Zubaida Apa is no more among us. But she will definitely be remembered for her delicious recipes, impeccable style and her remedial “totkas”.
Zubaida Apa passed away last night at the age of 72, leaving the entire nation in shock and grief. Apa made her TV debut in 1996 when she was in her 50s, with her first programme, Dalda Ka Dastarkhwan, soon becoming widely popular.
Since the beginning of her career, she imparted her knowledge to the world regarding home remedies for various issues. Here are 5 best totkas that Apa gave us:
1. Oily skin
Oily skin is a problem affecting numerous people in our region. Zubaida Apa’s tip to attend to the issue without spending your money on expensive products was:
Mix together 2 tbsp egg white, a few drops of lemon juice and olive oil, after cleansing your face apply this mask for 5-7 minutes. Rinse off with water. You can use this mask once a month.
2. Dry feet
Dry feet can be a menace, especially in winters. Here is Zubaida Apa’s tip for making your feet soft:
Heat half a cup of mustard oil and half teaspoon of bee wax in a pan until the wax melts. A cream like texture will form. Seal this in a jar. Before going to bed, wash your feet and apply the bee wax and mustard oil cream on your feet and wear socks. Following morning wash your feet and massage with moisturizing lotion.
3. Cleaning gold jewelry
Gold jewelry, if used daily, turns dull. This is Zubaida Apa’s totka for cleaning gold jewelry at home:
Make a solution of 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tbsp laundering detergent and 1 cup of water. Soak jewelry in this mixture for 10-15 minutes. After that gently rub with an old tooth brush and wash with water. Pat dry with a clean, soft, slightly damp cloth.
4. Insects in cabinets
It is an unpleasant sight if you find insects crawling inside your cabinets. Apa’s tip for fighting this menace:
Dry Neem leaves in a cool, dry place and place them in cupboards, cabinet and even suitcases to repel insects. Replace the leaves after a few months. Neem leaves help keep insects away.
5. Frizzy hair
We all know what a terrible mess our hair become, especially in summers. Here are Apa’s tips to address the issue:
• Apply oil in your hair twice a week
• If you feel your hair is dry and dull, sprinkle a little milk on them and comb. You will see that your hair will become softer
• Make a mixture of one egg, 1 tsp olive, coconut or mustard oil and 1-2 tbsp yogurt. Apply the mixture on your hair once a month for half hour. Shampoo.
