Showing posts with label Thyme. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thyme. Show all posts
Friday, 12 April 2013
Wednesday, 20 February 2013
7 Super spices for super health
Oct 08, 2012 4:31 AM by Michele Borboa, MS
Spice up your life
The word "antioxidants" typically conjures up thoughts of fruits, vegetables, tea, and even chocolate. But did you know that spices and herbs are also teeming with antioxidant power?
Spices are high in antioxidants
Dr. Wendy Bazilian, author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients, recommends using more spices and herbs as a way for you to improve the overall quality of your diet.
"It's the ultimate in good nutrition news when adding a favorite ingredient increases the health benefits of the foods we're already enjoying," says Dr. Bazilian. For example, one teaspoon of ground cinnamon has the equivalent level of antioxidants as a half cup of blueberries and one cup of pomegranate juice. Just think of all the foods to which you add cinnamon!
The health benefits of spices and herbs
To advance the science of spices and herbs, McCormick created the McCormick Science Institute, an independent research organization where researchers are looking at antioxidants as well as other health-promoting advantages offered by consuming more spices and herbs.
Antioxidant power. Research has shown that antioxidants are substances -- found in foods like fruits and vegetables --that may protect cells against the effects of free radicals. Free radicals are molecules produced when your body breaks down food, or by environmental exposures like tobacco smoke and radiation. Antioxidants can protect you against heart disease, cancer and other diseases. Antioxidants include beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, selenium and vitamins A, C, and E.
Anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers are investigating the unique protective properties of spices and herbs, and their role in possibly reducing inflammation. Inflammation has been identified as a precursor to many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, allergies, and Alzheimer's to name a few. Spices and herbs can be included in an anti-inflammatory diet to not only add flavor but to also assist in healing the body.
Weight loss. Researchers are exploring the potential of spices to boost metabolism, promote satiety, aid weight management and enhance the overall quality of a diet. The capsaicin in peppers are believed to have metabolic boosting properties. In addition, if the food you eat is flavorful and satisfying, there is a good chance you will eat less and consume fewer calories, too.
What are the seven super spices?
Spices and herbs are botanically classified as fruits and vegetables. And since they no longer contain the water that makes up a significant part of the fresh produce, spices and herbs offer an even higher level of antioxidants. In addition, spices and herbs also are rich in phytonutrients, such as carotenoids, flavonoids and other phenolics, all of which possess health-promoting properties. Many spices and herbs appear to have some beneficial effects, but here are the seven super spices with the greatest health-enhancing potential and tips to include them in your meals.
1 Cinnamon
Dr. Bazilian says cinnamon is easy and versatile (and delicious!). "Put 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in your coffee grinds before brewing or stir into your honey to sweeten your tea," she suggests.
The health expert also recommends mixing cinnamon into yogurt or sprinkling it on oatmeal, stirring it into pumpkin or whipping it into smoothies. "Cinnamon is a great addition to sprinkle into a traditional PB&J, too. Make it extra healthy by using whole grain bread, natural peanut butter, and all-fruit preserves," she adds.
According to Dr. Bazilian, cinnamon is also rich in natural compounds called polyphenols. Research suggests that these compounds may act like insulin in our body to help regulate blood sugar levels.
2 Oregano
Dr. Bazilian considers oregano a mini salad because "one teaspoon has as much antioxidant power as three cups of chopped broccoli (but don't ditch the broccoli – have both!)."
Oregano is among the highest in antioxidants of the dried herbs and it goes seamlessly and flavorfully into familiar, everyday foods as well as new recipes. Dr. Bazilian recommends adding oregano to commercial or homemade pasta or pizza sauce or even sprinkle oregano onto a grilled cheese sandwich.
She adds, "Sliced tomatoes become exceptionally pretty and tasty with a sprinkle of oregano, a grind of pepper and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil."
3 Rosemary
The compounds in rosemary appear to help reduce inflammation in the body and inflammation is a trigger and indirect risk factor for many chronic diseases. Rosemary is also being studied for its role in heart health.
Include rosemary in marinades for meats and tomato sauces as well as whole grain breads and rolls. And for the adventurous palate, try ground rosemary in cakes and sweet quick breads.
4 Turmeric
This bright yellow spice is commonly found in curry powder. Researchers are looking into the role of turmeric in brain health and protecting against cognitive decline associated with aging. In addition, curry is a heart-healthy condiment.
Stir curry into egg salad, chicken salad and tuna salad mixes for lunch. Add curry to simmer sauces for poultry. Whisk curry into dips and even vinaigrettes for cooked vegetables.
5 Thyme
According to Dr. Bazilian, in addition to the antioxidant advantages, research is looking at the role of compounds in thyme in relation to respiratory function.
To get more thyme in your diet, whisk it in salad dressings and creamy dips, sprinkle it on cooked vegetables and fish, and include it in stir-fries or sautes.
6 Ginger
It may surprise you but one teaspoon of ginger has similar antioxidant levels as one cup of spinach. And ground ginger can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
To satisfy a sweet tooth, Dr. Bazilian recommends this pungent spice be sprinkled onto fresh fruit slices or stirred into frozen yogurt or ice cream.
For savory fare, ground ginger can be mixed with honey and heated to provide a sweet gingery glaze on steamed carrots or broiled salmon fillets. Ginger also livens up marinades and sauces.
In addition, Dr. Bazilian says, "Scientists are looking at the role compounds in ginger for digestive issues (nausea and others) along with its role in reducing pain."
7 Dried Red Peppers
Spices derived from red peppers include cayenne, crushed red pepper and paprika. In addition to adding fiery flavor, these spices may just be a tasty friend to dieters, too. Dr. Bazilian says, "Red pepper in its various forms is showing promise for enhancing metabolism, increasing satiety and potentially stimulating fat burning, too."
She recommends using cayenne, crushed red pepper and paprika to spice up hummus, guacamole, cottage cheese and even mashed potatoes. She adds, "Give marinades or dressings a kick with a little cayenne or sprinkle paprika onto fish for a tasty and pretty change."
How much of a spice or herb will deliver health benefits?
More than a dash will do you. Dr. Bazilian recommends including spices and herbs at every meal. However, there is not yet a specified amount.
"Just like foods, it's not possible to provide a specific 'prescription' (like we do with medications) for [spices and herbs]," she explains. "Just have an herb and/or spice at every meal."
Using more herbs and spices is also a tasty way to boost the nutrition of your diet because with the added flavor, you can cut the salt, fat, and added sugar in your recipes.
Does heating spices and herbs kill their nutritional potential?
Dr. Bazilian says, "The science on spices and herbs and their properties and functions is still emerging."
Researchers are looking into the effects of heat and preparation techniques and there is no official answer on whether or not certain compounds or nutrients are altered when exposed to heat or other practices.
According to Dr. Bazilian, some research has suggested that heat may actually enhance the bioavailability (the ability of the body to absorb and use a nutrient) of certain compounds, while others may be potentially decreased.
She says, "It is likely that we will discover there are great benefits to be had from including herbs and spices along with other health-promoting superfoods, regardless of preparation techniques."
Spice – and herb – up your meals
To make it easy and delicious SpicesForHealth.com has a unique collection of tasty recipes and a variety of tips to get more spices and herbs in your meals. You can try a new healthy recipe every day or every week!
Watch: Superfood dinner
Today on the Daily Dish, Chef at Province Restaurant at the Westin Phoenix Downtown, Rita French, shows you how to make a hearty spanish chorizo, potato and kale soup.
More on antioxidants
What to eat for radiant skin
What is pawpaw and why should you be eating it?
Antioxidant power: Polyphenols and why you need them
What is pawpaw and why should you be eating it?
Antioxidant power: Polyphenols and why you need them
Source: 7 Super spices for super health
Wednesday, 31 October 2012
Understanding Free Radicals
Originally published on Wednesday, October 10th, 2012
IMMUNE SYSTEM by Dr. Marchione for Bel Marra Health
Free radicals are now considered the biggest accelerator of aging. Although you are likely familiar with the term, if you really want to avoid falling victim to free radical damage, you need to know exactly where they come from, what they do to your body and how to neutralize them. Below is an in depth explanation of free radicals and their antidote — high ORAC foods.
The Science Behind Free Radicals
Free radicals are atoms with an odd number of electrons in their outer shell, which means that they contain an electron that is unpaired. This is problematic because electrons like to be paired, and they steal electrons from surrounding molecules or structures in order to become a pair and gain stability. In so doing, they create a new structure with unpaired molecules, which causes a chain reaction with countless additional free radicals being formed. This process destructs living cells and damages the DNA contained within them. Uncontrolled free radical damage not only accelerates aging, it also damages your cells.
Where Free Radicals Come From
Exposure to environmental toxins such as air pollution, cleaning chemicals, paint fumes and cigarette smoke all cause the generation of free radicals in your body, and so too can overexposure to sunlight. Toxins found in alcohol and most sources of water also cause the formation of free radicals. According to many alternative healthcare practitioners, the typical American diet is the greatest cause of free radical formation in the body. This belief is not farfetched either; a recent scientific study found that the consumption of sugar measurably increases the formation of free radicals and other studies have confirmed that fried foods increase free radical levels in the body. Unfortunately, because of the toxic pestiside residue found within them, even immune system boosting health foods can contribute to free radical damage.
ORAC: The Antidote to Free Radicals
In order to understand ORAC value you must first understand antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and prevent them from causing death and destruction to your cells and DNA. ORAC is the acronym for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, and an ORAC score is the measurement of the antioxidant capacity of different foods and supplements. Foods, beverages and supplements with a high ORAC value are considered the best antidote to free radicals. The higher the ORAC score, the better the food item is at neutralizing free radicals and protecting the body from the damage that free radicals cause.
Although all fruits and vegetables contain a medium to high ORAC value, on a gram to gram basis, spices tend to surpass produce. Cloves, oregano, rosemary, thyme, cinnamon, turmeric, parsley, nutmeg and basil all yield extremely high ORAC scores. When it comes to fruit Acai yields the highest ORAC score. Although Acai is not available in most North American grocery stores, it is available in liquid and supplement form, and many alternative healthcare practitioners recommend drinking or supplementing with it as a preventative measure against free radical damage. Finally, dark cocoa, berries, cherries, plums, apples, peaches and grapes, as well as artichokes, garlic, broccoli, cabbage and almonds, are all considered high ORAC foods. In order to maximize the efficacy of these high ORAC foods, you should always buy organic, because the pesticide residue on non-organic items can offset their antioxidant yielding benefits.
http://www.belmarrahealth.com/immune/understanding-free-radicals/
IMMUNE SYSTEM by Dr. Marchione for Bel Marra Health
Free radicals are now considered the biggest accelerator of aging. Although you are likely familiar with the term, if you really want to avoid falling victim to free radical damage, you need to know exactly where they come from, what they do to your body and how to neutralize them. Below is an in depth explanation of free radicals and their antidote — high ORAC foods.The Science Behind Free Radicals
Free radicals are atoms with an odd number of electrons in their outer shell, which means that they contain an electron that is unpaired. This is problematic because electrons like to be paired, and they steal electrons from surrounding molecules or structures in order to become a pair and gain stability. In so doing, they create a new structure with unpaired molecules, which causes a chain reaction with countless additional free radicals being formed. This process destructs living cells and damages the DNA contained within them. Uncontrolled free radical damage not only accelerates aging, it also damages your cells.
Where Free Radicals Come From
Exposure to environmental toxins such as air pollution, cleaning chemicals, paint fumes and cigarette smoke all cause the generation of free radicals in your body, and so too can overexposure to sunlight. Toxins found in alcohol and most sources of water also cause the formation of free radicals. According to many alternative healthcare practitioners, the typical American diet is the greatest cause of free radical formation in the body. This belief is not farfetched either; a recent scientific study found that the consumption of sugar measurably increases the formation of free radicals and other studies have confirmed that fried foods increase free radical levels in the body. Unfortunately, because of the toxic pestiside residue found within them, even immune system boosting health foods can contribute to free radical damage.
ORAC: The Antidote to Free Radicals
In order to understand ORAC value you must first understand antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and prevent them from causing death and destruction to your cells and DNA. ORAC is the acronym for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, and an ORAC score is the measurement of the antioxidant capacity of different foods and supplements. Foods, beverages and supplements with a high ORAC value are considered the best antidote to free radicals. The higher the ORAC score, the better the food item is at neutralizing free radicals and protecting the body from the damage that free radicals cause.
Although all fruits and vegetables contain a medium to high ORAC value, on a gram to gram basis, spices tend to surpass produce. Cloves, oregano, rosemary, thyme, cinnamon, turmeric, parsley, nutmeg and basil all yield extremely high ORAC scores. When it comes to fruit Acai yields the highest ORAC score. Although Acai is not available in most North American grocery stores, it is available in liquid and supplement form, and many alternative healthcare practitioners recommend drinking or supplementing with it as a preventative measure against free radical damage. Finally, dark cocoa, berries, cherries, plums, apples, peaches and grapes, as well as artichokes, garlic, broccoli, cabbage and almonds, are all considered high ORAC foods. In order to maximize the efficacy of these high ORAC foods, you should always buy organic, because the pesticide residue on non-organic items can offset their antioxidant yielding benefits.
http://www.belmarrahealth.com/immune/understanding-free-radicals/
Thursday, 16 August 2012
Top 10 Anti-Aging Herbs and Spices
Alternative health guru Dr. Joseph Mercola reveals his top 10 herbs and spices to prevent disease and combat aging.
Dr. Joseph Mercola’s unorthodox methods have made him one of the most controversial figures in the world of alternative medicine. Here, Dr. Mercola counts down the 10 most powerful spices you may already have in your kitchen that can fight aging and prevent disease. He suggests you incorporate a variety of these spices into your daily meals to maximize your benefit – consuming just 1 teaspoon a day of any of these herbs and spices can have a positive effect on your health. When choosing between fresh or dried herbs, Dr. Mercola suggests that the fresh variety is more powerful. In general, the more fragrant the herb, the stronger its benefits. You can, however, get nearly the same benefits from dried herbs if you store them in an airtight container out of direct sunlight.
10. Protect Your Skin Cells: Italian Spice
Damaged skin cells make us look older prematurely. Dr. Mercola recommends adding an Italian spice blend to your cooking, which may provide vital protection on the cellular level. Basil, Italian spice blend’s key ingredient, is loaded with antioxidants that can protect your cells from harmful free radicals – the damaging molecules that also contribute to heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis and Alzheimer's disease.
9. Heal From Infections Faster: Thyme
Bacterial infections can range from a common sore throat to potentially deadly pneumonia. Studies have shown that thyme can kill MSRA bacteria, which lead to staph infections. Additionally, extracts of thyme are used in mouthwashes to treat inflammations and in cough drops to treat throat infections.
8. Fight Inflammation: Sage
Inflammation on the cellular level is the main reason the body ages faster than it should. Dr. Mercola adds sage to his meals to fight inflammation. This herb can help fight inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and atherosclerosis, which causes a hardenening of the arteries
7. Improve Digestion and Sleep: Marjoram
A healthy digestive system and a good night’s sleep are essential to your overall health. Studies show that incorporating marjoram into your diet may activate cells that aid digestion. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try adding five drops of marjoram oil, available in health food stores, to a warm bath. The herb’s essential oils may relieve stress, helping you sleep soundly through the night.
6. Immunity Booster: Oregano
Numerous studies have demonstrated the antioxidant properties of oregano. Its active agent, rosmarinic acid, clears out the free radicals that age us and contribute to disease. Additionally, oregano is also one of the strongest and most effective broad-spectrum antibiotics and antifungals out there. It can help kill Candida, or yeast infection, as well as fungal nail infections.
5. Keep Your Heart Young: Apple Pie Spice
Ginger is the key ingredient in this aromatic spice blend. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger keep your heart young and your arteries clear. Additionally, ginger helps protect against harmful bacteria and fungi. It boosts the immune system and can protect against atherosclerosis by lowering cholesterol levels and preventing the oxidation of LDL (the bad cholesterol). As an additional benefit, ginger is a potent treatment for nausea.
4. Stimulate Digestive Juices: Jamaican Allspice
Allspice is produced from the fruit of the Pimenta dioica plant and has a complex peppery taste that resembles a mix of cinnamon, juniper, clove and nutmeg. To keep your gut healthy, Dr. Mercola recommends rubbing Jamaican allspice on your meat and vegetables or sprinkling it in your soups. It’s terrific for its anti-gas effects, and it aids digestion. Jamaican allspice also helps keep blood sugar under control, which is one of the primary ways to keep your arteries young.
3. Relieve Stiffness Due to Arthritis: Cinnamon
As we age, many of us may experience muscle and joint pain due to arthritis. Cinnamon contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help relieve that pain. Furthermore, cinnamon’s antibiotic properties help prevent urinary tract infections, tooth decay and gum disease, and have been shown to kill the harmful bacteria, E.coli.
2. Fight Just About Everything: Cloves
Dr. Mercola describes cloves as “cinnamon on steroids.” Like cinnamon, cloves can be beneficial against muscle pains and arthritis. Of all spices, cloves received the highest ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) Score, meaning it is the highest in antioxidants. Additionally, cloves contain eugenol, which has mild anesthetic benefits useful for toothaches, gum pain, and sore throats. Cloves also offer relief from respiratory ailments such as asthma and bronchitis, and eliminate intestinal parasites, fungi, and bacteria. It makes you wonder, is there anything cloves can’t do?
1. Prevent Cancer and Alzheimer’s: Turmeric
Far too many of us have felt the effects of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease in our lives. Yet in India, where turmeric is widely used, the prevalence of the four most-common US cancers is 10 times lower. Researchers attribute this, in part, to curcumin, the compound that gives turmeric its yellow color. Laboratory studies suggest that curcumin is effective both in protecting against cancer and in inducing the programmed death of colon cancer cells. Furthermore, population studies have shown that elderly villagers in India appear to have the lowest rate of Alzheimer's disease in the world.
When it comes to combating aging, the best approach is adopting a healthy lifestyle. That means regular physical activity, quality sleep, and packing your diet full of healthy foods. According to Dr. Mercola, adding some or all of these spices to your cooking won’t just spice up your meal, it may just save your life.
http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/top-10-anti-aging-herbs-and-spices
Friday, 20 April 2012
The Healing Pharmacy In Your Garden
Dr. Isaac Eliaz | Apr 13, 2012 | Comments 6
For countless years, traditional healers have taught the benefits of easing illness with a healthy lifestyle and the use of herbs and botanicals. But don’t think you have to get all your herbs from a jar. Many remarkable healing herbs are growing in your yard. Herbs and spices can be picked a few steps from your front door and used to perk up your cooking and your health.
Medicinal Plants
Today, it’s easy to forget that some of the most beneficial medicinal plants can be found growing in our own backyards. Some are considered pesky weeds even though they are valuable herbs.
While Western medicine relies heavily on prescription drugs, most practitioners of Eastern medicine disciplines, as well as traditional naturopathic doctors and herbalists, consider many herbs and botanicals to be safer — and sometimes more effective — alternatives. As an integrative medical doctor and natural product formulator, I base much of my clinical practice and my formulations on the use of all-natural nutrients, herbs and botanicals which promote health via numerous mechanisms of action. Using medicinal herbs and botanicals in their whole, natural form allows you to benefit from the synergistic effects of complex chemical components such as antioxidants and phytonutrients, as they occur in nature. Surround your home and fill your gardens with healing herbs and plants, and support your health from multiple angles.
Here are some commonly grown herbs and botanicals which offer powerful health benefits.
Thyme
Thyme contains potent therapeutic essential oils and compounds and is considered one of nature’s most powerful antibiotic, antifungal and antimicrobial plants. Thyme is most commonly taken as a tea, and has been used for a variety of medicinal purposes throughout the centuries. As a decongestant, it is useful in the treatment of acute and chronic bronchitis, whooping cough and inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. It is a powerful agent for boosting immunity and treating various types of infections. Thyme tea can also help relieve headaches and menstrual pain, and helps alleviate digestive issues.
Garlic
Garlic contains a number of active components, including allicin, alliinase and sulfur compounds, which contribute to its potent antibiotic, antiviral and fungicidal properties. These components make garlic highly potent in protecting against infection, lowering high blood pressure, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and boosting the immune system. Garlic can effectively protect blood cells and blood vessels from inflammatory and oxidative stress, and can naturally decrease the risk of atherosclerosis and heart attacks. Garlic’s diverse cardiovascular benefits derive from its sulfur compounds and its high levels of vitamin C and vitamin B6. Vitamin C is a vital antioxidant that protects against damage to blood vessel walls and reduces levels of oxidizing free radicals in the bloodstream. Vitamin B6 lowers levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that can damage blood vessel walls. Garlic is also a sulfur agent helpful for the removal of toxins and heavy metals from the body.
Mint
In addition to carrying a distinct, pleasing fragrance, mint is a cooling herb that can settle the digestive tract or decrease the severity and length of stomach aches and digestive discomfort. The herb can be added to teas, salads or eaten raw to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, hinder the growth of harmful bacteria in the stomach and reduce inflammation of the digestive tract. Mint is highly useful for clearing congestion of the nose, throat and lungs, helping to provide relief of respiratory distress in people with asthma, colds or allergies.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a popular Mediterranean herb whose leaves and seeds (known as coriander) contain powerful compounds known to efficiently remove heavy metals and other toxic agents from the body. The compounds in this herb bind to heavy metals, loosen them from the tissues, blood and organs, and then assist in transporting these toxins out of the body through the body’s organs of elimination. Cilantro is naturally rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, helping to reduce LDL or “bad cholesterol,” while increasing HDL or “good cholesterol.” The plant’s leaves and stems contain an abundance of polyphenolic flavonoids like quercetin, which have been shown to modulate proteins linked to cell survival and healthy cellular growth/behavior.
Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the cruciferous vegetables, a group of plants including cabbage, collards, cauliflower and kale, that offer powerful health benefits. Broccoli is high in vitamin C, and is a natural source of critical compounds that support health like DIM and indole-3-carbinol. These and other phytonutrients in broccoli help boost immunity, increase DNA repair, protect cardiovascular health, fight against cancer growth and proliferation, and support overall health and wellness. Your mother was right to urge you to “Eat your broccoli!”
Ginger
Ginger has long been used to relieve gastrointestinal issues like nausea, indigestion and infection. Studies show that compounds called gingerols, naturally present in the ginger plant, have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Fighting inflammation is perhaps the most critical quality of ginger’s natural healing properties, since chronic inflammation is the precursor to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Ginger is a warming herb that promotes circulation, heat and sweating, helping to clear your body’s systems of toxic buildup and fight infections. Ginger is hearty and can grow outside of its native tropical climate. But if you live in a colder area, simply keep it in a pot and bring it indoors during winter to avoid freezing.
Easy To Grow
There are numerous common herbs, botanicals, fruits and vegetables that can be easily grown from seeds or starters, and provide a multitude of health benefits, especially when eaten fresh. Turning to your garden for safe and natural plant-based remedies is a simple, eco-friendly and affordable way to maintain health and vitality, while building immunity and preventing many common illnesses. Spring is the perfect time of year to cultivate a healing garden, and nurture your blossoming health. For more practical information on all-natural remedies, visit http://www.dreliaz.org/.
http://www.easyhealthoptions.com/alternative-medicine/the-healing-pharmacy-in-your-garden/
For countless years, traditional healers have taught the benefits of easing illness with a healthy lifestyle and the use of herbs and botanicals. But don’t think you have to get all your herbs from a jar. Many remarkable healing herbs are growing in your yard. Herbs and spices can be picked a few steps from your front door and used to perk up your cooking and your health.
Medicinal Plants
Today, it’s easy to forget that some of the most beneficial medicinal plants can be found growing in our own backyards. Some are considered pesky weeds even though they are valuable herbs.
While Western medicine relies heavily on prescription drugs, most practitioners of Eastern medicine disciplines, as well as traditional naturopathic doctors and herbalists, consider many herbs and botanicals to be safer — and sometimes more effective — alternatives. As an integrative medical doctor and natural product formulator, I base much of my clinical practice and my formulations on the use of all-natural nutrients, herbs and botanicals which promote health via numerous mechanisms of action. Using medicinal herbs and botanicals in their whole, natural form allows you to benefit from the synergistic effects of complex chemical components such as antioxidants and phytonutrients, as they occur in nature. Surround your home and fill your gardens with healing herbs and plants, and support your health from multiple angles.
Here are some commonly grown herbs and botanicals which offer powerful health benefits.
Thyme
Thyme contains potent therapeutic essential oils and compounds and is considered one of nature’s most powerful antibiotic, antifungal and antimicrobial plants. Thyme is most commonly taken as a tea, and has been used for a variety of medicinal purposes throughout the centuries. As a decongestant, it is useful in the treatment of acute and chronic bronchitis, whooping cough and inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. It is a powerful agent for boosting immunity and treating various types of infections. Thyme tea can also help relieve headaches and menstrual pain, and helps alleviate digestive issues.
Garlic
Garlic contains a number of active components, including allicin, alliinase and sulfur compounds, which contribute to its potent antibiotic, antiviral and fungicidal properties. These components make garlic highly potent in protecting against infection, lowering high blood pressure, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and boosting the immune system. Garlic can effectively protect blood cells and blood vessels from inflammatory and oxidative stress, and can naturally decrease the risk of atherosclerosis and heart attacks. Garlic’s diverse cardiovascular benefits derive from its sulfur compounds and its high levels of vitamin C and vitamin B6. Vitamin C is a vital antioxidant that protects against damage to blood vessel walls and reduces levels of oxidizing free radicals in the bloodstream. Vitamin B6 lowers levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that can damage blood vessel walls. Garlic is also a sulfur agent helpful for the removal of toxins and heavy metals from the body.
Mint
In addition to carrying a distinct, pleasing fragrance, mint is a cooling herb that can settle the digestive tract or decrease the severity and length of stomach aches and digestive discomfort. The herb can be added to teas, salads or eaten raw to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, hinder the growth of harmful bacteria in the stomach and reduce inflammation of the digestive tract. Mint is highly useful for clearing congestion of the nose, throat and lungs, helping to provide relief of respiratory distress in people with asthma, colds or allergies.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a popular Mediterranean herb whose leaves and seeds (known as coriander) contain powerful compounds known to efficiently remove heavy metals and other toxic agents from the body. The compounds in this herb bind to heavy metals, loosen them from the tissues, blood and organs, and then assist in transporting these toxins out of the body through the body’s organs of elimination. Cilantro is naturally rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, helping to reduce LDL or “bad cholesterol,” while increasing HDL or “good cholesterol.” The plant’s leaves and stems contain an abundance of polyphenolic flavonoids like quercetin, which have been shown to modulate proteins linked to cell survival and healthy cellular growth/behavior.
Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the cruciferous vegetables, a group of plants including cabbage, collards, cauliflower and kale, that offer powerful health benefits. Broccoli is high in vitamin C, and is a natural source of critical compounds that support health like DIM and indole-3-carbinol. These and other phytonutrients in broccoli help boost immunity, increase DNA repair, protect cardiovascular health, fight against cancer growth and proliferation, and support overall health and wellness. Your mother was right to urge you to “Eat your broccoli!”
Ginger
Ginger has long been used to relieve gastrointestinal issues like nausea, indigestion and infection. Studies show that compounds called gingerols, naturally present in the ginger plant, have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Fighting inflammation is perhaps the most critical quality of ginger’s natural healing properties, since chronic inflammation is the precursor to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Ginger is a warming herb that promotes circulation, heat and sweating, helping to clear your body’s systems of toxic buildup and fight infections. Ginger is hearty and can grow outside of its native tropical climate. But if you live in a colder area, simply keep it in a pot and bring it indoors during winter to avoid freezing.
Easy To Grow
There are numerous common herbs, botanicals, fruits and vegetables that can be easily grown from seeds or starters, and provide a multitude of health benefits, especially when eaten fresh. Turning to your garden for safe and natural plant-based remedies is a simple, eco-friendly and affordable way to maintain health and vitality, while building immunity and preventing many common illnesses. Spring is the perfect time of year to cultivate a healing garden, and nurture your blossoming health. For more practical information on all-natural remedies, visit http://www.dreliaz.org/.
http://www.easyhealthoptions.com/alternative-medicine/the-healing-pharmacy-in-your-garden/
Thursday, 29 March 2012
Beating Acne with Thyme
Beating acne may be a matter of thyme: Herbal cream 'more effective' than prescription gel
By Fiona Macrae
|
Beating acne may be simply a matter of thyme.
Research shows that the herb may be better at zapping spots than expensive creams, gels and lotions, including some are available on prescription.
It may also be kinder to the skin and, unlike these powerful peroxide-based treatments, it would not leave irritating bleach marks on pillow cases and clothes.
Acne affects most people at some point in their lives. It most often strikes girls between the ages of 14 and 17. Boys tend to be blighted slightly later, between the ages of 16 and 19.
It doesn’t always disappear on adulthood and around 5 per cent of women and 1 per cent of men have acne over the age of 25.
Thyme’s spot-busting potential is being studied by researchers from Leeds Metropolitan University.
They prepared tinctures of thyme by steeping the herb in alcohol for days or weeks, a process that draws out the active compounds from the plant.
They then added billions of the pimple -causing bacterium Propionibacterium acnes the tincture and gave it five minutes to take effect.
Tinctures of marigold and myrrh were also tested for antiseptic effects. All three plants are already sold as acne treatments by herbalists.
Thyme was the most effective of the trio, killing around 100,000 bacteria per ml - or half a million per teaspoonful.
It was also slightly more effective than benzoyl peroxide, the chemical in some treatments given on prescription, as well as in widely available preparations such as Clearasil and Oxy 5 and 10.
The Society for General Microbiology’s heard that tests also showed that thyme’s effects weren’t simply due to the alcohol in the tincture sterilising the skin.
Researcher Dr Margarita Gomez-Escalada said: ‘We now need to carry out further tests in conditions that mimic more closely the skin and work out at the molecular level how these tinctures are working.
'If thyme tincture is proven to be as clinically effective as our findings suggest, it may be a natural alternative to current treatments.
'The problem with treatments containing benzoyl peroxide is the side-effects they are associated with.
'A burning sensation and skin irritation are not uncommon. My students talk about how horrible it is.
'Herbal preparations are less harsh on the skin due to their anti-inflammatory properties, while our results suggest they can be just as, if not more, effective than chemical treatments.
'I haven’t put the thyme tincture on my skin but it smells really nice. It smells of the forest.
'If it is proven for it to really work, it would be fantastic for it to become a mainstream treatment.'
Dr Shernaz Walton, a spokesman for the British Association of Dermatologists, said the concept sounds good for two reasons.
Firstly, the alcohol in the solution will help dry up greasy skin, making it easier for the acne-causing bugs to thrive.
And, while bacteria can learn to evade antibiotics, there would be 'no question' of them becoming resistant to thyme.
Dr Walton, a consultant dermatologist at Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: 'There is always a need for better treatments for acne, particularly ones you can use without causing any side-effects.
'It might be good if there was something we could encourage young teenagers to use instead of the glossy moisturisers they see advertised in glossy magazines.'
Dr Walton, who is interested in the effect of diet on acne, advises those prone to spots to steer clear of moisturisers and wash their face with nothing more complex than soap and water.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2121105/Beating-acne-matter-thyme-herbal-cream-effective-prescription-gel.html
- Thyme more effective than marigold, myrrh and acne chemical benzoyl peroxide
By Fiona Macrae
|
Beating acne may be simply a matter of thyme.
Research shows that the herb may be better at zapping spots than expensive creams, gels and lotions, including some are available on prescription.
It may also be kinder to the skin and, unlike these powerful peroxide-based treatments, it would not leave irritating bleach marks on pillow cases and clothes.
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| Thyme was the most effective of the trio, killing around 100,000 bacteria per ml - or half a million per teaspoonful |
Acne affects most people at some point in their lives. It most often strikes girls between the ages of 14 and 17. Boys tend to be blighted slightly later, between the ages of 16 and 19.
It doesn’t always disappear on adulthood and around 5 per cent of women and 1 per cent of men have acne over the age of 25.
Thyme’s spot-busting potential is being studied by researchers from Leeds Metropolitan University.
They prepared tinctures of thyme by steeping the herb in alcohol for days or weeks, a process that draws out the active compounds from the plant.
They then added billions of the pimple -causing bacterium Propionibacterium acnes the tincture and gave it five minutes to take effect.
Tinctures of marigold and myrrh were also tested for antiseptic effects. All three plants are already sold as acne treatments by herbalists.
Thyme was the most effective of the trio, killing around 100,000 bacteria per ml - or half a million per teaspoonful.
It was also slightly more effective than benzoyl peroxide, the chemical in some treatments given on prescription, as well as in widely available preparations such as Clearasil and Oxy 5 and 10.
The Society for General Microbiology’s heard that tests also showed that thyme’s effects weren’t simply due to the alcohol in the tincture sterilising the skin.
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| Thyme: Not as irritating to the skin as chemicals |
'If thyme tincture is proven to be as clinically effective as our findings suggest, it may be a natural alternative to current treatments.
'The problem with treatments containing benzoyl peroxide is the side-effects they are associated with.
'A burning sensation and skin irritation are not uncommon. My students talk about how horrible it is.
'Herbal preparations are less harsh on the skin due to their anti-inflammatory properties, while our results suggest they can be just as, if not more, effective than chemical treatments.
'I haven’t put the thyme tincture on my skin but it smells really nice. It smells of the forest.
'If it is proven for it to really work, it would be fantastic for it to become a mainstream treatment.'
Dr Shernaz Walton, a spokesman for the British Association of Dermatologists, said the concept sounds good for two reasons.
Firstly, the alcohol in the solution will help dry up greasy skin, making it easier for the acne-causing bugs to thrive.
And, while bacteria can learn to evade antibiotics, there would be 'no question' of them becoming resistant to thyme.
Dr Walton, a consultant dermatologist at Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: 'There is always a need for better treatments for acne, particularly ones you can use without causing any side-effects.
'It might be good if there was something we could encourage young teenagers to use instead of the glossy moisturisers they see advertised in glossy magazines.'
Dr Walton, who is interested in the effect of diet on acne, advises those prone to spots to steer clear of moisturisers and wash their face with nothing more complex than soap and water.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2121105/Beating-acne-matter-thyme-herbal-cream-effective-prescription-gel.html
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