Category: Herbs & Nutrition
The “wonder herb” Oregano is widely known for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, but now scientists at Long Island University (LIU) say it might also kill prostate cancer cells.
Prostate cancer usually affects men later in life, with an estimated 240,000 new cases and 28,000 deaths each year. Most current treatment options such as surgery, radiation, hormone therapy and chemotherapy involve likely complications and the possibility of severe side effects.
Dr. Supriya Bavadekar, PhD, RPh, and Assistant Professor of Pharmacology at LIU, feels carvacrol has potential as an anti-cancer weapon, explaining, “We know that oregano possesses anti-bacterial as well as anti-inflammatory properties, but its effects on cancer cells really elevate the spice to the level of a super-spice like turmeric.”
In the LIU study, carvacrol, an active component of oregano, was found to cause apoptosis, or ‘cell suicide’ when it came into contact with prostate cancer cells.
Strangely enough, these new findings back existing research showing that eating pizza – yes pizza – might actually cut cancer risk.
“Some researchers have previously shown that eating pizza may cut down cancer risk. This effect has been mostly attributed to lycopene, a substance found in tomato sauce, but we now feel that even the oregano seasoning may play a role,” continues Dr. Bavadekar.
“If the study continues to yield positive results, this super-spice may represent a very promising therapy for patients with prostate cancer.”
OTHER ARTICLES:
Diet Soda Linked to Weight Gain and Stroke
By Kathleen Roberts
Ginger is probably best known for its uses in cooking and baking, adding a sweet yet spicy note to foods. But did you know, ginger is much more than just a versatile kitchen spice? Aside from its culinary attributes, ginger also possesses various health benefits that make it even more valuable to have in your pantry.
What Can Ginger Do for You?
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginger has been shown to possess a myriad of health benefits. It is helpful for both motion sickness and morning sickness. It is even helpful in treating nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy or surgery.
Ginger is also a natural anti-inflammatory and has proven useful in the treatment of osteoarthritis. If you have pain related to inflammation, you may find that ginger helps you feel better.
There are also studies that show ginger to have promise in treating high cholesterol, heart disease and even cancer, though more research is still needed.
Using Ginger
Ginger can easily be found where you buy your kitchen herbs and spices. You can get it in either powdered or crystallized form. If you suffer from motion sickness, try keeping a bottle of crystallized ginger in your car to help easy your nausea. You may find the candy-like spicy-sweetness addictive!
Ginger can also be purchased fresh, to be peeled and used as needed in your meals. It can be grated or sliced for use in stir-fry, soups and various other dishes. Fresh ginger root should not look shriveled or dirty. It should always be firm and plump. Store it the way you store your onions or garlic, in an open container on the counter. You can also peel it, wrap it and put it in the freezer if you don’t think you can use the entire root before it goes bad.
Ginger tea is a wonderfully warming drink that helps ease aches and pains as well as aiding in digestion. There are many varieties of ginger tea on the market, so feel free to experiment and find which one you like best. You can also thinly slice fresh ginger into a pan of water and simmer for 20 minutes. Try adding cinnamon and honey for a tasty treat.
Finally, you can purchase ginger in capsule form. This is a great alternative if you want the benefits of ginger but don’t especially enjoy the flavor. Whichever way you choose to use it, ginger is a must-have in any kitchen!
OTHER ARTICLES
Detoxify Your Liver with Sassafras, the Main Ingredient in Root Beer
A Cup A Day – The Benefits of Drinking Tea
REFERENCES
- Ginger – http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/ginger-000246.htm.
- Effects of ginger capsules on pregnancy, nausea, and vomiting – http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1925000.
- 6-Shogaol, an active constituent of ginger, inhibits breast cancer cell invasion by reducing matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression via blockade of nuclear factor-κB activation – http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20718733.
- Anti-inflammatory effects of [6]-shogaol: potential roles of HDAC inhibition and HSP70 induction – http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21864631.
- Using Fresh and ground Ginger – http://oldfashionedliving.com/ginger.html.
The Medicine Hunter goes on a foraging tour through Central Park with Steve “Wildman” Brill in search of sassafras root. It’s said to help detoxify the liver, and it’s the main ingredient in a popular soft drink.
Herbs make wonderful houseplants; not only are they beautiful and decorative, herbs also add fragrance and flavor to your home. Running your hands through a rosemary plant or slightly brushing by a lemon-scented thyme can invigorate you, as well as bring a room to life.
There is an herb for every taste and décor. Some are small and cute, and others are statelier, such as the bay leaf. Select the herb plants you find attractive, but that are not too demanding. Plant them in attractive containers to enhance their natural beauty. Use your imagination and creativity.
Most potted herbs do very well indoors, and what’s more, they can easily be moved outside onto the patio, or you can sink them into your flower bed during the warmer months, bringing them back inside when it gets colder.
The Best Herbs To Grow Indoors
Most herbs need sunlight to grow and produce well, so choose an east or south-facing window. Temperature, air circulation, soil, fertilizer, and water are also important to consider, and it helps to review those needs before you head out to the nursery or garden center to pick out your herbal companion. Below are some growing tips for some of our favorites.
Basil
Basil needs full sun and well-drained soil. Water whenever the surface begins to feel dry. Harvest by snipping the growing tips frequently to keep the plants bushy and prevent flowering. Don’t let the temperature drop below 50 ° F. Basil plants are productive for 3 – 6 months.
Bay
Keep bay plants in full or partial sun. Bay is slow growing and will take years to reach 2 feet in a pot. Allow the soil to dry out between watering. Bay prefers daytime temperatures around 60° F and nighttime temperatures around 50 ° F, but can take temperatures in the 40s. Allow your bay plant plenty of room for good air circulation. Harvest by cutting off individual older leaves as needed, or to dry.
Chives
Chives thrive in full sun. Chive plants prefer daytime temperatures in the 70s and night temperatures in the 60s, but can tolerate temperatures as low as the 40s. Chives will live several years in pots. Harvest by cutting off individual leaf blades to within 1 inch above the soil surface.
Dill
Dill needs full sunlight and can be productive indoors for two to four months. The dill plant may need staking, as it can reach 3 feet in height. Water whenever the soil surface begins to dry. Dill prefers temperatures in the 50s and 60s.
Ginger
Get ginger root from your grocery store and plant a fragment of rhizome in a roomy, shallow pot. Ginger enjoys high temperatures, high humidity and moist soil. Harvest whenever the rhizome begins to outgrow its pot.
Marjoram
Marjoram is a perennial and will grow one foot tall in full sunlight, and be productive for one to two years. After that the plant becomes woody. The heavenly fragrance is pervasive – use sparingly in cooking. Marjoram prefers temperatures in the 60s and 70s. Marjoram plants need good drainage and can even be kept on the dry side.
Mints
Mints are productive for six months or more in pots. Trim individual stems often and use in cooking or to make an uplifting tea. A great variety of mints can be grouped together for a showy display. If you would like to preserve each mint’s original flavor do not let them bloom because they’ll cross-pollinate, and then all your mints will taste the same!
Oregano
Keep oregano on the dry side and temperatures in the 70s during the daytime and the 60s during nighttime. Cut it back often to contain its tendency to spread. When oregano becomes woody, replace it.
Parsley
Give parsley cool temperatures and full sun. The fine flavor of flat-leaf (Italian) parsley is stronger than that of curly parsley, but both make beautiful house plants. Harvest parsley by cutting the outer leaves, leaving the central rosette to produce new growth.
Rosemary
Never let your rosemary plant dry out completely, or it will die. Rosemary needs good drainage, and if the needle-like evergreen leaves turn brown, it means you’re over watering. Prune or pinch back rosemary regularly to keep it bushy.
Sage
Sage needs full sun and must have good drainage; it does not like “wet feet”. Choose from a great variety of sage plants. No matter what kind you get, they all make beautiful and fragrant pot plants. Pick fresh leaves for cooking, or let the leaves dry out and use them as incense.
When you think about medicinal herbs, teas, capsules, and tinctures may be the first thing that comes to mind; all nicely formulated and conveniently packaged to ingest for various ailments. If this is the case, it may surprise you to learn that many herbs can be used topically as well.
Not only is this a great way to treat the surface of your skin for conditions like rashes, diaper rash, burns, scrapes, wounds, injuries, and bug bites, but it is also a fantastic alternative way to enjoy the internal benefits of herbal medicine.
Herbs can be made into vapor balms and applied to your chest to help with congestion when you have a cold or cough. They can also be applied to different areas of your skin to penetrate slowly and deeply into your body and organs, similar to a “patch”. This type of delivery is convenient when herbs have a bitter taste or if swallowing them might be difficult, as in the case of children, the elderly, or pets. Herbs may be applied to the underarms for quick action, or to the back of your hands for slower action.
Next time something ails you, give one of these popular topical herbal remedies a try:
Aloe Vera
Whether it’s straight from your garden or the gel from the store, aloe vera is the best relief for many skin problems. Aloe vera promotes the removal of dead skin and stimulates the normal growth of living cells. It softens, moisturizes and balances the pH of your skin. When used for burns like radiation burns, thermal burns, or sunburns, it is known to reduce the chance of infection and scarring, helps to stop the pain and speeds up the healing process.
Arnica
Arnica oil or gel reduces bruising and swelling from injuries. Many plastic surgeons are now prescribing arnica gel to apply after surgery to prevent bruising and to promote healing. Arnica also works well for muscle pain including arthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain and whiplash. Caution: Do not use on broken skin!
Lavender
Lavender essential oil applied on stings or bites from mosquitoes, spiders, scorpions, poisonous fish, and all other known and unknown poisonous critters works very well because it neutralizes poisons while taking the itch and/or pain away. It is calming too. As soon as you notice you have been stung or bitten, apply lavender essential oil directly to the site of the sting. You can re-apply every minute or so, or you can simply place a few drops on a clean cotton ball and leave it on the affected area. For bee and wasp stings, make sure to remove the stinger first before applying lavender essential oil.
Clay
Although clay is not an herb, it is a good earth medicine. Made into clay packs and used topically, clay is very beneficial for sprains, strains, and swellings caused by injury. Clay packs may also be used for water retention in the feet and legs. If you can’t get a splinter out with tweezers try a clay poultice. Mix clay with enough water to make a thick paste. Spread onto the affected area and leave it on for several hours or overnight.
Clove Essential Oil
Dentists recommend clove oil for a toothache, as it numbs the pain for a while. Rub clove essential oil on your gums as needed until the dentist can see you. Since it has a numbing effect, clove oil can also be applied to other painful areas (except for open wounds), but must be diluted with vegetable oil or cream.
Onion Pack
Here is an old, time-tested remedy for sore throats, coughs, respiratory congestion, or even an earache: Cut an onion into small pieces. Place into a frying pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Fry for about 1 – 2 minutes, just enough to heat up the onion. Place onto a towel or paper towel and make a pouch, so that the onions cannot slip out. Apply to the affected area, securing with a towel or bandage, and leave it on for several hours or overnight. The onions will turn black as they work to absorb toxins. CAUTION: Before applying the onion pack to the affected area, make sure it is not too hot, or it will burn your skin. This is especially true for children, as they are more sensitive.
One of the world’s oldest beverages, tea is the second most commonly consumed liquid on earth besides water. Maybe one of the reasons is the myriad of health benefits associated with drinking tea. If you are not drinking tea yet, you’re missing out on a convenient, potent and delicious health beverage; here are some healthy tea facts that might surprise you:
1.) Tea has less caffeine than coffee. A cup of tea contains approximately 30 mg of caffeine, versus 135 mg in a cup of coffee.
2.) Tea adds to your necessary daily fluid intake, unlike coffee and other beverages which may have a diuretic effect.
3.) Tea has no calories, unless you add milk or a sweetener.
4.) Tea increases your metabolic rate.
5.) Tea contains potent antioxidant properties.
6.) Tea may reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
7.) Tea builds strong bones.
8.) Tea contains fluoride and tannins for healthy teeth and gums.
9.) Tea boosts your immune system.
10.) Tea possesses cancer-fighting properties.
Black, Green, White, Oolong and Red Teas
It’s hard to believe, but Black, Green, White and Oolong teas (the four true teas) come from the same plant, known as Camellia sinensis, grown in many parts of the World. The major differences between them are the amount of processing each goes through. Black teas are processed the most and White teas the least. This results in the Black teas having a stronger and bolder taste, while the Green and White teas are much lighter tasting. In addition, Green, Black and Oolong teas come from the upper leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, while White tea is derived only from the tips of the leaves.
Red teas usually refer to Honeybush or Rooibos teas made from a blend of different plants. Research has shown that Red teas are the healthiest of all the available teas. They have more antioxidant properties than Green teas.
Honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) is a shrub native to South Africa. This deliciously sweet tea is smooth tasting, lacking the typical bite found in most Green and Black teas, because it contains virtually no tannins and is caffeine free.
Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is another plant from South Africa. Rooibos only grows commercially in one small corner of the world – South Africa’s Cederberg district. The soil conditions, rainfall and sunshine of the district can’t be duplicated anywhere else on earth. In order to protect the future of the industry, environmental controls in the area are stringent. Growers take great care to ensure that the fragile Cederberg ecosystem isn’t tempered with or altered. People from this part of the World drink Rooibos tea purely for enjoyment, but also to help relieve insomnia, irritability, headaches, nervous tension, hypertension, skin problems, and stomach cramping and colic in infants. This tea contains no oxalic acid, making it a good beverage for people prone to kidney stones.
Herbal Teas
When you drink a cup of peppermint or chamomile tea you are actually not consuming tea. You are drinking a “tisane” or an “infusion”. Tisane is French for ‘herbal infusion’ and is simply an infusion of dried herbs or fruits. Tisanes and herbal infusions are not true teas since the Camellia plant is not used. However, they are generally referred to as teas since the preparation, enjoyment, and health benefits are similar. Many herbal teas are consumed for medicinal reasons and are naturally caffeine free.
What’s In A Tea Bag?
Almost all teas in tea-bags are blends and usually of a lower quality than loose teas. Tea blending may occur in one tea-planting area (e.g. Assam) or the blends may be a combination of teas from diverse tea plantations. The aim of blending is to give the consumer a stable taste over the years and a cheaper price. For only the best quality and taste, we recommend using loose tea, whether brewing a cup of herbal tea or true Camellia sinensis.
How To Brew A Perfect Cup Of Tea
For one cup of hot tea: Measure 1 teaspoon of dried tea of your choice and place into a container. Bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil and pour over the tea and steep to desired strength. Strain and enjoy.
For a cup of iced tea: Follow the above instructions and chill with ice.
Anti-oxidants are very popular these days because of their health-enhancing and anti-aging benefits. But what exactly are anti-oxidants and why are they so important?
Anti-Oxidants: Your Body’s Free Radical ‘Bouncers”
Anti-oxidants are chemicals produced by the body to keep free radicals in check. Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that have at least one unpaired electron, which makes them unstable and highly reactive. Anti-oxidants eliminate free radicals by circulating throughout your body and neutralizing any unpaired electrons they encounter, rendering them inactive.
Unfortunately, if your body is unable to produce enough anti-oxidants to meet the high demands caused by too much stress, pollution, poor dietary choices, and the electromagnetic fields that bombard us every day, free radicals continue to multiply, speeding up the aging process, and opening the door to many illnesses.
Where Do Free Radicals Come From and Why are They Dangerous?
Free radicals are formed as part of your body’s normal metabolic process and perform a number of important activities that promote health and well-being. They fight bacteria, help keep inflammation in check, and help regulate normal activity of the blood vessels and organs by maintaining smooth muscle tone. However, daily stress and other irritants can generate an overabundance of free radicals. Because of their unstable nature, too many free radicals damage tissue cells and may speed up the progression of cancer, heart disease and various age-related conditions.
Anti-Oxidant Herbs: Nature’s Medicine Cabinet
To keep free radicals in check you must eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables every day. For added support, add one or more of the following herbs to your daily diet to enhance your body’s inherent ability to produce anti-oxidants, increase the uptake of tissue oxygen and scavenge free radicals:
Acai has become popular because of its high anti-oxidant content. In addition, many people have noticed significant weight loss by taking just a couple of acai berry capsules a day.
Acerola is high in vitamin C, which is a powerful free radical scavenger with anti-oxidant effects. Acerola is used in cosmetics to fight cellular aging, not just for its high vitamin content, but also for its mineral salts, which have shown to aid in the re-mineralization of tired and stressed skin. The mucilage and proteins in Acerola also have skin-hydrating properties and promote capillary conditioning.
Cayenne Pepper is known to improve both digestion and circulation. Rich in flavonoids, these hot fruits also possess anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity.
Hawthorn is the best heart tonic and provides a strong concentration of anti-oxidants to fight free radicals. Hawthorn leaf, flower and berries nourish, strengthen, and tone the heart muscle and its blood vessels.
Milk Thistle is another powerful anti-oxidant. It helps fight the damaging effects of free radicals, stimulates basic liver function, protects the liver against damaging chemicals, and rebuilds liver cells that have been damaged.
Mullein is a respiratory herb with anti-oxidant properties. This abundant and valuable herb is known to inc
rease the uptake of tissue oxygen while scavenging free radicals. Additionally, mullein increases the absorption and assimilation of dietary nutrients. This combination increases life force vitality, hence contributes to anti-aging.
Rhodiola is known to increase physical endurance, enhance immune function, and possess anti-oxidant properties.
Rosemary is a powerful anti-oxidant herb, with great memory-enhancing and heart-strengthening properties. This beautiful garden herb stimulates blood circulation, tones the blood vessels, is invigorating, and increases awareness.
Turmeric is very popular these days and prescribed by many doctors for its valuable anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This beautiful golden/orange herb is a traditional Indian cooking spice that stimulates and improves digestion and also purifies the blood. It is believed to act as a natural antibiotic, and at the same time improve intestinal flora. Good for all inflammatory conditions, turmeric is a metabolism regulator, assists in protein digestion, and has been known to work amazingly well for arthritis.
Honeybush is a delicious sweet tea with many health benefits. Honeybush is caffeine free and rich in anti-oxidants, helps to support immune function, maintains fat and cholesterol levels within normal ranges, as well as working as an anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic.
Rooibos contains more anti-oxidant properties than green tea. These anti-aging properties have been shown to slow down human aging processes, as well as boost the immune system.
Vibrational Essences are one of the many natural ways you can help maintain physical and emotional health. To read more about what Vibrational Essences are, click here. Read on for more in-depth information about how to use Vibrational Essences and also which essences might be the best for you!
How To Use Vibrational Essences
Traditionally, Vibrational Essences are taken orally by placing 2-3 drops under the tongue three or four times daily for one month. Alternately, you may place 2-3 drops in a small amount of water and sip at intervals throughout the day. To increase the effect of a particular Essence, it is recommended that you take it more often, as opposed to just taking more drops at one time. After one month’s time, it is a good idea to re-evaluate, and determine whether you feel you still need that particular Essence. Some find that putting a few drops of Vibrational Essence on pulse points or acupuncture points is also helpful.
Which Vibrational Essence is Right for Me?
There are many different types of Vibrational Essences, but perhaps the most famous are the Bach Flower Remedies, a system of 38 flower remedies developed by Dr. Edward Bach in the 1930s. Here are just a few of the Bach Flower Remedies, and the corresponding emotional symptoms for which they may be helpful:
Aspen – Vague, unknown fears which seem to have no basis or explanation.
Cerato – Lack of confidence and inability to make decisions; constantly seeking advice from others, which is often misguided.
Clematis – Frequent feelings of dreaminess, drowsiness, not being fully ‘awake’ and lacking interest in life. Not happy in the present circumstances but always living in hopes of happier times in the future.
Gentian – Feelings of discouragement; when any small delay or hindrance to progress causes doubt and disheartenment.
Larch – Not feeling as good or capable as others. Expectations of failure inhibit one from making any strong attempts to succeed.
Olive – Feelings of exhaustion and weariness from much physical and mental suffering, with no strength to make any further effort. Daily life seems like hard work, with no pleasure.
Red Chestnut – Finding it difficult not to be anxious for other people, but worrying too little for oneself.
If you’re interested in learning more about Vibrational Essences in general or Bach Flower Remedies in particular, there are hundreds of great sources online, or you can find helpful books in almost any library or book store.
Medical researchers confirm the connection between negative emotions and illnesses, or dis-eases. Experiencing negative emotions is never a fun ride, but on a physiological level, negative emotions actually cause the disruption of nervous system functions, hormone levels, and immunological response.
Because of their subtle nature, Vibrational Essences are exceptionally supportive in healing the body if an illness is rooted in negative emotions or negative mental patterns.
What are Vibrational Essences?
Vibrational Essences are homeopathic-style liquid preparations made from various materials such as plants, precious metals, and sometimes even gemstones, to help restore inner balance and harmony. They have long been used as a healing system, but were made popular in the 1930’s by Dr. Edward Bach, a well respected physician specializing in bacteriology at a major London hospital.
Ahead of his time, Dr. Bach believed that “true healing cannot occur unless there is a change in outlook, peace of mind, and inner happiness”. He discovered 38 specific flower essences which help to heal on an emotional level, including the well-known “Rescue Remedy”.
How Do Vibrational Essences Work?
Vibrational Essences use the emotional system as an access point to bring harmony to your body, heart and mind. Not only do they treat the physical symptoms of an illness, but they also reach emotions relating to the deeper causes of an illness.
Specific Vibrational Essences address the particular emotional imbalances that may be contributing to physical symptoms. For example, those who chronically hold in anger may find that they frequently experience stomach and liver ailments. When they free themselves of the anger with the appropriate essence, healing subsequently occurs in the gastro-intestinal system.
Your thoughts and your feelings are programmed in your mind, similar to a computer program. This program releases neuropeptides into the system, which ‘imprint’ into the fluids of your body. Thus, your body can be physically ‘imprinted’, so to speak, by your views, thoughts and feelings about your life.
Are Vibrational Essences Safe?
Vibrational Essences are very safe for everyone and can be used in conjunction with other therapies to enhance the healing process. They can be helpful in dealing with emotional issues relating to career, money, relationships, future goals and ambitions, and more.
If you are coping with a physical imbalance, emotional turbulence, job burnout, relationship stress, are at a crossroads in your life or facing a challenging situation, Vibrational Essences could be instrumental in helping you to regain your balance.
Herbs and spices have been used in cooking since ancient times both for flavoring and preserving foods and for their medicinal qualities. Today, it still makes good sense to use fresh herbs and spices in your cooking.
Not only do herbs and spices provide a delicious way to get additional vitamins and minerals in your diet, but they can also be considered concentrated foods in their own right, and can positively affect your mind, body, and moods.
Turn a boring dish into an exotic meal with one or more of the following medicinal flavoring herbs:
Basil is a digestive aid, and one of the few herbs that increases its flavor when cooked. Basil is also a terrific mood and memory enhancer.
Cayenne is the “mover and shaker”. Cayenne’s long list of beneficial and life-enhancing properties is extraordinary; for example, Cayenne can help improve circulation, while strengthening the heart, arteries, capillaries and nerves.
Coriander cools hot spicy dishes. Coriander seeds are used for this purpose in garam masala, chutney, curries, and more. Coriander leaves (known as cilantro) are found in numerous Mexican dishes and salsas.
Dill helps improve appetite and digestion. Add dill to fish, lamb and soups to give them a tasty boost. The difference between dill leaf and dill seed lies in the degree of pungency; dill seeds are sharper, whereas dill leaves enhance (rather than dominate) the flavor of food. Dill tea is a popular remedy in Europe for upset stomach, hiccups, or insomnia. Dill also promotes the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Gripe water is made with dill and used in children’s medicines to alleviate colic and flatulence. Dill also helps the body absorb calcium.
Fennel is excellent to use in oily or fatty dishes, such as meat, fatty fish and stuffing to improve digestion and to help prevent both heartburn and constipation. Fennel tea is excellent for relieving colic in children and babies. Fennel tea can also be used in facial steams for deep cleansing and for soothing wrinkles. To ease inflammation and watery eyes, place a compress of fennel tea on your eyelids.
Fenugreek can be grown into sprouts and is excellent in sandwiches. Place a few fenugreek seeds on a moist paper towel on a windowsill. Keep moist for a few days and watch them sprout. Fenugreek is a refreshing cellular moisturizer. Fenugreek also counteracts catarrh and phlegm and helps eliminate uric acid through the lymphatic system.
Garlic is great for general health enhancement. It has strong natural antibiotic, anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties. Garlic can help maintain blood pressure and cholesterol in normal ranges. Garlic’s many medicinal properties are too numerous to list here, but doing a little more research on this wonder-plant will be well worth your while!
Oregano and marjoram are from the same family, except oregano is wild and marjoram is cultivated. This herb is a perfect complement to pizza, meat and tomato sauces and vegetable dishes. It is highly antiseptic, and may help ease colds, flu and sore throats.
Parsley is a “multivitamin” herb and a great breath freshener. Parsley can help to ease edema, frequent urination, gas, infant colic (via breast milk) and bilious colic.
Peppermint is a multipurpose herb with a refreshing, deodorizing and energizing effect.
Rosemary is one of the most useful culinary herbs and combines well with meat, casseroles, tomato sauces, baked fish, rice, salads, egg dishes, apples, vinegars and oils. Rosemary can help enhance blood circulation and stimulate digestion. It can also be helpful for headaches, as a memory enhancer, for bad breath and to beautify your skin.
Sage has preservative properties and can ward off harmful bacteria in foods. Sage also aids in the digestion of fatty food. As a tea, it helps reduce perspiration and hot flashes.
Turmeric is present in curry, lentil, rice and grain dishes and is used mostly in traditional Indian cooking. Turmeric stimulates and improves digestion, assists in protein digestion and helps purify the blood, while also promoting healthy intestinal flora balance. Turmeric is a great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, and is excellent for minor joint discomfort.
As you can see, incorporating nature’s healthful herbs and spices in your cooking not only adds remarkable flavor to the foods you eat, but can help enhance your health as well!
Healthy hair is a reflection of the overall health of your body. If you’re experiencing unhealthy-looking hair or unusual hair loss, it’s time to give your hair a little TLC from the inside as well as from the outside.
First, the basics: try to eat as healthily as possible, and drink lots of good water. Cut down on washing and conditioning your hair to only about twice a week. Shampooing, even with the best hair care products, tends to dry out your hair and wash away important oils.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Some of the causes of unusual hair loss are hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, pharmaceuticals, drastic weight loss, diabetes and other illnesses. Hair loss for men can be hereditary, but can also be caused by stress and protein deficiency. For women, unexpected hair loss can be due to a temporary drop in estrogen levels, for example after childbirth, although in these cases after several months it will usually grow back. Hormonal changes during menopause can also cause scalp and hair problems, including hair loss.
Herbs That Promote Healthy Hair
Seaweeds, such as kelp, dulse, and bladderwrack, are loaded with micro-nutrients, minerals, and trace minerals that promote healthy, shiny hair and can help prevent hair loss. If an under-active thyroid is the cause of your hair loss, seaweeds can also come to the rescue.
Foti is an herb known in Chinese traditional medicine as ‘He Shou Wu’. It’s revered for its anti-aging properties, and is also known for its ability to restore healthy hair and normal hair color.
Nettle leaf is well-known in Europe and used to stimulate hair growth, improve the condition of the scalp and to help restore natural hair color.
Rosemary encourages hair growth. Drink it as tea or add powdered rosemary to your food. Misting rosemary on damp hair promotes healthy, shiny and full-bodied hair. It also acts as a reconstructor for chemically over-treated or damaged hair. Place a few drops of rosemary essential oil on a brush or comb and run it through your hair several times. This will also prevent static.
Oatstraw and shavegrass can be found in many hair formulas, and contain silica to promote healthy, manageable hair, and to bring back luster to dull hair.
Yarrow can be used to wash delicate hair. It works to lightly stimulate, cleanse and tighten pores on your head to help prevent hair loss.
Natural Recipe: Scalp and Hair Treatment For Hair Loss
Jojoba oil is known to promote hair growth by removing accumulated oils and toxins from the scalp so that the new hairs can emerge unimpeded. Here’s an all-natural recipe for healthy hair you can try at home!
Ingredients:
One tablespoon jojoba oil
10 drops essential oil of Rosemary
Directions:
Put the jojoba oil in a small bowl and add no more than 10 drops of essential oil of Rosemary. Mix well with your fingers. Rub vigorously into your scalp, concentrating on areas where hair is thinning. Leave on for 10 minutes or overnight. Finish by shampooing and rinsing thoroughly.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies occur when your immune system over-reacts to environmental substances known as allergens. To this day it is still debatable as to why the body reacts in this over-sensitive fashion. Common allergic reactions may present themselves as hives, hay fever, asthma, eczema, food allergies, or reactions to the venom of stinging insects and plants.
Many allergens are airborne particles, such as dust or pollen. When airborne allergens are involved, symptoms arise in areas of your body that are in contact with the air, such as your eyes, nose and lungs. For example, allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, causes irritation in the nose, sneezing, itching and redness of the eyes. Inhaled allergens can also lead to asthmatic symptoms caused by the narrowing of air passages, which causes increased production of mucus in the lungs, shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing.
Types Of Allergies
Dust, pollen and pet dander are the most common allergens, but certain types of foods can also cause serious allergic reactions in many people. A large segment of our population today is allergic to peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, shellfish, fish, wheat and their derivatives, soy and their derivatives, and sulphites (chemical based additives often found in food flavoring and coloring agents).
What Can You Do About Allergies?
There are many options for allergy sufferers. The most effective solution is to avoid allergens altogether. This would be possible in the case of food allergies and some environmental allergies, such as pet dander. Another option is to desensitize yourself using the same principle vaccines are based on; introducing very small doses of the allergen into your body, increasing over time until your body stops reacting adversely. For serious allergies, this should only be done under the supervision of a physician. Another natural way to do this would be to create a homeopathic remedy that incorporates the substances you’re allergic to.
Herbal Solutions To Allergies
~Stinging nettles have been used for hundreds of years as a food as well as a medicine to treat various health issues, including allergies, hayfever, rheumatism, arthritis, eczema, gout and anemia.
~Horseradish is a kitchen spice as well as a strong medicinal herb, known to clear out sinuses immediately. Very often horseradish is combined with other herbs for the respiratory system.
~Eyebright, as the name suggests, has been used throughout the ages to promote healthy eyes and sinuses. Eyebright is known for its vaso-constricting and astringent properties, and can help relieve frequent sneezing bouts, runny nose and watery eyes.
~Witch hazel and chamomile essential oils can be helpful in case of an allergic reaction to poison oak or poison ivy. Wash the affected area as soon as possible with soap and water, then apply compresses of witch hazel blended with two to three drops of chamomile essential oil.
~For intensely itchy hives and rashes, a few handfuls of oatmeal in a warm bath works surprisingly well for many people.
~Adding one cupful of baking soda to lukewarm bath water may relieve itchy skin, or alleviate skin problems caused by an allergic reaction. Bathe for about 20 minutes, lightly dry skin, and then apply pure aloe vera.
Allergies are never fun, but when you find the natural approach that works for you, relief can indeed be yours!
Someone once said: “If you want beautiful skin, treat it as you would a cashmere sweater.” Healthy, radiant skin is a reflection of inner good health, and also lets you ’face” the world with greater confidence.
Your skin performs many roles, protecting you from wind, sun, cold, heat, and water while also providing the first line of defense against bacteria. Your skin is continuously at work renewing itself, sloughing off old cells and building new ones.
In order to achieve a radiant complexion, take some time every day – morning and night - to cleanse and nourish your skin with gentle and natural skincare products. If you would like to try your hand at making your own products, here are some great ideas to get you started:
Elder flowers have been used throughout the ages to cleanse the skin, clear the complexion of freckles, and to ease irritated skin. Pour one cup of boiling water over one tablespoon of elder flowers. Let it steep for about 20 minutes, then strain. Wash your face daily with this tea or simply splash on your face for a quick skin ‘pick-me-up’.
Jojoba oil nourishes and protects your skin from the elements and can be used by all skin types. This exceptional oil is very well-known in the cosmetic industry; you can find it in high-end skin care products. It penetrates more easily than other oils without leaving your skin oily. Jojoba oil possesses antibacterial properties, useful for the treatment of acne. Add 5 drops of mandarin essential oil, or your favorite essential oil, to one tablespoon of pure jojoba oil. Mandarin essential oil promotes the rejuvenation of dull and congested skin, and inhaling the scent encourages uplifted feelings, inspiration and tranquility.
To compliment your skin care routine, drink several cups of herbal tea every day to nourish and hydrate your skin and body. Drinking herbal teas can provide more value than just drinking water, because they deliver minerals (electrolytes) to your body so that you can absorb water more effectively. A freshly made tea can be sipped warm or cold, and can also be applied to the skin.
Some of the best known herbs for promoting healthy and radiant skin are:
- Aloe Vera – deeply hydrating and cooling when applied to the skin
- Burdock root – clears the skin of impurities
- Calendula – promotes tissue repair
- Chamomile – calming to irritated skin
- Lavender – balancing to oily skin
- Linden – softens the skin
- Red Clover – clears skin of impurities
- Rose – for aging and dehydrated skin
- Rosemary – invigorating, and increases circulation to the skin
- Witch Hazel – tightens skin, for large pores
- Yarrow – clears the skin
Take some time to incorporate some of these natural solutions for beautiful skin into your daily routine - you’ll be glad you did!
Aromatherapy involves healing the body and mind using essential oils, the aromatic ‘essences’ of plants. Inhaling or applying these highly-concentrated aromatic plant essences can cheer you up, calm you down, and make you feel better about yourself.
Essential oils, the foundation of aromatherapy, are the fragrances of plants in their purest, most concentrated form. They are extracted either through steam distillation, with solvents or cold pressed. Fundamentally, these highly fragrant oils are the plant’s ‘soul’, extracted from flowers, leaves, spices, fruits, woods and roots; each with its own benefits to the body and mind.
How Aromoatherapy Works
The way these essences are processed in your body is quite complex. At the bridge of your nose is the olfaction bulb, which is an extension of your brain. About the size of a penny, it contains 20 million hairs that protrude through a thin layer of mucus membranes. These hairs are actually nerve cells that translate odors into nerve messages. The messages travel to a part of your brain responsible for emotions, moods, feelings, and memories. Odors can also stimulate the release of neuro-chemicals and hormones.
The Science Behind Aromatherapy
University research in Milan, Italy, has found that vanilla can treat anxiety and depression. In Russia, eucalyptus oil has cured a certain flu strain, and American and Japanese researchers are studying the effects of inhaling fragrances to relax claustrophobics, improve productivity in the work place, and even to reduce subway violence.
Aromatherapy in Everyday Life
Essential oils’ health enhancing, beautifying and mood elevating properties can easily be incorporated into your lifestyle:
- To combat daily stress place a few drops of mandarin, ylang ylang and petitgrain essential oil on a cotton ball. Keep this cotton ball close to you, on your desk, in your car or in your purse. For stress with mental fatigue, use the fragrance of basil.
- Can’t sleep? Try some valerian, lemon and mandarin essential oil. Place a few drops in a room diffuser or use in a bath before bed. Another way to help you go to “la-la land” is to put a few drops of lavender essential oil on your hairbrush, then comb your hair. This treatment calms your thoughts and relaxes your body. You can also place the oils on a cotton ball and put under your pillow.
- When temporary depression is getting a hold of you, try using essential oils of neroli and petitgrain. Neroli essential oil, known as the bringer of joy, has long been used for depression, shock, anxiety, nervous tension, fear and panic. Petitgrain essential oil comes from the leaves and twigs of various citrus plants. Inhaling or massaging this blend gives strength during emotional times.
- Do you feel a cold coming on? Drop a little eucalyptus essential oil into some boiling water and take a few deep breaths. Eucalyptus possesses disinfectant properties. Inhaling it opens sinuses and breathing passages. Place one to two drops on your pillow before bedtime to help you breathe freely all night.
- For a total relaxing and rejuvenating treatment make an appointment with your massage therapist. Ask her/him to include essential oils to invigorate your body, refresh your mind and uplift your emotion.
- You can also clean your house with essential oils. The antiseptic properties will fight germs, and even insects.
- Place a few drops of lavender essential oil on a cotton ball and toss into your last laundry rinse cycle or into the dryer.
- Scent your drawers and closets, your shoes, etc.
As you can see, essential oils can easily be used on a daily basis to keep you healthy and balanced. Scientists now confirm that they do affect how we think and feel. But, above all, they stimulate and uplift our spirits.
Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, once said: “The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day.” Luxuriating in a bath filled with healing herbs and soothing scents is truly one of life’s most delicious pleasures. But a long soak in the bathtub can do much more than cleanse the body; it can have a healing effect on the mind and heart.
Aromatic baths are beneficial in a variety of ways. They can rejuvenate cells, increase intake of oxygen and stimulate the drainage of waste products from your body’s tissues. Added aromatic herbs and/or essential oils exercise a direct influence on your limbic brain, the part of the brain responsible for emotions, moods, feelings, and memories. Their aromas also stimulate the release of neuro-chemicals and hormones.
There are over 400 essential oils to choose from. The right essential oil for you will be the one that pleases your nose. For an aromatherapy bath, just add 5 to 10 drops of your chosen essential oil to the bathwater.
Breathe Clear Healing Bath
The simple addition of eucalyptus, pine or spruce essential oil to your bath may be very effective in helping to combat colds, flu, bronchial irritations, hay fever, and asthma. Do not add the oil until you are in the water, then begin by slowly adding 3 to 6 drops at a time. Swish the water around to disburse the scent. Breathing in the aromas can break up congestion, and open the sinuses and breathing passages.
Relaxing Herbal Soak
Take a bath in a lavender and marjoram scented bath to help relieve stress and insomnia. Lavender was once used to calm wild animals. It also calms the aggressive instincts in humans, relaxing the mind and body to induce sleep. Marjoram was used by the ancient Greeks to boost heart health. Add 10 drops lavender and 5 drops marjoram to your bathwater and soak in it for about 20 minutes.
Soothe Away Aches and Pains
Here is a formula used by many herbalists to soak away general aches and pains:
8 oz Epsom salt
4 oz dried comfrey leaf
4 oz chaparral leaf
5 drops eucalyptus
Steep the comfrey leaf and chaparral leaf in hot water for 30 minutes. Strain and add the liquid to your hot bathwater along with the Epsom salt and 5 drops eucalyptus. Soak for about thirty minutes, and feel your joints un-kink and unwind. Do not dry off when you get out; put on a robe and get straight into bed.
Delicious Skin Scrub and Soak
To improve your skin, enjoy this bath twice a month:
Mix ½ cup of fine organic cane sugar with enough sunflower oil to dampen the mixture. Vigorously massage this exfoliating scrub all over your body and face. Now slip into your warm bath and soak for about 20 minutes. Shower off with a light soaping.
Healing Seawater Soak
In many European countries, doctors send patients who are recovering from an illness or accident to the seashore for healing and recovery (paid by their insurance I might add!) Why? Sea water is healing. It is rich in minerals and other ingredients that strengthen the body, allowing for speedy recovery. If you can’t go to the sea, try this substitute:
Add one cup each of Epsom salt and unrefined sea salt to your not-too-hot bath water. Soak for about 30 minutes, and then follow with a cool shower.
*It is beneficial to skin brush before a bath, as it increases circulation and detoxification. Drink plenty of water, tea or fresh juices while soaking in the tub, then rest and stay warm for about one hour after your bath. Moisturizing the skin after a bath is very important. Use a natural lotion containing aloe vera - it will leave your skin glowing!
