Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is the most delicate period for a woman and for her unborn baby. So, if you are pregnanct, it is important that you take extra care while choosing everything that goes into your mouth.

Pregnancy affects your immune system, and makes you and your child more susceptible to the bacteria and viruses that cause foodborne illnesses. There are certain fruits that are to be avoided during pregnancy. You want the best for your baby, so, in case you have missed out this instruction, here is a checklist of fruits to avoid during pregnancy. Keep this handy to ensure that you and your unborn baby stay healthy and safe.

Avoid Papaya

Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy #1: Wondering if we can eat papaya during pregnancy? The answer is NO. A lot of women from Sri Lanka, Banladesh, India as well as Pakistan have used papaya as an abortifacient, but it is not something that should worry you unless you binge on it. Papaya intake apparently brings on labour early or causes miscarriage. This is partially true. Papayas, especially the unripe and semi-ripe ones are rich in latex, which is known to trigger uterine contractions. Green papaya was often applied directly to the uterus, but food forms such as green papaya salad, the seeds of papaya in the parasite killing papaya seed smoothie ahead, as well as supplements containing papain enzyme should be avoided during the third and final trimester of pregnancy. For this reason Papaya is in list of foods to avoid during pregnancy.

However, ripe papayas are excellent during pregnancy. Ripe papayas are rich in vitamins, such as vitamin C and other wholesome nutrients that prevent the onset of pregnancy symptoms, such as heartburn and constipation. Papayas mixed with honey and milk are also an excellent tonic for pregnant women, especially during lactation. Ripe papayas contain much lower levels of papain and are generally considered very healthy for pregnant women with it’s rich antioxidant and vitamin content and many other health benefits.

Avoid Pineapple

Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy #2: Can pregnant women eat Pineapple? The answer is NO. Eating pineapple during pregnancy is not good so resist yourself from consuming pineapple during pregnancy. Pineapples are rich in bromelain, which can cause the softening of the cervix leading to early labour. One can have pineapple in moderate quantities as it will have no effect on labour and delivery, however, its intake should be restricted during the first trimester to avoid any unforeseen event such as softening of the cervix. For this reason Pineapple is in list of foods to avoid during pregnancy. A lot of women opine that drinking lots of pineapple juice can help them achieve labour. So you must stop yourself and your dear ones from eating pineapple while pregnant.

Avoid Grapes

Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy #3: Can we eat grapes during pregnancy? NO, NEVER! Medical professionals suggest avoiding grapes during pregnancy especially n the last trimester because of their heat content. In fact, raisins, which are dried grapes have also been labelled as foods to avoid during pregnancy. The main bone of contention is the high amounts of resveratrol present in grapes. This chemical can cause toxicity for the expectant mother. But eating grapes during pregnancy can also give you vital nutrients like Vitamin A and C too.

This excessive heat in the stomach can lead to loose motions and diarrhoea in pregnant women which is a  dangerous condition because it causes loss of fluids in their body.

Sour grapes are acidic and especially can cause problems for pregnant women who are anyways more prone to heartburns. This acidity caused by eating too many grapes might lead to nausea and vomiting.

Not just this, the high amounts of resveratrol in grapes can cause toxicity in harmonally inbalanced pregnant women. It can lead to severe complications though, this condition occurs only if the pregger woman eats too many grapes. For these reasons grapes are in list of foods to avoid during pregnancy.

Avoid Unwashed Raw Fruits during Pregnancy

Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy #4: The most important advice for pregnant women is to avoid unwashed and unpasteurised fruits during pregnancy. It is critical that food hygiene is given primal importance during pregnancy to avoid infections from toxoplasmosis. Fruits should be an integral part of every pregnancy diet, however, one must exercise caution and avoid eating some of them such as pineapples or papayas in excess, in order to avoid any complication during pregnancy.

Here's the proper way to prepare and handle them safely:

• Thoroughly rinse raw fruits and vegetables under running water before eating or preparing them, especially fruits that require peeling or cutting - like cantaloupe and other melons. Bacteria can be found on the outer rind or peel.
• Don't use soap, detergents, or bleach solutions to wash produce.
• As an added precaution, use a small vegetable brush to remove surface dirt.
• Try to cut away damaged or bruised areas - bacteria can thrive in these places.

Fruits should comprise a major part of your diet wheny you are pregnant clearly because they are loaded with nutrients. But, it is important for you to alter the list of your favourite fruits for the sake of your baby. Avoid the bad ones, and stay healthy.

Demystifying the H1N1 virus

Panic seems to have gripped the country as the number of cases of H1N1, or swine flu, are on the rise. But, what exactly is theH1N1 virus?

Dr Sherebanu Milky, a homeopath, explains, "Before 2009, it was said that people who were in close contact with pigs contracted the virus, but that's not the case anymore. It is now a rapidly-spreading air-borne disease that has been termed a pandemic. It's symptoms are like the common cold, such as sore throat, body ache, fever, fatigue, malaise, cough and runny nose. If not treated on time, this can lead to respiratory problems."

Dr Milky adds, "H1N1 can be treated with an anti-viral, but not antibiotics. To prevent swine flu, one should maintain personal hygiene and ensure that his/her surroundings are clean. Those most prone to the disease are kids aged around five and six, adults who are 65 years and above, people suffering from diseases like cancer, and pregnant women. One needs to have good immunity to keep this disease at bay."

Dr Oliver Rodrigues, a specialist in family medicine, says, "Everybody is panicking because it's being reported more often now in newspapers. Swine flu spreads the same way as any other cold and cough. If anyone in the family is diagnosed with H1N1, then others also need to be tested for it. If you have a cough, get it checked by a doctor, and if you don't feel better even after taking the prescribed medicines, then the doctor will ask for an H1N1 test."

SYMPTOMS
-Cough
-Fever
-Sore throat
-Stuffy or runny nose
-Body ache
-Headache
-Chills
-Fatigue

TREATMENT
-The H1N1 virus can be treated with anti-virals
-The infected person should be kept in isolation

PRECAUTIONS
-Contain your cough and always cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing
-Sanitize your hands and wash them regularly
-Use disposable tissues instead of handkerchiefs
-Disinfect your house regularly
-Try and avoid using public toilets as far as possible
-If required, wear a mask when you travel out of the house as H1N1 is an air-borne disease
-Flu shots are recommended for kids and the elderly
-Incorporate tulsi in your regular diet in different forms to boost immunity

MYTHS ABOUT SWINE FLU
-Swine flu is transmitted through pork products
-There is no cure for swine flu
-A person can get H1N1 only once in their life
-Antibiotics can fight the flu
-The virus is dangerous only in the elderly

H1N1 Flu Virus (Swine Flu)

H1N1 flu is also known as swine flu. It's called swine flu because in the past, the people who caught it had direct contact with pigs. That changed several years ago, when a new virus emerged that spread among people who hadn't been near pigs.

In 2009, H1N1 was spreading fast around the world, so the World Health Organization called it a pandemic. Since then, people have continued to get sick from swine flu, but not as many.

While swine flu isn't as scary as it seemed a few years ago, it's still important to protect yourself from getting it. Like seasonal flu, it can cause more serious health problems for some people. The best protection is to get a flu vaccine, or flu shot, every year. Swine flu is one of the viruses included in the vaccine.

Slideshow: Is It a Cold or Is It the Flu?

Causes of Swine Flu

Swine flu is contagious, and it spreads in the same way as the seasonal flu. When people who have it cough or sneeze, they spray tiny drops of the virus into the air. If you come in contact with these drops or touch a surface (such as a doorknob or sink) that an infected person has recently touched, you can catch H1N1 swine flu.

Despite the name, you can't catch swine flu from eating bacon, ham, or any other pork product.

Swine Flu Symptoms

People who have swine flu can be contagious one day before they have any symptoms, and as many as 7 days after they get sick. Kids can be contagious for as long as 10 days.

Most symptoms are the same as seasonal flu. They can include:

• cough
• fever
• sore throat
• stuffy or runny nose
• body aches
• headache
• chills
• fatigue

Like seasonal flu, swine flu can lead to more serious complications, including pneumonia and respiratory failure. And it can make conditions like diabetes or asthma worse. If you have symptoms like shortness of breath, severe vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, or confusion, call your doctor or 911 right away.

Tests for Swine Flu

It's hard to tell whether you have swine flu or seasonal flu, because most symptoms are the same. People with swine flu may be more likely to feel nauseous and throw up than people who have seasonal flu. But a lab test is the only way to know for sure. Even a rapid flu test you can get in your doctor's office won't tell you for sure.

Health Benefits of Corn

Health benefits of corn include controlling diabetes, prevention of heart ailments, lowering hypertension and prevention of neural-tube defects at birth. Corn or maize is one of the most popular cereals in the world and forms the staple food in many countries, including the United States and  many African countries.

The kernels of corn are what hold the majority of corn’s nutrients, and are the most commonly consumed parts of the vegetable. The kernels can come in multiple colors, depending on where the corn is grown and what species or variety they happen to be. Another genetic variant, called sweetcorn, has more sugar and less starch in the nutritive material.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF CORN

Corn not only provides the necessary calories for healthy, daily metabolism, but is also a rich source of vitamins A, B, E and many minerals. Its high fiber content ensures that it plays a significant role in the prevention of digestive ailments like constipation and HEMORRHOIDS as well as colorectal cancer. The antioxidants present in corn also act as anti-carcinogenic agents and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CORN

Corn provides many health benefits due to the presence of quality nutrients within. Besides being a delicious addition to any meal, it is also rich in phytochemicals, and it provides protection against a number of chronic diseases.  Some of the well-researched and widespread health benefits of corn are listed below.

of calories and is a staple among dietary habits in many populations. Thecalorific content of corn is 342 calories per 100 grams, which is among the highest for cereals. It is why corn is often turned to for quick weight gain, and combined with the ease and flexibility of growing conditions for corn, the high calorie content makes it vital for the survival of dozens of agricultural-based nations.

Reduces risk of HEMORRHOIDS and colorectal cancer: The fiber content of one cup of corn amounts to 18.4% of the daily recommended amount. This aids in alleviating digestive problems such as constipation and HEMORRHOIDS, as well as lowering the risk of colon cancer due to corn being a whole-grain. Fiber has long been promoted as a way to reduce colon risk, but insufficient and conflicting data exists for fiber’s relationship withpreventing cancer, although whole-grain consumption, on the whole, has been proven to reduce that risk. Fiber helps to bulk up bowel movements, which stimulates peristaltic motion and even stimulates the production of gastric juice and bile. It can also add bulk to overly loose stools, which can slow reduce the chances of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea.

Rich source of vitamins: Corn is rich in vitamin B constituents, especially Thiamin and Niacin. Thiamin is essential for maintaining nerve health and cognitive function. Niacin deficiency leads to Pellagra; a disease characterized by diarrhea, dementia and dermatitis that is commonly observed in malnourished individuals. Corn is also a good source of Pantothenic acid, which is an essential vitamin for carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism in the body. Deficiency of folic acid in pregnant women can lead to the birth of underweight infants and may also result in neural tube defects in newborns. Corn provides a large percentage of the daily folate requirement, while the kernels of corn are rich in vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that is essential for growth and protection of the body from illness and disease.

Provides necessary minerals: Corn contains abundant minerals which positively benefit the bodies in a number of ways. phosphorous, along with magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron and copper are found in all varieties of corn. It also contains trace minerals like selenium, which are difficult to find in most normal diets. Phosphorous is essential for regulating normal growth, bone health and optimal kidney functioning. Magnesium is necessary for maintaining a normal heart rate and for increasing bone strength.

Antioxidant properties: According to studies carried out at Cornell University, corn is a rich source of antioxidants which fight cancer-causing free radicals. In fact, unlike many other foods, cooking actually increases the amount of usable antioxidants in sweet corn. Corn is a rich source of a phenolic compound called ferulic acid, an anti-carcinogenic agent that has been shown to be effective in fighting the tumors which lead to breast cancer as well as liver cancer. Anthocyanins, found in purple corn, also act as scavengers and eliminators of cancer-causing free radicals. Antioxidants have been shown to reduce many of the most dangerous forms of cancer because of their ability to induce apoptosis in cancerous cells, while leaving healthy cells unaffected. This is particularly relevant when phytochemicals are the source of the antioxidants, which is another type of chemical found in high volumes in corn.

Protecting Your Heart: According to researchers, corn oil has been shown to have an anti-atherogenic effect on cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. Corn oil, particularly, is the best way to increase heart health, and this is derived from the fact that corn is close to an optimal fatty acid combination. This allows omega-3 fatty acids to strip away the damaging “bad” cholesterol and replace them at the binding sites. This will reduce the chances of arteries becoming clogged, will reduce blood pressure, and decrease the change of heart attack and stroke.

Prevents Anemia: Corn helps to prevent anemia caused by deficiency of these vitamins. Corn also has asignificant level of iron, which is one of the essential minerals needed to form new red blood cells; a deficiency in iron is one of the main cause of anemia as well.

Lowers LDL Cholesterol: According to the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, consumption of corn husk oil lowers plasma LDL cholesterol by reducing cholesterol absorption in the body. As mentioned earlier, this reduction of LDL cholesterol does not mean a reduction in HDL cholesterol, which is considered “good cholesterol” and can have a variety of beneficial effects on the body, including the reduction of heart disease, prevention of atherosclerosis, and a general scavenger of free radicals throughout the body.

Vitamin-A Content: Yellow corn is a rich source of beta-carotene, which forms vitamin A in the body and is essential for the maintenance of good vision and skin. Beta-carotene is a great source of vitamin-A because it is converted within the body, but only in the amounts that the body requires. Vitamin-A can be toxic if too much is consumed, so deriving vitamin-A through beta-carotene transformation is ideal. Vitamin-A will also benefit the health of skin and mucus membranes, as well as boosting the immune system.

The amount of beta-carotene in the body that is not converted into vitamin-A acts as a very strong antioxidant, like all carotenoids, and can combat terrible diseases like cancer and heart disease. That being said, smokers need to be careful about their beta-carotene content, because smokers with high beta-carotene levels are more likely to contract lung cancer, while non-smokers with high beta-carotene content are less likely to contract lung cancer.

Controls diabetes and hypertension: In recent decades, the world has seemed to suffer from an epidemic of diabetes. Although the exact mechanism for this cannot be pinpointed, it is generally assumed to relate to nutrition.  Eating more organic fruits and vegetables, like corn, has been thought to be a return to an older style of diet, and it has been linked to reduced signs of diabetes.  Studies have shown that the consumption of corn kernels assists in the management of non-insulin dependent DIABETES MELLITUS (NIDDM) and is effective against hypertension due to the presence of phenolic phytochemicals in whole corn. Phytochemicals can regulate the absorption and release of insulin in the body, which can reduce the chance of spikes and drops for diabetic patients and help them maintain a more normal lifestyle.

Cosmetic benefits:Corn starch is used in the manufacturing of many cosmetic products and may also be applied topically tosoothe skin rashes and irritation

. Corn products can be used to replace carcinogenic petroleum products which are major components of many cosmetic preparations. Many of the traditional skin creams contain petroleum jelly as a base material, which can often block pores and make skin conditions even worse.

How to select and store Corn

Corn is easily available across markets all over the world. Its always good to consume fresh corn however frozen corn can also be used. While buying fresh corn make sure the husks are not dried out. Also consume fresh corns within few days to ensure good taste. For storing fresh corns you may keep the husk and store in air tight containers in refrigerator.

QUICK IDEAS TO SERVE

Steamed corn: Clean the fresh corns and cook them in a container filled with water. Add butter, lime, salt to the cooked corn for additional flavour.

Soups and salads: Add cooked corn kernels to salads and soups for additional flavor. Mix chopped onion, tomato, lettuce, cooked corn kernels in a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, lime juice and olive oil.

A Few Words of Warning: Corn does contain large amounts of fatty acid, so for people who are already at high risk for heart disease, excess corn or corn oil can dangerously exacerbate those conditions and risks. Also, corn is frequently turned into high fructose corn syrup, which is extracted from corn to use as a cheap sweetener. It  is worse than table sugar and is a cause of obesity, as well as having a negative impact on your blood sugar levels. It is found in many artificially sweetened foods and syrups, so avoid these if you want to only get the positive benefits of corn.

Corn is a rich source of many essential nutrients and fiber. A meal rich in corn can go a long way in protecting against many diseases and ailments. So start shucking!

SWINE FLU PRECAUTIONS

1.....   High fever
2.....   Coughing Sneezing
3.....   Breathing Difficulties
4......  Loss of appetite  

Stay Home
If you are sick or have any flu-like symptoms, stay home. Do not go to school or work. Swine flu symptoms may mimic those of regular flu and cold symptoms.

Contain Your Cough
Cough or sneeze into the crook (inside elbow) of your arm. This way you do not transfer the germs to your hands and then to every object you touch. Swine flu is very contagious, and can spread easily by touching an infected object and then touching your face. A flu mask will help you avoid infection in enclosed spaces. 

Wash Hands Frequently
Wash hands constantly to avoid swine flu. Anything you touch may be affected, so keeping hands clean will help you avoid infection. 

Hand Sanitizer
Carry hand sanitizer with you. If you have things others have touched, use your hand sanitizer to avoid swine flu infection. In addition, avoid shaking hands or other hand to hand contact whenever possible. Also avoid kissing on the cheek or other face to face contact as a greeting method. 

Public Facilities
Touch public handles and pens as little as possible. These are loaded with germs that may carry the swine flu virus. 

Air Travel
When you fly, be most diligent about following these guidelines. Transferring any flu, including swine flu, is most likely in close quarters like an airplane. 

Clean Your Produce
The life span of a virus is different for each and can vary from as much as 48 hours to 100 years depending on the hardiness of the virus. Although there have been no known cases of swine flu transmission through fruit and vegetable consumption, there does seem to be some concern about the possibility. The best bet is to buy locally grown fruits and vegetables if possible. Make sure you wash your fruits and vegetables with water, and soak for greater effectiveness. Washes and using chlorinated rinses have not been proven to work. So far there have been no cases of swine flu transmission through fruits and vegetable sources. 

Avoid Crowds
Stay out of crowds as much as possible. Close proximity to other people will heighten your chances of to get swine flu. Wear a surgical mask in areas of high traffic concentration. Try to stay at least 3-6 feet away from people. 

Eating and Drinking
Do not eat or drink after others without complete sanitization of containers or utensils. Swine flu can be transmitted by contact with infected eating utensils. 

Vaccinations
Vaccinations are not effective against the H1N1 virus. If you contract the virus get to the doctor within 36 hours and ask for Tamiflu or Relenza. These antiviral medicines will halt the progression of H1N1 or Swine flu virus. 

Visit Your Doctor
Get to a doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of swine flu including high fever and body aches. Swine flu can be deadly, and it is imperative to get to a physician immediately if you think you have swine flu symptoms and think you might have contracted the swine flu virus. Both Tamiflu and Relenza are antiviral medicines that are currently effective against some strains of Swine Flu. These medicines should be taken within 36 hours of flu infection for maximum effectiveness.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Fallopian tubes can become blocked without you knowing or feeling it.  Women with blocked tubes still ovulate and get their periods.  Although sometimes blocked tubes can cause pain, usually you can't feel it at all.  Therefore your doctor will need to order a test, if you want to find out whether your tubes are blocked.  

The traditional gold-standard test for determining whether tubes are blocked is called a hysterosalpingogram or HSG.  A small tube, or catheter, with a balloon on the end or a stopper-like device is placed into the canal of the cervix.   A special liquid called contrast, which shows up white on x-rays, is then infused through the catheter into the uterus and out the fallopian tubes.  X-rays are used to watch this happen.  It can tell you about the cavity of the uterus as well as whether the tubes are open.  It is definitely uncomfortable as the contrast is infused.  Usually, it feels like strong menstrual cramps and only lasts a few minutes.  Taking some ibuprofen or naproxen sodium beforehand can help, as both of these medications help keep the uterus from cramping.  Check with you doctor before taking them, of course.  After the HSG, you will have a sticky discharge as that contrast comes back out, so you may want to bring a pad along with you (the ones the x-ray department gives you may be humongous!).  The risks to the procedure include infection (rarely, bacteria form the vagina will come along for the ride), allergic reactions to the contrast (tell your doctor about any shellfish, iodine or contrast allergies), and the risk from the small amount of radiation from the x-rays.  Sometimes you can get spasms of the tubes that make them look like they are blocked, when the actually are not, too.  The test should be done right after your period ends.  This way you won't be pregnant when the test is done, and the lining inside the uterus is nice and thin.  This helps with being able to visualize the cavity of the uterus well.

Normally, you can't see the fallopian tubes on ultrasound.  Mixing something like protein or air, which  shows up well on ultrasound, can make the tubes visible, however.  Recently, a device called FemVue has made it fairly simple to infuse a mixture of saline with tiny little air bubbles into the uterus and watch it flow out the tubes on ultrasound.  This has a few advantages.  First of all, there is no radiation like you get with x-rays.  Secondly, you can take a look at the walls of the uterus and the ovaries, which you cannot see on an x-ray.  It appears to be less uncomfortable too, perhaps because the saline is so much thinner than the contrast used in an HSG.  The disadvantage is that you need a doctor who is trained in how to use the device.  It has the same risk of infection (rare) as the HSG too.

Finally, the patency of the tubes can be tested at the time of surgery.  Saline with a little blue dye can be infused in the same way as it is in the HSG.  The surgeon is watching the ends of the fallopian tubes to see if the blue dye comes through.

Some women may not need any of the above tests, though, at least not right away.  It has been shown that you can predict most of the women who are going to have blocked tubes by looking at their medical history and doing a blood test for an infection called Chlamydia trachomatis.  If a woman has never had any surgery in her pelvis, never had her appendix out, does not have moderate to severe menstrual cramps (signs of endometriosis), and has never had a sexually-transmitted infection or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID);  then she is at low risk for tubal blockage.  Chlamydia often has no symptoms, and so a blood test should be done to see if she has ever been exposed to Chlamydia trachomatis.  If not, then studies show that her risk of having blocked tubes is less than 10%.  At that point, both the patient and her doctor can decide whether the doing further testing is worth it.

If your tubes are blocked, then there are several options.  If only one tube is blocked, then sometimes just getting you ovulating on the side that is open is all it takes.  This will happen about 50% of the time without any intervention, but it is impossible to predict the pattern.  Clomiphene citrate (a mild fertility medicine) is often used to get 2 eggs ovulating instead of one.  This will increase the chances that at least one of those eggs is on the side that is open.  

If both tubes are blocked, then the choice is either to open the tubes or perform IVF (in vitro fertilization or the "test-tube baby" procedure).  Because eggs are taken out of the ovaries and then fertilized embryos are placed into the uterus with IVF, the tubes do not need to be open.  Unblocking the tubes may or may not be possible.  If the tubes are blocked right where they enter the uterus, then it may be possible to open them.  Small guidewires can be placed through the blockage to open it up.  This can be done under x-ray or with a scope that is placed into the uterus.  If the tubes are blocked at the other end, near the ovary, then it also may be possible to open them.  This is done by placing a scope and other instruments through small incisions in the bellybutton and down near the pubic bone.  The delicate fingers at the ends of the tubes are teased apart.  Oftentimes, they are too damaged and scarred together, however, to get apart.  

If a woman has had her tubes tied and now wants more children, then the options are also surgery or IVF.  The tubes can be sewn back together with very fine suture, if there is enough tube left.  The best tubes are ones that were tied at the time of c-section or had a ring or clip put on them.  Tubes that were cauterized or "burned" can have severe damage.  Many times they cannot be put back together.  In that case, IVF is still an option.

No matter how a fallopian tube is opened, doing so puts the patient at risk for a tubal pregnancy.  This is when a pregnancy implants in the fallopian tube rather than in the uterus.  This can be very dangerous, because there is not nearly enough room inside a fallopian tube for a pregnancy to grow.  If not caught in time, the fallopian tube will eventually rupture and the patient will start bleeding into her belly.  At this point, it becomes a life-threatening situation.  Therefore, women who have had surgery on the tubes or have blocked tubes need to be followed very closely at the beginning of pregnancy.  If caught in time, it can be treated with medication.

Sometimes, when the tubes are blocked down near the ovaries, they will fill up with fluid.  This is called a hydrosalpinx.  The fluid backs up into the uterus and it is very toxic to embryos.  If a woman has a hydrosalpinx, then it should be removed.  Even if the other tube is open or IVF is planned, removing the hydrosalpinx will keep the toxic fluid from entering the uterus and killing any embryos there.

Fortunately, blocked fallopian tubes make up only a small portion of infertility cases.  There is testing that can be done to determine whether a woman's tubes are blocked, for those who are at risk of tubal damage.  If one or both fallopian tubes are blocked, there are options. 

Nutmeg (Jaiphal) Benefits

The aromatic spice, nutmeg benefits your health by improving appetite, curing digestive problems, reducing flatulence, relaxing the muscles, controlling asthma, etc.

Moreover, nutmeg oil is useful in dealing with aches and pains. However, it should be taken in small amounts to avoid its side effects.

Apart from the medicinal benefits, nutmeg or Jaiphal is also used for culinary purposes because of its warm, savory flavor and sweet, cinnamon-like smell. Interestingly, this herb is considered as a good-luck charm for gambling.

Basically, nutmeg (Jaiphal) is an egg-shaped seed from nutmeg fruit. The seed has a dried red lacy membrane known as mace; it is the sister spice of nutmeg. Both the spices have similar sensory qualities, but mace has a finer aroma and flavor than nutmeg.

This is a baking spice that is usually available in powdered form but mostly, freshly ground nutmeg is preferred.

The spice should be stored in airtight containers and should be kept away from moisture, heat and direct sunlight to avoid loss of aroma and flavor. One nutmeg seed can be grated to get two to three teaspoons of ground nutmeg.

Scientific Name: Myristica fragrans (Houtt.)
Common Names: Jaiphal, Jaivitri, Jawzat, Pala, Muskatbaum, Muscadier, Nuez Moscadaetc, etc.

NATIVE REGION

This herb is native to the Banda Islands of Indonesia. In addition, it is cultivated in Grenada, India, Malaysia, West Indies and Sri Lanka. The plant comes under the Myristicaceae family.

HEALING PROPERTIES

Nutmeg is a carminative, stimulant, deobstruent, antimicrobial, anti inflammatory, antispasmodic, psychoactive and aphrodisiac properties. Besides, Jaiphal or nutmeg benefits the cardiovascular system.

On the downside, though, this herb is also considered as a pseudo-hallucinogen. It contains myristicin, a poisonous narcotic. Thus, it should be taken in small quantities.

Coming to the benefits of nutmeg, it aids in digestion, provides relief from diarrhea and prevents flatulence and stomach gas. It is useful in curing skin issues such as Eczema andAcne. Plus, it helps eliminate bad breath and is also used in various cough syrups.

Furthermore, nutmeg or Jaiphal improves circulation and lowers blood pressure. Besides, it helps in the treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia and impotence. Moreover, this therapeutic herb can be used for detoxification of the liver and kidneys.

Nutmeg oil is rich in eugenol, which helps relieve joint pains. The herb is often included in sex tonics for treating debility. Nutmeg essential oil usually blends well with geranium, rosemary, cypress, clary sage, black pepper and orange.

In terms of nutritional value, nutmeg contains plant derived chemical compounds rich in antioxidants. Plus, it contains essential oils like dipentene, pinene, sabinene, terpeniol, etc.

Furthermore, nutmeg (Jaiphal) includes vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin A, folic acid, niacin and riboflavin. The herb is also a good source of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium.

USES OF NUTMEG OR JAIPHAL

• • Take a finely powdered mixture of two teaspoons of nutmeg and a quarter teaspoon of dried ginger. Before meals, consume 1/8 teaspoon of this mixture with some warm water.
  AdvertisementThis is one of the most effective nutmeg home remedies for flatulence and gas. Besides, you can prepare an herbal tea by adding crushed cardamom pods (three to four), and a pinch of dried ginger and nutmeg.
• • To cure diarrhea at home, take one tablespoon of poppy seeds, two tablespoons of sugar, half a teaspoon each of cardamom powder and nutmeg and one teaspoon of edible gum.
  Grind this mixture and have the resultant powder every two hours. Infants can be given apple stew mixed with one teaspoon of sugar and two pinches of nutmeg powder.
• • Nutmeg benefits in the home treatment of Eczema by applying a thin paste of grated nutmeg mixed with water.
  
  
• • For healing acne, you can apply a mixture of nutmeg powder and raw milk for about half an hour and then wash it off with lukewarm water.
  Combination of one teaspoon each of nutmeg powder and honey is useful in getting rid ofacne scars and face blemishes.
  
  
• • Application of a mixture of nutmeg oil (10 drops) and almond oil (10 ml) helps relieve rheumatic pain. For SCIATICA pain, you can boil, strain, cool and then apply a combination of three tablespoons of nutmeg powder and a cup of sesame oil.
  Here’s a video showing how to use nutmef for aromatherapy.
  When applied on chest, it helps relieve congestion. Similarly, nutmeg oil can be used in reducing toothache.
  
  
• • Massaging the forehead and temples with a solution of nutmeg oil mixed with any carrier oil such as rosemary oil serves as an efficient home remedy for headache.
  
  
• • Consuming three to five drops of nutmeg oil mixed with a teaspoon of honey or some sugar is beneficial in getting rid of nausea and indigestion.
  
  
• • Inhaling nutmeg oil serves as one of the most useful natural home remedies for stress, anxiety and depression.
  Besides, applying a paste of nutmeg powder and clarified butter on the forehead before going to bed works as a valuable solution for insomnia. Alternatively, you can add 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground nutmeg in a cup of milk.
  
  
• • When dealing with cold and nasal congestion, take a combination of equal quantities of nutmeg and cinnamon powder in the morning and evening.

Apart from these medicinal uses, nutmeg (Jaiphal) is also used while cooking pies, puddings, cookies, etc. In addition, it can be added in soups and cheese sauces.

This valuable herb is used in perfumes and ointments, too. Besides, it is believed that nutmeg helps induce lucidity in dreams .

PRECAUTIONS

When consumed in excess, nutmeg or Jaiphal can give rise to problems like lack of concentration, restlessness, elation and hallucination. Other symptoms of side effects includestomach pain, nausea, double vision, palpitation and delirium.

Besides, it may cause allergy and trigger asthma. Large doses can even cause coma and death.

Thus, although nutmeg (Jaiphal) benefits in providing relief from a number of health issues, you should take it sparingly in small doses (not more than 3 to 10 grams).