Effects of Sugar.

Sugar, not only rots our teeth and can make us fat, but it has other hidden dangers also.

1. The digestion of refined sugar is only possible with the aid of alkalising minerals and B vitamins. Sugar does not possess such nutrients, so they are drawn from the body's reserves, thus leaving a deficit.
2. Sugar increases the amount of uric acid in the blood which can lead to Gout.
3. Excess sugar consumption is associated with artery disease leading to heart attacks.
4. It can cause hyperglycaemia(high blood sugar), hypoglycaemia(low blood sugar) and may eventually progress to Diabetes.
5. Sugar can be addictive. When we eat sugar, the glucose level in the blood rapidly soars. The pancreas reacts by pouring high levels of insulin into the bloodstream to try to restore the blood sugar levels to normal. When we first eat sugar we experience a quick lift, but as soon as the blood sugar level stabilises, we feel hungry and depressed and we reach for more sugar.

Many of us believe that brown or raw sugar is better than white: but unfortunately it is almost as bad. It does contain a trace of the minerals and vitamins found in the sugar beet and sugar cane from which it is extracted, but it is still a highly-refined substance and can create the same metabolic disturbances as white sugar. The only slight advantage of raw sugar over white is that it is very bulky and strongly flavoured and possibly we automatically eat less of it. Honey if used in small quantities, is a much healthier alternative to sugar. Honey contains two simple sugars, glucose and fructose, which are easily digested. Fructose does not need insulin for absorption, so a little honey can be taken by diabetics.

Basil

This is an annual herb which grows to about 3ft high with small yellowish or pinkish flowers. The essential oil has a faint yellowish tint and is obtained by distillation of the leaves. The aroma is agreeably spicy,and is vaguely similar to that of cloves.
Basil is used primarily as a nerve tonic-it alleviates mental fatigue, anxiety and nervous insomnia. It stimulates the appetite, relieves flatulence and also has an expectorant action.

Uses: Bronchitis, colds, indigestion, whooping cough.
Emotional: Sleeplessness due to nervous tensions and anxiety coupled with "cold"feelings. Hysteria, mental fatigue.
Blends well with: Citrus oils, geranium, neroli.
Caution: Avoid during pregnancy or those with sensitive skin.

Face packs for Normal skin

2 teaspoons natural live yogurt
1 teaspoon almond oil
1 drop rosemary or lavender
Half teaspoon of oatmeal to bind

Mix the essential oil into the almond oil and stir into the other ingredients to form a paste. Apply to the face and neck, and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.