In the realm of skincare, home remedies have long been a go-to for many, and one such trend gaining popularity is washing the face with salt water. From acne reduction to skin detoxification, the humble salt solution is being praised on social media. But does it really live up to the hype? And more importantly, is it safe for everyday use?

Salt water, particularly when derived from natural sea water, contains minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These elements are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This is one reason why a dip in the ocean often leaves the skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Some people replicate this effect at home by mixing sea salt with warm water and using it as a facial rinse.

Dermatologists agree that salt water does have certain benefits—when used in moderation. “Salt water can help cleanse the skin, reduce oiliness, and calm mild inflammation,” says Dr. Nisha Verma, a Mumbai-based dermatologist. “It can be particularly useful for people with acne-prone or oily skin because salt has natural antiseptic properties that can help reduce bacteria and unclog pores.”

However, experts caution against daily use or using high concentrations of salt. Salt is a natural dehydrator—it draws water out of cells. This means overuse can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, irritation, or even flaking. People with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin are especially advised to steer clear of salt-based treatments unless under medical supervision.

In a controlled routine, salt water can be used as a toner or rinse a few times a week. The solution should be mild—usually one teaspoon of sea salt dissolved in half a cup of warm water. After application, it's crucial to moisturize to restore the skin’s hydration barrier.

Anecdotal reports also suggest that salt water may help reduce blackheads and tighten pores, but these claims lack solid scientific backing. “Most of the positive effects are temporary,” says Dr. Verma. “It’s not a substitute for a good skincare routine or prescribed treatment for chronic conditions like acne or rosacea.”

There’s also a growing trend of using Himalayan pink salt or Dead Sea salt for their mineral content. While these may offer a slight edge due to their rich composition, the core principles remain the same—moderation and proper dilution are key.

For those with skin infections or open wounds, dermatologists strongly discourage the use of salt water. It may sting and irritate the area, delaying healing. Similarly, those undergoing treatments like chemical peels or retinol-based regimens should avoid salt rinses as it can lead to increased sensitivity.

In conclusion, while washing your face with salt water may offer certain skin benefits, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Used correctly, it can be a helpful occasional addition to your skincare regimen—but relying on it daily or overusing it could do more harm than good.

As always, consult a dermatologist before incorporating any new treatment into your routine—especially one that could affect your skin’s natural barrier.

Microplastics—those invisible particles of plastic pollution—may be doing more than just contaminating the environment. According to recent findings presented at the American Heart Association (AHA), they could also be silently contributing to clogged arteries, potentially raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

In a study that’s turning heads in the medical community, researchers discovered that fatty plaques found in neck arteries—known as carotid arteries—contained over 50 times more microplastic content compared to plaque-free arteries. Even more concerning, these microplastic concentrations were found to be significantly higher in individuals who had already suffered from a stroke, mini-stroke, or temporary vision loss caused by restricted blood flow.

What Exactly Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are extremely small particles—often less than five millimeters in size—created when larger pieces of plastic break down. They can enter the human body in multiple ways: through the air we breathe, the food we eat, and even skin contact. An even smaller subset, known as nanoplastics, measures under 1,000 nanometers and is completely invisible to the naked eye. Because of their minuscule size, these particles can infiltrate tissues, organs, and potentially disrupt biological functions.

The accumulation of microplastics in arterial plaques introduces a new dimension to the ongoing conversation about cardiovascular risk factors. While high cholesterol, smoking, and hypertension remain the usual suspects, environmental pollutants like microplastics are emerging as a stealthy but significant threat.

A Simple Solution In Your Kitchen?

Amid growing concerns about microplastic contamination, especially in drinking water, scientists have been working on practical ways to mitigate exposure. In 2024, a research team from Guangzhou Medical Centre made a breakthrough. They discovered that a common household activity—boiling water—can significantly reduce microplastic content in tap water.

According to the team, combining boiling with basic filtration can remove up to 90% of nanoplastic and microplastic particles (NMPs) from household water. However, the method’s effectiveness varied depending on the type of water used. In areas where tap water contains higher mineral content, commonly referred to as "hard water," the technique proved especially efficient.

The secret lies in limescale. As hard water is heated, it forms limescale—a chalky white substance—which appears to create a sticky layer that traps microplastic fragments. Researchers found this natural process enhanced the removal of plastic particles from water, offering a practical and affordable solution for most households.

While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term health effects of microplastics, early evidence suggests they may be more dangerous than previously thought—especially for cardiovascular health. Taking simple precautions, such as boiling and filtering drinking water, could help reduce exposure and offer a small but meaningful step toward safeguarding your heart and overall well-being.

Reading non-fiction books is not my cup of tea, while they are informative and important to read, when I read for pleasure, I want to immerse myself in a world that could never be. Reading fiction books like the Harry Potter series, Percy Jackson books and others like the Dragon Rider, were the reason I enjoyed reading. Often using these books as a means to escape difficult feelings, I never even realized how reading these books transformed my mental health, along with my perspective.

Reading plays an important role for your mental health; books offer numerous advantages for one's mental well-being. Whether the preference lies with short stories or lengthy novels, colorful picture books or digital formats, various forms of literature can provide valuable benefits. This piece will explore several key reasons why reading is so beneficial for mental health.

How Does Reading Impact Mental Health?

According to a 2022 PLoS One study, reading fiction can improve people's mental well-being. The researchers conducted five different studies to see how various ways of engaging with fiction affect individuals. These methods includes recalling past fiction reading experiences, being instructed to read fiction, discussing fiction in comparison to non-fiction, and discussing different types of fiction.

The research shows that books had a positive influence on people's mood and emotions. However, it appears that simply reading fiction might not lead to an immediate improvement in mental well-being. The brain seems to require a period of processing and understanding the story before positive effects can be observed.

Ways Reading Can Affect Your Mental Health

Mental Health First Aid England, a social enterprise that offers guidance and training for mental health in workspaces, explains that whether the preference lies with short stories or lengthy novels, colorful picture books or digital formats, various forms of literature can provide valuable benefits. Here are some ways it helps us.

Reading captivating books brings joy and immersion, making time disappear. Finishing a good story can evoke sadness or eagerness for more, highlighting reading's positive impact.

Reading as a Stress Buster

Engrossing oneself in a book for just six minutes can significantly reduce stress by lowering heart rate and easing tension, outperforming other relaxation methods.

Acts as a Coping Mechanism

Reading offers an escape from the real world, providing a coping mechanism, especially in childhood. This immersion can be transformative, influencing how we interact with the world.

Building Empathy

Reading fiction enhances empathy, improving the ability to understand others' feelings and thoughts, temporarily boosting this crucial social skill.

Keeping Your Brain Sharp

Lifelong cognitive activities like reading slow down memory loss and reduce mental decline in later life compared to less stimulating pursuits.

Finding Support and Healing in Reading Groups

Discussing books in reading groups can significantly improve mental health, aiding concentration, emotional understanding, self-awareness, and meaningful discussions.

Boost Your Sense of Control and Offer a Safe Space

Discussing books fosters a sense of control and independence, benefiting mental well-being. It provides a positive and safe way to process challenging topics.

Understanding Adulthood

Reading for pleasure in adolescence enhances academic performance, social engagement, and personal development, offering insights into adult life.

Boosting Your Intelligence

Research confirms that reading increases intelligence, leading to a larger vocabulary, broader knowledge, and improved verbal skills.

On the day of World Malaria Day, as we raise awareness on the dangers posed by this mosquito-borne disease, let's delve a bit deeper into how malaria is different from the other mosquito-borne diseases.

Dengue vs Malaria

Both malaria and dengue are transmitted by female mosquitoes and cause severe illness in humans. There are certain similarities between the two diseases and the mosquito species, which is why the patients and diagnoses are often confused.

As per the co-Principal Investigator, Dr Charles Guissou, for the Target Malaria, a vector control research alliance's Target Malaria Burkina Faso at the Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, "Dengue and malaria are two very different diseases caused by different pathogens and different mosquito species." “Misdiagnosis between malaria and dengue is common, and this can then contribute to inappropriate medical care.”

Every year, malaria causes 200 million cases worldwide, leading to 600,000 deaths. Many of these cases are from Africa, where children and pregnant women pay the highest price. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also reported that in 2022, Africa was home to 95% of malaria cases and 95% of malaria deaths. The global incidence of dengue has grown significantly in recent decades. Cases reported to WHO increased from 505,430 in 2000 to 6.5 million in 2023.

Dr Ajay Gupta, Head & Director - Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali also points out the key differences between malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases. He says, "Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. In contrast, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses are transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. This distinction in the type of mosquito also reflects differences in peak biting times—Anopheles mosquitoes bite during nighttime, while Aedes mosquitoes are daytime biters."

"Another key difference lies in complications and disease progression. Malaria, especially caused by Plasmodium falciparum, can progress rapidly to severe illness with cerebral involvement, anemia, kidney failure, and even death if not promptly treated. Dengue, on the other hand, is known for a sudden drop in platelet count and risk of hemorrhage. Chikungunya commonly leads to prolonged joint pain, sometimes lasting weeks or even months after the infection clears," notes the doctor.

There is also a difference between how the mosquitoes that spread dengue and malaria.

The Aedes Mosquito

It is responsible for spreading dengue and has white stripes down the center of the thorax. It also has a resting position where its body is kept low and parallel to the ground, with the proboscis angled downward. It is slender, and the wings have distinctive white markings.

The Anopheles Mosquito

It is responsible for causing malaria and has long palps. It is dark in color and the resting position follows it abdomen at a 45-degree angle to the surface.

Zika Virus

Zika is a viral infection also transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which is the first difference from malaria, in the species of mosquito that causes it. As per the WHO, those with Zika virus do not tend to experience symptoms, and if they do, it includes rash, fever, conjunctivitis, and muscle and joint pain. The symptoms are also what makes it different. They appear from 3 to 14 days after being bitten.

Chikungunya

This is also caused by Aedes mosquitoes, and the symptoms usually appear within 4 to 8 days after infection. The symptoms include fever, joint pain, headaches, and nausea.

Yellow Fever

This is caused by Aedes and haemagogus mosquitoes. People who are infected with this virus do not get sick and experience only mild symptoms. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 12% of people who have symptoms develop serious illness, which includes organ failure and jaundice.

The key difference between all other mosquito-borne diseases and malaria is the species of the mosquito that causes it. While all the others are caused by Aedes, malaria is caused by the Anopheles.

What Else Makes Malaria Different Other Than The Type Of Mosquito That Causes It?

Drinking Beer Could Increase Chances Of Infection

According to the scientists at the University of Emory, in their 2010 study, they found that beer produces an odour in your body that is irresistible to the malaria-carrying mosquitoes.

It Could Take Four Years To Develop Symptoms

There are rare strains of this disease which could in fact take months or even years to get diagnosed. In one of the rare cases, malaria was diagnosed four years later the individuals were infected, reported UK's The Telegraph.

Malaria And Its Connection With Snow White

In 1943, Disney was tasked with creating a film to promote public health awareness. The result? The Winged Scourge — a rather unusual PSA where the Seven Dwarfs learn how to fight off malaria-spreading mosquitoes.

Malaria Has Killed Four Popes, And At Least Eight Presidents Have Suffered From It

George Washington battled malaria, and the disease is also believed to have claimed the lives of Pope Leo and Pope Sixtus—just a few of its prominent victims.

Malaria And India

The doctor also points out that diagnosis and treatment also vary. "Malaria is typically confirmed with a blood smear or rapid diagnostic test and is treated with specific antimalarial drugs. There is no antiviral treatment for dengue, chikungunya, or Zika—management is primarily supportive," he says.

In India, we often see a spike in these illnesses during and after the monsoon season, However, malaria control efforts—such as early diagnosis, insecticide-treated bed nets, and vector control—have significantly reduced the burden in recent years.

"Preventive strategies like eliminating stagnant water, using mosquito repellents, and ensuring proper sanitation are universally effective. But recognizing the distinct nature of malaria is key to prompt diagnosis and management," notes Dr Gupta.