &A

Q. Hi! I’m a beauty consultant for a reputed cosmetic brand. I’m required to do makeup when marketing for my products but I put minimal makeup, just compact and either lip gloss or lipstuck. I’m actually very fond of eyeliner but I just cannot apply anything on the waterline. My eyes get a burning sensation as soon as I apply any eyeliner. After some time I feel irritation in my eyes and I start rubbing my eyes and my eyes start catering. Nothings suits me. Is there any thing I can do? I’ve tried so many brands of eyeliners, even the very expensive ones.

A. I don’t know if you’ve tried organic and herbal kajal eyeliner; they come as sticks and pencils also. Maybe they could work for you. Home- made kajal is also sold by some but be absolutely sure of its quality before you buy it. Kajal is the purest thing you can put in your eyes. In fact home- made kajal has many benefits. It will make your eyes look alluring and even improve your vision at the same time. If you could make kajal at home it will be the best thing for your eyes. It is quite simple to make kajal. It will be absolutely pure, of excellent quality and have medicinal benefits as well

Q. Hi! I’m currently in the tenth standard. I have inherited good skin from my father. I have a normal complexion and fair skin tone. Someone told me applying ice on the skin makes your skin more beautiful. So I started to rub an ice cube on my face daily. It made my skin glow and my face felt clean and looked bright and clear. But I caught a cold in a few days. My mother insists I stop this ice rubbing hack as it is making me sick but I loved rubbing the ice cube on my face.

A. Your mother is right. You should stop using ice on the skin. If you have a tendency to catch a cold it could make you severely ill later. It’s better you focus on your education at present since the class that you are in is one of the most relevant standards of formal education and it’s that phase of your life where being healthy is more important than being beautiful.

Q. Hi I’m in my mid- thirties. Of late I have noticed light sun spots and pigmentation marks on my face. I put layers of make up to conceal them. Though they are light but I want them to clear away.

A. You should take the opinion of a dermatologist. Meanwhile stop using any cosmetics on your face. Use a mild face wash/ cleanser. Do not indulge in using any OTT products like scrubs etc. without asking your skin doctor. The market is floating with expensive products claiming to clear pigmentation marks but most of them are no good. Only a dermatologist can guide you into using products suitable for your skin condition. As far as possible avoid stepping out in the sun during peak hours. Always wear sunscreen when you go out. Cover your face with a scarf and use an umbrella and also use broad rimmed shades for your eyes to give you optimum protection from the suns harmful rays. A healthy and nutritious diet should be followed. Anaemia and deficiency in iron and Vitamin B can also cause skin problems like hyper-pigmentation.

Q&A

Q. Hi! I am an actress so I always need to look up to the mark because of my profession whether I’m onscreen or offscreen. My hair is thick and normal, not dry but it gets frizzy and I just cannot stand messy hair. So I need to condition my hair after every wash to avoid frizzyness and to make it smooth and manageable. But with all the noise about chemicals in shampoos and conditioners and other personal care products, I’m now concerned aboutf my health. I’ve been blessed with good skin so I use very little makeup. Is it okay to use a chemical conditioner regularly or are there any alternatives ?

A. It’s true that some professions require that you look your best all the time and messy hair just makes you look untidy. The best way to condition your hair is to follow the age -old custom of oiling your hair. Massage oil onto your scalp, your hair roots and even apply on your hair. Leave it overnight at least. As far as conditioning is concerned after shampooing you will notice the oiling soften your hair. It will make them glossy and manageable. If you cannot indulge in oil massages or need to further condition your hair then make sure you use a mild shampoo and natural and organic conditioners. If you can remove time for yourself then prepare conditioners or hair rinses at home. They will give you the goodness of a hair conditioner sans the side effects. In fact they will make your hair stronger, healthier and promote hair growth at the same time making them glossy and smooth naturally. Do not splurge on costly herbs or hunt around for herbs that aren’t available locally. Simple things like fenugreek leaves, mint and neem leaves can be used to make amazing hair rinse or herbal water.

Q. Hello! I’m a teenager with the oily skin problem. My face feels greasy and sticky all the time. It’s irritating with friends teasing me many times and its frustrating seeing others with oh so clear and beautiful complexions around me. I get breakouts and summer time means an oilier skin and a pimpled complexion.

A. There are various reasons for having an oily complexion; genetics, eating oily foods; hormonal changes, climatic conditions, using inappropriate skin care products. The odd shine and greasy feel on the skin is awkward along with the resulting breakouts, acne and pimples. When investing in skincare products choose ones that are mild, as strong products can be damaging in the long run. Use products (cleanser, face wash, cosmetics and ssunscreen) that are meant for oily skin like non -comedogenic products which do not clog skins pores, so are good for your skin type. Exfoliating makes your skin feel fresh, squeky clean and oil- free and removes dead skin cells but do not scrub too often as it can harm your skin. Avoid exfoliators if you have breakoits like acne and pimples. Apply sunscreen when you step outdoors and cleanse your skin well once you return home to clean away the dirt and grine from your skin. Cleanse makeup thoroughly before you go to bed. Clogged skin pores can cause acne. Mud packs with multani mitti, sandalwood powder, turmeric etc. should work for your skin and combat oiliness to a certain extent. Avoid touching your face with unclean hands and do not scrape pimples or boils with your nails Avoid or at least limit oily foods, deep fried snacks, processed foods and salty snacks. Drink as much water as possible. Consume foods high in fibre and Vitamin C. Include fresh fruits, fresh fruit juices and salads and vegetable soups in your diet.

Hullo! My husband is in his mid thirties and he works in the marketing department of a food brad. He’s started balding and its getting him worried. Since he’s very particular about his looks he wants to go for a hair transplant. I’m a bit sceptical about these treatments but I cannot convince him to drop the idea. He keeps experimenting with different hair oils. What should I do?


A. I would suggest that he does not indulge in a hair transplan. Meanwhile nake sure he has healthy nutritious home cooked meals daily. If he uses hair oil then a good brand of oil that suits him will help. There are very good  organic oil brands in the market now. If one suits him then he should stick to it rather than keep changing hair oils again and again. If you could make hair oil at home it would be just amazing. The net is abuzz with recipes of hair oils

 

 

Names have been withheld

Is working in, working out?

As we’ve always known, a sedentary lifestyle (wherein a person is sitting for the most part of the day and doesn’t indulge in much physical activity or even doesn’t walk much) is damaging for your health. Sitting for long periods of time can lead to a number of health issues like obesity, increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, and unhealthy cholesterol levels. Some professions do involve too much sitting and staring into the computer screens, glued to their chair. But incorporating a few stretching exercises and some walking even in a busy schedule can be a boon for their health. Exercising regularly makes you lose or maintain your body weight. People should keep in mind that a life without work- outs or physical exercise increases the risk of premature death from cardiovascular disease and even cancer.

Well -planned meals that are low in calories and include fresh veggies, fruits etc. go a long way in being healthy and fit but being physically active is also necessary to live a disease- free life and have a fit and lean body. Whether gymming, jogging, swimming or cycling;; any form of exercise is good for you. Physical activities have substantial health benefits. Working out helps develop stamina, making you more energetic. It improves the functioning of your heart and lungs, so you become healthier, which eventually adds years to your life. Exercise improves your metabolic rate and enhaces your aesthetic appearance giving you a well- toned body. Furthermore there are major health benefits of exercising; it decreases blood pressure, makes your bones stronger and even strengthens your joints.

Exercising regularly helps deal with anxiety and sleep disorders. Exercising relieves stress and makes you feel good. It lowers the risk of depression as it elevates levels of endorphine which boosts your mood. The more a person moves his body the more sharp and alert his brain is implying that physical activity is also co-related with a persons intelligence.

People have their own reasons for exercising; to lose weight, to become healthy and free from illness, to look attractive or to relieve stress. But everyone cannot follow a daily gym routine or attend regular aerobic sessions. Lack of time or being burdened with responsibilities at home or doing office work from home makes women miss out on maintaining regular workout routines. Studies have proved that doing house work is also a type of workout. Lets know more on the topic.

How can doing house work give you the benefits of working out in the gym?

Yes! Household chores are also as effective as working out in the gym or going for a jog but with a few exceptions. You really cannot aim at a body part and hope to lose belly fat or hip fat when performing your house work. To reach such a target you need to head to the gym. But doing household chores can give you a long and healthy life. About half an hour of any form of physical activity, five times a week can extend your life and cut your risk of diseases like diabetes and those related to the heart.

Organisjing your closet, your kitchen drawers or bookshelf and cleaning up a messy room is also quite thereupeutic. It gives you a comforting feeling. If you have a regular routine of tidying and dusting, moreso hand- cleaning your abode it can give you the benefits of a light workout. Dusting will also give you shapely arms. It stretches your muscles. Stretching makes your muscles flexible, strengthens your joints and improves your overall health and fitness levels. It even lowers the risk of premature death.

Is working in, working out?

The add to cart option (on websites) has brought convenience into our lives with anything and everything being delivered to our doorstep through online shopping. But walking to the market to buy groceries (can also be counted as part of your house work) is a boon for your health. It could either be a daily stroll to the local market to pick up fresh veggies and fruits or then the weekend trip to the supermarket depending on your lifestyle and the place you live in. Research says ‘The more you walk the more beautiful your body becomes’ and shopping in person can easily take 20 mins., half an hour or even more of walking. Walking is good for digestion and a healthy gut is important for a persons overall health.Walking between the rows at the mall and pushing a real cart while walking is as good as exercising your lower body, thighs and your calves in a gym. Another advantage is that you can read labels carefully and stock up on healthy foods which is one more step towards a healthy life. You simply need to resist from getting lured into purchasing junk foods and unhealthy eats while strolling through those market aisles!

Though it isn’t possible for everyone to have a garden but if you do grow plants in your garden, backyard or a terrace then taking personal care of those plants is a good idea. Gardening as an activity involves tasks such as raking, weeding, planting and trimming, (to name a few) which burns quite some calories. They act as a good form of moderate exercise as they engage multiple muscle groups and the physical activity is as good as working out in a gym. So those who routinely toil in their gardens are doing a favour to their body and mind both. Being amidst nature boosts your physical as well as mental health and keeps your mind relaxed and stress free.

Dishing up a fancy meal for friends or cooking the daily grub for you family requires time and energy. Cooking food involves walking, bending, chopping, which exercises the lower back, thighs and other body muscles Kneading bread or chappati dough by hand, rolling out chapattis and whipping cake batters develops the muscles of your forearms and strenghtens your upper body. Furthermore the cleaning and arranging of crockery and vessels and tidying up the messy kitchen afterwards also involves scrubbing and wiping,which is actually a decent enough exercise. All of this easily takes up from half an hour to two hours a day which can act like a good cardiovascular workout.

So women need not worry if they don’t strut out of home with their gym/ aerobic bag on their shoulders and sweat out working outs. Your house work is as good as gymming or doing aerobics and working in is as good as working out

Image by senivpetro on Freepik

Home remedy

A dash of lime

Squeeze a wedge of fresh lime on your paneer tikka, bhel, pav bhaji or poha and the citrusy fruit’s juice gives that fresh, tangy flavour to the food making it even more delicious. Lime is always served on food platters at restaurants and dhabas with punjabi cuisine, moghlai gravies and even seafood. A drizzle of lime adds that mouthwatering taste and a pop of flavour to your meals. Whether its kebabs, puri bhaji or then the popular lip- smacking masala chana sold at Mumbai’s beaches, these beautiful, bright, yellow fruits add a fresh aroma and a citrusy kick to your eats. Lemons also bring back childhood memories of the tart and delicious nimbu ka achaar (lime pickle) which is an absolute treat with Indian meals. Bursting with flavours, it can make a humble meal like dal- chawal taste heavenly. It’s so scrumptious that you could gobble it even with plain roti, paratha or thepla. And then who can forget monsoons go- to snack, buttas (Corn on the cob) which can make the season special for anyone. A wedge of lime dipped into spices and rubbed on charcoal- grilled corn, giving the butta a delicious masala taste combined with the lemons delectable sharp and sour flavour.

Squirting a few drops of lemon juice in salads, soups, chutneys, sauces, broths, salad dressings and curries gives that delicate sour punch and ends it with that perfect taste without which they would feel incomplete. It’s sourness balances the flavours in food and perks up the overall taste of a dish or drink. Lemons are a common addition to meals, savoury or sweet dishes, baked goodies, snacks as well as beverages. From desserts (pies, cakes, muffins, custard, tarts) to beverages (mocktails, mojitos, lemonades, fruit juices) and meat, poultry and fish, lemons have made a place for themselves in many dishes. Everyone loves lemons because of the distinctive flavour they give to food and beverages. A lovely tall glass of mocktail garnished with a slice of a bright sunny lime on its rim is such a refreshing and delightful sight! A few drops of lime blended into your beverages can work like magic and make them taste incredible.

The lemon tree is native to Asia and some of the highest producers of lemons are India, Argentina, Spain, Iran, and the United States. Thus it is obvious that Indian cuisine whether north Indian or south indian, Bengali or Maharashtrian, everyone incorporates this zingy fruit in their recipes in some way or the other. Limboos or nimboos (as called in hindi) are easily available all round the year and are cost -effecient too. Lemon rice, a staple diet in south india is yummy and easy to prepare with rice, lemons and curry leaves being its main ingredients.

Lime juice is also drizzled in marinades, on raw meats, fish and poultry. Besides giving meats that tangy and fresh flavour, it tenderises the meats and makes cooking faster. When added to marinades, lemon juice even adds moisture to the meat so that food doesn’t dry out while cooking. The popular tandoori chicken gets that amazing flavour because of that generous spritz of lime (and spices) in its marination and also a squirt of lime on the cooked meal, when indulging in the delicacy. Lime is also rubbed on raw fish when marinating it as it helps maintain its colour besides adding flavour to it. Besides the above there are chances of raw meat, poultry and fish being contaminated with harmful bacteria and viruses that can lead to food poisoning. Lemon juice is acidic by nature and therefore it can help kill the bacteria and other organisms present in food. In fact its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties even prevent the growth of bacteria in food

Theres much more to lemons besides their awesome taste. Limes are very nutritious being rich in vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. So making lemons a part of your regular diet has a load of advantages. They are packed with calcium, potassium iron, magnesium copper etc.

Benefits of adding lime juice to food:

Watching your weight! Then boiled and roasted vegetables or grilled chicken and fruit and vegerable salads are on your regular menu. But who loves to eat bland food? Make lemons your best friend. Lemons are low in calories and delicious so they will add flavour and taste without piling on fats. Squeeze fresh lemon juice to add flavour to those high- fibre but oil-free foods like boiled veggies. A drizzle of lime on your salads, soups and a squirt of it in your salad dressings will make them more nutrtuous and amp up their taste without the addition of oil or cheese and other caloried ingredients. In the same manner you can easily squirt them in your iced teas and green teas for adding flavour.

Besides, limes themselves are also rich in fiber which can help regulate your blood glucose. This can lower the risk of diabetes, and can also be helpful for people with diabetes

Lime are packed with dietary fiber which helps with digestion and keeps away stomach issues like constipation and acidity. Limes are rich in citric acid, which stimulates the production of stomach acid. This helps in the digestion of food. Citric acid also helps prevent kidney stones.

lemons have anti-oxidant properties due to which intake of lemons can destroy the bacteria and viruses in your body.

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Home remedy

Vitamin C helps protect cells from damage, battles infections and heals wounds which keeps you healthy and disease free.. Vitamin C is known to boost immunity. It is also good for your skin since it helps your skin make collagen and keeps it springy and youthful.

It is believed that limonene present in lime juice can prevent cancer and even heal the disease. Also, antioxidants like Vitamin C, present in limes help prevent free radicals from causing cell damage that can cause cancer

Bone health starts to deteriorate with age; this being more common in women. But including foods packed with calcium, iron, vitamin C and A, potassium etc. can help in keeping your bones healthy. The truth is that lemons provide you with a certain amout of iron but besides that they mainly help your body absorb iron from the food you eat. A good amount of iron also helps prevent anaemia.

Limes are good for your brain too as they have anti -inflammatory properties so they may help reduce the risk of brain diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. They are rich in vitamin C which is beneficial for optimum brain function; it strenghtens your physical and mental well -being. Lemons are known to provide you with energy and control dizzyness and nausea. Lemons also control mental stress, depression and nervous disorder and even provide relaxation to your mind and body.

Lemons also control high blood pressure, lower the levels of stress hormones in your body which can make you feel calmer.
As lemons are rich in potassium they help control blood pressure. Lemons have potassium, which is important for the proper functioning of your muscles and nerves too

Banana leaf- Gods gift to mankind

Rice, rasam, sabzi, halwa, papad, pickle, salt and much more; everything neatly served on a large, green banana leaf. This delightful sight is a common scene in South India, more so during weddings, festivals and special occasions. The tradition to serve food on a banana leaf started in India thousands of years ago and has been continuing till date. In fact earlier, families would eat all their meals on banana leaves. Banana trees thrive in the warm and humid climates of tropical and sub-tropical regions. India is the highest producer of banana trees and they grow abundantly in the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Assam and West Bengal. Previously many households too cultivated banana plants/ trees in their backyards since the banana tree is considered sacred in India. So those beautiful oblong leaves were easily available, free of cost and they would just need to be plucked off the banana tree. The culture of eating from banana leaves is more prevalent in the southern and eastern parts of India and besides South Indians even Bengalis follow this custom. It is considered auspicious to serve food on a banana leaf by the Hindu culture and hence the leaves are also used when serving prasad to their deities. As time went by, the tradition to eat on a banana leaf gradually took a backseat due to a shortage of banana leaves and was mostly followed during pujas, festivals and get-togethers. But it has again gained prominence as people world over are becoming more and more aware of its health benefits. Besides India, banana trees are vastly cultivated in China, Indonesia, Brazil, Philippines, Mexico, Thailand and Colombia.

Let’s know more about this custom and why the banana leaf is good for you:

The banana leaf which is the leaf of the banana tree is green or greenish yellow in colour. It is quite large and therefore is suitable for serving a variety of food and you can serve a multi- course meal on it at one time. The leaves can be easily cut and made into smaller serving plates in case they are too large. Banana leaves are flexible, non- stick and water-proof.

It is practical to eat on a banana leaf. The leaves are wide and thick. The top side of the leaf is brighter in colour and has a smooth surface with a wax coating which makes it water- proof. Hence it can hold gravies without becoming too soggy. Except where the gravy/ food is liquidly as in the case of foods like rasam, curd, curries etc. which are then served in metal vatis (small bowls) or vatis made from banana leaves which are placed on or around the leaf along with other food items. The leaves are folded in a manner to prepare small bowls and cups with the sides of the leaf attached with toothpicks or wood skewers.

It is more hygienic to eat on a banana leaf. It is non-toxic and chemical-free and only needs to be rinsed with a little water before using. Also the leaf works as a disposable plate; it cannot be reused and should not be reused. Once hot food has been served on it, the banana leaf very gradually wilts and changes colour, losing its bright green hue to becoming a dull grey- green shade. Hence, there aren’t any chances of reusing the same leaf for another meal and there is no fear of contamination since you are using a fresh leaf for every meal. Also due to its waxy coating, dirt and dust do not settle on the leaf and simply sprinkling with water is enough to clean it. If you happen to eat at a place where the hygiene standards are doubtful, it is preferable to eat on a banana leaf instead of inadequately cleaned cutlery. Eating from a banana leaf is considered a pure and natural way of eating food.

Banana leaf: Gods gift to mankind

Using banana leaves is also economical because they are easily available and cost-effective. In places where banana trees grow in abundance they only have to be cut off the tree, rinsed with water and dried a bit before serving food. Traditional dishes in some countries are served on banana leaf or then platters lined with banana leaves which makes the food look aesthetic. Many restaurants in India serve on banana leaves or then place circular discs of banana leaves on the plate before serving food. An advantage of using banana leaves as platters is that it frees you from washing extra plates and vessels which saves both, time and money.

Banana leaves are also bundled and sold by traders at wholesale rates which makes them quite reasonable. The leaves are also sold in supermarkets, grocery stores and local markets in smaller quantities. Now, online trading of banana leaves has made it convenient to purchase a few leaves or even a single leaf as and when required.

Eating off a banana leaf is also eco- friendly. Those who love planet earth and place it before other things will be pleased to know that these leaves decompose in a short time. Disposable plastic, paper or styrofoam plates are convenient to use but they aren’t good for the environment. Plastic takes years to decompose and using plastic plates and food containers is also unhealthy for you.

Banana leaf makes food more flavourful. The banana leaf has an edible wax coating which has a mild, unique flavour of its own. When hot food is served on a banana leaf, this waxy coating melts and lends its subtle sweet flavour and aroma to the food. This enhances the taste of the dish and makes food more delicious. Street food vendors in some countries use banana leaves as plates to serve a variety of rice dishes which gives a fresh aroma and a delicate earthy taste to the humble rice meal.

Banana leaves are large, flexible, non-stick and waterproof so they are conveniently used to pack food as well. Containers made from banana leaves are becoming more and more common as people are getting aware of plastics toxicity to humans. Banana leaf plates, cups and containers can replace plastic, aluminium foil, cling films and other materials to serve or pack food. Roadside food vendors in many countries prefer using banana leaves to pack food due to its low cost and easy availability. It also keeps the food fresh for a longer time and saves food from germs and bacteria as it has anti-bacterial properties.

The modest banana leaf is quite versatile and besides being used as a serving plate, the leaves are largely used for cooking food in countries like Asia, Africa and South America. It goes without saying that banana leaves are used for cooking in places where banana trees grow in plenty. Banana leaves are used in a wide range of cuisines and in some regions they are a part of every household’s kitchen. Food can be steamed, grilled, fried or baked after being wrapped in a banana leaf. From fish and meat to vegetables, curries and rice, a wide variety of food can be wrapped and cooked in banana leaves in different ways. For e.g. in Bengali cuisine, a delectable recipe of marinated fish called Macher Paturi is very popular. The fish is wrapped in a banana leaf and then steamed or fried. For dishes that require baking, the leaves need to be wrapped the same way as you would wrap food in a foil or parchment paper and then placed in a casserole or a tray before baking in the oven. In Gujarati cuisine, a lip smacking snack called Panki which is like a pancake, is prepared by steaming a batter of rice flour between layers of banana leaves. Sticky rice dishes in Thailand and Indonesia are steamed in banana leaves which gives them an earthy, grassy flavour. The leaves are always separated and discarded once the contents are consumed and the leaves themselves are not eaten. Steaming food in banana leaves also helps in preparing meals with lesser amount of fat consequently giving you scrumptious dishes that are low in calories. Grilling food in a banana leaf adds a nice sweet and smoky flavour and also saves food from burning from the harsh, dry heat of the open flame. Banana leaves impart a mild sweet flavour to food that is cooked in them and make food taste better. They leave a pleasant fragrance and a unique floral flavour to the food.

Health benefits of the banana leaf:

Its attractive appearance, lustre and beautiful green colour makes food look more appealing and fresh when served on a banana leaf. Besides that there are quite some advantages of eating food on a banana leaf. Food gets enriched with several nutrients. Its fragrance can even increase your appetite.

Ayurveda emphasises the health benefits of using a banana leaf. The leaves have medicinal qualities. They are packed with polyphenols which are natural antioxidants. When food is served on a banana leaf or steamed in it these polyphenols get absorbed in the food. The leaves have anti-bacterial properties that can kill germs and bacteria in the food and aid proper digestion. These ant-bacterial properties also keep you disease-free. The leaves are beneficial because they can heal constipation and indigestion. Polyphenols is a cancer preventing agent so eating from a banana leaf can help prevent cancer.

It is chemical- free but you have to be careful in rare cases where the leaves have been treated with unnatural and harmful pesticides. You could then opt for organic banana leaves.                             

Image by mrsiraphol on Freepik