17 Reasons Why You Need a Mango Every Day

by Mae Chan
PreventDisease.com

Mangoes may very well be the king of all fruits. They fight cancer, alkalize the body, aid in weight loss, regulate diabetes, help digestion, clean your skin, and make the perfect snack. Here are 17 healthy reasons why you should be eating a mango every day.

Nutrition chart
One cup of mangoes (225 gms contain) contains the following percentages that apply to daily value.
105 calories
76 percent vitamin C (antioxidant and immune booster)
25 percent vitamin A (antioxidant and vision)
11 percent vitamin B6 plus other B vitamins (hormone production in brain and heart disease prevention)
9 percent healthy probiotic fibre
9 percent copper (copper is a co-factor for many vital enzymes plus production of red blood cells)
7 percent potassium (to balance out our high sodium intake)
4 percent magnesium

1. Fights cancer
Antioxidants like quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat present in mango protect the body against colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers.

2. Keeps cholesterol in check
Mango has high level of vitamin C, pectin and fibres that help to lower serum cholesterol levels. Fresh mango is a rich source of potassium, which is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps to control heart rate and blood pressure.

3. Skin cleanser
Mangoes help you unclog your pores and add freshness to the face. Mangoes are applicable to any skin type. They help clear clogged pores that cause acne. Just slice a mango into thin pieces and keep them on your face for 10 to 15 minutes and then take bath or wash your face and see the results.

4. Alkalizes the body
According to natural health school.com, mango is rich in tartaric acid, malic acid and traces of citric acid that primarily help in maintaining the alkali reserve of the body.

5. Weight loss
Mango has a lot of vitamins and nutrients that help the body feel fuller. Also, the fibrous fruit boosts the digestive function of the body by burning additional calories, helping in weight loss.

6. Regulates diabetes
Not only the fruit but the leaves of mangoes are healthy too. For people suffering from diabetes, just boil 5-6 mango leaves in a vessel, soak it through night and drink the filtered decoction in the morning. This is helps in regulating your insulin levels.
Mango has a low glycemic index (41-60) so going a little overboard will not increase your sugar levels.

7. Aphrodisiac
Mango has aphrodisiac qualities and is also called the ‘love fruit’. Mangoes increase the virility in men. Vitamin E, which is abundantly present in mangoes, helps to regulate sex hormones and boosts sex drive.

8. Eye care
Did you know that mango is rich in vitamin A. One cup of sliced mangoes equals 25% intake of your daily need of vitamin A. Mangoes help in promoting good eye sight, fights dry eyes and also prevent night blindness.

9. Helps in digestion
Mango contains enzymes that help in breaking down protein. The fibrous nature of mango helps in digestion and elimination. It is is rich in pre-biotic dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals.

10. Heat stroke
When the sun is bogging you down this summer, just chop of a mango in a juicer; add a little water and a tbsp of sugar free or honey. This juice will instantly cool you down and prevent heat stroke.

11. Strengthens your immune
The deadly combination of vitamin C, vitamin A and 25 different kinds of carotenoids keep your immune system healthy.

12. Body scrub
Make a paste of mashed mango, honey and milk and use as a body scrub, you will feel that your skin is tender and smooth.

13. Aids concentration and memory
Studying for exams? This fruit is rich in glutamine acid– an important protein for concentration and memory. Feed mangoes to children who find it difficult to concentrate on studies.

14. High iron for women
Mango is rich in iron, hence it is a great natural solution for people suffering from anemia. Menopausal and pregnant women can indulge in mangoes as this will increase their iron levels and calcium at the same time.

15. Reduces Kidney Stones 
In Chinese medicine, mangoes are considered sweet and sour with a cooling energy also capable of reducing the risk of kidney stone formation.

16. Perfect Snack
Instead of snacking on unhealthy chips and cookies, why not feast on slices of mangoes instead. They are perhaps one of the tastiest dehydrated fruits of all.

17. Stomach Tonic 
Before going to bed put some 10 or 15 mango leaves in warm water and close it with lid. The next day morning filter the water and drink it in empty stomach. Do this regularly.

Mae Chan holds degrees in both physiology and nutritional sciences. She is also blogger and and technology enthusiast with a passion for disseminating information about health.
Mango Effective in Preventing Colon and Breast Cancer

Source: http://healthimpactnews.com/2013/17-reasons-why-you-need-a-mango-every-day/

Read the full article here: http://preventdisease.com/news/13/051713_17-Reasons-Why-You-Need-a-Mango-Every-Day.shtml

Drink Lemon Water Instead Of Pills If You Have One Of These 15 Problems

The consumption of lemon water in the morning on an empty stomach provides various health benefits


Namely, this amazing drink is high in antioxidants, protein, vitamins B and C, phosphorus, volatile oils, potassium, flavonoids, and carbohydrates. It strengthens the immune system and has potent antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Since it is rich in magnesium, vitamins, pectin, calcium, bioflavonoids, limonene, and citric acid, lemon water effectively fights infections as well.
Therefore, the consumption of lemon water in the morning detoxifies the system, helps digestion, supports weight loss, prevents hunger cravings, and creates an alkaline environment to balance the pH levels in the body.
By drinking it every morning, you can treat the following 15 health issues:
1.Removal and prevention of Kidney Stones
Lemons contain potassium which raises the levels of citrate in the urine and thus prevents the formation of oxalate.
2. Soothes Sore Muscles after Exercise
Drinking lemon juice after an exhausting workout relieves the pain in the muscles.
3. Suppression of Appetite and Weight Loss
Lemons contain vitamins and enzymes which regulate blood sugar and help to balance a healthy weight. This fruit also involves pectin which prevents food cravings. Additionally, lemon juice helps digestion and supports the production of bile, which decomposes the food during digestion.
4. Flu and Cold Remedy
Lemons are abundant in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system, and have strong antibacterial and antiviral properties.
5. Relieves Joint Pain and Swelling
This drink reduces the amount of uric acid in joints, which is one of the greatest causes of inflammation (especially in the case of arthritis).
6. Boosts the immune system
Lemon water stimulates the lymphatic system, which works simultaneously with the immune system to eliminate pathogens from the body.
7. Reduces Inflammation
Lemons neutralize acidity, which is the major cause of tissue inflammation.
8. Gall Bladder stones
The consumption of lemon water relieves the pain caused by gall bladder stones.
9. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
It has been reported that the consumption of lemon water for 2 weeks can replace the constant need for candy.
10. Helps with Food-Borne Illnesses
Lemon water effectively prevents food poisoning, can be very useful during traveling, and alleviates the pain from compressed vertebrae.
11. Helps with Colitis
Colitis occurs in the case of an imbalance of alkaline/acid levels in the body. The consumption of a glass of this drink daily reduces acidity in the body and balances the ph levels.
12. Treats Fibromyalgia
The combination of lemon water and yoga exercises can efficiently reduce exhaustion due to fibromyalgia.
13. Acne
Lemon water helps to metabolize the acidic environment in the body and thus prevents the appearance of acne. You can also rub some lemon juice on the problematic places on the face to treat acne.
14. Reduces Alcohol cravings
The need for alcohol can be successfully reduced with the help of lemon juice.
15. Stronger Finger Nails
This drink removes the white spots and strengthens the nails.
Source/Reference: www.healthandlovepage.comOther included sources linked in Health and Love Page’s article: www.myhealthybook.com

10 Natural Antibiotics That Our Ancestors Used Instead Of Pills

Source: Diet of Life

Many “super bacteria” have appeared in the recent years due to the excessive usage of antibiotics either as shots or as pills.

What has really happened?

Well, bacteria have become antibiotic resistant and evolve faster than scientists are able to find effective medicines against them. It is estimated that in the future bacteria will be at the top of the food chain.
The antibiotics that are nowadays sold in pharmacies have been developed in the 1940s. Before that, people used only natural medicines i.e. unprocessed foods and tried herbs which helped them in the fight against viral infections and common diseases. The global holistic medicine still makes use of many of these natural antibiotics.
Our forefathers used organic “antibiotics” which they picked up directly from Mother Nature (not over-the-counter) to fight infections.

These are some of those natural antibiotics:

1. Honey

Honey is still considered to be one of the most effective natural antibiotics in the world, primarily due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Honey contains enzymes that release hydrogen peroxide. That process provides support to the organism in the fight against an infection and prevents its spreading. Honey cleans the blood from toxins and helps the liver function efficiently. It also has a positive effect on the digestive tract.
If you want to boost your immunity, mix honey with cinnamon to increase the number of white blood cells. Best choice is always the organic, raw (unprocessed) honey, because in the process of pasteurization it loses part of its antioxidant power.

2. Garlic

This vegetable has incredible healing powers. Garlic is very effective in the fight against “winter infections” such as the flu because it kills the causal bacteria before they start to have negative effects on the body.

Garlic contains allicin which fights bacteria, parasites and other microorganisms. Garlic cannot harm your health in any possible way.

3. Apple cider vinegar

ACV possesses powerful antibiotic and antiseptic properties and helps in the natural alkalization of the body which helps in decreasing cholesterol, and thus decreasing the risk of cancer.
Apple cider vinegar can also be used for disinfection and sterilization.

4. Turmeric

Besides for its beautiful yellow-orange color and its extraordinary taste, turmeric is also known for its amazing benefits for our health.
This spice is great for killing bacteria. For optimal results, the best is to combine turmeric with honey and apply this mixture on infected places.

5. Grapefruit seed extract

A recently published study found that grapefruit seed extract may kill up to 800 types of viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites.
Grapefruit seed extract contains many antioxidants, boosts the immune system, and alkalizes the organism in a natural way. It is also a good help for digestion and stimulation of the intestinal flora

    6. Oregano and oregano oil

      You have probably used oregano to spice up many fares, pasta and French fries especially, without even knowing how beneficial it is for your health.

Other than its antibacterial properties, oregano helps with digestion and promotion of weight loss.
Carvacrol, oil that is a part of oregano, is very helpful in the fight against infective bacteria. In addition, it is very efficient against digestive infections and is definitely more than just a spice!

    7. Cabbage

    

     Cabbage contains sulfur compounds, which have a good part in the fight against cancer.

Many people are familiar with the fact that cabbage is rich in vitamin C. Just one cup of cabbage contains up to 75% of the daily recommended dose of vitamin C.
Due to its antibacterial properties, consuming cabbage juice sweetened with honey is a great way to improve your digestion, prevent diseases and maintain your ideal body weight.

    8. Coconut oil

 

      The list of benefits of coconut oil is endless. Besides having antifungal and antimicrobial properties, it also contains some antioxidants that are rarely found in other fruits of the nature.

Use coconut oil to improve your immune system, maintain an ideal level of cholesterol and sugar in your blood and strengthen the activity of the brain. Coconut oil is safe for both internal and topical usage.
Add 1 tbsp. of coconut oil in your morning coffee and boost your energy and clear up your head for the day that follows.

9. Colloidal silver

Colloidal silver is a natural antibiotic that has been in use for many years. Colloidal silver should be used from time to time because great amount of silver in your organism may be certainly toxic.
However, colloidal silver inactivates the enzymes necessary for multiplication of bacteria and viruses, which makes it a great antibiotic.

10. Fermentedfoods                                                                                                         Fermented foods such as probiotic yogurts, kefir, lactobacillus cultures and pickles are great food for the intestinal flora as well.

Source:http://www.dietoflife.com/10-natural-antibiotics-that-our-ancestors-used-instead-of-pills/

101 Essential Oil Uses & Benefits

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years in various cultures for medicinal and health purposes. Essential oil uses range from aromatherapy, household cleaning products, personal beauty care and natural medicine treatments.
The particles in essential oils come from distilling or extracting the different parts of plants, including the flowers, leaves, bark, roots, resin and peels. In ancient times, Jews and Egyptians made essential oils by soaking the plants in oil and then filtering the oil through a linen bag.
Essential oil benefits come from their antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These healing oils are rapidly growing in popularity because they act as natural medicine without any side effects. Ready to harness the power of the world’s most proven therapeutic compounds? Then let’s talk about 101 ways to use these amazing essential oils.

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Essential Oil Uses for Cleaning and Home

1. All-purpose cleaner: Add three drops each of lemon oil and tea tree oil to a few ounces of warm water, then spray countertops to naturally disinfect.
2. Natural mosquito repellent: Combine one drop each of lemongrass oil, citronella oil and eucalyptus oil with one teaspoon of coconut oil to make natural bug spray and rub on exposed skin. Reapply as needed.
3. Sports gear: If your kids play sports, add two drops each of tea tree oil and lemon essential oil to one quart of warm water; next add four tablespoons of baking soda and mix. Use to clean ripe (!) jerseys, cleats and sports gear.
4. Clean air: Diffuse cinnamon essential oil in the air and enjoy its anti-microbial properties.
5. Homemade peppermint patties: Use peppermint oil, coconut oil, dark chocolate and raw honey to make real peppermint treats.
6. Washing machine: Add 10-20 drops of your favorite scent per load.
7. Vacuum cleaner: Add 5-10 drops of your favorite oil in your vacuum bag or dust container.
8. Homemade sunscreen: Mix coconut oil, zinc oxide, shea butter, helichrysum oil and lavender essential oil, then store in a squeeze bottle to make homemade toxic-free sunscreen.
9. Eliminate shower curtain scum: Using a 16-ounce spray bottle, use four drops of eucalyptus essential oil and four drops of tea tree oil (melaleuca) with warm water; spray onto your shower for natural mold killing action.
10. Clean burnt pans: Use a few drops of lemon oil and some boiling water to help remove burnt food from pots and pans.
11. Wonderful smelling home: Diffuse clove, rosemary and orange essential oils when guests come over, and they will talk about how amazing your house smells.
12. Carpet cleaner: Mix 20 drops of tea tree oil with Borax for homemade carpet powder.
13. Kill pests: Spray orange essential oil and clove oil to kill pests on contact.
14. Lavender cake: Mix coconut flour, raw honey, organic eggs and lavender essential oil and bake at 350 degrees.
15. Eliminate mold: Add tea tree oil to your diffuser to kill mold and other pathogens in the air.
16. Christmas scent: Add a drop of pine, sandalwood or cedarwood oil on a fire log about 30 minutes before burning.
17. Reduce anxiety: Diffuse lavender essential oil around your home to reduce feelings of stress and tension.
18. Spiritual enlightenment: Diffuse frankincense essential oil while praying, meditating or reading to increase spiritual awareness.
19. Bathtub scrub: Mix one-half cup of baking soda, one-half cup of vinegar and five drops of bergamot or lime oil; use as a scrub for a sink or bathtub.
20. Freshen trash can: Put a cotton ball with two drops each of lemon oil and tea tree oil at the bottom of the trashcan to help decrease the odor and detoxify.
21. Wash produce: To clean fruit and vegetables, add two drops of lemon oil to a large bowl of water then wash.
22. Clean kitchen smell: Add a few drops of clove, cinnamon or citrus essential oil to a simmering pan of water to get rid of cooking odors.
23. Bathroom freshener: Put a cotton ball soaked in lime or lemon oil behind the toilet for a bathroom refresher.
24. Purify fridge: To freshen up the fridge or freezer when cleaning, add a few drops of lime, grapefruit or bergamot oil to the rinsing water.
25. Mint tea: Use 1-2 drops of peppermint essential oil in your favorite tea for a hint of mint.
26. Eliminate smoke: To remove cigarette smoke, put four drops of rosemary, tea tree and eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle and spray around the house.
27. Detoxify the air: Add peppermint and eucalyptus oil to a gallon of paint to dispel fumes.
28. Get rid of shoe smell: To remove the smell from shoes, add a few drops of tea tree oil and lemon oil to freshen them up.
29. Bridal shower gift: For a cute bridal shower gift, create a “love potion” with essential oils. Use 20 drops of sandalwood, and four drops of cocoa, vanilla and rose oil to unscented lotion.
30. Baby shower gift: Give a wall diffuser with a lavender scent to calm the mom and baby.
31. Flavored lemon water: Use 2-3 drops of lemon oil in water for a delicious citrus flavor.
32. Cleaner dishes: Add a few drops of lemon oil to the dishwasher before washing for a spot-free rinse.
33. Physician kit: Makeover your medicine cabinet and create a family physician kit with essential oils of lavender, lemon, peppermint, tea tree, oregano and frankincense.

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    Essential Oil Uses For Spa and Relaxation

34. Improve sleep: Lavender oil can alleviate insomnia. Sprinkle a few drops on your pillow to help you fall asleep.
35. Body butter lotion: Mix coconut oil, shea butter, magnesium oil and essential oils for moisturizing body lotion.
36. Homemade lip balm: Combine coconut oil, beeswax and lavender oil for an amazing healing balm for chapped lips.
37. Relieve tension: Help to relieve anxiety by using a single drop of lavender oil on your hands, rub together, and cup your hands to your nose and let the smell flood your senses.
38. Massage therapy: Use a few drops of cedarwood or lavender oil, mixed with an unscented lotion during a relaxation massage.
39. Immediate relaxation: Apply 2-4 drops of chamomile, lavender and peppermint essential oil to your temples for a cooling effect and immediate relaxation.
40. Detox bath: Mix lavender oil, epsom salts and sea salt to a warm bath to cleanse and rejuvenate the body.
41. Sauna therapy: Add two drops of your favorite essential oil into two cups of water in a sauna.
42. Calm upset child: Help sooth and calm children by adding lavender or chamomile to their stuffed animals.
43. Foot bath: Add a few drops of lemon or eucalyptus oil to a large bowl of warm water to help soothe the feet.
44. Improve depression: To boost mood and relieve depression, add rose oil to baths, inhalations and diffusers to improve mood.
45. Yoga and Pilates: To relax during yoga or meditation, inhale lavender or sandalwood before class. Also, mix clove and citrus essential oil to clean yoga mats.
46. Mint chocolate cocoa: Add 2-3 drops of peppermint oil to hot cocoa for instant minty chocolate!

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Essential Oil Uses for Skin and Beauty

47. Reduce cellulite: Mix five drops of grapefruit essential oil with two teaspoons of coconut oil and massage into dimpled areas.
48. Natural perfume: Use 1-2 drops of jasmine essential oil on your wrist as a fresh natural fragrance. Lavender and vanilla also agree with most women, while cypress and clove work well for men’s cologne.
49. Acne face wash: To get rid of acne, make a homemade face wash by mixing tea tree oil (melaleuca) with raw honey and rub on your face. Then rinse off with water.
50. Freshen breath: Use a drop of peppermint essential oil for a natural way to freshen breath.
51. Homemade shampoo: To make homemade shampoo, mix lavender oil, rosemary oil, aloe vera gel and coconut milk. Use as you would regular shampoo. It lasts 2-4 weeks.
52. Homemade deodorant: Combine coconut oil, beeswax and your favorite essential oils like cedarwood and clove oil for men and lavender and tea tree oil for women.
53. Sugar scrub: Mix a few drops of an essential oil with almond oil and rock salt or sugar to make your own salt or sugar scrub.
54. Homemade toothpaste: Combine sea salt, baking soda, coconut oil and xylitol with peppermint essential oil to make homemade remineralizing toothpaste. Then brush.
55. Body spray: Add 5-10 drops to four ounces of water and use as a fragrant body spray.
56. Itchy scalp: Add lavender, cedarwood or basil essential oil to shampoo to reduce itching.
57. Thicken hair: Add rosemary to shampoo to naturally thicken hair and increase volume.
58. Strengthen nails: Mix 10 drops of frankincense, myrrh and lemon essential oils into two tablespoons of vitamin E oil, then rub on cuticles.
59. Reduce wrinkles: Mix 3-5 drops of sandalwood, geranium, lavender and frankincense essential oils with an unscented lotion and apply to face. Avoid applying to eyes.
60. Teeth whitener: Combine lemon essential oil, coconut oil and fresh strawberries, then rub on your teeth. Rinse after two minutes.
61. Cure dandruff: Mix five drops of rosemary and lavender essential oils with three tablespoons of unscented oil. Massage into your scalp and leave on for 10 minutes. Shampoo mixture out.
62. Reduce stretch marks: Mix five drops of frankincense, myrrh and grapefruit essential oils with coconut oil and apply to stretch marks.
63. Facial scrub: Mix one-fourth cup yogurt, one-fourth cup cornmeal, and five drops of patchouli, grapefruit and lavender oil. Apply to face and wash off.
64. Natural skin toner: Mix eight ounces of water with two drops of lavender, geranium and frankincense.
65. Deep hair conditioner: Mix 15 drops of rosewood with five drops of sandalwood and lavender into unscented oil. Place mixture in a small plastic bag and dunk into warm water to heat up. Apply to hair and wrap for 20 minutes. Shampoo as usual.
66. Reduce age spots: Put on frankincense essential oil three times daily directly on skin to improve sun spots and age spots.
67. For oily hair: Mix 10 drops of ylang ylang, lime and rosemary oil with two ounces of unscented oil. Massage it scalp 2-3 times per week. Wash out as usual.
68. Heal dry cracked feet: Add three drops of lavender oil to two tablespoons of coconut oil. Apply to the feet at night and put on some socks.
69. Relieve nausea: Breathe in peppermint oil through your nose to alleviate nausea, and also apply to your neck and upper chest. Ginger and lavender may also help.

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Essential Oil Remedies and Natural Medicine

70. Migraine headache relief: Try combining a few drops of lavender oil and peppermint oil and apply to temples to help with headaches and migraines.
71. Reduce cough or sinusitis: Eucalyptus oil is known for its powerful ability to fight coughs and open airways. Add a few drops into steaming hot water or diffuser. Inhale to help clear nasal passage.
72. Repair broken bones: To support healing of broken bones, apply helichrysum, fir and cypress essential oils.
73. Heal burns: Mix lavender oil with aloe vera to treat burns.
74. Soothe bug bites: Use lavender oil for bug bites and stings.
75. Improve digestion; Take ginger oil, peppermint oil and fennel essential oil to support digestion and healing leaky gut.
76. Bronchitis and asthma remedy: Make a homemade vapor rub by combining eucalyptus, peppermint and coconut oil. Rub on your chest and neck.
77. Treat bruises; Use essential oils as a hot compress to treat bruises or other wounds. Add five drops of lavender and five drops of frankincense to four ounces of hot water and soak. Apply to affected area.
78. Improve concentration: Inhale bergamot, grapefruit or peppermint oil to increase concentration during the day.
79. Sore feet soak: Add 10 drops of peppermint oil with a tablespoon of Epson salt and add to a warm-water foot bath.
80. Reduce teeth grinding: Massage 1-3 drops of lavender on the bottom of the feet and behind ears before bed.
81. Relieve PMS: Mix two drops of sage, basil and rosemary, then apply to a warm, moist hand towel and apply to abdomen.
82. Eczema and psoriasis cream: To treat eczema, psoriasis or red dry skin, apply a mixture of lavender essential oil with shea butter.
83. Improve circulation: Add 8-10 drops of grapefruit essential oil to warm bath water.
84. Relieve hangover symptoms: Add six drops each of juniper berry, cedarwood, grapefruit, lavender, rosemary and lemon oil into a warm bath.
85. Curb food cravings: Inhale peppermint and cinnamon oil to reduce your appetite and balance blood sugar.
86. Energize your workout: Inhale peppermint oil before a workout to reduce fatigue.
87. Reduce fever: Add 1-3 drops of eucalyptus, peppermint and lavender to a cool cloth and sponge the body.
88. Relieve motion sickness: Use peppermint, lavender and ginger oil to reduce motion sickness.
89. Arthritis relief: Mix two drops of wintergreen, cypress and lemongrass into an unscented lotion. Massage into affected areas.
90. Treat ringworm: Combine three drops of tea tree oil with coconut oil and massage over the affected area twice a day.
91. Head lice cure: Mix three drops of thyme, lavender and eucalyptus oil with unscented oil and apply to scalp. Cover head with a shower cap and leave on for 30 minutes. Shampoo out.
92. Heal blistered skin: Mix two drops of tea tree oil with two drops of unscented oil and apply to the blistered area up to five times per day.
93. Soothe a sunburn: Combine lavender or chamomile oil with one tablespoon of coconut oil and apply to the skin with a cotton ball to reduce swelling and pain.
94. Treat poison oak or poison ivy: Mix three drops of peppermint oil with unscented oil and apply to affected area.
95. Lose weight: Combine grapefruit, ginger and cinnamon oil and take as a supplement three times daily to support metabolism.
96. Boost immune system: Mix one drop of oregano oil with four drops of carrier oil and rub on the bottom of your feet before flying on a plane.
97. Achy muscle rub: Mix eucalyptus, wintergreen and cypress with an unscented lotion or coconut oil and apply to muscles.
98. Reduce morning sickness caused by pregnancy: Add a few drops of wild orange, lemon or ginger oil to a handkerchief and inhale.
99. Improve allergies: Rub frankincense and lavender on your palms and inhale deeply to relieve itchy eyes and throat.
100. Kick a cold fast: Take three drops of oil of oregano and frankincense three daily for one week.
101. Reduce back and neck pain: Combine peppermint, cypress and ginger oils with cayenne pepper and coconut oil for a homemade pain relieving muscle rub.

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Essential Oil Quality

This is one of the most vital things you must know about essential oils: Not all essential oils are created equal. In fact, most of them are worthless to your health and often synthetic. Therefore, when buying essential oils, make sure they are certified pure therapeutic grade. If you want to order the brand I trust and personally use, email oils@draxe.com to order or learn where to buy them.
To learn more about how to use essential oils, check out this free, in-depth Essential Oils Guide.

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Source: http://draxe.com/essential-oil-uses-benefits/

Ashwagandha Benefits Thyroid, Adrenals And Boosts Metabolism

Dr. Josh Axe, Dr.AxeThyroid Nation

If you are looking to restore your energy, look younger, and reverse disease, then ashwagandha may be the herb you’re looking for. As you’re about to see, ashwagandha benefits are impressive.

Ashwagandha, is an adaptogenic herb popular in Ayurvedic medicine that has shown incredible results for lowering cortisol and balancing thyroid hormones. In India, ashwagandha is known as the “strength of the stallion” since it has traditionally been used to strengthen the immune system after illness.
Ashwagandha has also been referred to as Indian ginseng because of it’s ability to enhance stamina and has extraordinary stress relieving properties.

There have been over 200 studies on Ashwagandha’s ability to:

• Improve thyroid function
• Support adrenal glands
• Assist with metabolism
• Reduce anxiety and depression
• Combat effects of stress
• Reduce brain cell degeneration
• Stabilize blood sugar
• Lower cholesterol
• Boost immunity

In this article, I’m going to discuss the benefits of ashwagandha in healing your thyroid, adrenal glands, improving mood, and supporting brain health.

Heal Your Thyroid

Ashwagandha is a superstar when it comes to improving the health of your thyroid. Scientists don’t completely understand how adaptogens work, but we know that they can be extremely effective especially at balancing hormones.
One of the most incredible aspects about adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha is that it can help people with both hypo and hyper thyroid issues.  It has been shown to support a sluggish thyroid for people diagnosed with Hashimotos, and has been shown to improve the health of those with an overactive thyroid or Graves disease.
Adaptogenic herbs work with your body, to bring you back into balance, whether your levels are high or low.
Animal studies reveal ashwagandha has a thyroid hormone balancing effect. In a 20 days study mice were give ashwagandha and their T3 and T4 levels were analyzed along with lipid peroxidation (anti-oxidant protection). Significant increases in serum T4 were found which indicates this herb has a stimulatory effect on a sluggish thyroid.
Also, ashwagandha may benefit thyroid function because it greatly reduced lipid peroxidation by promoting scavenging of free radicals that cause cellular damage. These results prove ashwagandha can be useful in treating hypothyroidism.
There are currently millions of people who struggle with thyroid problems (many who don’t even know it) and ashwagandha may just be the solution they are searching for.

Adrenal Rejuvenation

Ashwagandha has also been proven effective in supporting adrenal function helping you overcome adrenal fatigue and chronic stress.

Your adrenal glands are endocrine glands that are responsible for releasing hormones (cortisol and adrenaline) in response to stress on your body.
If your adrenals are overtaxed due to an overabundance of emotional, physical, and mental stress it can lead to a condition known as adrenal fatigue. As you can see from this chart below, if your adrenals become exhausted it can also disrupt your other hormones including progesterone which can cause infertility and lower DHEA which can cause you to age faster.
                                       
Medical studies have shown that ashwagandha improves cortisol levels, improves insulin sensitivity and naturally balances hormones. A case study reported a case of a 57-year-old woman with non-classical adrenal hyperplasia.  She was treated with ashwagandha for 6 months and after her treatment she saw improvements in 4 adrenal hormone markers including corticoosterone and 11-deoxycortisol which decreased by 69% and 55% respectively, which is a major improvement!
This hormonal improvement was also accompanied by a noticeable reduction in hair loss.

Ashwagandha Benefits Brain Health

Emotional, physical, and chemical stress can all have damaging effects to the brain and nervous system. Recent research has proven ashwagandha is more than a stress reliever, it also protects the brain from degeneration and improves symptoms of alzheimer’s, depression, and anxiety.

One of the main reasons ashwagandha is so effective at healing the brain has to do with it’s powerful antioxidants that destroy free radicals that cause aging. A study published in Phytotherapy Research explain these benefits:
“Several studies have revealed that natural antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C and beta-carotene, may help in scavenging free radicals generated during the initiation and progression of this [Alzheimer’s] disease.  But we found Ashwagandha afforded lipid peroxidation inhibitory effects more potent than commercial antioxidants.”
Researchers at the National Brain Research Centre found that mice with alzheimer’s were unable to retain what they learned, but after 20 days of supplementing with ashwagandha, this improved significantly. The results of the study found:
A reduction in amyloid plaques (these cause degradation of the brain)

Improved Brain Function and Learning

There is also now, evidence that ashwagandha is effective at treating both anxiety and depression. In fact, in a recent study it’s results were comparable to common pharmaceutical drugs lorazepam and imipramine without the side effects.
In the 12-week controlled study, 87 participants with anxiety were given 300mg of ashwagandha two times a day or two placebo pills two times per day. The group treated with ashwagandha resulted in much greater improvements in anxiety as well as focus, reduced stress, and decreased fatigue than the placebo group.
The other major benefit of ashwagandha is that there are no adverse reactions by taking it compared to anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medications which can have terrible side effects.

Ashwagandha Usage

As you can see, ashwagandha is an adaptogenic superstar that can have some tremendous health benefits. I recommend supplementing with 500mg 1-2x daily along with following a diet high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber as well as removing grains and sugars from your diet.
These dietary changes along with supplementing with ashwagandha can help you see great results in aging slower, reducing stress, balancing hormones, boosting energy and metabolism, and improving neurological health.

                               About the Author

Dr. Josh Axe is an expert in nutrition and natural medicine and the author of the real food diet and founder of the burstfit interval fitness program. He has worked with many professional and olympic level athletes and operates one of the largest health websites in the world with DrAxe.com. Dr. Axe is a board certified clinical nutritionist and has earned his CNS from the American College of Nutrition. Find him on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest


See More:  http://thyroidnation.com/ashwagandha-thyroid-adrenals-metabolism/

Senna Benefits and Information

Senna (Senna Alexandrina)

Senna Benefits
Senna is a herb that is generally used for its laxative properties. Senna formerly, plants in Cassia (genus)is also known as wild senna, cassia marilandica, or locust plant. It works by interacting with the bacteria in the digestive track, resulting in intestinal contractions. These contractions are caused by the anthraquinone that is contained in senna. These dimeric glycosides anthraquinone derivatives are known as Senna glycosides or sennosides. They are named after their abundant occurrence in these plants of the genus Senna. The main forms of these glycosides are often referred to by: A, B, C & D. Both leaves and pods of the senna plant are used for their laxative effects. The pods are less potent than the leaves.

 Senna is found in many tropical countries. The plant has been used in India for thousands of years as a laxative. It can be found in capsule and tablet form, tea bags and loose tea, as well as liquid extracts. The undiluted dried root can be found in health food stores.

How Does Senna Work?

Senna contains glycosides, which are a group of organic compounds that are commonly found in plants. These compounds work as a laxative by smoothing the muscles as digested food moves through the intestines. This helps to enhance the stool volume and move it out of the colon. The process is caused by the chain of fatty acids that promote digestion, fermentation, and successfully converting the glycosides into a purgative agent.

How to Use Senna  

Senna is generally used by people suffering from constipation. For relief, a person should take ½ teaspoon of the liquid, or one 50 or 100 mg capsule or tablet. After taking the Senna, a bowel movement should occur within six to 12 hours. There is also a tea available, but since Senna has an unpleasant taste naturally, it is good to mix the tea with another flavor of tea.
Senna is the ingredient in the commercial laxative suppository called Senokot. The suppositories are inserted into the rectum for constipation relief.

Senna Tea

Many people like to take herbal preparations in the form of a tea. Senna tea comes in teabags and can be found in health food stores, but some people like to use the loose leaves of Senna and brew the tea themselves. Steep the leaves in a pot of boiling water for approximately ten minutes. The leaves can also be put in cold water and steeped for 10 to 12 hours. Using cold water to steep the leaves will leave less resin in the tea, so the chances of abdominal cramping will be reduced. Regardless of the method used, once the tea is ready, strain and drink. When relieving constipation with Senna tea, it will take up to 12 hours to get relief. It is recommended to take before bedtime, so that relief can occur in the morning.
A common preparation is to boil 100 grams of the tea leaves in distilled water with 5 grams of fresh ginger that has been sliced. Cover and steep for 15 minutes, strain, and drink while hot. Make only the amount to drink, as the Senna tea gets stronger if it sits, and can lead to abdominal cramping. Other carminative herbs that mix well with Senna are peppermint and fennel. When sensitive stomachs are an issue, making the tea from the Senna pod rather than the leaves produces a milder tea as the pods are less potent than the leaves.

Senna Herb Notes / Side Effects

When using Senna tea, never drink it for more than seven consecutive days. Also, it should not be used by pregnant women or if the women are nursing. Do not give Senna tea to children under 12 years of age.
Senna is a relatively strong laxative, and should be taken in moderation only for the period when a cure is needed. It has been known to be habit forming, so it should not be used daily. If constipation is extreme, medical attention should be sought. Do not continue to use Senna as a way to prevent constipation from occurring.
There are times when Senna should not be taken. People suffering from intestinal blockage, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids, or ulcers should not take Senna. Anyone on heart medication of any kind should consult their physician before taking Senna, as is can interfere with the medications and cause irregularities in the heart. Senna should not be taken if taking a diuretic because it can result in an excessive depletion of potassium from the body.
Sometimes diarrhea can occur when taking Senna. Always start with a lesser dose until the body’s response to the effects of Senna is known.

Source:  http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-senna.html

Fenugreek: What Is It and What Is It Good For?

I first heard of Fenugreek over 20 years ago when I had my third child.  I was a nursing mom. and I believed strongly (still do ) in the use of herbal remedies. I was told Fenugreek would bring my breast milk in fuller and richer.  It was also good to drink when  a baby got sick as it gets rid of mucous off a sick child's chest.  It was my go too and really worked.  Worked so much that my milk was overflowing..lol.  It really did help my baby with colds and fever.  I recommended it to anyone having issues with milk production and who had a sick baby.

Fast forward to the present.  Fenugreek has many more uses.  It is rich in minerals, used for glycemic control in diabetics, inhibits the growth of some cancer cells and much more.   The following article gives more detailed information about the benefits of Fenugreek.

What Is Fenugreek Good For?

Fenugreek

Fenugreek  Nutrition Facts
Botanical name: Trigonella foenum-graecum

Fenugreek is one of the oldest cultivated medicinal plants native to southern Europe and Asia. The name itself has an exotic ring, and it should, as widely traveled as it is. A very popular plant grown throughout Mediterranean regions, Argentina, North Africa, France, India, and the U.S., fenugreek is mentioned in detail in Egyptian papyrus writings circa 1500 B.C. Because it’s been used in so many cultures, this is one herb with a lot of different monikers: bird’s foot, Greek hay, and bockshornsame are a few.

An annual plant about two feet tall, this herb is also considered a legume. It produces light green leaves similar to clover, small white flowers, and long pods each containing 10 to 20 small, hard, golden-brown seeds. The seeds have a pungent aroma and fairly bitter taste, described as similar to burnt celery.

While it’s also known for dying textiles, fenugreek’s many food uses – not to mention curative aspects – indicate how versatile this plant and its derivatives can be. The tender leaves and shoots can be added to salad greens, and the extract is used for marinades as well as imitation vanilla, butterscotch, rum, and maple syrup flavoring.

Ground to a fine powder, fenugreek seeds are a favorite ingredient in Indian curries, but can add tasty pizzazz to any bland dish. Fenugreek seeds also make it onto the ingredient list in everything. They’re even roasted and ground to make coffee.

After purchasing, fenugreek can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to six months.

Health Benefits of Fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds are rich in minerals such as iron, potassium, calcium, selenium, copper, zinc, manganese and magnesium. In the vitamin department, it contains thiamin, folic acid, riboflavin, pyridoxine (vitamin B6), niacin, and vitamins A and C. There are also polysaccharides: saponins, hemicellulose, mucilage, tannin, and pectin, which help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels by discouraging bile salts from absorbing into the colon, while at the same time binding to toxins so they can be escorted from the body. The amino acid 4-hydroxy isoleucine in the seeds helps lower rate of glucose absorption in the intestines, which lowers blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.

It’s notable that 100 grams of fenugreek seeds contain about 323 calories, and that the fiber content is quite high, which may have something to do with one traditional use for this product in the Middle East – to gain weight. Areas of the Middle East and North Africa are noted for grinding the seeds into a paste to be taken with sugar and olive oil. The seeds also add to digestive bulk, which helps prevent constipation. The paste is also applied topically to fight infection and inflammation in wounds, and the herb portion is used to treat diarrhea and stomach ulcers.

Fenugreek contains choline, which studies show may not only help slow mental aging, but also calm PMS and symptoms of menopause. Fenugreek is also considered an aphrodisiac, and plenty of studies tout its ability to increase libido in men.

There are also those who attribute to fenugreek the ability to promote breast growth in women, although no studies prove it decisively. But another key compound, diosgenin, has been shown to increase milk flow, which makes this herb very popular among breastfeeding mothers. However, fenugreek can cause uterine contractions, so it’s advised that pregnant women avoid fenugreek in any form.

Research also indicates that the diosgenin in fenugreek may play an important part in inhibiting several types of cancer.

Fenugreek Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: One oz. of fenugreek (28 grams)
Amt. Per Serving
Calories  ............................................................................................................71
Carbohydrates ..................................................................................................18 g
Fiber ...................................................................................................................7 g
Protein ...............................................................................................................3 g
Fat .....................................................................................................................1 g

Studies Done on Fenugreek

A double blind placebo controlled study was conducted on 25 newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes to determine the effects of fenugreek seeds on glycemic control and insulin resistance in mild to moderate type 2 diabetes mellitus. After two months, blood glucose levels as well as insulin were significantly lower.

The conclusion: the use of fenugreek seeds improves glycemic control and decreases insulin resistance in mild type 2 diabetic patients, with a favorable effect on hypertriglyceridemia (associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and acute pancreatitis) as well.1

In another study, scientists demonstrated that fenugreek seed extract (FE) are cytotoxic in vitro to certain cancers, but not normal cells. Treatment with 10-15 ug/mL of FE for 72 hours inhibited the growth of breast, pancreatic and prostate cancer cell lines, at least in part due to induction of cell death. Researchers noted that fenugreek is one of many “dietary components” with therapeutic potential.2

Fenugreek Healthy Recipes: Red Lentils with Fenugreek or Methi Dal
                                                                    

Fenugreek  Healthy Recipes
Ingredients:

     1 Tbsp. coconut oil or ghee (clarified butter)
     ½ tsp. cumin seeds 
     1 Thai chili or jalapeno, slit 
     1 small onion, diced 
     1 Tbsp. minced ginger 
     1 Tbsp. minced garlic 
     1 cup red lentils 
     3/4 tsp. ground turmeric 
     1 cup fresh fenugreek leaves (or substitute 2 Tbsp. dried fenugreek)
     1 Tbsp. lemon juice 
     Salt 

Procedure:

Heat oil in a medium saucepan. Add cumin and chili into oil. When the cumin sizzles, add onion and sauté on medium heat until onion is soft. Add ginger and garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
Add lentils and turmeric to saucepan and stir. Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer until lentils are cooked - about 12 minutes.
Meanwhile, wash fenugreek leaves and tender stems, discarding the rest. Measure 1 cup of fenugreek greens to stir into the dal for 2 minutes toward the end of cooking. Stir in lemon juice, and salt. Use as a topping over seasoned basmati rice or rice noodles. 

Fenugreek Fun Facts

Being one of the spices used by ancient Egyptians in their embalming ceremonies, prolonged ingestion of fenugreek is widely noted for its ability to change the odor of perspiration and urine to smell like maple syrup.

Summary

An ancient herb from Asia and Southern Europe, fenugreek leaves and seeds are loaded with vitamins and minerals. These are valuable for their use not only in foods, but also in traditional and modern medicine around the world.

One of fenugreek’s basic herbal uses is to stimulate milk production in breastfeeding women, as well as inducing childbirth, containing phytoestrogens or plant chemicals similar to the female sex hormone estrogen. Other uses include relieving digestive problems and menopausal symptoms, but lately it’s had a resurgence in interest as an aphrodisiac. Fenugreek is also used as a remedy applied to the skin to treat infections and inflammation.

Roasting and grinding of fenugreek seeds are advised before food use. Studies show it not only has the ability to lower blood sugar levels but fight cancer. Try grinding a few tablespoons into your next stir fry or soup. You might discover a new secret ingredient.

Other sources:

https://nccih.nih.gov/health/fenugreek
http://www.breastfeedingonline.com/fenugreek.shtml
http://www.aafp.org/afp/2007/0501/p1365.html
http://margaret.healthblogs.org/?s=fenugreek
http://www.foodreference.com/html/artfenugreek.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/036020_fenugreek_aphrodisiac_testosterone.html

References:

1 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11868855, Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seeds on glycaemic control and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a double blind placebo controlled study, Jan. 2013
2  http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19197146, Fenugreek: a naturally occurring edible spice as an anticancer agent, Jan. 2013