Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and other microorganisms. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that pneumonia is a common illness that affects millions of Americans every year.

Valerian has been used as a treatment for insomnia, anxiety, restlessness and stomach cramps for centuries.

The liver, your largest internal organ, performs many vital functions, including ridding the body of harmful chemicals, aiding in digestion and producing important proteins.

The lining of your respiratory system, extending from your nose through the airways of your lungs, is coated with mucus. This clear, sticky substance helps keep the airways clean by capturing particles and chemicals from the air you breathe.

The most common contagious diseases are categorized as bacterial, viral, fungal and protozoan. Bacteria are tiny organisms that are pathogenic (cause infectious diseases) or beneficial (aid in digestion).

Drying sausage is one way of preserving it without impacting its nutritional value. Dehydrated sausage makes a nutritionally-dense snack, or you can rehydrate it to take the place of regular sausage in soups and stews.

Lemons are a tasty addition to many dishes and can add life to a glass of water. You can use lemon juice in place of traditional salad dressings for a healthier salad. A member of the citrus family, lemon has many health benefits.

Skin discoloration is normally a result of the skin's natural pigmentation, called melanin, overproducing in any given area. This discoloration affects the topmost layer of skin, leaving you with brown patches. The main culprit in melanin overproduction is excess sun exposure.

If left uncontrolled, high blood pressure increases risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney failure, and may even lead to death (see reference 1 para 1). In a majority of cases, anti-hypertensive medication is the most effective and primary mode of treatment for high blood pressure (see reference 1 para 4).

A rash on your infant’s foot often is caused by hand, foot and mouth disease. HFMD is common viral illness that is spread easily in day care centers by both caregivers and other children. Your doctor performs a simple exam of your infant’s feet and hands, as well as throat, to make a proper diagnosis.

Dehydroepiandrosterone, known as DHEA, has been termed the “mother” hormone for its vital role in creating androgens and estrogens. Normal levels of DHEA depend on age and sex, and women tend to have lower amounts than men.

Graviola, or soursop, is the common name of a tropical fruit tree known botanically as Annona muricata. The 30-foot-tall bushy plant has had many traditional uses. The seeds have been used to kill head lice and the fruit juice to treat leprosy.