The Properties and Benefits of Peppermint

Peppermint is one of the most popular tastes and smells amongst the herbs. Its strong flavor and refreshing odour help to contribute to it having multiple purposes. Peppermint is commonly used in toothpastes, mint sweets, mouth washes, primarily because it is refreshing to the mouth and most people find the smell at least pleasant, if not addictive.

Even before the advent of these modern products, though, peppermint was widely used for centuries. Its strong fragrance combined well with the flavour to make a tea that was found to be soothing for some stomach problems and even some other minot ailments.

Some of Peppermints Traditional Uses

The leaves of the peppermint plant have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Peppermint teas, for example, made from fresh peppermint leaves, have been a popular beverage for many years, and peppermint continues to be used, in the same way, by many people today.

Peppermint leaves have been shown to aid indigestion, soothe the digestive tract, and even help to reduce irritable bowel syndrome, an increasing modern problem.

Peppermint's Other Uses

Peppermint has a very strong aroma, and the fumes given off when mixed with hot water, if inhaled, may help to make breathing easier for those who have a cold accompanied by blocked nasal passages. It is also used in some modern inhalation products and rubs, for the same reason.

What is less well known is that peppermint has been found to inhibit the growth of some fungi and bacteria, as well as providing some relief to some allergies and asthma.

Shopping For Peppermint

If you decide to by peppermint products, it is best to stick to manufacturers of high repute, as any medicinal values will may be lost in a poor manufacturing process

Grow Your Own Peppermint

If you are in a climate where peppermint grows, then it is by far the best option to grow your own. The peppermint plant is very easy to grow; in fact, you may find it ahrder to stop than to grow. It is a quick growing plant that can become rampant, so choose a spot in the garden where you do not mind it taking over, or grow it as a container plant. A compromise is to sink a pot in the garden to inhibit its growth.

Fresh mint has a number of culinary reduces, and goes nicely with roast lamb, a traditional English favourite. For medicinal uses, it is best brewed as a tea, or used as a rub or inhalant for chest coughs and nasal congestion of a mild nature. Those who are troubled by nausea and other stomach ailments have a choice of drinking such a peppermint tea, or using one of the many enteric coated capsules made with fresh peppermint leaves. Both approaches work well, but it is important to known which approach is best for your particular condition. When drinking peppermint tea for chronic stomach conditions, many doctors recommend drinking three or four cups of peppermint tea a day.

The Health Benefits of Parsley

Parsley is quite a strong tasting herb, often used as an accompaniment to fish. It is also quite decorative in sprigs, and fresh parsley is used quite a lot in decorating some dishes, especially in restaurants. Parsley, though, is far more than a food decoration and fish companion. It is also believed to have some very valuable health benefits.  

To some, parsley has a delicious taste, so if you have not tried eating it, it is worth a try; you may be one of those who love it. Parley is a nutrituous, dark green leafy herb and readily available in stores. With the right climate, such as the UK, parsley can be grown from seed in spring and summer. There is an old story that to get the best germination rate and best parsley, you should so parsley at night, and under a full moon. Furthermore, you should do so in the nude. Now, I must say I did not try that when I lived in England, but I was able to grow parsley, even sowing with my clothes on in daylight.

Parsley - Not Just for Garnishing

Believe it or not, parsley is about the most popular herb in the world. Surprisingly, it is genetically related to the celery plant.  It is a perennial, so all being well, once germinated your herb garden parsley should keep you in fresh supply from spring until autumn at least.

A sprig of parsley really is not just for cuisine decor.  Its health benefits are thought to come from two unusual compounds.  Firstly, there are the volatile oil compounds, such as limonene, eugenol, alpha diujene and myisticin.  The other set of compounds are the flavonoids, which including vital elements such as crisoeriol, apjin, apigenin, and luteolin.

The Volatile Oils Found In Parsley

One of the main areas of research with parsley concerns the volatile oils which it contains. One in particular, myisticin, is believed by some to help inhibit the growth of tumours in animals, and may do so in humans also.  Myisticin has shown particular promise at inhibiting the growth of lung tumours.

 

The volatile oils found in parsley are also thought to give some protection against pollutants in the environment, such as that coming from cars and passive smoking. It is something of a shame that much of parsley's reputation is as a garnish rather than ingredient in a dish. It can have many uses in cooking, because of its flavour and rich dark green colour. It can even be liquidized successfully as part of a healthy vegetable and fruit drink.

The Different Varieties of Parsley

There are two basic varieties of parsley. The first is curly parsley, which is what I grew in England, and the other is Italian flat leaf parsley.  The Italian parsley has a more intense aroma but less bitter taste than curly parsley. There is, however, a third and not well know variety which is grown for its roots rather than its leaves. This is called a turnip rooted parsley.

Whichever type of parsley you buy, it is important to choose the freshest parsley you can find.  Many supermarkets and grocery stores have at least one variety of parsley available year round, therefore it should not be difficult to find, no matter what part of the country you call home.

Growing your own parsley is probably the best option, which is why it is so popular for home herb gardens. It is also quite easy to grow, clothes and full moon or not. If you do try to use the nude sowing in the full moon idea, then please make sure your neighbors are soundly asleep!

The Health Benefits of Garlic

It is good to see evidence of garlic's health benefits mounting, given that is such a wonderful ingredient for those who enjoy tasty rather than bland food. This means that garlic is a multipurpose vegetable that I for one will never be without. 

The beliefs about the powers of garlic go back many centuries. Much of the evidence to support such claims were anecdotal, but many recent studies have backed up that evidence.  It has been found that the same compounds responsible for causing the strong aroma of garlic, plus its strong flavou, have been shown to help protect against some forms of cancer. They apparently do this by neutralizing the power of cancer causing chemicals, and thus slowing the growth of tumours.

The interest in garlic of health professionals and scientists has grown steadily over recent decades. Whe I took an interest in alternative therapies 20 years ago, garlic was already amongst the most widely talked of alternative medicines. 

Garlic has been used in the past to treat everything from the common cold to the plague.  While garlic is not exactly a universal cure, it is believed to have significant healing powers.  It has been thought, and still is, that the stronger the odour and flavour of the garlic clove, the greater its medicinal value.  That is because it is the same sulphur compounds, such as allicin, that give garlic its strong flavour and odour that are also thought to be responsible for its healing power.

Organically grown garlic is thought be some to have a stronger sulphur content, and for this reason some people trust in the power of organic garlic. Others, though, use garlic supplements to obtain the healing power of garlic, without the unpleasant side effect of garlic on the breath.

Garlic In The Modern World

While garlic has, for many centuries, if not millennia, been part of traditional medicine and healthy eating, modern scientific studies are a recent supporter of the anecdotal evidence.  Those studies have shown some promise, pointing to the powerful antibiotic properties of garlic. One study also showed garlic's usefulness as a mosquito repellant, which caused me some personal amusement. When I came to the Philippines from England, I was aware that mosquitoes did not trouble me here. I often joked that it was because I ate a lot of garlic, which did seem to be one possible explanation. Maybe my joke was the genuine reason after all for mosquitoes not coming too close. 

While raw garlic can be quite a powerful and very useful food, it can also be very strong.  Eating too much garlic has been known to produce unhealthy side effects, such as irritation or damage to the sensitive digestive tract.  In addition, as with many foods, there are people who are allergic to garlic.  While garlic allergies are rare, they can produce such symptoms as high temperature, headache and skin rashes.  Additionally, it should be noted that garlic acts as an anticoagulant (blood thinner), so it is important to avoid garlic supplements and foods rich in garlic prior to surgery.  It is also important to keep your doctor appraised of all medication, including garlic supplements, that you are taking.

Tips For Buying Garlic

When buying garlic, it is usually best to buy the freshest, most pungent smelling cloves you can find.  It is this strong smell that indicates a high concentration of sulphur compounds, and it is these sulphur compounds which are thought to be responsible for the healthy effects of garlic.

Garlic can be used in a variety of ways, from raw garlic added to salads to garlic cloves used in a wide variety of recipes.  there are an endless supply of recipes which include garlic, many from the Mediterranean region. Garlic goes well with just about any other vegetable, plus meats and fish. garlic, therefore, can be used to make a weight loss and healthy diet that much more tasteful. 

For those who want to supplement the fresh garlic in their cooking, there are a many manufactured garlic products and spices, including garlic salt and garlic powder.  These products can be excellent companions to fresh garlic, but it is important to buy only the top quality brands to ensure quality and a high sulphur content.

Acai Berry - A Rain Forest Secret

Scientists believe that the tropical rain forests of the world harbour many secrets, good and bad. Some say that there are probably many viruses in remaining rain forests that could be unleashed by human destruction of these valuable resources. That is the potential bad side. But there is definitely a good side to the rain forest secrets. One of those is the Acai berry.

I now live in Palawan, in the south west Philippines, where much of what is left of the Philippine rain forest is found. I am sure there are a few secrets here yet to be "discovered". Two years ago I had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman who a friend told me was a herbalist, who relied on the rainforests for his medicine. People who had diseases the doctors had given up on would go to him, and, I am told, his treatments would bring relief. The remarkable thing about this gentleman is that when I met him, he seemed like a very fit, lithe and healthy 65 year old who looked 58. It turned out he was 100 years old. So I wonder what rain forest secrets that man knows? 

The Acai berry is a secret of the Amazon, not Palawan. At least, that has been the case up until recently, but more is becoming known now about the acai berry. Today there are more and more people discovering the health enhancing properties of this food from the Amazon which is rich in nutrients.

The dark purple acai berry is very rich in several important nutrients, including those antioxidant vitamins we need so much in modern living.  The acai berry grows naturally on the top of the palm trees found in the rain forests of Brazil and the Amazon.  The fruit of the acai is harvested by local Amazonian farmers, and itr is then used to make a fruit "bulb". This is then rapidly frozen to preserve the nutritional value of the acai.

The Hidden Powers of Acai Berries

Acai berries have many highly nutricious and beneficial ingredients. One is anthocyanins, of which the acai has very high concentrations.  Anthocyanins are what is thought to give red wine its many health benefits.  In addition, the acai berry contains good concentrations of protein and fibre. Another major benefit is the healthy omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, which are considered important to a healthy heart.

With so much going for it, it is easy to see why the humble acai berry, with the pulp of this fruit, has been increasing in popularity so steadily.  People concerned about their good health have long been searching for a ready source of antioxidants, protein, fiber and fatty acids, and the little acai berry contains all these important elements and more. How's that for a little secret of the Amazon rain forest? 

There are many places where you can purchase acai berries and the juice that is often made from them.  These sources include local health food stores, and whole food retailers.  As the acai berry continues to grow in popularity, it is likely that even supermarkets will eventually sell the acai fruit products.  For the time being, however, the acai berry and juiceit is mostly confined to specialist, health and organic stores.

Also, there are also some internet retailers which sell products made from the acai berry.  Such products include the fresh frozen juice made from the rich pulp of the acai berry. This is one of the most nutritious products you can find made from the antioxidant rich acai.

Choose Your Acai Products Carefully

If you are shopping for acai berry products, it is essential to buy only from the most reliable suppliers. If the acai berry is not harvested and packaged properly, it will lose its nutritional value.  It is critical that the acai berry be wild harvested, and even more important that it be quickly frozen to retain its nutrient values.  Acai products that have been left on the shelf too long, or those whcih were not packaged properly will lose some or much of their health benefits.

There are, however, a number of quality manufacturers who sell a wide variety of acai berry products. Their acai berries have been harvested and packaged using the traditional methods of the farmers of Brazil and the Amazon.  Those traditional farmers have been harvesting the acai berries for many years, and they know how to harvest, freeze and package them to retain their nutritional value, plus of course their good taste.

Health Benefits and Properties of the Goji Berry

The goji berry, commonly known as a wolfberry in some English speaking parts of the world, has been attracting a lot of attention in the press and amongst the more health conscious people of Western society. With a few celebrities publicly saying they consume goji berries regularly, it was certain to attract more attention than some of the other recent health food "discoveries".

To describe such foods as "discoveries" is to deride the natural wisdom of those in Asia who have used the goji berry for thousands of years. It has been used in Chinese medicine for maybe two thousand years, and of course eaten by those fortunate enough to live in the areas where it grows, most famously Tibet but also over a much wider area.

The word "goji" has probably come from the Chinese word for this type of berry, a simplified version that sounds exotic, and is probably better from a marketing point of view than wolfberry. The goji berry itself, though, has not only recently been discovered in the West, but was imported into England, and in the 18th century at the latest. So why now all the publicity and fuss?

Like many fruits, the goji berry has a lot of healthy properties, including:

1. High concentrations of Vitamin C
2. 18 amino acids
3. Polysaccharides, which are said to help the immune system
4. Beta-carotene, which is thought to help prevent heart disease

 Those nutricious properties of these small berries have always been there, of course, but over the last 20 years or so scientists have been increasingly likely to study beneficial properties of any fruit, or vegetable, that has a reputation for being of benefit to people's health. Especiall if they are a bright color. As a red berry, in the wake of the red grape/wine publicity for its anioxidant properties, the goji berry has naturally attracted serious attention from those interested in natural health matters. With its oriental origins, it also has great marketing potential, despite the fact that is now grows quite freely in many parts of the world.

With major governments now encouraging a diet with more fruits and vegetables, it is likely that goji berries will be encouraged as one of the many fruits suitable for a healthy diet. Whether or not it will live up to its modern reputation in further scientific studies will be of great interest. One thing is very likely, though. It is probably better to snack on goji berries and other fruits, fresh or dried, thank a packet or two of junk foods.

The Health Benefits of Echinacea and Its Properties

Echinacea has been widely used in herbal medicine for many years now. It has been a favorite of Indians from the North American Plains for centuries, but has, since the 1930's, become popular in the rest of North America and European. In fact, Echinacea is one of the most common herbs to be found, in various forms, in health food and herbal medicine stores, both local and online.

There are quite a few species of Echinacea, and some people know it better as the coneflower. Three varieties are used in herbal medicine: Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea engustifolia, and Echinacea pallida. For many years, Echinacea has been one of the world’s most popular herbal remedies, and it is being studied for the ability to fight colds, flu and other common infections. However, studies on its ability to fight colds has been mixed, with perhaps the balance in favor of a nil effect on the cold virus. It is worth looking out for the results of more comprehensive studies if you have a particular interest in Echinacea

Most parts of the Echinacea are used in herbal remedies: the flowers, roots, stems and leaves. There are hundreds of different herbal medicines commercially available that utilize Echinacea. Depending on the preparation and the product used, plus the variety of the plant used as a basis, this common herb is thought by some to be able to stimulate the immune system, and fight bacteria, viruses and other common harmful microbes.

The Effect of Echinacea on the Immune system

Echinacea appears to be both safe and powerful, and it is thought to stimulate various immune system cells that are key to the fight against infection. In addition, the herb is also thought to boost the ability of the cells to produce interferon, a substance vital to the fighting of viruses. However, one study (Miller) in 1998 suggested long term use may affect the liver.

In particular, Echinacea is thought to help to reduce our susceptibility to colds and flu. This herb is most effective when it is taken at the first sign of a cold or flu. For those who are already afflicted by colds or the flu, Echinacea is thought to have the power to shorten their duration and severity. While this has not been supported by all studies into this claimed benefit of the herb, some studies have suggested it may be of help. 

Echinacea is also being studied for its possible role in fighting such recurrent respiratory ailments as bronchitis, strep throat and sinusitis. It is thought that the immune boosting properties of Echinacea are responsible for this effectiveness in fighting chronic infections. Again, Echinacea is though to work best when taken at the first sign of illness.

Echinacea and Its Use in Healing

It is believed by some that Echinacea may also aid in speeding the healing of skin wounds, and also in reducing inflammation. Conditions that have been treated by Echinacea herbal remedies are said to include burns, sores, cuts and scrapes, as well as boils, abscesses, canker sores and eczema. Echinacea preparations can be applied directly to the wound or taken orally to promote a healthy immune system response. Echinacea has also been showing some promise at treating chronic fatigue syndrome, one of medicine’s most puzzling conditions. While results have varied so far, some sufferers of CFS have claimed relief by using Echinacea.

Echinacea comes in many forms, and a variety of preparations, including liquids, tablets, soft gels, capsules, and tinctures. Echinacea can also be bought as a dried herb and brewed into a tea. ou can also buy creams that can be rubbed onto sunburns and other skin irritations to provide relief.

When buying Echinacea, either at your health food store or online, it is important to read the product's label carefully. Some preparations will contain mixed ingredients from several different species, and from many parts of the plant. It is important to choose an Echinacea preparation which contains the species and the plant part best suited to treat your ailment.

Pomegranates - The Health Benefits and Properties

Pomegranate must be one of the strangest names for a fruit in the English language, but its name conceals a fruit that is believed to have some very beneficial and healthy constituents. If you have never seen or opened one, the pomegranate has a tough rind, which can be either dark red or brownish in color, with a similar size to an apple or an orange.  The edible part of the fruit is the juicy red pulp.

The pomegranate has been grown in parts of Asia for thousands of years, and in countries such as India has been used for medicinal purposes for a very long time. It was always believed that the fruit could play a part in overcoming sore throats, rheumatism and some inflammations. 

The pomegranate is now known worldwide, but its short season means that fresh fruits are only available for a short time. It is widely available in most parts of the US, and I did used to see it sometimes in the UK. It is a very seedy fruit, one reason that I personally never liked the pomegranate much, but for those prepared to tolerate dealing with the seeds, there is much that is nutritious in the pomegranate.

The Nutritional and Qualities of the Pomegranate

The pomegranate contains large amounts of some crucial minerals such as as potassium, plus important vitamins like vitamin C and niacin. This fruit also contains a good amount helping of fibre. However, there appears to be more to the pomegranate than vitamins and minerals, which is why scientific studies into this exotic fruit have been taking place in recent decades. 

There have been some studies have suggested the pomegranate supplies some very powerful antioxidants, with the pomegranate juice containing almost three times the antioxidants found in,for example, red wine and green tea. An average pomegranate contains approximately 100 calories, making an excellent food for those who are on a weight loss diet.  Many nutritionists recommend eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, and pomegranates fit very well into that sort of diet regime.

Selecting the Best Pomegranates

When buying pomegranates, it is best to select those with the best colour, and those which feel heavy when you pick them up.  Pomegranates that are dry looking and wrinkled, or which have a cracked rind, are best avoided.  You will find that pomegranates will keep quite well at room temperature for two or three days, and in the refrigerator for up to three months. Apart from the fresh fruit, pomegranate juice is also available, and that can be used for drinks and dressings.

The Health Benefits and Properties of Red Cabbage and Red Beet

"Eat your greens", Grandma used to say, referring to dark green vegetables such as spinach and dark cabbage. I don’t recall her or anybody saying "eat your reds." Perhaps they should have done; maybe the modern day Mum and Grandma should start saying "eat your greens and reds." That means, if they are referring to vegetables and not artificial colors.

Just as "greens" are full of good nutrients, so are "reds"; the reds being red beet, or beetroot, and red cabbage. These are popular health foods these days, for a number of very good reasons. To those who like them, red cabbage and red beets are delicious, nutritious and low in calories. Personally I do not like beetroot that much, but that does not alter its properties and benefits. The compounds found in these red vegetables are believed to play an important role in the prevention of many forms of cancer.  

Some new research suggest the benefits of red cabbage and red beets come from the many photochemical these foods, especially indole-3-carbinole (I3C), sulphoraphane and in doles.  These compounds are thought to have a role in activation and stabilization, of the detoxification and antioxidant processes of the human body.  

Indole-3-carbinole (I3C) is now thought to assist in reducing the risk of breast cancer and a study showed a 50% reduction in the incidence of breast cancer.  These compounds are abundant both in red cabbage and red beets, and are thought to participate in the production and utilization of estrogen in the body. They are also thought to play a role in reducing the likelihood of breast cancer in people who eat these foods. 

As well as the prevention of breast cancer, red cabbage and red beets are thought to be capable of playing an important part in prevention of other cancers, notably of the lungs, stomach and colon. These red vegetables have other attractions too, from their other nutrient resources. They are very rich in Vitamin C, a key antioxidant. Also, like many other vegetables of all colours, the "reds" are a good source of calcium.

Other nutrients present in red beet and cabbage are flavanoids, which give the deep red colours of these vegetables. that is why it is best to buy the deepest red samples you can. It is the flavonoids, alongside the Vitamin C, which give both red cabbage and red beets their powerful antioxidant health benefits.  They are two of the best sources of flavanoids, so should be treasured as you enjoy every mouthful. 

On other area of health where these red vegetables are being studied is in their possible role in treating peptic ulcers. the red juice has been used as a treatment for many years.  It is believed that the high concentration of the amino acid called glutamine is responsible for this health giving property. Glutamine provides nutrients to the cells that line the small intestine and the stomach, which could be why it is responsible for the effectiveness of cabbage juice at treating ulcer conditions.

The Health Benefits and Properties of Spinach

It has been known for generations that spinach was good for you, but it is really only over recent decades that the proof has mounted up that spinach is packed with beneficial nutrients. According to nutritionists this dark green leafy vegetable, along with others of similar color, is among the healthiest of all foods. There are not many foods that have such a rich source of nutrients such as vitamin C, iron, beta carotene and calcium, as spinach. With such nutrients, spinach is blessed with health benefits that are difficult to ignore. 

Spinach is also:

1. An excellent source of beneficial insoluble fiber, which is believed to help protect the heart from damage.

2. A good source of Vitamin K, which is becoming associated with a reduced risk of some cancers.

3. Rich in beta carotene, which has benefits to eye health including helping to prevent cataracts. Some studies have suggested that people who consume a diet rich in spinach, kale and similar dark green leafy vegetables, may have a lower overall risk of developing cataracts.

One of the possible reasons for this reduced risk may be the presence of lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids, which are similar to beta carotene, are strong antioxidants, and they are thought to provide protection not only against cataracts, but against some other effects of aging and some forms of cancer as well.

As far as other eye problems go , acular degeneration is a particular problem with older people, and spinach and other dark green leafy vegetables are thought to help to mitigate the risk of age related macular degeneration. The strong antioxidant properties of these dark green vegetables are believed to be what makes them so effective.

4. It is thought that spinach is also a contributor to the control of high levels of homocysteine in the blood. Studies have shown that eating a diet rich in vitamin C, folic acid and beta carotene is an effective way to lower homo cysteine levels. Apart from the health benefits, spinach is attractive because of its high availability and low price. When fresh spinach is not in season there is always canned and frozen spinach available, which means this tasty vegetable can make a year round contribution to your healthy diet.

The Health Benefits and Properties of Black Pepper

As someone who enjoys cooking, and eating, I have been a fan of black pepper for a long time. It has many culinary uses and is a very useful spice for cooks. However, until quite recently, I was not aware of the nutrients that came with black pepper. I think I am far from alone in that, and most of us have probably never thought of black pepper as a health food.

Background Information on Black Pepper

Black pepper has been used since ancient times, and in the past has been very valuable, to the extent that it was often used in trade like a currency. It was even used as a a sacrifice to the gods.  Nowadays, though, we are lucky that black pepper is available all year round, in abundance, and is also quite cheap.

The pepper plant, from which this excellent spice is produced, is a woody vine type plant that grows in the tropics. It is very tall growing, maybe thirty feet in some cases.  The vines flower after about three or four years; these bunches of small white flowers which then the berries known as peppercorns.  It is these peppercorns, when ground, that produce the spice we know as black pepper.

The benefits of black pepper, though, go far beyond its undoubted culinary uses.  Recent studies suggest that black pepper may have a number of important health benefits.  One of the most important of these is its ability to improve the health of the digestive system and intestines, and thus improving digestion.

Black Pepper and the Digestive System

Over recent decades, problems with digestion have increased in frequency, and black pepper seems to be effective in improving digestion. This is probably due to the way in which black pepper stimulates the taste buds.  This stimulation transmits a message to the stomach to increase its secretion of hydrochloric acid, thus improving the digestion of the food once it reaches the stomach.  Insufficient production of stomach acid can lead to heartburn, indigestion and other problems, and black pepper may help to alleviate such problems.

Furthermore, black pepper reduces the formation of intestinal gas, thus providing a natural solution to the embarrassing problem of flatulence.  This effect is most likely also the result of the stimulation of hydrochloric acid production. Black pepper has also been shown to have significant antioxidant and antibacterial properties, both of which are important for fighting disease and maintaining overall good health.  With so much in its favour, black pepper is a valued ingredient or condiment for just about any cooked meal.

Black Pepper in Cooking

Personally, I favor grinding peppercorns, as you then know it is freshly ground , and probably more flavorsome. Peppermills, which stand nicely against salt and pepper pots should you have them on the table, are readily available, and sometimes in matching sets.

There is some thought that the skin of the peppercorn is good at stimulating the metabolism, leading possibly to a slimmer figure and healthier body, which would be a good bonus for grinding your own peppers. If you do decide to buy your black pepper already ground, do try to buy the best quality you can get if you really want to benefit from both the flavour and the health benefits.

The Health Benefits and Properties of Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the most popularly used spices in the world, and one that has been used in many households for a very long time. My earliest recollection of cinnamon, as a child in the 1950's, was cinnamon cake. This tasty spice does have other culinary uses, though, plus some reputed health benefits which I was unaware of back then. 

 

Cinnamon has been used by many different cultures in their cuisine, and also for medicinal purposes, for hundreds of years. In fact, it has been recorded as being used in 2000BC, and is also mentioned in the bible. Once a rarity fit for kings and highly prized, cinnamon spice it is now widely available at a reasonable price.

Scientific Studies into Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been thought by many to have medicinal benefits, and at one time it was thought to cure the common cold. Such a universal benefit has not been proven, but cinnamon has aroused scientific interest in other.

 

One of the areas in which cinnamon has shown great promise in clinical studies is in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. A recent study, reported in the Diabetes Care Journal, found that the ingestion of just a half a teaspoon of cinnamon every day significantly reduced the level of blood sugar in those with type 2 diabetes. In addition, the same study found that cinnamon was able to reduce triglycerides, LDL (bad) cholesterol and total cholesterol levels in the same study participants.

 

There are some other health benefits that are thought, by some, to stem from cinnamon, and these include:

Nasal Congestion – Cinnamon and other spices have been used by many to relieve the nasal congestion that can come from colds, allergies and other common conditions. 

 

Tissue Toning – There is considerable anecdotal evidence to suggest that cinnamon has the ability to tone and constrict tissues in the body.

 

Improved digestion – Cinnamon and other related spices have long been used as a digestive aid, and those who suffer from stomach cramps, irritable bowel syndrome and other common stomach disorders may find that adding cinnamon to their food can assist their digestion.

 

Joint and Muscle Pain and Stiffness – Some people who have eaten cinnamon on a regular basis report that their muscle and joint pain and stiffness has been reduced.

 

Relief from menstrual cramping and other discomfort – Cinnamon has long been used in the world of traditional medicine to treat the discomfort that accompanies menstruation, and many women report that a daily helping of cinnamon greatly reduces cramping, pain and other common menstrual complaints.

 

In addition, cinnamon has been associated with thinning blood to aid circulation, killing harmful bacteria, and helping gum disease.

The Health Benefits of Milk Thistle (silybum marianum)

Gardeners in the UK, and no doubt in North America too, will probably consider the milk thistle as a weed. I certainly did when I still lived in England. Nevertheless, I did like to see them growing wild out in the countryside. It would never have occurred to me at that time that this prickly plant concealed health benefits which had been known to some for many generations.

Those health benefits of the milk thistle have been known to man for 2000 years plus, predominantly in the treatment of liver complaints and for overall liver health. It seems amazing that, somehow, all those centuries ago, people knew that milk thistle was beneficial, and early medicinal healers used it in their treatments. Now, modern science has proved them right; another case of an old wives' tale having a scientific base.

How, then, does milk thistle have a beneficial effect on the liver? The milk thistle, or a constituent part of it, is somehow able to stimulate the flow of bile from the liver. This is thought to be why it is believed to be why milk thistle is effective in treating liver ailments, and is also thought to aid digestion.

Milk Thistle and Modern Scientific Studies Into Liver Health

There have, over recent years, been scientific studies into milk thistle's beneficial effects, and these studies have tended to support the ancient beliefs in the efficacy of this common plant, a member of the sunflower family. These studies have produced evidence that milk thistle does provide some protection from danage to the liver. It has also been found to have a healing effect on a damaged liver, which is one of the reasons why some doctors consider the milk thistle plant a valid treatment for liver disorders, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. The active ingredients that have been isolated in the milk thistle are called silymarin, whcih are found in the plant's black fruit .

The Other Possible Uses of Milk Thistle

Milk thistle has been shown to be a natural plant that is high in antioxidants, and has been showing some promising results in the treatment of gallstones, allergies, and high cholesterol. Enough promise has been shown to justify future scientific studies into the wild and prickly milk thistle. 

One of the specific uses of milk thislte in medicine has been as an antidote for people who have eaten poisonous mushrooms. This form of milk thistle is injectible. It is believed this plant assists in the expulsion of toxins from the body, due to its effect on the liver and the secretion of bile.

The Health Benefits and Properties of Strawberries

Strawberries must be the favorite fruit of millions of people, even those who are unfortunate enough to suffer from Strawberry rash. The strawberry was certainly my favorite fruit when I still lived in England, though I must confess it has been overtaken by mango since I moved to a tropical island. 

With all their attraction, it is good to know that strawberries are also quite a healthy fruit. With the USDA now recommending that every American eats at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables every day, including strawberries can make that target not only achievable but a pleasurable daily journey. 

Strawberries are a versatile fruit, tasting good on their own, but also suitable for drinks and desserts. Of course, when mixing with other foods in drinks and desserts, you need to take care of the calories you may be adding. It is not good to take one healthy food and turn it into an unhealthy food, however delicious it may taste.

Strawberries and Nutrition

Strawberries are blessed with many nutrients, including a good dose of of vitamin C. But that is not all. Strawberries contain significant levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients. The chemicals that give strawberries their bright red colour are thought to be responsible for their strong antioxidant properties.

As most people now know, antioxidants are an important constituent of the diet, since antioxidants are thought to reduce the damage done by free radicals. Free radicals are elements that can damage the cells of the body, and they are thought to play a part in the formation of many kinds of cancer cells. This is just another good reason to include strawberries in your diet whenever you can.

As well as significant amounts of vitamin C, strawberries are also a source of vitamins B5 and B6, vitamin K and manganese, folic acid, potassium, riboflavin, copper, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids.

Selecting Strawberries

Strawberries are among the most versatile of fresh fruits, but unfortunately they are more perishable than most as well. For this reason, fresh strawberries should be purchased within a couple of days before they are to be eaten. When strawberries are in season locally this is seldom a problem; in some places you can even pick your own, a very popular summer pastime in the UK. At other times of the year, though, you may be need to make do with canned or frozen strawberries, unless you are able to buy imported strawberries.

When choosing fresh strawberries it is important to choose those strawberries which are firm and free of mould, and with a deep red colour. Strawberries do not continue to ripen after they are picked, therefore it is important to choose the ripest, reddest strawberries, as they will provide the best taste and the highest nutrient density. Many people find that small or medium sized strawberries are sweeter and more flavorful than larger ones, and that is certainly my experience. When buying strawberries that have been prepackaged, it is important to be sure that the berries have not been packed too tightly, as this can, and often does, cause them to be damaged.

It is of course important to handle strawberries properly, and to store them well after they have been purchased. Strawberries, like all fruit, should be washed thoroughly prior to eating or storing. Any strawberries that show signs of mould should be removed at once, as they could contaminate the remaining strawberries. The strawberries should be placed in a bowl, covered with plastic wrap and kept in the refrigerator. The freshest strawberries will keep in the refrigerator for a few days.

Cranberry - The Health Benefits and Healing Powers

Cranberry sauce, cranberry jelly......mmmmm, what a nice accompaniment to turkey at Christmas or Thansgiving. I can even remember the cranberry sauce on Christmas day in England many years ago as a child. What I never realised then was that the cranberry is a good health food, with health benefits that are only really coming to light over recent years. 

I have never had the pleasure of fresh cranberry, whihc is a shame, because it is supposed to be not only delicious bu high in a number of important nutrients. Foremost among cranberry's nutrients are the many antioxidant vitamins.  Nutritionists and other health experts refer often to the many benefits of a diet that includes good supplies of fruits and vegetables. The USDA recommends five servings a day of fruits and vegetables, and cranberries can play a delicious role in meeting that target.

One of the reasons that fruits like the cranberry are far more effective than manufactured vitamin pills, is that fruits and vegetables contain a wide variety of nutrients. These nutrients can include phytonutrients, which have been shown in scientific studies to lead to better health and well being.

Cranberry's Other Benefits

On top of its supporting role in improving overall health and fitness, the cranberry is thought to assist in reducing occurrences of urinary tract infection (or UTI).  The reason for this is believed to be the proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are present in cranberries.  These PACs have been shown to prevent certain types of bacteria, including the well known and dangerous E. coli, from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.  

Furthermore, the PACs contained in the cranberry are thought to help prevent gum disease and stomach ulcers, using the same mechanism to prevent adhesion of the bacteria. That is not the end of the cranberry's perceived potential in good health. There is now growing evidence that the phytonutrients and antioxidants contained in the cranberry, and other fruits, may provide protection against a variety of diseases, including the common killers such as cancer and heart disease.

The healing and preventative powers of antioxidants come from their ability to fight the harmful effects of free radicals in the body.  Free radicals are part of the normal processes of body cells, but they can be damaging to health if out of control.  Antioxidants work to mitigate the damage caused by free radicals, and therefore they are thought to play an important role in preventing degenerative diseases, and possibly even retarding the ageing process.

For those who want to include more cranberry products in their diet, these products are plentiful in the countries where they grow, are not expensive, and can be available all year long.  In the US, for example, fresh cranberries are available in many major grocery stores and supermarkets for much of the year, and when they are not available there are plenty of canned and frozen cranberry products to take their place.