12 benefits of Rosemary

 

Abundant in the wild all around the Mediterranean, rosemary likes limestone soils and adapts very well to arid and rocky regions. Exploited for their medicinal properties, the fresh or dried leafy branches of this condiment plant are also commonly used to flavor grilled dishes, stews, stews, soups and other sauces.

 

Forms and preparations: essential oils, capsules, ointments, tinctures, herbal teas, decoctions, inhalations, poultices, baths, etc.

 

12 benefits of Rosemary

What are the benefits of rosemary? 

Promotes digestion, regulates lipids, improves blood circulation: cholagogue (helps with the evacuation of bile), antispasmodic.

Diuretic: it reduces the risk of kidney stones or gout and prevents rheumatism.

Anti-stress, anti-fatigue: it prevents insomnia and helps combat intellectual overwork.

Antioxidant action: against cellular aging.

Against skin conditions: infections, wounds, cleaning of the skin and genital areas.

Accelerates hair growth.

Helps fight against certain pathogens: antimycotic and antibacterial.

Relieves rheumatism.

The choline it contains acts as a lipid regulator in the liver and promotes digestion.

Its diuretic properties facilitate kidney activity and help prevent rheumatism.

Its antioxidant properties stimulate brain activity and improve memory.

Rosemary is also suitable as a de-fatigue, to stimulate people who suffer from asthenia, while acting preventively against insomnia. It has antiseptic qualities which make it a good agent for cleaning the skin and sensitive areas or acting directly on infected wounds. It can also be used for its cough suppressant power.

 

Precautions for use :

At the indicated doses, it is safe. However, we can warn against the use of high doses of cineole essential oil, which could have a neurotoxic effect.

 

Contraindications :

Taken orally, it is contraindicated for children under 12 years old and people suffering from gallstones or liver disease. Except in cooking, it is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

13 Benefits Of Moringa Oleifera The Tree Of Life

 

Moringa, also called tree of life, is a medicinal plant that has a large amount of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, carotenoids, quercetin, vitamin C, among others, rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

13 Benefits Of Moringa Oleifera The Tree Of Life

As a result, this plant has been used to treat certain respiratory diseases, reduce anxiety, lose weight, and again to control the concentration of glucose in the blood in diabetics. However, there are few studies that prove all the benefits, it lacks the description of the minimum doses, as well as the details of their safety for human use.

The scientific name for moringa is Moringa Oleifera, and normally the most used part is the leaf.

Possible benefits of moringa :

 

According to some scientific studies moringa can be effective for:

1. Increase breathing capacity :

 

Some studies indicate that this plant may be able to relieve symptoms of chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma, because it helps to increase hemoglobin concentrations, and in this way also increase the oxygen circulating in the body. blood.

2. Prevent Diabetes :

 

Moringa has antioxidant properties that can help regulate oxidative stress in the body, which lowers blood sugar levels, as well as protects cells in the body.

3. Protect the heart

 

As moringa is rich in fiber, it can help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine and also reduce the formation of fatty plaques in the arteries, and therefore lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

In addition, due to its antioxidant effect, moringa can also prevent or reduce inflammation in the body, which contributes to heart health.

4. Control blood pressure

 

Due to the presence of tocopherols, polyphenols and flavonoids in its composition, moringa could help control blood pressure, since these substances have a vasodilating effect, which helps blood vessels to relax and thus improve blood circulation.

5. Facilitate weight loss

 

Moringa is a plant rich in fiber and protein, which can increase the feeling of satiety. and therefore, reduce the amount of food and calories consumed, thus facilitating weight loss.

Moreover, some studies carried out in animax have shown that moringa can help reduce the amount of fat accumulated in the body.

6. Prevent and fight anemia

 

Moringa leaves have a high amount of iron (105mg for every 100g), which can promote the formation of red blood cells and thereby increase the amount of hemoglobin in the blood. This fact can help in the treatment of anemia, especially in anemia caused by lack of iron.

7. Increase immune defenses

 

In its composition, moringa has vitamin C, polyphenols and beta-carotene, substances with potential to strengthen the immune system, increasing the body's natural defenses.

8. Have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect :

 

Thanks to the presence of isothiocyanates, quercetin and chlorogenic acid, substances that help reduce inflammatory processes, moringa could be used to relieve symptoms of inflammatory problems, such as rheumatism or even inflammation of the prostate. .

9. Protect and moisturize the skin :

 

Due to the large number of vitamins B, C E and A, this plant can promote the formation of collagen, and in addition facilitate the healing of the skin and its hydration.

10. Improve the gastrointestinal system :

 

The consumption of moringa can prevent and facilitate the treatment of stomach ulcers, as well as fight constipation, because of the large amounts of fiber.

In addition, the vasodilator effect of moringa can help in the treatment of hemorrhoids, as it stimulates blood circulation.

11. Prevent the onset of cancer :

 

Some studies seem to indicate that moringa has anti-cancer properties, as it seems to stimulate the destruction of cancer cells, especially in breast and bowel cancer.

12. Improve eye health :

 

Moringa is rich in beta-carotene, a precursor component of vitamin A, which is responsible for the synthesis of visual pigments that contribute to good eye health.

13. Decrease symptoms of menopause :

 

Since moringa helps control levels of inflammation and oxidative stress during this period, this herb may help maintain hormone levels during menopause, reducing the intensity of symptoms.

Properties of moringa :

 

Possible properties of moringa include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antidiabetic, vasodilator, anticholinergic, antirheumatic, antihypertensive, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective and healing action.

However, it is important to remember that there are still ongoing studies on the properties of this plant, and also that some results seem inconclusive.

 

How to consume moringa :

 

Moringa tea is not studied enough to demonstrate its effectiveness and safety. However, experts indicate that for people already used to drinking moringa tea, the recommended amount is a maximum of 2 cups of tea, or 500ml.

 

In addition to tea, moringa can also be found in capsules, seeds or powder. For a more suitable treatment, it is advisable to consult a naturopath.

Adverse effects and contraindications :

 

There may be side effects from consuming moringa, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It is recommended to avoid the consumption of the roots and its extracts, without the advice of a professional, since they contain toxic substances that when used in excessive quantities can cause paralysis, including even death.

The intake of moringa is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women because this medicinal plant can interfere in pregnancy and also in the production of breast milk. People with thyroid problems should avoid the consumption of this plant, as it seems to affect the production of thyroid hormones.

 

Nutritional composition :

 

The following table shows the nutritional composition for each 100g of fresh and dried moringa leaves :

the nutritional composition for each 100g of fresh and dried moringa leaves :

Top 6 kitchen wastes to use as fertilizer for your garden

 

Some waste degrades better than others. Here is the guide to properly composting your waste and having quality compost.

 

1 - Egg shells :

Eggshells are not made up of organic matter, as such. They are composed mainly of calcium carbonate. They can be put in the compost without any problem but it is advisable to crush them before depositing them there.

The shell of a chicken egg is made up of approximately 97% calcium carbonate crystals (CaCO3), proteins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium or iron.

Thanks to its richness in calcium, the eggshell is an excellent natural fertilizer. You can incorporate the crumbled eggshell directly into the bottom of your planting holes in the spring.

Did you know ? Egg cooking water can act as fertilizer! Indeed, eggshells are rich in calcium and other nutrients appreciated by our plants. Simply pour the egg cooking water (cold) at the foot of the plants.

2 –  Tea:

Brewed tea is a very high quality moist material for making compost. Indeed, even infused, the tea leaves retain minerals and amino acids that help enrich the compost: nitrogen, manganese, phosphoric acid... so many nutrients that will feed the buds and plants to come.

 

3 - Coffee grounds:

Major activating ingredient in compost, effective repellent against pests, fertilizer and natural fortifier for soil and plants, no longer consider coffee grounds as waste destined for the trash but rather as an asset.

It is then composed mainly of nitrogen but also of phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and copper. These elements are beneficial to both soils and plants.

With the coffee grounds, you will therefore have a free and available fertilizer that will enrich your soil with the minerals and trace elements it needs. It will fertilize the soil by its slow degradation by gradually spreading its benefits.

Coffee is an excellent repellent, as is ash or sand. In your garden, place coffee grounds at the foot of plants infested with aphids or attacked by slugs. You can also mix water and coffee grounds and spray your plants with the mixture.

Be careful, all the same not to put too much, because in high doses, it can become a growth inhibitor: "too much coffee grounds, kills the coffee grounds"!

4 - Banana peels :

Beyond its ability to turn into a natural fertilizer for plants and ward off garden pests, banana peel can also serve as a strengthening elixir for seedlings. Indeed, it has the power to strengthen the seeds, which can then grow by feeding on all the nutrients present in the peels of the banana. All you have to do is dig a hole large enough to hold a banana peel, which you will then have to place so that the outer yellow side is facing the ground. Then, all you have to do is scatter the seeds over the banana peel before covering everything with a layer of soil.

5 - Wrapping papers:

Paper and cardboard used to wrap foodstuffs (such as egg cartons, for example) can be composted, but they are slow to decompose. They must therefore be cut into small pieces, moistened well and placed in thin layers in the compost. Newspapers should be avoided as many inks are toxic. Likewise, cellophane-lined wrapping paper should be put in the trash.

6 - Vegetable peelings:

Vegetable peelings are nutrient-rich organic materials highly valued by plants. In addition to brown waste, peelings are green waste that helps to balance a compost well. All vegetable peelings can be composted except for potato or pear peelings, which can carry diseases.

10 Reasons To Drink Apple Cider Vinegar More Often

 Apple cider vinegar can help you solve several small problems. In particular, to stop a hiccup or relieve the symptoms of a cold. Some use it for health issues like diabetes, heart trouble, high cholesterol, and overweight issues.

 

10 Reasons To Drink Apple Cider Vinegar More Often

Apple cider vinegar can soothe digestive disorders:

For a bad stomach, slowly drink sips of apple cider vinegar diluted in water. If a bacterial infection is the source of your diarrhea, apple cider vinegar will help manage your problem with its antibiotic benefits. Apple cider vinegar also contains pectin, which may calm your intestinal spasms. You can also mix the vinegar with a clear juice, such as apple juice.

 

Apple cider vinegar can get rid of your hiccups:

Take a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and its sour taste will stop your hiccups immediately. A teenage girl even invented a hickey containing apple cider vinegar as a remedy for hiccups. Thanks to the increased stimulation of the nerves in the throat, which are responsible for the spasms, the message of the hiccups is canceled and the hiccups are stopped.

 

Soothe the throat:

As soon as you feel an irritation or an itch in your throat, use apple cider vinegar. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, cider helps ward off infection. It turns out that most of the germs in your throat can't survive in the acidic environment that the vinegar will create. Mix ¼ cup apple cider vinegar with ¼ cup warm water and gargle every hour.

 

Apple cider vinegar would lower cholesterol levels:

 

More research would be needed to establish an absolute correlation between apple cider vinegar and its ability to lower bad cholesterol levels in humans. On the other hand, a 2006 study showed that the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar helped lower cholesterol levels in rats. Also, a Japanese study showed that a daily consumption of 15 milliliters of apple cider vinegar could help participants lower their cholesterol levels.

 

Apple cider vinegar can prevent indigestion:

 

It is always good to consume a little apple cider vinegar before a heavy and calorie meal. To try this trick, mix a teaspoon of honey with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink the mixture 30 minutes before eating. In addition to activating digestion, this tangy potion will give you a clear conscience and won't make you regret having taken a second portion of grandma's cake.

 

It can help clear a stuffy nose:

 

The next time you have a stuffy nose from a cold, get your hands on some apple cider vinegar. It contains potassium, which loosens phlegm, as well as acetic acid, which inhibits the growth of germs that could contribute to nasal congestion. Mix a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink the mixture to help drain your sinuses.

 

It can be an ally for weight loss:

 

Apple cider vinegar can help you lose weight. Here's why: Acetic acid suppresses your appetite, increases your metabolism, and decreases water retention. Some researchers believe that apple cider vinegar interferes with the digestive system's digestion of starch, which means fewer calories enter your bloodstream.

 

It helps to control blood sugar levels:

 

Several studies show that a few sips of apple cider vinegar may help keep blood sugar levels in balance. A study where participants with type 2 diabetes did not take insulin showed that consuming 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before going to bed lowered blood sugar levels in the morning. Some researchers believe that the antiglycemic effect of the acid is the key to success.

Turmeric - The Natural Weapon Against Acne

 Acne is a major problem that many people, in particular teenagers, have to face. However, it’s not necessary to spend much money on expensive products, as there are many natural ways to fight acne.

The astounding effect of Turmeric in treating various kinds of skin disorder has been known already for centuries in Eastern and Asian countries.

Benefits of Turmeric in treating acne: 

• It absorbs excessive oil from the skin pores and surface. 
• It destroys bacteria, that cause inflammation.
• It's also effective against acne scars. 
• It owns anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that heal inflammed acne.
• It's all natural and doesn't have any harmful side effects. 

Mask Recipe 

You need:  

• 4 tbsp of turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp of milk
• 4 tbsp of honey

or

• 8 tbsp of turmeric powder
• 5 tsbp of olive oil or sesame oil

Treatment Steps: 

1.) Mix the ingredients until you have a smooth paste. 

2.) Soften your sking by taking a long hot shower. 

(Use mild shower gel and avoid all medicated, glycerin and antibacterial products that might dry out your skin.)

3.) While taking a shower take a washcloth and dip it in very hot water. 

4.) Further apply the washcloth directly onto the acne affected areas for at least 5 min. (this step aids with bringing pus in inflamed acne wounds to the surface)

5.) Pat your skin dry. 

6.) Apply the tumeric paste using ur fingers in a gentle massaging motion and massage for at least 10 minutes. 

7.) Leave the mask to dry and become stiff on your face. (this step reduces the acne size)

8.) Rinse the dried mask. 

Note: 

• In seldom cases people develop a skin rash. 
• Make sure to wear old clothes while doing this treatment, as turmeric will stain your clohtes. 
• Turmeric might leave a yellowish stain on your skin. To remove this stain you can use make-up remover tissues. Don't worry if your skin stills seems abit yellowish, the staining will fade away within the next hours.

Note: I remind you that in case of a real health problem, you should consult a doctor or other specialist. The remedies that are presented to you are brought to your attention and only indicative.

Best 10 Herbs and Spices for Brain Health (Memory Loss, Dementia, Alzheimer, Parkinson, Depression )

 

Does this sound weird to you? The use of herbs to improve memory (Memory Loss,Dementia, Alzheimer) has been practiced in several countries. Native Americans, peoples of the Orient, Egyptians and Greeks all used herbs to improve memory.

When approaching an exam or to prevent age-related intellectual disability problems, it is useful to know the natural means to boost your cognitive functions. We introduces you to 10 plants recognized for their virtues on memory and / or concentration. 

1- Parsley and thyme:

 

Apigenin is a flavonoid found in these spices which is good for strengthening the connections between neurons and mother cells.

 

Some researchers believe that a diet rich in apigenin may influence brain cell formation and communication.

 

This is why parsley and thyme are some of the best herbs and spices to contain this product.

 

Plus, these condiments in your meals may also help prevent depression, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

 

You may never have heard of apigenin, only estrogen.

 

The chemical structure of these two plants is very similar, as estrogen also works together in the development of neurons.

 

Apigenin causes the same types of cellular changes as estrogen.

 

2- Chamomile for your brain:

 

Who doesn't have chamomile tea bags at home? If you like it a lot, then you will have one more reason to want to have this drink when you have a meeting or, simply when you enjoy it while watching the sun go down.

 

Among the best herbs and spices, chamomile is a totally recognized and real stress killer.

 

Not only does it give you a feeling of peace and calm, it also helps you regulate anxiety.

 

Chamomile contains components that can bind to receptors for certain chemicals in the brain, reducing anxiety in the process.

 

Our recommendation is to have a cup of chamomile tea in the evening, before going to sleep. This will relax you and promote your sleep.

 

3- Sage :

When there is memory loss it is very difficult to recover. However, we can optimize their performance.

 

If we name the best herbs and spices, this one could not be missed, which apparently improves memory performance.

 

If you want to improve your learning, your memory and your attention, you now know what to ask your herbalist.

 

However, you need to be careful if you are consuming sage supplements and consult your doctor first. Because it can be dangerous for some people, for example, those who suffer from high blood pressure.

 

4- Mint for your brain:

 

It is one of the best herbs and spices, and therefore can never be missing in your kitchen. If you work a lot, you can't help but consume mint.

 

This rich and delicious herb is a great help in improving the working memory of healthy adults.

 

In addition, it is also a common remedy for nausea.

 

You can take it in tea, just like chamomile, and with a little honey. You will see that in about 20 minutes you will notice better long-term memory, and in labor, better alertness.

 

If you prefer a good milkshake that gives you energy and nutrients, add a few fresh mint leaves to the mix and enjoy its refreshing flavor.

5- Rosemary for your brain:

 

This spice has a rich aroma of essential oil and its smell can simply improve the prospective memory of people over the age of 65.

You will wonder what prospective memory is. It is about the ability to remember specific events and the tasks that will follow in the future, such as the doctor's appointment, our birthday or that of our children.

 

So, if you want to improve the prospective memory of a loved one or even your own, follow this recommendation.

 

This technique has already been used in comparative studies with people over the age of 65 in a room scented with lavender, another with rosemary and a last without perfume.

 

 6- Turmeric:

 

Turmeric contains curcumin which is the element that makes it anti-inflammatory. This is an antioxidant and it improves the activity of antioxidants already present in the body.

 

 

Unfortunately, this antioxidant is not very present in the spice, at around 3%.

 

In addition, it is rather poorly absorbed. In order to optimize its use, it is recommended to combine it with black pepper, which has the effect of improving its absorption rate by 200%.

 

For the brain, curcumin increases the protein BDNF which has the effect of improving brain growth. This therefore dilutes (and even reverses in some cases) brain diseases linked to old age such as Alzheimer's and dementia.

 

Serotonin and dopamine are also increased which reverses the narrowing of the hippocampus. It improves your happiness and can counter depression.

 

Curcumin also helps counter inflammation and oxidative damage. This is then as good for brain diseases (Alzheimer's, etc.) as it is for joint problems such as arthritis.

 

 People need to be reminded that if they are on blood thinners to stay away from turmeric.

 

7- Ginger:

 

Ginger contains volatile oils making it one of the best foods to calm nausea and vomiting. It also serves as a good digestive and can then increase appetite.

 

That said, ginger has different components that help protect the brain, offer anti-inflammatory properties (so it fights osteoarthritis and joint and muscle pain) and can help heart function.

 

In addition, it helps control blood sugar levels. It is then good to combine it with high carbohydrate meals and / or with high glycemic index foods.

 

8- Garlic:

 

It promotes blood flow to the brain and kills cancer cells therein.

 

With more blood available, it improves memory and the ability to learn. In addition, the increase in the arteries in the brain helps prevent the development of free radicals and inflammation.

 

In the long term, garlic prevents brain degeneration, thus providing better longevity and the prevention of brain diseases such as Alzheimer's.

 

9- Ginseng to improve concentration:

 

Ginseng is a stimulating plant that would have beneficial effects on the cognitive functions and the intellectual concentration of those who consume it.

 

A study of 3 adolescents between 14 and 17 years old with ADHD1 (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) showed that consuming ginseng reduced their hyperactivity, concentration problems and immaturity. Similar results were shown in a study of 18 young people aged 6 to 14 who also had ADHD2, and who were given 1 g of ginseng daily. However, there is little evidence to explain these positive effects.

 

While ginseng has benefits on concentration, studies of its effects on memory are fewer and more controversial. A study dating from 1987 carried out several tests on rats and showed that a daily dose of 10 to 30 mg / kg of ginseng considerably increases the capacities of learning and memorization. However, another 2010 study4 of 30 people with an average age of 22.9 years did not show any particular benefit on memory.

 

How to consume ginseng?

Ginseng can be consumed as a mother tincture, as a capsule or as a decoction (boil 1 g to 2 g of the roots in 150 mL of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes). Dosages can be up to 3 g, 3 times a day.

 

10-Ginkgo biloba to reduce the manifestations of hyperactivity:

 

Ginkgo is commonly found in extract form, the most recommended being EGb761 and Li 1370 extracts. The World Health Organization recognizes the use of standardized extract of Ginkgo leaves to treat memory loss and pain. concentration disorders, among others.

 

Some studies have been done on people with ADHD1,2 (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), and have shown encouraging results. In particular, patients showed fewer signs of hyperactivity, inattention and immaturity. One of this research studied the combination of ginseng and ginkgo to treat ADHD in 36 people with ADHD, and patients also showed signs of improvement in hyperactivity, social problems, cognitive problems. , anxiety… etc.

 

Another study looked at 120 people with cognitive impairments, aged between 60 and 853. Half of the group received 19.2 mg of ginkgo as a tablet, 3 times a day. After 6 months of treatment, this same group scored significantly higher than the control group on two memory tests.

 

Finally, the benefits of ginkgo on memory have also been studied in 188 healthy people between the ages of 45 and 564, given 240 mg of EGB 761 extract once daily for 6 weeks. The results showed that treatment with ginkgo was superior to placebo, but only in the case of exercise requiring a rather long and complex memorization process.

 

It is usually recommended to consume 120 mg to 240 mg of extracts (EGb 761 or Li 1370) per day, in 2 or 3 doses with meals. It is recommended to start with 60 mg per day and gradually increase the dose to avoid possible side effects. The effects of ginkgo may take a long time to appear, which is why it is recommended that you take at least 2 months of treatment.

Before rushing into the benefits of any of these herbs, please educate yourself first and make sure that there will not be any negative interactions with any medications you are currently taking. The idea is to improve your memory, not to damage your health further in any other way.