Benefits of Buttermilk / Mor / Chaas

Benefits of Buttermilk / Mor / Chaas



Chaas, also called as Mor in South India, is a common drink in most Indian households. It is roughly called in English as buttermilk. 

It is the Indian drink for healthy summers and was previously found in every home. There are many health benefits of traditional buttermilk, which will not only let you have a healthy summer season but keep you active and away from summer ailments as well.

Recipe for Traditional Buttermilk:

1 cup Yoghurt / Curd
3 cups Water
1/2 teaspoon Cumin Powder
2 Green Chillies
1 inch piece of Ginger
1 tablespoon Coriander Leaves
Salt to Taste

(1 Cup Capacity = 250ml)

For Seasoning:

1 teaspoon Oil
1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
Few Curry Leaves
1/4 teaspoon Hing

Method of Preparation:

Take curd (yoghurt), water and salt and using a whisk mix it well. Add chopped ginger, green chillies, coriander leaves and cumin powder and mix well.

Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds and when the mustard seeds starts to sputter, add hing and curry leaves and fry for 10 seconds and remove from flame and add the seasoned ingredients to the buttermilk and mix well.

Serve the yummy and scrumptious buttermilk as such or serve chilled.

The following are some of the benefits of this traditional drink.

Buttermilk Keeps the Body Hydrated

Buttermilk is a tasty combination of water, curd, essential spices and salt. It is packed with beneficial electrolytes. The salt and water works to keep our body hydrated. It is an excellent drink for summer when we need to fight dehydration.

Buttermilk Cuts Down Fats

If you feel bloated or simply have eaten too much then drink a little bit of buttermilk. The ginger, pepper and other spices in chaas help to improve the digestion and make you feel less uncomfortable. Apart from that buttermilk is very effective in washing down the fat, oil or ghee that normally coats inner walls of your food pipe and stomach making you feel instantaneously lighter.



Buttermilk is High in Calcium

Buttermilk is a rich source of calcium. A cup serving of buttermilk will satisfy 28% of your calcium requirements. Calcium is a nutrient that promotes stronger, denser bones. It reduces the risk of bone disease including osteoporosis. Calcium also aids in muscle contraction and supports cell communication.

Buttermilk Reduces Blood Pressure

Buttermilk is rich in bio-active protein which has antiviral, anticancer and cholesterol lowering properties. Having buttermilk on a regular basis helps in lowering and controlling blood pressure. It works as a natural remedy to reduce high blood pressure.

Buttermilk Helps in Digestion

Ginger, pepper and jeera all make an excellent digestive agents. Known for their carmative properties individually, together in a tall glass of buttermilk they make the best natural digestive out there. So, If you feel an attack of indigestion coming on, try sipping on some chaas for immediate relief. Are you suffering from indigestion? Try adding mint to quiet your digestion trouble.



Buttermilk Reduces Cholesterol

Buttermilk has several special components which help in reducing cholesterol levels. Consuming a glass of buttermilk everyday helps in reducing cholesterol levels and controls it naturally.

Buttermilk is High in Protein

Buttermilk is an excellent source of protein too. A cup of buttermilk will satisfy about 15% and 17% of protein needs for men and women, respectively. Protein helps facilitate muscle growth, tissue repair, and fat breakdown. This nutrient also keeps the bones, muscles, and skin healthy and strong.

Buttermilk Helps with Acidity

A powerful tool to fight acidity, buttermilk has essential spices like pepper and ginger that help to beat the burning sensation you feel during a short period of acidity. Moreover the buttermilk cools the stomach and reduces the irritation in the stomach lining due to acid reflux, giving you relief from the discomfort.



Buttermilk Helps in Weight Loss

A glass of buttermilk is an integral part of several diet plans helping people to lose weight effectively. Buttermilk digests foods better and washes down fat and oil which cleanses the system and helps in weight loss.

Buttermilk Has Beneficial Bacteria

Buttermilk is teeming with live beneficial bacteria that keep the digestive tract healthy. Probiotics re-balance the flora of the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the risk of bad bacteria overgrowth. Beneficial bacteria also keep the gut healthy, cutting the risk of cancer, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal diseases.

Buttermilk Helps to Cleanse the Skin

Buttermilk works as an excellent skin cleanser. You can use this as your everyday skin cleanser. To prepare the cleansing solution mix a tablespoon of buttermilk, some drops of almond oil and rose water. Apply this over your face and wash it after 10 minutes. You will love your glowing face.

Ways Walking Improved My Life

6 Ways Walking Improved My Life – 9 Tips For Beginners
Article by Harshita.
http://easyayurveda.com/2015/03/08/walking-tips-for-beginners/

Since childhood, I hardly used to fall sick and was always physically active and fit. I was never a fussy eater. I hardly have any memory of visiting a doctor. For seasonal cold and cough, home remedy used to work fine. I was very positive towards my health, I think that made me feel healthier and stronger.

According to a recent survey conducted by Duke University, a person’s opinion of his or her health stands out as a key to good health and longevity. The study also suggests that the attitude can tip a balance between life and death.

Same attitude continued after wedding also. After both the deliveries, I recovered fast and got back to my normal routine within few weeks. Well, the praises from the doctors, my husband and others backed my attitude further. My husband and my son used to pull my leg (in good humor) saying “My mummy is strongest”.



I had already quit my job and was enjoying my motherhood. I never thought that even I could have health issues. I started putting on weight, I was lethargic and sweating, I used to get frequent headaches and so on. After a complete health check up, I was diagnosed to have high cholesterol.

I started taking medicines and going for walk, as per doctor’s prescription. Also, I strictly avoided the food and activities, which the doctor had prescribed. For example, I avoided,

Excess rice items, sweets, coconut, groundnuts and more.
Sleeping immediately after eating.
Eating immediately after work out.
Oil fried, non-vegetarian food.

By following just a few simple and basic routines, I could lose considerable amount of weight in just a couple of months.

How walking helped me?
In the beginning, I was a bit skeptical to go for walk since there are hardly any parks around my house. I managed to find a street with comparatively lesser traffic and a descent footpath. I would listen to music on radio, while walking.

Involuntarily many memories and thoughts started flowing in. Sometimes, I would laugh to myself, thinking of some funny incidents during school and college days. This made me feel lighter and younger at heart.

Many a time, I think about how I handled certain situations and how I could have handled it better. Some times, I feel bad for scolding my children and then I realize that I should have made them to understand the problem and circumstances instead of scolding. This helps me to evolve as a better person and a better mother.

The 45 minutes, while walking, are completely mine. I enjoy this “my own time”!!! Most of the married women with kids know the true meaning as well as value of “my own time”.

I realized that I need to care for myself, to be healthier, to be happier. This doesn’t mean that I am being selfish. 

The woman, the mother, the wife is like a pillar that supports the structure. She is a lamp, whose brightness lights the life of others. Brighter the lamp, more will be the light. So I have to be healthy and happy to take my family in the positive direction. For example; I started having lunch and dinner before my kids. This way, I am more patient while feeding them.
I decided to continue learning German, which I had to stop because of time constraint. I believe that having a sense of purpose in life is very important. It keeps us healthier and happier.

The walking period gave me the time and opportunity for introspection, which is difficult to accommodate in our busy schedule.

Tips which will help you get more out of walking

1. Do not over strain yourself. In the beginning, you can walk for just 15 minutes and then gradually increase the duration. So, you can start your walk this way.
2. I go for walking during morning because I get up early and will be free after my son leaves for school. I know it will not be the same with all, especially with working women.
3. You can walk in the evening when your kid is playing in the park. If you have a tight schedule, you can manage to walk in the office.
4. They say it is necessary to walk at least 10,000 steps everyday, to be healthy. Perhaps, many companies are too conscious about the health of their employees. They conduct seminars regarding healthy lifestyle regularly. They organize health check-up camps. Few companies have also provided their employees with pedometer, to monitor how much they walk!!
5. If you are hesitant to go for a walk, you can ask one of your family members to join you. Nothing will be more rewarding if your husband joins you for walking. Both of you will be benefited with good health and also it strengthens your relationship.
6. After walking, I do simple stretching exercises for 10- 15 minutes, when the body is still warm. One can burn more calories by this. After the body cools down, I drink at least 2 glasses of water to re-hydrate myself.
7. You can also do simple stretching exercises like arm rotation, neck rotation, hip rotation – 10 rounds each – clockwise and anticlockwise while walking.
8. Buy a pair of comfortable sports shoe for walking.
9. Avoid tight clothing. Go for loose cotton wear.

Walking has not only helped me to shed those extra kilos but it has also improved my immune system, patience level, memory power and I manage my time better now. All this has led to massive increase in my confidence level.

Journey From Leprosy Stricken Beggar To Social Worker

Journey From Leprosy Stricken Beggar To Social Worker – 1

Dear Shri Hebbar Ji,
Thank You very much for encouraging words and inviting me to share my experiences. In this letter, I would like to brief my life after Leprosy. In next mails I will explain in detail about my cleansing routine, diet and other aspects which promoted a healthy and happy life.

I was first diagnosed as Leprosy Positive at the age of 20, (37 years back in the Year 1979) with primary deformities like loss of sensation in Hands and Foot which later lead to wounds on hands and foot. After my Beggar Guardian passed away I was taken to a beggar home at Delhi and on routine medical checkup I was diagnosed Hansen’s positive and immediately admitted to aLeprosy Hospital outside the Capital. Medical Treatment was initiated and Cleaning and dressing helped my wounds recovery.



I was cured completely from Leprosy in 1985 with the powerful repeated courses of Multi Drug Therapy (MDT). But reaction worsened my living with nodules all over the body and badly affected my eye sight and physical movements.

I was restless and could not bear the pain and physical and mental exhaustion. One fine day, in 1987, I managed to escape from hospital and soon accepted by professional beggars on the streets due to my special looks and dressings on hands and foot ! My new beggar friends offered effective medicine for pain and exhaustion through special pain killer tablets/powder to be taken with coffee. I gradually got addicted to coffee which forced me to change places and my worst days started.

I wandered desperately all over northern India from place to pace in search of a permanent solution for all my health problems and finally decided to end my life by jumping into the river Ganga at Haridwar. It was middle of Rainy season and the river, flooding with full force took me instantly. When I opened my eyes I found myself lying on the bank of river Ganga covered with warm blankets ! While I slowly recollected my efforts of suicide, a Sadhu neared me with a cup of tea. I badly needed one and grabbed it. He smiled and said

You are born again and saved by Mother Ganga, so relax and enjoy the tea.

The Sadhu’s name was Somnath, who saved me from drowning. He heard my story and took me to Badrinath. There he took me to a saintly person, popular as Badri Baba, mostly seen on the banks of Saraswati.

Badri Baba just asked me to take a dip in the river and gave some ash like powder to apply on the wounds. He heard my story, smiled and said

Know, Respect and Balance Your Prakrati and Enjoy Your stay on this earth.

I was with him for 3 days. He explained how to clean our internal system and advised what, how and when to eat. Then advised to go to Haridwar and stay for six months near an Ashram where only Kichadi was served as Prasad!

Initially I could not believe in these simple remedial measures but as I started applying them, benefits multiplied! His simple cleansing techniques worked like miracle on me. In Six months my ulcers were healed and my eye sight improved in a year’s time. Digestion related problems and Chronic Fatigue simply disappeared. After two years of new routine my body and mind started experiencing new Joy within!

I got freedom from addiction and cravings for coffee and other spicy and oily foods. I discovered a valuable treasure in me i.e. natural, healthy and happy way of living.

I left Haridwar in 2011 as I could not get a place to work and live due to my history with Leprosy. I reached Mumbai with newly discovered way of living and aim to serve and motivate Leprosy affected. Luckily Mumbai accepted me and offered to serve as Care Taker in a Leprosy Rehabilitation Centre.

Here I could enhance my knowledge with help of TV and Computers. People visiting this place still have doubts and strange questions about Leprosy. My story makes them feel comfortable with Leprosy and affected persons. From my experience I know most of the health problems recur in leprosy affected are due to wrong food habits and lack of self care.

Right now my aim is to know more about Ayurveda and learn to apply it in life properly. I also want to educate Leprosy affected on how to live a Healthy and Fit Life after Leprosy.

Since last three years I improved my language skills and started reading more articles on Health and Ayurveda. I learned to operate Computer and enhance knowledge via Internet!

In the next letter I would like to share my daily cleansing routine which has helped me recover from all the chronic problems.

Thank You
God Bless You
Ramdas Pai
Email: ramdaspaihai@gmail.com

Journey From Leprosy Stricken Beggar To Social Worker – Remedies

This is the part 2 of an incredible real life story of transformation of Mr Ramdas Pai.

My Remedies – Mr Ramdas Pai.

Sadhu of Badrinath looked at my Leprosy affected hands and foot for a while, then laughed and said

Lets start with Basics

He briefed about the right food and lifestyle for my Prakriti and suggested a cleansing routine and diet.

• My daily routine started with cleaning the mouth. Swishing with water and a pinch of salt 2 to 3 times. 
• Then taking a few drops of ghee (approximately quarter teaspoon) on tongue and smear inside the mouth and swish again with water for 2 to 3 minutes. 
• Spit out everything and wash mouth with water 2 to 3 times. Remember to spit out completely after every swish. 
• Then tongue scrapping. I used mango / banyan / neem twig or leaf as tongue scrapper and toothbrush. Midrib of leaf or tender twig as scrapper and rolled leaf or piece of twig served as toothbrush. I never used Branded Toothpaste or Brush since then. 
• Swishing and gargling followed by sipping a few cups of water. I used to feel fresh for hours after this routine. This also regulated my bowels and digestion.

Haridwar

• Searching for right food I moved to Haridwar where I luckily found an Ashram where Kichadi was served as Prasad. 
• Another Ashram offered butter milk with ginger / jeera (cumin) and coriander leaf added to it. This healthy drink is still my favourite after lunch. 
• Soaking the foot in river Ganga helped in healing the wounds naturally. 
• Ash of burnt neem leaves helped in drying up ulcers. Thus I recovered from after effects of Leprosy and other problems like indigestion, insomnia, body pain, fatigue and chronic ulcers on hand and foot.

My 40 year old addiction for Coffee disappeared within 2 months of starting cleansing routine. 

• Started enjoying simple Kichadi as Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (before 7pm) in place of oily snacks and spicy meals. 
• Bhajan and Satsang programs helped in washing away the unwanted thoughts and calming the mind for a sound sleep.
• Once on the way to famous Mansa Devi Temple, I met another Sadhu who taught me some simple Yoga Kriyas which slowly enhanced Energy level and feeling of well-being.
• My eyesight improved in a Year and I was able to read News Papers and books without glasses.

Since then I spent much time in the library reading articles and books on healthcare and learned a lot on how to live healthy. Even today I apply Ayurveda and Yoga in my day to day life. 

• These days I follow a simple cleansing routine. Instead of Ghee I use Coconut Oil to swish which suits my Prakriti. 
• I still use Mango leaf, which is plenty where I live these days, as Scrapper and Toothbrush. 
• I take simple breakfast, lunch and light dinner according to my Prikrati and Seasonal changes. 
• I dont depend on Antibiotics or Sedative these days.

After failed in getting a job due to social stigma about leprosy and my non schooling background, Now I am voluntarily serving the Leprosy affected persons who are separated from their families and the society. I am comfortable with them as I am familiar with the suffering, pain, desperation and exhaustion of the Leprosy affected for more than 30 years.
Thanks to Ayurveda and Yoga and the kind Sadhus who gifted me a Healthy and Happy Life again.
Mr Ramdas Pai
email id- ramdaspaihai@gmail.com

http://easyayurveda.com/2016/02/07/journey-from-leprosy-stricken-beggar-to-social-worker-1/

“Dear Hebbar Ji,
Here I am sending My Personally Tried Remedies for problems related to Eyes, Ears, Nose, Tooth and Throat.

I salute those Sadhus of Badrinath and Haridwar who advised me these simple, effective remedies.
By the time I got cured from Leprosy by MDT (Multi Drug Therapy), side effects and reaction caused enough damage to my eyes, ears, nose, tooth and throat.



My Eye Sight deteriorated, Ear ache, Nose block very often in winter and rainy season, Molars partially lost due to decay and cavities, Throat infection and chronic cough, all these made my living miserable !

I started with the Cleansing routine (See Details in my article “Journey from Leprosy stricken beggar to Social Worker – Remedies”) and then applied these remedies.

Remedies for Eye problems –
Swish with mouthful of water and gently wash eyes with clean water 3 to 5 times. Repeat this step 3 to 5 times in the morning and just before going to bed.
Note : Should not watch TV, mobile after this step.

Remedy For Ear problem –
Continue swishing with water on left side of the mouth and slowly rub the Right earlobe back and forth with Right palm. Spit out water. Again Swish on right side of the mouth and rub the Left earlobe back and forth slowly with Left palm.
Then close both the Ears with Thumbs and continue swishing 3 to 5 times with a humming sound. Repeat 2 to 3 times.

Remedy For Nose problems –
Apply ghee or edible oil with forefinger in circular motion inside the nostrils. Then Continue swishing water. Slowly bend your head forward and backward. While bending forward take palm full water, dip the the nose in and slowly inhale and release water 2 to 3 times. Repeat whole process 2 to 3 times.

Remedy for Tooth and Gums problem –
You need to do some preparations ahead of starting the remedy. Get some dry wood pieces preferably of Mango/Neem/Banyan and burn them to make charcoal. Make fine Powder and store it in a earthen or metal container.

In the morning (after Mouth Cleaning routine) take a pinch of charcoal powder and gently apply or Massage the teeth and gums. Then take a pinch of powdered Salt and apply or massage the same way. Then take mouthful of water and swish vigorously 3 to 5 times. Repeat if necessary.
Note : During this remedy avoid Toothbrush and Toothpaste.

Remedy For Throat related problems –
After Mouth Cleaning routine, Take mouthful water with a pinch of turmeric powder or salt.
Close both the ears with the thumbs and swish.
Repeat 5 to 6 times.

These remedies have solved my problems. Today I can see and read without glasses. Ear is free from ache, Nose is clear and sinus free, Teeth cleaner and healthier, Breathing easy, Voice is clear, forgotten coughing!
Thank You
God Bless You.

Carrot Juice

SHE WAS DRINKING CARROT JUICE EVERY MORNING FOR 8 MONTHS, AND THEN THE UNBELIEVABLE HAPPENED
admin@healthtipsportal.com | November 4, 2015 |


Ann Cameron is the author of many books for children, but in this story she is the main character. And it became even more famous after suffering from colon cancer.She underwent to the surgery in June 2012 when the disease entered in the third stage. It was not her first encounter with this cruel disease. Her husband died in 2005 of lung cancer despite chemotherapy.



Ann refused to go the same way as him and refused chemotherapy.

Her story has told on the blog “Chris beats cancer” where their stories are talking about people who have sought / found alternative ways of treating cancer.

“In June 2012, I was subjected to surgery for colon cancer, and after that I refused chemotherapy treatment. Every day I felt better, but after six months, the control examination showed that the cancer had spread to the lung, and colon cancer, entered in the fourth stage”, she told.

She claims how was dedicated to fundamental research and came across the story of Ralph Kalley who suffering from skin cancer at 26 years, according to his story, he cured by consuming daily juice made of 2.5 kilograms of carrots.

She decided to follow in his footsteps and began every day to drink carrot juice, distributing it evenly throughout the day.

As she claims, after eight weeks of the medical examination showed that the cancer had stopped spreading, the tumors began to shrink, and the swelling in the lymph nodes.

After four months nodes have returned to normal and the cancer has continued to retreat.

After eight months, computed tomography showed that the cancer had disappeared.

The secret is, apparently, that carrot juice is rich in fatty alcohol and natural pesticides with anti-tumor properties, and carotene from carrots act preventively to creating tumor cells.

Ann Cameron after her experience wrote a book “Curing cancer with carrots”, which can be purchased on Amazon.

Recipe:

– 6 carrots
– 1-inch piece fresh turmeric or ¼ to ½ teaspoon dried
– 1-inch piece ginger
– ½ lemon, peeled (optional to alkalize and lift the flavors)
– ½ cup water
– ⅛ teaspoon dried cinnamon

Put the ingredients through your juicer (You can use an Omega) alternating the carrots with the turmeric and ginger (to get the most juice out of them) and then drink pulped or strain with a fine mesh sieve. Stir through the cinnamon, and dilute with water if desired.

Serves 1.

MOSQUITO COIL

ONE MOSQUITO COIL EQUALS 100 CIGARETTES


Smoke emitted from one mosquito repellent coil is equivalent to those of 100 cigarettes, thus causing harm to a large number of people. Not many people know about it, but the damage done to your health, especially lungs by one mosquito coil is equivalent to the damage done by 100 cigarettes. This was according to a recent study conducted in Malaysia.


Analysis:
This is a fact that everyone needs to be aware of. As the picture shows, the story is from an article published in Times of India. The article talks about the impact of using mosquito coils on health, especially in India where it is widely used.

The article is quoted by the director of Chest Research Foundation, Mr. Sandeep Salvi, who spoke at the conference 'Air Pollution and Our Health', which was organized by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) along with the Indian Council for Medical Research and the Indian Medical Association. He talks about a recent Malaysian study which insists that the damage done to lungs by one mosquito coil is equivalent to the damage done by 100 cigarettes. He further adds that while using mosquito coils, people are completely unaware of healthy risks of indoor air pollution like this.


Burning mosquito coils indoors is a common way to control mosquitoes effectively in homes, and are widely used in countries of Asia, Africa, and South America. However, the smoke that is emitted by these mosquito coils may contain pollutants that can of be serious health concern. Studies that tested this smoke have found significant amounts of volatile organic compounds in it, including carcinogens (cancer causing chemicals). Burning one mosquito coil released the same amount of particulate matter as burning 75-137 cigarettes would emit. The amount of formaldehyde (an irritating carcinogen that effects many processes inside body) emission from one mosquito coil was as high as that emitted when 51 cigarettes are burnt. You can find the complete details of the research in the reference section.

Therefore, it is quite evident that mosquito coil smoke poses both acute and chronic health risks, in the short and long term usage. So, one should avoid usage of these. Instead, to avoid and kill mosquitoes indoors, one should maintain hygienic atmosphere in and around home place and use natural and safe mosquito killers whenever necessary. Read the reference section for dealing with mosquitoes effectively.

References:




rediff NewsApp


Shocking - Burning One Mosquito Coil Is As Harmful As Smoking 100 CigarettesLast updated on: August 11, 2015 15:01 IST

The deaths caused by malaria and dengue have doubled up since 2012. According to a report in the leading daily, 8425 cases of dengue were reported from the state of Maharashtra. The rising number of dengue cases must not be taken lightly.






Here are a few smart ways to protect your loved ones from the mosquitoes that cause these deadly diseases like dengue, malaria etc.Did you know that the smoke emitted from one mosquito coil is equivalent to those of 100 cigarettes! It also causes respiratory problems, headache, nausea, vomiting etc.

Kill the mosquitoes

#1 Electric Insect Killer





Buy Mosquito Killer cum Night Lamp (Set of 3) @ Rs 295

Click here for a range of Insect Killers Under Rs 500

Simply plug it in a socket. Turn it on. The light of this insect killer attracts mosquitoes and kills it instantly. It is harmless and easy to use. It consumes very less power. Why use those sprays and chemicals in your room? Go for this smart electric insect killer.

#2 Mosquito Racket





Buy Superior Quality Mosquito Racket @ Rs 215

Click here for a range of Mosquito Rackets Under Rs 400

This mosquito racket kills mosquitoes, flies, bugs, gnats etc at the touch of a button. Simply move it in the direction where there are a lot of mosquitoes and it kills them instantly. Use this mosquito racket every night and ensure a good sleep. It is easy to use, lightweight and can be used both indoors and outdoors.


Some mosquitoes only bite during night time…

#3 Mosquito Net

Why use mosquito coils, sprays and repellents when you can simply use a mosquito net to keep mosquitoes at bay? Use a mosquito net as it protects you from mosquitoes irrespective of its size. A mosquito net is easily washable and can be stored when not in use. A mosquito net is made of superior quality mesh fabric which is extremely fine weave to keep out mosquitoes and other very small biting insects.

a. Mosquito nets for double bed – 8’ X 6’





Buy Mosquito Net for Double Bed @ Rs 263

Click here for a range of Mosquito Nets Under Rs 900



b. Mosquito nets for single bed – 6’ X 3’





Buy Mosquito Net for Single Bed @ Rs 295

Click here for a range of Mosquito Nets Under Rs 900

c. Baby Bedding Set with Mosquito Net





Buy Baby Bed with Mosquito Net @ Rs 699


Malaysian research on Mosquito coil emission

• Liu W, Zhang J, Hashim JH, Jalaludin J, Hashim Z, Goldstein BD 2003. Mosquito Coil Emissions and Health Implications. Environ Health Perspect 111:1454-1460. doi:10.1289/ehp.6286

In their paper, they first talk about the known toxic effects of mosquito coils, including "long-term exposure to mosquito coil smoke can induce asthma and persistent wheeze in children", as well as various symptoms in rat models.

They went on study the smoke of six different brands of mosquito coils from two different countries (Malaysia and China). They looked for troublesome components, such as particulate matter < 2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, aldehydes, and ketones in "realistic room conditions".

They generally found the levels of pollutant to be concerning, and the Malaysian brands were generally more polluting.

The findings from the present study suggest that exposure to the smoke of mosquito coils similar to the tested ones can pose significant acute and chronic health risks.

They compared some of the elements to cigarette smoke:

For example, burning one mosquito coil would release the same amount of PM2.5 mass as burning 75–137 cigarettes. The emission of formaldehyde from burning one coil can be as high as that released from burning 51 cigarettes.

Without trying to diminish the risks, it is important to note that this is saying that some of the components (PM2.5 and formaldehyde) in the mosquito coil smoke (inhaled over an 8 hour period) were as bad as some of the components in a large number of cigarettes. There may be other compounds in cigarette smoke that also cause damage which are not found in mosquito coils.

J Epidemiol. 2008;18(1):19-25.

Exposure to mosquito coil smoke may be a risk factor for lung cancer in Taiwan.

Chen SC1, Wong RH, Shiu LJ, Chiou MC, Lee H.

Author information

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

About 50% of lung cancer deaths in Taiwan are not related to cigarette smoking. Environmental exposure may play a role in lung cancer risk. Taiwanese households frequently burn mosquito coil at home to repel mosquitoes. The aim of this hospital-based case-control study was to determine whether exposure to mosquito coil smoke is a risk for lung cancer.

METHODS:

Questionnaires were administered to 147 primary lung cancer patients and 400 potential controls to ascertain demographic data, occupation, lifestyle data, indoor environmental exposures (including habits of cigarette smoking, cooking methods, incense burning at home, and exposure to mosquito coil smoke ), as well as family history of cancer and detailed medical history.

RESULTS:

Mosquito coil smoke exposure was more frequent in lung cancer patients than controls (38.1% vs.17.8%; p<0.01). Risk of lung cancer was significantly higher in frequent burners of mosquito coils (more than 3 times [days] per week) than nonburners (adjusted odds ratio = 3.78; 95% confidence interval: 1.55-6.90). Those who seldom burned mosquito coils (less than 3 times per week) also had a significantly higher risk of lung cancer (adjusted odds ratio = 2.67; 95% confidence interval: 1.60-4.50).

CONCLUSION:

Exposure to mosquito coil smoke may be a risk factor for development of lung cancer.

An unhealthy sleep - how safe are mosquito coils?

Category : General Chemicals
Plublished by : General Chemicals
Catogory : Data Research Analyst, Worldofchemical

---

The annual worldwide consumption of the four major types of residential insecticide products are -- aerosols, mosquito coils, liquid vaporizers, and vaporizing mats.

Mosquito coils are burned indoors and outdoors in regions like Asia, Africa, and South America. Mosquito coils consist of an insecticide/repellant, organic fillers capable of burning with smoldering, binder, and additives such as synergists, dyes, and fungicide.

Mosquito coil ingredients

Pyrethrum

Pyrethrins

Allethrin

Dibutyl hydroxyl toluene (BHT)

Piperonyl butoxide (PBO)

N-(2-ethylhexyl)-bicyclo-(2,2,1)hept-5-ene-2,3-dicarboximide (MGK 264)

N,N-Diethyl-Meta-Toluamide (DEET)

N,N-Diethyl-Meta-Toluamide (DEET)

DEET is a registered pesticide. It is the most effective, and best studied, insect repellent currently on the market. This substance has a remarkable safety profile after 40 years of worldwide use. It has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Repellents with DEET are used by an estimated 200 million people worldwide each year.

The most common active ingredients in coils are various pyrethroids, such as allethrin, d-allethrin, pynamin forte and ETOC. Octachlorodipropylether (S-2) is sometimes used as a synergist or active ingredient and use of such coils exposes humans to some level of bis-chloromethyl ether (BCME) which is an extremely potent lung carcinogen. Although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) does not register S-2 for any use, some imported mosquito coils contain this chemical, but their use is illegal in the United States, moreover in places like India S-2 is not banned.

Other compounds, released during the burning of mosquito coils (aldehydes, formaldehydes, fine and ultrafine particles,benzene, benzo[a]pyrene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, benzo[k]fluoranthene are also classified by the U.S. EPA as probable human carcinogens.

Mosquito coils burn for about 8hr without flame and kill or repel mosquitoes. Although they are recommended for outdoor use, or for use in semi-enclosed patios and porches, coils are often used overnight in sleeping quarters.

As a result peoples are exposed to a chemically complex mosquito-coil smoke containing small particles (< 1 µm), metal fumes, and vapors that may reach the alveolar region of the lung.

Burning of one mosquito coil would release the same amount of particulate matter (PM) 2.5 mass as burning 75-137 cigarettes; the emission of formaldehyde from burning one coil can be as high as that released from burning 51 cigarettes.

"Not many people know about it, but the damage done to your lungs by one mosquito coil is equivalent to the damage done by 100 cigarettes."

                                                                       - Sandeep Salvi, Chest Research Foundation Director

To avoid exposure from harmful chemically complex mosquito-coil smoke, usage of natural mosquito repellents is one of the best alternative methods.

Studies have shown that the best natural mosquito repellents usually contain more than just one type of oil.

Essential oils used in natural mosquito repellents

Lemon eucalyptus oil

Geranium oil

Soybean oil

Citronella

Fennel

Thyme

Clove oil

Celery extract

Neem oil

Picaridin

Bite Blocker, a repellent that contains geranium, soybean and coconut oil, can repel mosquitoes for up to 3 1/2 hours, longer than any repellent that contains only geranium oil.

Fennel - A small study by researchers at Seoul National University in Korea found that spray mosquito repellent containing 5 per cent fennel oil was 84 per cent effective after 90 minutes and a repellent cream with 8 per cent fennel oil was 70 per cent effective after 90 minutes.

Thyme - In one study, carvacrol and alpha-terpinene, two compounds derived from the essential oil of thyme, were found to have significantly greater repellency than a commercial N,N-Diethyl-Meta-Toluamide (DEET) repellent. The researchers suggest that a spray made with 2 per cent alpha terpinene is a promising natural mosquito repellent.

Picaridin - Picaridin is an insect and acarid repellent in the piperidine chemical family. Piperidines are structural components of piperine, the plant extract from the genus Piper that is also known as pepper. The chemical name is 1-piperidinecarboxylic acid 2-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-ethylpropylester. Picaridin is an odorless synthetic safe mosquito repellent ingredient that has been proven as effective as DEET in studies against mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and chiggers. It is also known as KBR 3023 or Bayrepel.

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Most users unaware of health hazards related to mosquito repellants: StudyJul 18, 2013, 03.36 AM IST

In the fight against mosquitoes, we may be harming ourselves as much as the dreaded drone, a new study by the National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE) here suggests. Researchers from the institute affiliated to the Indian Council of Medical Research found that 73% villagers in Tiruvallur use mosquito coils - and keep their windows closed while using them, adding to the health hazards of breathing chemicals.

The findings were published in the academically acclaimed International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health. The researchers showed that most users were unaware of the respiratory and other diseases that exposure to the chemicals could cause, and recommended regulation of sale of insect repellents. Other studies have shown that coil use is as much as 42% in Chennai. Mosquito nets remain the safest option to keep the buzzing menace away, but less than 5% opt for them.

"Urban areas like Chennai are no different. Other studies have shown that up to 42% of people in Chennai use mosquito coils and 28% use liquid vaporisers. Less than 5% use safer and cheaper alternatives like mosquito nets," said Chitra A Grace, one of the researchers.

At least 60% of those surveyed said they closed doors and windows while burning the coil. Epidemiologists say smoke from mosquito coil has as much particulate matter as the smoke from 100 cigarettes, depending on the materials used for manufacturing coil. When a mosquito coil burns, the insecticide vaporises with smoke and immobilises mosquitoes. "Plant-derived pyrethrins (organic compounds with insecticidal properties) are not toxic to humans, but we don't know the effects of burning the rest of the material that comprises 99% of the coil. We have to study that," said Prabhdeep Kaur, an NIE scientist.

Researchers found in most cases the safety information from the manufacturer did not reach consumers as 70% purchased coils without the packaging and instruction manuals. More than half said they did not wash their hands after handling pesticides, while 19.6% did not cover food when the coil was burning.

NIE researchers recommended regulation of the non-agricultural pesticide market, "especially as regards labeling and packaging methods and the responsibility at the point of sale".

The knowledge wasn't better with other products. Nearly 56% of those who used moth balls said they did not know they were harmful. "Moth balls contain naphthalene, a probable carcinogenic, which is volatile at room temperature," said Grace.

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