1)There's no consensus on whether sunscreens prevent skin cancer. The Food and Drug Administration's 2007 draft sunscreen safety regulations say: "FDA is not aware of data demonstrating that sunscreen use alone helps prevent skin cancer" (FDA 2007). Cancer associations recommend clothing, hats and shade as primary barriers to UV radiation.

2)There's some evidence that sunscreens might increase the risk of the deadliest form of skin cancer for some people. Some researchers have detected an increased risk of melanoma among sunscreen users.No one knows the cause, but scientists speculate that sunscreen users stay out in the sun longer and are still exposed to UVA rays.

3)There are more high SPF (sun protection factor) products than ever before, but no proof that they're better. In 2007 the FDA published draft regulations that would prohibit companies from labeling sunscreens with an SPF  higher than "SPF 50+." The agency wrote that higher values were "inherently misleading," given that "there is no assurance that the specific values themselves are in fact truthful..." (FDA 2007). Scientists are also worried that high-SPF products may tempt people to stay in the sun too long.

4)Too little sun might be harmful, reducing the body's vitamin D levels. The American Medical Association has recommended 10 minutes of direct sun (without sunscreen) several times a week (AMA 2008) so the body can produce vitamin D. But it is unclear as to how much sun is really needed for optimal vitamin D levels. It is important to get you vitamin D levels tested and supplement if needed.

5)The common sunscreen ingredient vitamin A may speed the development of cancer. It is well known that vitamin A increases cell growth and can produce free radicals in the skin when exposed to UV light.

Combat congestion with Ginger

Ginger breaks up congestion, improves circulation, and burns up toxins. For congestion in the back of the throat, make a syrup with ginger juice, honey, turmeric, and black pepper. Slowly lick over 15 minutes. Repeat up to three times a day. Eating a slice of ginger will aid with nausea in the stomach or burping due to excess mucous.

Combining ginger with black pepper and another dried pepper, pippali, forms a famous Ayurvedic formula called trikatu. This formula is excellent for eliminating mucus and congestion in the lungs.

Ginger and Digestion

Volatile oils in ginger increase motility in the gastrointestinal tract. Ayurveda recommends ginger for awakening tastes buds as it gets juices flowing, and purifies the mouth. Ginger also stimulates the production of saliva, smoothing the digestive process.

Ginger, Salt, and Lime before or after a meal stimulates digestion. Ginger with one oz of castor oil is a home remedy for rheumatoid arthritis. Consuming ginger with ghee is reputed to help osteoarthritis.

Ginger and Inflammation

One of the amazing qualities of ginger is that it stimulates digestion without aggravating acidity. Ginger is a warm spice and might seem like it should be avoided if you are provoked by spicy ingredients. However, fresh ginger is an anti-inflammatory.

Other Uses

Fresh ginger is a pain-reliever, sedative, assails fevers, and has antibacterial properties. Ginger is a useful food preservative proven to kill the harmful bacteria salmonella. Ginger oil has some anti-cancer properties. Ginger is used in Asia to prevent nausea in pregnant women.