Strawberries

STRAWBERRIES are a sweet, delicious fruit that are also a nutritional powerhouse and an all around amazing superfood.

They are packed with Vitamins A, B-complex, & E and minerals such as manganese, iron, and zinc. They are rich in antioxidants which boosts their ability to rebuild, repair, and rejuvenate the body. They also have high levels of phenols, which act as an anti-inflammatory which makes it an essential food for those suffering from autoimmune disorders such as asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, restless leg syndrome, colitis, COPD, IBS, neuropathy, Crohn’s disease, lupus, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Strawberries are loaded with Vitamin C and help to boost the immune system by warding off colds, flu’s, and respiratory infections. They are also well known for being beneficial for age related macular degeneration and vision related issues.

Strawberries contain ellagic acid and flavonoids which are good for cardiovascular health and can help prevent heart disease, stroke, and help to lower cholesterol.

Strawberries are also a fantastic weight loss food as they are low in calories and high in nutritional compounds that are vital for optimal health.

During the summertime, look for locally grown strawberries for the most nutritional and health benefits. Frozen strawberries are also a good alternative when fresh are not available.

Strawberries are an excellent addition to fruit salads, and make excellent homemade jelly or jam….and even an occasional pie!

HEALTH BENEFITS

1. Helps burn stored fat – The red coloring contains anthocyanins, which stimulate the burning of stored fat. When a group of animals was fed a high-fat diet along with anthocyanins, they gained 24 percent less weight than the animals eating the high-fat diet without added anthocyanins. (The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry)

2. Boost short term memory – The anthocyanins boost short term memory by 100 percent in eight weeks. (The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry)

3. Low in Calories, High in Fiber – One cup contains only 54 calories.

4. Ease Inflammation – Strawberries lower blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a signal of inflammation in the body. In a study, women who ate 16 or more strawberries per week were 14 percent less likely to have elevated levels of CRP.

5. Lower cardiovascular disease – Flavonoids — which are responsible for the color and flavor of strawberries — lower the risk for heart disease.

6. Promote bone health – Strawberries contain potassium, vitamin K and magnesium which are important for bone health.

7. Prevent oesophageal cancer – Studies show freeze-dried strawberry powder may help prevent human esophageal cancer.

8. Anti-aging properties – Strawberries are filled with biotin, which helps build strong hair and nails. They also contain the antioxidant ellagic acid, which protects the elastic fibers in our skin to prevent sagging.

9. Good for weight loss – The compound nitrate found promotes blood flow and oxygen in our body, which is great for weight loss.

10. Promote eye health – Eating three or more servings of fruit like strawberries may lower the risk of macular degeneration, a condition resulting in vision loss. (Archives of Ophthalmology)

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Spearmint

SPEARMINT is a sweet, mild herb that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, B-complex, beta carotene, iron, magnesium, calcium, manganese, and potassium.

Spearmint is wonderful for digestive ailments such as nausea, indigestion, ulcers, halitosis, and flatulence. It can also provide relief from headaches, sinus congestion, sore throats, fatigue, stress, and anxiety.

Spearmint can also help to promote blood circulation and improve metabolism making it an excellent choice for cleansing and weight loss.

Spearmint is also beneficial for respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and respiratory inflammation.

Dried spearmint leaves can be made into a refreshing herbal tea that can be taken either hot or cold on a daily basis for therapeutic benefits.

HEALTH BENEFITS

ANTIBACTERIAL CAPACITY

The most common association of spearmint is with fresh breath, but its role in mouthwashes and toothpastes are not solely to keep your breath smelling good. The natural antibacterial and antimicrobial nature of menthol and other organic compounds in spearmint can help to protect your mouth and throat from infections, including those that can damage dental and gum health. Furthermore, bad breath is actually called halitosis, which is caused by bacteria below the gums, so spearmint keeps you healthy and smelling great!

RESPIRATORY HEALTH

Staying in the same region of the body, spearmint tea has a significantimpact on the health of your respiratory system due to its naturally soothing and anti-inflammatory qualities. It can help to relieve sore throats and tightness in the chest, alleviating congestion and irritation. Spearmint’s powerful aroma can also help to clear up sinuses and even increase mental clarity, according to certain experts.

DIGESTION

Spearmint has a number of roles to play in the digestive system, particularly as a gentle tonic to ease upset stomachs. It is popularduring pregnancy to prevent morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting, but can also be used by others suffering from suchgastrointestinal issues as excess flatulence, cramping, or bloating.IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) seems to be increasing in recent years, and spearmint tea or chewing directly on spearmint leaves is often recommended to treat or manage that condition more effectively.

HORMONAL BALANCE

For those suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome or some other form of hormonal imbalance, spearmint has been shown to help manage or treat the condition. The powerful organic compounds in spearmint can inhibit and stimulate the endocrine system in different ways, helping to optimize your hormonal balance and preventing the complicated metabolic side effects, including hirsutism, by reducing excessive testosterone levels in females.

CIRCULATION

The iron content in a single serving of spearmint is more than 100% of the daily recommended amount, which can stimulate the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin. This not only prevents anemia, but also increases circulation to the body’s extremities, boosting energy levels and wound healing.

HEART HEALTH

The high potassium levels found in spearmint are crucial to maintaining healthy blood pressure; potassium is a vasodilator, meaning that it relieves the stress on blood vessels and arteries, therefore helping to prevent atherosclerosis, strokes, and heart attacks.

STRESS RELIEF

Menthol, one of the most powerful active ingredients in spearmint, has a soothing, almost sedative effect on the body, which has been known toproduce a calm, relaxed state. If you suffer from chronic stress or anxiety, a cup of spearmint tea can help to ease your mind and eliminate the negative effects of chronic stress hormones on your body’s systems.

CHRONIC DISEASE

Some of the other chemical compounds found in spearmint include limonene, cineole, pinene, vitamin A, vitamin C, riboflavin, and thiamin. The combination of antioxidant compounds with metabolism-balancing substances makes spearmint a powerful tool to prevent chronic diseases, including cancer, many of which are caused by free radicals attacking healthy cells. Antioxidants neutralize these free radicals and eliminate them from the body.

OTHER HEALTH CONDITIONS THAT SPEARMINT MAY BE EFFECTIVE AT TREATING, INCLUDE:

• Sore Throat
• Arthritis
• Cramps
• Toothaches
• Colds
• Diarrhea
• Muscle Pain
• Headaches, Fatigue, And Stress

MEDICINAL USES

Almost all parts of spearmint herb found a place in various traditional as well in modern medicine. The herb decoction is an excellent remedy for minor ailments such as headaches, nervous strain, fatigue and stress, as well as for the respiratory problems; help relieving asthma, bronchitis and catarrh.

It is very useful to deal with digestive problems, including nausea, flatulence and hiccups as it relaxes the stomach muscles.

The essential oil, menthol, has analgesic, local anaesthetic and counterirritant properties. Menthol also found application in the preparation of toothpaste and mouth refresheners.

On the skin, when used as cream or lotion, it may help relieve itchingof pruritis, dermatitis, and hives.

Spearmint oil is used as blended massage oil and in the aromatic therapy to help relieve headaches, stress, fatigue, and nervous conditions and to relieve itching.

When take in limits, spearmint tea can be used safely in pregnancy. In women, it helps reduce unwanted hairs through its anti-androgenic properties.

A WORD OF CAUTION

Some individuals are highly sensitive to mint and may experience allergic reactions when touching or consuming the herb. While these reactions are usually mild (skin rash, throat irritation, headache, or dizziness) it is still best to avoid this herb if you do suffer from the allergy and find other natural remedies for your various health concerns.

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Sesame Seeds

Sesame Seeds are a high energy food that help to provide optimum health and wellness. They are an excellent source of high quality protein which is most beneficial for growth, especially in children.

Sesame seeds are also high in minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, selenium, and copper. In fact, did you know that just a ¼ cup of sesame seeds provides MORE calcium than 1 cup of milk? And calcium is not only vital to bone strength, it is also known to help ease the affects of migraines, aid in weight loss, and provide relief from PMS. The copper in sesame seeds offers anti-inflammatory benefits which can help to relieve swelling in auto-immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Sesame seeds are rich in Vitamin E, Folic acid and B-complex vitamins such as niacin which enhances GABA activity in the brain, reduces anxiety, and provides for a better night’s sleep. They also contain a special element called “sesame-lignin”, a potent antioxidant, which is an active free-radical scavenger that can also aid in lowering cholesterol and preventing high blood pressure.

Sesame seeds have the unique ability to nourish the nervous system, strengthen hormone production, support the cardiovascular system, benefit the digestive system, and reduce fatigue. The high Vitamin E content in sesame seeds has been highly prized as an ancient beauty treatment for healthy skin, hair, and nails.

Sesame seeds can be sprinkled on salads, vegetables or rice, mixed with dates or honey, or used as a delicious spread known as tahini. Tahini (sesame butter) is creamy, rich, and satisfying and can be used as a savory base to salad dressings, dips, sauces or hummus, or used as a sweet treat when mixed with honey and nuts.

HEALTH BENEFITS

1. Full of Great Protein – Sesame seeds are full of high quality protein. Protein makes up 20 percent of the seed with 4.7 grams of protein per ounce.

2. Helps Prevent Diabetes – Sesame seeds contain magnesium and other nutrients. Sesame oil has been shown to prevent diabetes, and it can also improve plasma glucose in hypersensitive diabetics.

 3. Reduces Blood Pressure – The same study above reveals how sesame oil lowers blood pressure in diabetics. Sesame seeds are full of magnesium – a key nutrient known to help lower blood pressure.

4. Lowers Cholesterol – Sesame helps lower cholesterol levels, because it contains phytosterols that block cholesterol production. Black sesame seeds are especially high in phytosterols.

5. Good for Digestion – The high fiber content of sesame seeds helps the intestines with elimination.

6. For Healthy Skin – The high zinc content helps produce collagen, giving skin more elasticity and helping repair damaged body tissues. Regular use of sesame oil can reduce skin cancer.

7. Boosts Heart Health – Sesame seed oil can help heart health by preventing atherosclerotic lesions with the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound known as sesamol.

8. Prevents Cancer – Sesame seeds contain anti-cancer compounds including phytic acid, magnesium, and phytosterols. Sesame seeds have the highest phytosterol content of all seeds and nuts.

9. Helps Lessen Anxiety – Sesame seeds contain the stress-relieving minerals magnesium and calcium. Sesame also contains the calming vitamins thiamin and tryptophan that help produce serotonin, which reduces pain, assists moods, and helps you sleep deeply.

10. Alleviates Anemia – Black sesame seeds are particularly rich in iron. They’re highly recommended for those with anemia and weakness.

11. Protects from Radiation Damage to DNA – Sesamol in sesame seeds and sesame oil has been shown to protect against DNA damage caused by radiation.

12. Relieves Arthritis – The high copper content in sesame seeds prevents and relieves arthritis, and strengthens bones, joints and blood vessels.

13. Protects Your Liver from Alcohol – Sesame helps protect you from alcohol’s impact on your liver, helping you maintain healthy liver function.

14. Prevents Wrinkles – Sesame seed oil prevents harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun from damaging your skin, preventing the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation.

15. Encourages Bone Health and Prevents Osteoporosis – A handful of sesame seeds contains more calcium than a glass of milk. The high zinc content of sesame also boosts bone mineral density.

16. Help Your Baby’s Health – A sesame oil massage improves growth and improves sleep. Rashes on a baby’s skin - especially where the diaper is - can be protected with by rubbing sesame seed oil on the skin. As a bonus, sesame also helps reverse dry skin.

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SAGE

SAGE is a legendary herb well known for its phenomenal health promoting and disease-preventing properties. It is one of the top antioxidant herbs and can provide powerful protection from degenerative diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, macular degeneration, inflammatory bowel disease, osteoporosis, prostatitis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Sage contains rosmarinic acid which is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that can help reduce swelling and inflammation and is considered highly beneficial for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, bursitis, asthma, and atherosclerosis.

 

Sage has anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties and is an excellent natural remedy for fungal, viral, and bacterial infections. It also can provide relief from acidity and aid in the digestion of fatty and hard-to-digest foods.

 

Sage is known as the “thinker’s herb” as has an outstanding ability to enhance attention span, support concentration, and improve the senses as well as provide support when dealing with grief and depression. It can also help regulate the menstrual cycle and help to prevent excessive sweating in women after menopause.

Sage can neutralize free radicals and offer significant anti-aging and longevity benefits. It also contains antiseptic properties and is widely found in natural creams, lotions, and salves to speed the healing of cuts and wounds and clear up most skin diseases and infections.

Sage has a peppery flavor and is usually used to make stuffing. It can also be added to soups, potatoes, squash, tomato sauce, salads, and guacamole.

It can also be taken as a tea, capsule, or tincture for additional benefits. Sage is a wise, healing, and powerful herb that is a true gift and should not be missed.

 

HEALTH BENEFITS

Cognitive Boost: Research has shown that even small amounts of sage, whether smelled or consumed, can increase recall abilities and memory retention in subjects. The brain activity also demonstrates increased concentration and focus on a chosen topic, which means that for young people in school or for those in challenging, intellectually demanding careers, adding a bit of sage to your diet may be a subtle, but effective brain booster.

Inflammation Issues: Chewing on sage leaves is not always the most pleasant remedy, as the flavor can be quite intense, but this may be the most effective way to get the organic compounds acting in your system the fastest. Creating a tincture or steeping leaves can also do the trick, but if you suffer from inflammatory issues, particularly in the respiratory or gastrointestinal tracts, you can eliminate that inflammation with this sage brew. The anti-inflammatory qualities of sage extend to health issues such as arthritis and gout, as well as general inflammation of the cardiovascular system, which can result in heart disease and increased blood pressure. The flavonoids and phenolic compounds found in sage are responsible for these beneficial effects.

Antioxidant Impact: Chronic conditions and degenerative diseases can be some of the most debilitating and dangerous health concerns that you face in your life. Many of these health issues are caused by free radicals, the dangerous by products of cellular metabolism that attack healthy cells, causing apoptosis or mutation. Antioxidant compounds found in sage, such as rosmarinic acid, luteolin, and apigenin, can all work to neutralize free radicals and prevent them from creating oxidative stress in the heart, organ systems, skin, joints, muscles, and even the brain.

Cognitive Disorders: As mentioned above, sage does have the ability to stimulate brain function to improve memory and concentration; however, it also works to eliminate cognitive disorders that may arise, including Alzheimer’s and dementia. Although research into these applications is still in the relatively early stages, it is exciting to see real strides being taken with herbal alternatives to pharmaceutical treatment. The neural pathways stimulated by the extracts and essential oils of sage can keep the mind fresh and youthful well into your older ages.

Immune System Strength: There are some antimicrobial properties that have been identified in sage, and while sage is usually consumed in relatively small quantities, you can create a topical application of sage (salve or tincture) and use it to prevent bacterial and viral infections that attack the body through the skin. We often think of illness entering through our nose or mouth, but the skin can also be compromised and be used as a gateway for foreign agents. A topical cream or antibacterial routine that includes sage could be an extra line of defense against that sort of illness vector.

Bone Strength: One of the most overlooked benefits of sage is actually its superior level of vitamin K, an essential vitamin for the body that isn’t found in many common foods. Vitamin K is a crucial element in developing bone density and ensuring the integrity of our bones as we age. If you suffer from early signs of osteoporosis or have lived a rather nutrient-poor, sedentary lifestyle, your bone health is likely low. Adding sage leaves to your diet can increase your vitamin K levels significantly, as a single service has 27% of your daily recommended intake.

Skin Conditions: A topical salve can be created using sage leaves or a tincture of the plant that has been shown to be effective against certain skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne. These unsightly blemishes can be quickly soothed and their appearance can be reduced gradually if you regularly apply sage extracts and salves to the inflamed or affected area.

Diabetes Management: There may be some debate about the efficacy of sage on certain health conditions explained above, but when it comes to diabetes, there is widespread agreement. Sage contains certain extracts and chemicals that mimic the drugs typically prescribed for managing diabetes. Sage appears to regulate and inhibit the release of stored glucose in the liver, preventing major fluctuations of blood sugar, which can help to prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes, or at least manage the condition if it has already manifested.

 

Digestion: The rosmarinic acid found in sage acts as an anti-inflammatory agent in many parts of the body, even in the stomach, where it prevents gastric spasms and can significantly lower the occurrence of diarrhea and gastritis for patients suffering from the uncomfortable and embarrassing conditions. Adding sage to your meals can get your entire digestive process back on track and reduce inflammation throughout the gut.

 
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Rosemary

ROSEMARY has had a reputation for miracles for thousands of years. It has been used as an antiseptic, antidepressant, analgesic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, aphrodisiac, and expectorant. Rosemary has earned praise for alleviating nerve-related conditions, boosting the immune system, fighting off bacterial and viral infections, aiding respiratory ailments, strengthening digestion, and improving circulation.

Rosemary contains both caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid which act as a powerful anti-inflammatory making it ideal for those who suffer from auto-immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia. It also contains properties and volatile oils that work similarly to anti-histamines and make it very useful to treat conditions such as asthma and chronic migraines.

Rosemary’s diuretic properties have been known to help relieve gout, edema, and kidney stones. Rosemary can stimulate memory, improve concentration, and help overcome mental fatigue by increasing the blood flow to the head and brain. It is also known to alleviate depression and sadness and can decrease anxiety brought on by stress.

Rosemary oil is often added to hair and skin care products due to its ability to cleanse and nourish the scalp and heal and repair the skin. Essential oil of rosemary can also be used through a steam vaporizer to disinfect the air in your home &/or office which is especially beneficial during cold and flu season. A high-quality premium essential oil of rosemary can be found by clicking here: 

www.revive-eo.com. If you use this, be sure to contact me FIRST so I can give you a code to get a discount. Thank you! 

Fresh or dried rosemary can also be taken as a tea, or simply added to salads, soups, or any of your home-cooked meals. It is a potent and effective herb that can provide a myriad of health benefits.

HEALTH BENEFITS

MEMORY BOOSTER:

One of the earliest reported or documented uses of rosemary for health reasons was as a cognitive stimulant. It was said to improve memory and help to increase intelligence and focus. While many of those claims are still being researched and studied, its effects on the brain do indicate an increase in memory retention, which is never a bad thing; keeping your mind quick will help to keep it young. In that same vein, rosemary has been linked to stimulating cognitive activity in the elderly, as well as those suffering from more acute cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. This is an exciting alternative to more modern treatment for these as-yet uncured conditions.

 MOOD AND STRESS:

The aroma of rosemary alone has been linked to improving mood, clearing the mind, and relieving stress in those with chronic anxiety or stress hormone imbalances. When the plant is consumed or applied topically in some sort of salve of the leaves, it can have similar effects.

IMMUNE SYSTEM STRENGTH:

The active components in rosemary are antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic in nature. This represents a three-pronged attack against many different diseases and pathogens that could threaten the immune system or damage the integrity of the body. Antioxidant compounds form a secondary line of defense behind the body’s own immune system, and rosemary contains a significant amount of those powerful compounds, including rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, betulic acid, and carnosol.

ANTIBACTERIAL POTENTIAL:

While the general immune-boosting qualities of rosemary are impressive enough, it is specifically powerful against bacterial infections, particularly those in the stomach. H. pylori bacteria is a common and very dangerous pathogen that can cause stomach ulcers, but rosemary has been shown to prevent its growth when consumed. Similarly, rosemary is linked to preventing Staph infections, which kill thousands of people each year.

STOMACH SOOTHER:

Rosemary has traditionally been used by dozens of cultures as a natural remedy for upset stomachs, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, and everything in between. Its anti-inflammatory and stimulant effects are largely the cause of these effects, so adding rosemary to your weekly diet can quickly help you regulate your bowel movements and your gastrointestinal system.

BREATH FRESHENER:

As a natural antibacterial agent, rosemary works as a wonderful breath freshener that also improves your oral health. Steep rosemary leaves in a glass of hot water and then gargle or swish the water in your mouth to eliminate bacteria and give you naturally fresh and clean breath all night!

STIMULATE BLOOD FLOW:

Rosemary acts as a stimulant for the body and boosts the production of red blood cells and blood flow. This helps to oxygenate vital organ systems and areas of the body, ensuring that the metabolic activities in those areas are running smoothly, in addition to stimulating the movement of nutrients to cells that require repair.

PAIN RELIEF:

As an analgesic substance, rosemary has been topically applied in a paste or salve for hundreds of years to the affected area of the pain. When consumed orally, rosemary acts as a pain reliever for harder-to-reach spots, such as headaches and pain from a condition. In fact, one of the most popular uses of rosemary is for the treatment of migraines. Applying a decoction to the temples, or simply smelling the aroma of rosemary has been linked to reducing the severity of migraine symptoms.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY QUALITIES:

Perhaps the most important function of rosemary is as an anti-inflammatory agent in the body. Carnosol and Carnosic acid are two powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds found in rosemary that have been linked to reducing inflammation of muscles, blood vessels, and joints. This makes rosemary an effective treatment for many things, including blood pressure, gout, arthritis, and injuries sustained during physical exertion or surgery. Rosemary is effective in oral or topical form for these anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, the reduction in inflammation in the cardiovascular system can help to boost heart health and prevent atherosclerosis from appearing.

DETOXIFY THE BODY:

Rosemary is slightly diuretic in nature, meaning that it can help flush out toxins more efficiently during urination.

Furthermore, by increasing the rate at which water leaves the body, it can also help push out pathogens, salts, toxins, and even excess fat when consumed regularly (or when you’re feeling particularly “toxified”). In terms of the particular organ it benefits, rosemary has been linked to lower levels of cirrhosis and a faster healing time of the liver, which is one of the slowest organs to heal.

SKIN HEALTH: The anti-aging properties of rosemary are quite well known. Although more commonly thought of in the essential oil form, the leaves of rosemary can also affect the skin internally or topically and have been shown to improve the youthful quality of the skin, while also healing blemishes and increasing the natural shine and hydrated appearance of your body’s largest organ.

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