Americans spend billions of dollars each year on cleansers, toners and scrubs to improve their complexions. These chemical-based products often contain harsh alcohols and soaps. Bentonite clay is an alternative facial treatment.

Blood pressure testing is routinely performed at doctor appointments to monitor the health of your heart and entire cardiovascular system. While good technique is necessary when taking a blood pressure, having the proper equipment is equally important.

Vitamins are found naturally in foods, but supplements can shore up any deficiencies you may have. As with any pill, it's important to be aware of the proper dosage, side effects and potential interactions with other pills.

Your body comes in contact with a vast number of chemicals, pollutants and unhealthy foods during a typical day. Normally the body is very efficient at flushing out toxins, but detox, or detoxification, programs have become popular as ways to help rid the body of toxins and help you feel lighter and more energized.

Sprained ankles are common injuries, especially in athletes. An ankle sprain typically presents with swelling, bruising and pain to the ankle and foot. If you have sprained your ankle, see a doctor. She can rule out a more serious injury such as a fracture. Treatment for a sprained ankle usually consists of “R.I.C.E.

Apple cider vinegar is recommended as a remedy for a host of ailments, but it can be bad for your tooth enamel due to its high acidity.

Think of charcoal and you might a barbecue or the product many artists use when sketching. But there is a medicinal form of charcoal, known as activated charcoal, that is used to treat a number of ailments, including heartburn, stomach bloating and flatulence. It is also used in cases of poisoning.

Cardiovascular, or cardio, exercise is any kind of exercise that keeps your heart rate up for a suspended period of time. Cardio exercise can unclog your arteries as well as provide other health benefits. Cardio includes circuit weight lifting, running, biking, hiking, dancing and team sports.

The human ear is a complex and delicate organ. Although it does help the body stay in balance, its primary job is to detect and amplify sounds. Unfortunately, loud noises in the environment can damage sensitive ear structures, which can lead to temporary and even permanent hearing loss.

Earaches can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens, fungi, impacted ear wax or hearing aids. Otitis media is an inner ear or ear drum infection. Otitis externa is an ear canal infection and is also known as swimmer’s ear. Sweet oil can help the earaches caused by otitis media and otitis externa.

Bergamot is a type of orange tree grown in Italy and used for everything from pesticides to perfumes. This fresh and clean smelling essential oil is great for treating urinary tract infections, acne, oily skin, eczema, psoriasis and cold sores.

Ankle sprains are some of the most common injuries in sports, especially frequent in sports that involve lateral movement such as basketball, soccer and football. Because the ligaments and tendons in your ankle are weakened with every sprain, the risk of re-injury grows with each sprain.