"ASK SIMONE" HOME HERBAL REMEDIES /HEALING FOODS: Sumac (Soo-Mok), Did You Know?

"ASK SIMONE" HOME HERBAL REMEDIES /HEALING FOODS: Sumac (Soo-Mok), Did You Know?

Did you know

Olive Leaf!!! Did You Know??

Did you know that the there are many healing properties of the olive leaf ?  astringent, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, anti-parasitic, anti-septic, anti-viral, febrifugal, immune-boosting, tranquilizer

Indicated for: Stabilizing blood sugar levels, parasites (giardia, intestinal worms, malaria forming protozoa, microscopic protozoa, pin worms, ringworm, roundworm, tapeworms), boosting immune function, fighting infection, increasing resistance to disease, lowering blood pressure, abdominal chill, anthrax, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, autoimmune disorders, barium chloride and calcium induced arrhythmia, boosts energy levels, brain and nervous conditions, candida, cardiovascular conditions, chest complaints, chlamydia, chronic fatigue, chronic joint ache, chronic toenail fungus infection, colds & flu, cold sores, dengue, dental, ear, urinary tract and surgical infections, dissolves cholesterol, encephalitis, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), fevers, fibromyalgia, gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori, gastrointestinal conditions, genital herpes, genital warts, gonorrhea, hemorrhoid pain-relief, hepatitis A, B, C, herpes I and II, HIV/ARC/AIDS, human herpes virus 6 and 7, improves blood flow, improves symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and related conditions, increases bile secretions, lupus, malaria, meningitis (bacterial/viral), mononucleosis, nervous tension, normalization of heart beat irregularities, pneumonia, psoriasis, rabies, respiratory conditions, rheumatic fever, salmonella, severe diarrhea, shingles, shingles (Herpes zoster), sinus infections, soothes mucous membranes, staphylococcal food poisoning, streptococcus infection in throat, syphilis, toothache, toxic shock syndrome, trichonomas, tuberculosis, vaginitis, vasodilator effect on the smooth layer of coronary arteries, warts.

Warnings There is very little information regarding olive leaf and how it may affect a developing fetus or an infant. Therefore, its use it is not recommended during pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Olive leaf should not to be used by diabetics due to its potential blood-sugar lowering properties.

Feel Free To Ask Me A Question??      Have A blessed Day:)   Simone :)

Thank you for your question , I think Certified Organic Oil of Oregano…with Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil would be best , always veggie gel caps. Biocodex  is a great brand for  s.boulardi
Also  S. boulardii has been shown to be safe in infants and children. In a clinical trial intended to evaluate the efficacy and safety of S. boulardii for the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in infants and children, 250 mg was administered orally twice daily in 269 children aged 6 months to 14 years. No adverse effects were observed during the course of the study. Have a nice day!

Some Solid Facts On Cocoa..Did You Know?

Did you know that cocoa beans are processed to provide two main products?
The first one is cocoa solids or (cocoa liquor)  (even though it has no alcohol content). Cocoa solids are used to make cocoa powder which has all the flavor of chocolate and contains caffeine, (extremely less caffeine than coffee).
The second one is cocoa butter, this is fat taken from the bean, mainly made up of triglycerides ( fat) . Just for the record caffeine is NOT a triglyceride, but a dissimular chemical class called a methylxanthine. There is NO caffeine in cocoa butter. White chocolate, which is made from cocoa butter without the dark cocoa solids, therefore contains NO caffeine, either.
                                                                                                             God Bless, Simone!

Well I Did It! 365 Days Of My Blog, Today! Did You Know?

Did you know that 365 days ago today I committed to writing a one year blog? Well, today is day 365 and I would like to thank all my followers on Facebook, Twitter and the Internet for your support over the past year. I would also like to thank my husband John for the encouragement needed. I am going to have a book published and will continue a new blog shortly on "Things You Didn't Know". Just remember you can continue to search through my blog simonesknowsherbs.blogspot.com for home remedies, information and answers to your questions. You can always "Ask Simone", I will still be available if you have any specific questions about herbal remedies and spices for good health.         
                                                                            Thank you again and God Bless, Simone
                          
                                                                          

Well I Did It! 365 Days Of My Blog, Today! Did You Know?

Did you know that 365 days ago today I committed to writing a one year blog? Well, today is day 365 and I would like to thank all my followers on Facebook, Twitter and the Internet for your support over the past year. I would also like to thank my husband John for the encouragement needed. I am going to have a book published and will continue a new blog shortly on "Things You Didn't Know". Just remember you can continue to search through my blog simonesknowsherbs.blogspot.com for home remedies, information and answers to your questions. You can always "Ask Simone", I will still be available if you have any specific questions about herbal remedies and spices for good health.           Thank you again and God Bless, Simone
                          
                                                                          

Well I Did It! 365 Days Of My Blog, Today! Did You Know?

Did you know that 365 days ago today I committed to writing a one year blog? Well, today is day 365 and I would like to thank all my followers on Facebook, Twitter and the Internet for your support over the past year. I would also like to thank my husband John for the encouragement throughout the year. I am going to have a book published and will continue the blog shortly on things you didn't know. Just remember you can continue to search through my blog simonesknowsherbs.blogspot.com for home remedies, information and answers to your questions. You can always "Ask Simone", I will still be available if you have any specific questions about herbal remedies and spices for good health.
                                                                                                     Thank you again and God Bless,
                                                                                                                                             Simone
                          
                                                                          

Asian Teas. Did You Know?

Did you know Oolong is semi-fermented? It is grown specially in the southern regions of China like Taiwan, Guangdong and Fujian. One of the most famous tea regions in Fujina is Anxi.  There are 11 main types of Oolong.

Oolong

1. Tie Kuan Yin
2. Taiwan Oolong
3. Oolong with orange pekoe
4. Anxi Oolong
5. Japanese processed Oolong
6. Teochew Oolong
7. Yunnan Oolong
8. Sweetened processed oolong tea only availabe in Singapore and Malaysia
9. Infused Fragrant Oolong tea
10. Kinmen or Jin Men Oolong
11. Virgin Fujian Oolong tea leaves

Japanese too love Oolong tea. They buy them in prepared containers and these are processed tea. Oolong is also a favourite drink amongst Southeast Asians. Very often, the tea is consumed together with Cantonese style dim sum or Hokkien/TeoChew style Bak kut teh (a dish of pork stewed with spices like pepper, cloves, nutmeg etc.).
Some westerners feel that Oolong is bitter. However, others feel that it leaves a sweet aftertaste after drinking it.
Japanese people like to drink Oolong cha tea. It is especially so during the summer as they believed that this oolong tea actually soothes the body during the heaty months of the summer. Most of the oolong tea found in Japan are imported from China. Oolong tea is fermented and most of it comes from Fujian Province. They are also sometimes panfried.
 
Black Tea
Black Tea is another type of tea that is grown in China, and South Asia. The tea is called black tea because of its dark colour. It is a popular tea in the west.
In Chinese, however, it is called red tea when translated literally. To the Chinese, the colour resembles red more than black.
Black tea is fermented and there are about twenty main types of black tea in China.
In Africa, black tea is sometimes drunk with mint leaves. In the west and in Singapore, they are drunk with milk and sugar. Chinese innovation have resulted in a new type of delicacy - Black tea eggs. Lovers of this dish say that black tea eggs taste better than tea eggs cooked with Chinese tea leaves. 
Scented tea
Scented tea is processed tea by infusing tea leaves with the scents of flower petals within a closed compound.
Basically the formula is x tea + y flowers = yx tea.
Thus in Chinese language terminology:
Oolong tea + Jasmine flower= Jasmine Oolong tea
Thus, the classification of scented tea is according to the categories of tea and flowers that it originated from.
Scented tea is excellent for people who are not used to the strong taste of tea and is excellent accompaniment for meals. They are also drunk often with light meals like dim sum. It is also a habit for many Chinese to add a sugar cube or two to enhance the taste.
 
White Tea
White tea is slightly fermented. Its taste tends to be described as light with a sweet aftertaste. However, different people have different interpretation of its taste.
White tea is only grown in China and no where else. It is produced in the province of Fujian. Fujian is the main tea growing region in China as its climate is suitable for cultivating such tea. The history of tea cultivation in Fujian is long and one of the founders of this website is a direct descendent of Fujian tea growing civilization. The other well-known tea produced in this region is Oolong tea.
White tea is complicated in its origins as it is classified according to the degree of maturation of leaves. There are four main types of white tea leaves. They include white peony, Kung mee.
The tea leaves of white tea is unique in its shape. When you open the container you will see many white tea leaves in the shape of eye brows. That is why they are often described as eye brow tea leaves by the Chinese. This applies to most but not all white tea leaves.

Compressed tea
Compressed tea is found mainly in the south. It is the oldest form of tea made in China. It is still used by some tribes in the southern part of China as a form of medication or Shamen magic.
It is made by high pressure compression into shapes resembling bricks. Thus, they can also be known as brick tea. In fact, this is the direct translation of its original Chinese terminology.
Compressed tea is classified according to the type of tea that it originated from. For example, if Pu Er tea is compressed then it is called compressed Pu Er tea. Alternatively, it can be known by its generic name Compressed black tea as Pu Er is a form of black tea. Sometimes, Pu Er can be spelled as Puer.
Some classifiy tea leaves according to the nature of compression.
... back to  


Ginseng tea
The Chinese have been ginseng tea for their health for thousands of years and they were followed suit by Koreans. Thus, you can often find Korean, Chinese ginsengs in any of the Chinese medicine shops. However, of recent years (i.e. in this century), it was discovered that the weather and soil conditions of US and Canada were suitable for growing ginseng. As a result, there has been great exports of such ginseng to China or overseas Chinese communities as well as Korea.
Ginseng has multiple benefits according to Chinese medicine. It could bring heatiness down for example. Heatiness is caused by hot weather, stress or spicy food. Its symptons could be sore throat, rashes etc. There are many other purposes of drinking ginseng tea.
The principle ingredients of American ginseng tea are panax quinquefolium, herba lysimachiae, radix glycyrrhizae. Usually half of the contents would be the first item and the latter two items would usually be mixed in almost equal proportions. American ginseng is gown in North America, mostly found in the temperate belts of North America in states such as Wisconsin. American ginseng is also sometimes referred to as quinquefolium.
Experts in Chinese medicine recommend that it should be drunk daily or whenever one is feeling unwell. However, it should only be a secondary boost to health and not used as a primary form of cure for any illnesses, particularly serious ones. It should be used for maintaining health and not curing diseases or illnesses.
Sometimes, other ingredients such as chrysanthemum or rock sugar is added to the drink to sweeten the drink or to lower the bitterness of the tea.
 
Lasi tea
Lasi is a form of south Asian tea which consist mainly of fermented milk. Most of the time, goat's milk is used as cows are considered sacred animals in South Asian countries, particularly amongst the Hindu states.
It consists of fermenting the milk in a big pot and leaving for days , using traditional techniques. (warning, do NOT try this at home as there are several traditional techqniues involved). The resulting mixture is sour in taste and reportedly good for health and has been drunk by South Asians for a very long time.
Such drinks are available in places as isolated as Nepal where the mountainous regions enable mountain goats to be bred and they provide the ingredients for Lasi.
Kuma Saza tea
EasternTea.com consistently updates you with news about new exotic teas that we find. This week we would like to introduce the bamboo leaf tea from Hokkaido, Wakkanai.
It is made from a bamboo species that grows in Hokkaido or the north part of the Japan. It is called the Kuma Saza tea. It is green in colour and is known to be alkaline and rich in amino acids and vitamins.
It is a good tea for those who are having digestion problems or for those who drink a lot of alcohol and want to cleanse their livers. It is light in taste and many have said that it taste a little like green tea but lighter in taste.
Lei Cha tea
There is a tea that is special to the Hakkas in China (Or Ke Jia in Hanyu Pinyin). It is called Lei Cha. It is basically tea that is mixed with beans (called mame in Japanese), kidney beans as well as various other herbs to form an interesting infusion tea. They usually served it in a cup with a chopstick and you can use the chopstick to stir the ingredients in the cup for maximum taste.
Hakkas are northern Chinese who have migrated southwards to the hilly lands in the south due to constant warfare in the north. They have settled down in the hills and through sheer hard work cultivated padi fields, tea as well as other agricultural products.
 
Green tea
Green tea in Asia is almost as popular as coffee is in the West. Japanese, Chinese and Taiwanese green teas are filled with polyphenols which phytochemicals that are almost as 100 times as powerful as the antioxidant found in Vitamin C. Tea's polyphenols is primarily known as catechins that prevents the uncontrollable growth of new blood vessels. This, many believe,help to stop cancer by preventing newly-emerging tumors from growing by robbing them of their sustenance for growth. Catechins can also stop DNA deformations caused by carcinogens or cancer-causing substance from coming up in the first place.
Chinese scientists believe that green tea daily dosages help to bring about lower probablities of cancer in the oesophagus, stomach and liver. Japanese scientists show that drinking up to ten cups or more in one day on a daily basis may also cut down the risks of heart and coronary diseases. Some have even suggested that merely gargling the green in the mouth may stop bacteria from gathering in the teeth cavities. Experiments with lab animals yielded the result of lower incidences of skin cancer when green tea was applied to their epidermal layer. The results are still inconclusive for black tea but some suspect that they can be the same in terms of results.

The Truth About Reverse Osmosis, Did You Know?

Did you know reverse osmosis water filters remove 90-99% of all contaminants from water, including inorganic minerals. In water filter comparison tests, reverse osmosis systems always beat standard carbon filters in the removal of harmful contaminants in both tap and well water. However, some critics say that this water is unnatural and is not good for human consumption. Is ultra clean water that is free of inorganic minerals good for human health? Keep reading this knol to find out.

Contents

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Reverse Osmosis is a revolutionary water treatment technology that was first developed in the late 1950's as a method of desalinating sea water. Also known as hyperfiltration, reverse osmosis is the process by which water molecules are forced through a 0.0001 micron semi-permeable membrane through the use of water pressure. This membrane allows only microscopic water molecules to pass through, filtering out almost everything else including 90-99% of all contaminants in the water.

Today this technology has earned its rightful status as the most convenient and thorough method to produce contaminant free clean water. It is used by many water and soda bottling plants and by many industries that require ultra-refined water in manufacturing. Reverse osmosis has also made its way into the residential sector and has become a popular under-the-counter water filtration system for many families. However there are some competitors in the water filtration market that argue against the use of reverse osmosis for drinking water and have spread many outrageous rumors against it online in the hopes of discrediting the technology. This knol will cover some of the issues and claims brought up against reverse osmosis technology by those critics.

Myth #1 - Reverse osmosis purified water is unhealthy to drink.

Truth: Reverse osmosis water is very clean and healthy to drink.

Reverse osmosis (RO) has been called unnatural water because of its purity. Detractors claim it is man-made and unhealthy and should only be used for industrial applications and not for human consumption. They say that RO water is too pure and clean to be good because such perfectly clean mineral-free water does not exist naturally on earth. However this type of water does exist, it's called RAIN.

Rainwater is water that has been stripped of all minerals and is often one of the purest and cleanest water on earth. People have been drinking rainwater for thousands of years without any negative health effects. Only recently has rainwater been polluted by the industrial age and man's pollution of the skies. In the absence of heavy natural or man-made air pollution, rainwater can be very pure and safe to drink. While rain water may absorb and pick-up some substances as it falls through the atmosphere, minerals are not one of them. Thus people have been drinking mineral-free water for thousands of years, which is very normal when you consider that nothing is more natural than mother nature's life giving rain.

With the scientific research that has been done over the past 60 years on reverse osmosis water, none has ever documented any negative health effects from people drinking RO water. In fact, RO technology has also been extensively tested in the past by the US military and is approved for and highly used throughout the military as drinking water by the men and women in our armed forces.

Myth #2 - Reverse osmosis filters remove healthy minerals from water.

Truth: Reverse osmosis filters remove inorganic, unhealthy minerals from water.

RO systems do remove minerals from tap water. However, we humans get the vast majority of our minerals from the foods we eat, not from drinking water. For example, 1 glass of orange juice has the same amount of minerals as 30 gallons of tap water. You would also get more minerals from 1 vitamin tablet than you will from drinking a month's supply of tap water.

Tap water contains only inorganic minerals which cannot be properly absorbed by our bodies. Human beings need organic minerals which are only available from living organisms like plants and vegetables and are easily absorbed by our systems. According to the WQA & WHO (Water Quality Association - World Health Organization) we get the vast majority of our minerals from food not from drinking water. The inorganic minerals found in water has little to no benefits to people and in fact can be very bad to our health.

 It is estimated that over a 70-year lifespan, a person drinking tap or mineral water will be ingesting about 200 to 300 pounds of rock that their body cannot use. While most of these microscopic rock minerals will be eliminated from our bodies regularly, some will be stored in our tissues becoming toxic. The primary culprits are calcium salts and over time they can cause gallstones, kidney stones, bone & joint calcification, arthritis, and hardening and blocking our arteries. The presence of other hard metal minerals (some are radioactive!) is suspected to cause other degenerative diseases as well including eye glaucoma, cataracts, hearing loss, emphysema, diabetes, obesity and cancer. These minerals available, especially in "hard" tapwater, are poorly absorbed, or rejected by cellular tissue sites, and, if not evacuated, their presence may cause arterial obstruction, and internal damage.(Dennison 1993, Muehling 1994, Banik 1989)

Reverse osmosis water purification simply delivers the cleanest, purest drinking water on the market. What about distilled water you say? Distillation systems are comparable in contaminant removal, however since many synthetic chemicals such as herbicides, pesticides and chlorine solutions have boiling points lower than water, these chemicals will vaporize and can be carried over into the product water container actually making the collected purified water even more concentrated in those particular chemicals. Distilled water systems also require very high energy costs to operate and are very slow in producing water.

Reverse osmosis is also the only purification system that can remove the majority of dangerous Pharmaceuticals & Drugs from our drinking water. According to AP news reports provided by this USA Today article & Fox News report - "Reverse Osmosis removes virtually all pharmaceutical contaminants".

 

Reverse osmosis removes many contaminants that countertop and faucet carbon filters cannot including viruses, bacteria, pesticides, arsenic, fluoride, drugs, cryptosporidium, mercury, nitrates, microbes, heavy metals, all radioactive materials, and many more.

The lack of minerals in your water should not keep you up at night. (Just take a vitamin) The increasing amounts of chemicals, drugs and carcinogenic/radioactive minerals potentially found in tap water should!

Myth #3 - Reverse osmosis leaches minerals from the body.

Truth: Reverse osmosis water cannot leach minerals from the human body.

Water is called the universal solvent as it always "wants" to have substances dissolved in it. The purer the water, the more aggressive it becomes in attacking things that can dissolve. This doesn't hurt the human body, because our physiology quickly obtains homeostasis using saliva, stomach fluids, etc. to equilibrate all bodily fluids.

Reverse Osmosis technology was created in the 1950s and has been scientifically tested in every conceivable way since then. There has never been any documented evidence to prove that reverse osmosis treated water can leach minerals from the human body.The US Navy has used water with less than 3 parts per million total dissolved solids (TDS) for more than 40 years, according to a 1993 Water Quality Association (WQA) report, which also said the Army's field personnel drinks RO water.

In early July, 2008, the Brighton Standard Blade, a Colorado newspaper contacted the EPA at their readers request to find out if RO water leaches minerals. The EPA spokeswoman said that their organization does not support this idea. The WQA also rejects the idea that RO water can leach minerals in a 1993 report titled,'Consumption of Low TDS Water'. Their extensive research presented evidence that suggests water with low amounts of total dissolved solids (TDS), such as distilled water and reverse osmosis treated water has no ill effects on humans.

Water Technology Magazine also disagrees with this myth giving a list of sources that dispels the false water propaganda.

Reverse osmosis water is very clean, and its purity will actually help improve the absorption of all nutrients including good organic minerals. No more ingesting of bad inorganic minerals (rocks) means the body will no longer be stressed and taxed with trying to absorb something that wasn't supposed to be there in the first place. Drinking water heavy in inorganic minerals is like putting random rocks from your back yard into your chicken soup. Considering the fact that some inorganic minerals are radioactive and others are toxic, you are literally playing Russian roulette with your health!

Use common sense. Drink the cleanest and purest water you can find!

Myth #4 - Reverse osmosis filtration produces very acidic water with low pH

Truth: Reverse osmosis has little affect on water pH values.

Reverse osmosis purification may or may not reduce pH levels as it removes unhealthy inorganic minerals from tap water. Water pH is very complicated and pH levels vary constantly depending on a host of factors which can only be measured by water chemists and PhDs. The truth is, water pH levels will automatically change when it is ingested and comes into contact with the food in your stomach. Even on an empty stomach, your stomach acid alone is already several times more acidic than RO water (pH 6-8) with a pH level of 2.

The human body regulates pH levels constantly to find balance and equilibrium. Therefore under normal conditions it will always maintain a neutral 7.4 pH balance. Even eating very acidic foods (very low pH) only alters the body's pH by a very tiny amount and only for a short time. The healthy body is very robust and it will restore homeostatic pH fairly quickly and easily. Soft drinks and sports drinks typically have a pH level of 2.5, orange juice has a 3 pH and coffee has a 4 pH level and we drink these beverages all the time without problems.

As long as you eat a well balanced diet which includes vegetables and fruits, you can pretty much drink whatever you want without ever worrying about your pH balance.

Myth #5 - Reverse osmosis wastes a lot of water.

Truth: Reverse osmosis uses some water to deliver quality and longevity.

For every gallon of clean water produced by a RO system, an average of 4 gallons of brine water is used and discarded. This brine (waste) water is constantly used by the system to clean the membrane and allows the filter to work effectively and last for many years. Remember, RO systems clean your water and remove thousands of unhealthy contaminants from tap water that countertop and faucet filters cannot.

Reverse osmosis brine water is the equivalent of an extra 3 to 4 toilet flushes a day. You actually waste more water each day when you wash your dishes or clothes than from a RO system. You will probably pay a extra 25 to 50 cents a month from RO waste water.Waste water from RO systems is actually pretty clean and similar to tap water in purity levels. It can be channeled for use in gardens watering plants or stored and used for other household applications.

Water that flows down the sink is not wasted and can be recycled into clean water. Orange County, California already recycles their waste water, turning it back into their city tap water.

The truth is, there is no "new" water on this planet. All water is old water that has been recycled continuously for millions of years. We are actually drinking the same water that the dinosaurs drank, recycled obviously by Mother Nature.

Conclusion

Reverse osmosis water filters can remove thousands of organic, inorganic and chemical pollutants from tap water. The water is very clean and pure, protecting our health from chlorine, fluoride, arsenic and even pharmaceutical drugs. Reverse Osmosis systems are typically 4 to 5 stage systems that in addition to the RO membrane, also include a sediment filter and several carbon filter stages. This makes them much better at removing contaminants when compared to countertop, faucet and pitcher filters which use only 1 simple carbon filter. Reverse osmosis systems remove the heavy metals, radioactive materials, bacteria, viruses, fluoride, mercury, arsenic, nitrates, chemicals and drugs that standard countertop carbon filters cannot remove.

Reverse osmosis produces cleaner water which allows for the superior absorption of all nutrients by our bodies, including good organic minerals. No more ingesting of bad inorganic minerals (rocks) means the body will no longer be stressed and taxed with trying to absorb something that wasn't supposed to be there in the first place. Cleaner water will also improve the elimination of wastes at the cellular level and increase our body's metabolic activity.

MORE REVERSE OSMOSIS INFORMATION

RO Contaminant Removal List (for multi-stage reverse osmosis systems with UV light)

Algae, aluminum, ammonium, ameobic-cysts, arsenic, asbestos, bacteria, barium, benzene, bicarbonate, boron, bisphenol-a (BPA), cadmium, chloramines, chloride, chlorine, chloroform, chromate, chromium, coal sludge, coliform bacteria, copper, cryptosporidium, cyanide, E.coli, fecal bacteria, fluoride, formaldehyde, fungi, giardia, heavy metals, hepatitus virus, herbicides, hydrochloric acid, influenza virus, inorganic minerals, iron, lead, lindane, manganese, mercury, methane, microbes, methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), mold spores, nickel, nitrate, parasites, polio virus, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), Tetrachloroethylene (PERC), perflurorchemicals (PFCs), pesticides, phosphate, pharmaceutical drugs, protozoa, radioactivity, radium, rust, salmonella typhi, salmonella typhosa sediment, selenium, shigella, silver, simazine, sludge, sodium, sodium cyanide, strontium, sulfate, sulphur, total dissolved solids (TDS), toxaphene, trihalomethanes (THM), turbidity, vibrio cholerae, viruses, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), yeasts, and many more.
Ref:

What Has More Sugar A Strawberry Or A Lemon? Did You KNow?

Did you know rumors have it that lemons have 70% of sugar and 30% of citric acid and that also means strawberries have 40% sugar and the rest is starch which is about 60%? To determine if this is true you have to first compare the two, since a lemon is of course much bigger and heavier than one strawberry. To make a fair comparison you should look at the amount of sugar per a certain amount of substance, lets take the standard of 100gram.
You will see that a lemon contains 2.50g sugar per 100g, and a strawberry contains 5g sugar per 100g. Twice the amount of that of a lemon!So you can safely say a strawberry contains in fact twice as much sugar as a lemon.  

Sumac (Soo-Mok), Did You Know?

Did you know in the Middle East, you can find sumac primarily in Iran, but it comes mainly from the Mediterranean and Sicily? Sumac comes from the berries of a wild bush. Sumac has antimicrobial and antioxidant activity.

Taste:

Sumac is sour and can be used in place of lemons in some recipes.

Buying Sumac:

Sumac can be bought in berry clusters, or already ground. Ground sumac has a deep purple/reddish color.

Storing Sumac:

Sumac must be kept in an airtight container and away from light.

Uses for Sumac:

Sumac has many uses. It can be used as a rub for meats before grilling, or in a marinade. The juice from the berries can also be used in salad dressings. Sumac is also used to sprinkle over meats and veggies for flavor.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Halutza, From Israel, Another Best Kept Secret! Did You Know?

Did you know Halutza olive oil is by far of the highest quality abd the essence of pleasure. It is a  tasty and healthy olive oil. Halutza olive oil stands for both health and supreme taste.

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Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Halutza

Premium select extra virgin olive oil, made exclusively from 100% Halutza olives that have not been chemically treated. This is the first cold pressing. Product of Negev Highland. less than 0.5% acidity. Halutza olive groves are located on hillside estates of the Negev Desert, 300 - meters above sea level. Here the olive trees date back hundreds of years to the Nabatians period and the soil and micro - climate conditions are ideal for growing the best olives. This olive oil has a fresh and natural aroma with a distinguished body and firmness when poured. It has a balanced taste and distinct peppery finish. One can really enjoy this olive oil as a bread dipper as well as in salads. Also to use it for saute. You will really like this olive oil from the Negev.

Halutza Olive Oil Wins First Award in Kosher Food Exhibition in U.S.

Halutza olive oil, produced in Kibbutz Revivim, won the top award - Best Of Show - in the world's largest Kosher food exhibition Kosher World which took place end of January in Los Angeles. About 100 olive oil producers from the U.S. and about 10 from Israel participated - and Halutza reached the top!. Senior buyers from leading food chains, restaurant owners and caterers showed great interest in ethnic food, including Halutza olive oil and olives. Following the success of this exhibition, Halutza will now extend its marketing activity to the West Coast, and this Israeli olive oil will be sold also in Hawaii, in addition to the East Coast and Canada, where the products are already marketed. Halutza olive oil of 2004 vinatge is already in the process of packing and will be soon shipped to the U.S. and Canada under the brand name DESERT HARVEST. Halutza olive oil is produced from a unique olive brand, which is cultivated in the largest olive grove in Israel, in Halutza sands in the Negev. Olive trees are cultivated in a most advanced farming technology, with salty water irrigation. This olive oil enjoys a great esteem in Israel and overseas due to its unique taste and low acidity (less than 0.3%), which was officially authorized in most stringent laboratory tests in Italy.

More Facts On Fats and Oils, Did You Know?

Did you know that butter, margarine, salad dressing, mayonnaise, sour cream, oils, lard, and nuts are all fats and oils? The foods in this group are grouped together because they contain similar amounts of calories and fat per serving and, with the exception of nuts, contain little protein or carbohydrates. Although fat is often thought of as being unhealthy for you, fat is essential for life. We need a certain amount of fat each day. The hard part is deciding what types and how much fat to eat.
There are four main types of fat, polyunsaturated, monounsaturated, trans, and saturated fats. All of these names describe the chemical structure of the different fats. Most foods contain a mixture of these four types of fats, but they are grouped by the type of fat that is present in the largest amount. While it is true that all fat is high in calories and that too much of any type of fat may be unhealthy, some types of fat are better for you than others. Saturated and trans fats have been shown to increase the risk for heart disease, but polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats have been shown to have no effect on or decrease the risk for heart disease. See the section titled Eating for Cardiovascular Health.
One Serving from the Oils and Fats Group
One serving from the Oils and Fats Group contains about 45 calories and 5 grams of fat. Examples of one serving of monounsaturated and/or polyunsaturated fats include:

• 1 teaspoon margarine
• 1 teaspoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon reduced-fat mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon oil (corn, canola, vegetable)
• 1 tablespoon salad dressing
• 2 tablespoons reduced-fat salad dressing
• 6 almonds
• 10 peanuts

Examples of one serving of saturated fats include:

• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1 teaspoon shortening or lard
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 3 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese

Tips for Choosing Foods from the Fats and Oils Group

• Choose foods that contain more polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fats rather than foods that contain saturated or trans fats.
• Choose low-fat or reduced-fat options when calories are similar to or less than the full fat product. Sometimes the fat in low-fat products is replaced with carbohydrate, making a low-fat product that is still high in calories. For this reason, it is always important to check the calorie and macronutrient content of low-fat foods.
• Read the Nutrition Facts labels of foods to see how many grams of fat the products you consume contain.

Read the Nutrition Facts label if you are unsure of how many fat or oil servings a certain amount of food contains.

Herbs And Spices For Your Eyes! Did You Know?

Did you know there are many herbs an spices for eye health? Below are a few that will benefit  your eye health:

Dill
Dill is a good source of beta-carotene, and a fair source of lutein and zeaxanthin.

Oregano
Wild oregano is an excellent source of Vitamin E compounds, especially gamma-tocopherol.

Parsley
Parsley is an excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin, and a fair source of beta-carotene and Vitamin C.

Turmeric
Turmeric is an excellent source of Vitamins A, C and E. It also helps by removing from the body chemicals put there by smoking. It has antioxidant and cholesterol-reducing properties.
Curcumin, a yellow pigment found in turmeric, has been found to reduce the incidence of cataracts in animals.

Hobbies For Health! Did You Know?

Did you know having hobbies are good for your health? who hasn't heard the phrase, “Get a Hobby!” from perhaps your mother, or some authority figure in your life when they grew tired hearing you complain about having nothing to do?

Hobbies are activities, or forms of recreation, we participate in for enjoyment. Some are not necessary for survival in terms of providing our basic physical needs: food, shelter and clothing. Although there are the rare occasions when someone can combine their hobby with their livelihood and make a living with it. Don’t confuse hobbies with bad habits. Bad habits, while you may enjoy them, are harmful to you and possibly people around you.

Contrary to popular misconceptions, hobbies aren’t just a waste of time and solely for retirees. They’re for people of all ages and you can have as many as you want.

Hobbies encourage us to develop and build on qualities that benefit us and the world around us: creativity, expression, dedication, patience, etc. For many they are a source of relief from day-to-day responsibilities and stresses that accompany them or circumstances in our lives. They occupy our time between sleeping, eating and working. Their mental benefits include taking our minds off of our troubles, reducing stress, and are a form of relaxation. Physical benefits vary depending on the hobby, but mental well-being contributes to physical health so there’s a physical benefit from all types of hobbies. Various studies have shown the health benefits of hobbies include warding off the effects Alzheimer’s and Dementia in seniors. Hobbies help provide exercise for the brain to keep it stimulated.

If you don’t have a hobby, ask yourself what you do in your free time? Or, if you don’t have free time, what would you like to do if you took a break? And you should take a break. Spending time on a hobby is spending time on you.

The hobby that’s right for you is one that captures your interest. It might be related to your occupation or a complete opposite and have no relation to it whatsoever. Your hobby should make you happy, and if you find it challenging you, use it as motivation to push your abilities.

If you’re one to constantly complain of being bored, you need a hobby. Don’t let your mind go to waste in front of things like a television or computer that will do most of the work for you. Think about the kinds of things that interest you and go from there to find a hobby that will make you feel good about yourself.

Some hobbies cost money, and some are free. Be even more creative by finding ways to reduce the costs of your hobby if you can’t afford it. Don’t buy a new book every time, get a library card and borrow books for free, or buy used books that are a fraction of the cost of new books. Find a way to repair a broken computer or car part and put it back together if you enjoy tinkering.

There’s even a website where you can find a hobby for yourself if you don’t know where to begin (www.discoverahobby.com). The website was created by someone who—a hobby enthusiast—found a new hobby writing about other hobbies and putting them on the web to share with others. You can find a hobby anywhere!

For those of you who have a hobby, or more than one, enjoy the rewards and encourage others to pursue their own!

Some Herbs For Swollen Feet ( Edema), Did You Know?

Did you know there are herbs for swollen feet treat water retention and circulation issues? See below.

Parsley

Yes, that green garnish on your plate next to the steak is actually a useful medicinal herb. Parsley (Petroselinum crispus) acts as a powerful diuretic. Parsley also contains minerals, vitamins and chlorophyll, all vital for good health and nutrition. You can grow your own parsley with a simple pot of soil, seeds, and bright sunlight. Incorporate fresh parsley into salads or meals for an easy way to consume this useful herb.

Dandelion

You may think of dandelions as annoying weeds ruining a perfect lawn, but herbalists see dandelions in a different light. The lowly dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) provides excellent relief for water retention. The natural diuretic action flushes excess water from the body, relieving swollen feet caused by fluid retention. Used since ancient times by Arabian, Persian and European healers, dandelion is also an excellent liver and kidney tonic. Dandelion may be taken as a tea, tincture, or in capsule form.

Ginkgo

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. Ginkgo improves circulation, which in turn reduces water retention to the feet and legs. Always consult an herbalist or natural health practitioner if you have underlying circulatory problems before taking ginkgo.

Ginkgo is perhaps one of the most-studied herbs in the natural pharmacopeia. Even the Mayo Clinic, one of the most respected medical authorities in the United Sates, gives Ginkgo a grade of "A" in relieving circulatory problems associated with painful legs.

Peppermint

Rounding out the top three herbs for swollen feet is peppermint (Mentha piperita). If you love the refreshing scent of peppermint, enjoy this herb in a footbath to relieve tired, swollen feet. Peppermint energizes, refreshes, and makes a welcome addition to treatments for edema.

Treating Swollen Feet

You can try many safe and effective treatments right in your own home for swollen feet.

Your Shoes Could Be The Culprit

Too-tight shoes constrict blood circulation to the foot, causing swelling and pain. Also, poorly fitting shoes may also cause swelling. If you notice that your feet swell after wearing certain shoes, change your shoes, it may help.

Elevate Your Feet

Elevate your feet if they're swollen. But you should elevate your feet higher than the heart because it decreases fluid retention. Just place your feet on a pillow and rest for twenty minutes. Sleeping with your feet elevated can also help.

Massage

Give yourself a foot massage. Rub your feet with peppermint oils and fragrant herbal oils. Massage improves circulation, which in turn reduces edema. You can also take a tennis ball and place it under your foot, rolling the ball around under your foot for several minutes. This exercises all the muscles in the foot and can relieve swelling.

Peppermint Foot Soak

Another technique to reduce foot swelling is a hot and cold peppermint foot soak. You'll need a tub of hot and of cold water and a towel. Soak your feet in a tub of hot water, as hot as you can stand, for no more than ten minutes. Then quickly switch to a tub of ice-cold water for just 30 seconds. Repeat the cycle several times, adding peppermint as needed to the cold-water bath for more zing. Always end with the cold-water bath.

Diet

If you suspect too much salt in your diet is causing swollen feet, try changing your diet. The DASH Diet, recommended by the American Heart Association, is a low-sodium diet that may help reduce water retention in individuals who are sensitive to sodium. Don't be afraid of a boring menu if you try the DASH Diet. Tasty menu choices add variety.

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Xylitol! Did You Know?

Did you know that xylitol is not a drug and is a 100% natural product, a sweetener that occurs naturally. It can be found in berries, fruit, vegetables and mushrooms. It also occurs naturally in our bodies – in fact, an average size adult manufactures up to 15 grams of xylitol daily during normal metabolism.Pure xylitol is a white crystalline substance that looks and tastes like sugar. On food labels, xylitol is classified broadly as a carbohydrate and more narrowly as a polyol or sugar alcohol; however, xylitol is considered a “sugar-free” sweetener.
In addition, some xylitol products contain ingredients, fillers or other sweeteners that are not natural. These are not recommended for those seeking the benefits of an all-natural product like xylitol.

How does xylitol differ from other sweeteners?

First, xylitol is all natural, not an artificial chemical like aspartame, sucralose and Splenda®. Chemically speaking, xylitol differs from other sweeteners such as sorbitol, fructose and glucose because its molecule has five, instead of six, carbon atoms. Most bacteria and yeast in the mouth are unable to make use of xylitol.
It is much sweeter than sorbitol, for instance. While it contains about 40% fewer calories than sugar, xylitol's sweetening power is the same as that of sucrose (table sugar). Xylitol is an important supplement because it may help to reduce the risk of tooth decay, and everyone interested in healthy teeth should be familiar with its properties and effects.

Is xylitol safe?

Absolutely! In 1983, a joint expert committee of the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations confirmed that xylitol is a safe sweetener for foods. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration also confirmed this fact in 1986.

Can diabetics use xylitol?

The body does not require insulin to metabolize xylitol. For this reason polyols like xylitol produce a lower glycemic response than sucrose or glucose. This has made xylitol a widely used sweetener for the diabetic diet in some countries. If you do have diabetes, however, it’s important to consult your doctor or diet professional before incorporating xylitol into your daily diet.

Why does xylitol help protect teeth from cavities?

Sugar feeds bacteria in your mouth, causing them to multiply rapidly. This metabolic process produces acids that cause cavities to begin to form. When you use xylitol gum or mints, the acid attack that would otherwise last for over half an hour is stopped. Because the bacteria in the mouth causing caries are unable to ferment xylitol in their metabolism, their growth is reduced. The number of acid-producing bacteria may fall as much as 90%. Since no acid is formed, the pH of saliva does not fall.

How long does the protection last?

Studies show the xylitol effect on teeth is long-lasting and possibly permanent. Low decay rates persist even years after the trials have been completed. In addition to starving harmful bacteria of their food source, use of xylitol raises the pH of saliva in the mouth. When pH is above 7, calcium and phosphate salts in saliva start to precipitate into those parts of enamel where they are lacking. For this reason, use of xylitol has demonstrated not only a dramatic reduction in new tooth decay, it also has shown the arrest and even some reversal of existing dental caries.

How much xylitol should you use?

Xylitol is a natural and convenient way of supplementing daily dental care. Research shows that a mere 6g to 10g day is enough. Xylitol should be chewed immediately after a meal or a snack. If you eat more snacks, you of course need more frequent help from xylitol.

Is it possible to replace daily teeth cleaning with xylitol usage?

A healthy mouth and teeth are a important part of vigorous everyday life. That is why it is important to take good care of them. To keep a beautiful and healthy smile brush you teeth daily and visit your dentists regularly.

How can I find products with xylitol?

Just visit our Products section! As an educational website, Xylitol.org provides information about a wide range of products that contain xylitol, Our rating system shows which products contain sufficient amounts of xylitol to be effective and all-natural ingredients.

When was xylitol discovered?

Xylitol was discovered almost simultaneously by German and French chemists in the late 19th century and has been used extensively in Europe since World War II. Its dental significance was researched in Finland in the early 1970's, when scientists showed it had significant dental benefits. In Finland, Sweden, Japan and many other countries, xylitol is widely used in candy, gum and oral care products. While xylitol is fairly new in the U.S. market, its use is rapidly increasing as more people become aware of its unique health benefits.

What are the other health benefits of xylitol?

First, you are doing your body a big favor by substituting more xylitol for sugar in your diet. While xylitol is just as sweet as table sugar (sucrose), it has about 40% fewer calories and 75% fewer carbohydrates. Xylitol also won’t raise your blood sugar like regular sugar does, putting tremendous strain on your system, causing negative health effects.
Xylitol has also been proven to inhibit the growth of bacteria. Research shows that this effect enables xylitol to help prevent bacteria and irritants from adhering to upper respiratory passages when used as a nasal wash. Studies have also shown that 8 grams of xylitol, taken orally every day, prevented about 40% of ear infections. For more information on these and other benefits, visit our Medical section.

Is it dangerous to swallow gum with xylitol?

No, it is not – but xylitol chewing gum, like other chewing gum, is not meant to be swallowed. If it does get swallowed, it will be transported naturally among other food through intestines. The best way to dispose of your chewing gum is to wrap in a piece of paper and throw it in a waste basket.

Is xylitol toxic to dogs?

Many dog owners are aware that chocolate, coffee, and grapes are toxic to dogs, but are aware of the risk from ingesting the common natural sweetener, xylitol? Xylitol is a natural sweetener that is found in a variety of products, including chewing gum, toothpaste, mints, floss, candy, chewable vitamins, and sugar-free baked goods. While xylitol offers many health benefits to humans, it can be deadly to dogs and should not be fed to any pets.

Ingesting 100 milligram of xylitol per kilogram of bodyweight may cause a rapid release of the hormone insulin, causing a sudden decrease in blood glucose (potentially life-threatening hypoglycemia, low blood sugar) for dogs. The drop in blood sugar occurs within 15 minutes, while the symptoms of hypoglycemia (vomiting, depression, loss of coordination, seizures, or coma are all possible symptoms) may be seen within 30 minutes after the dog consumes the xylitol-containing product. Exposure to higher doses of xylitol may possibly result in fatal liver failure in some dogs.

Strive For 5

1. Use Xylitol toothpaste, mouthwash, and nasal spray upon waking up
2. After breakfast use Xylitol gum, mints or candy
3. After lunch use Xylitol gum, mints or candy
4. After dinner use Xylitol gum, mints or candy
5. Use Xylitol toothpaste, mouthwash, and nasal spray upon going to bed

Xylitol is used in sugar-free gum. It is also found in plums, raspberries, and strawberries. Researchers at the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Oulu in Finland performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study using chewing gum that contained either xylitol or regular sugar. The children in the study had to chew two fresh pieces of gum five times a day. At the end of a month, children who chewed the xylitol-sweetened chewing gum had 40 percent fewer ear infections. The scientists believe that xylitol retards the growth of the bacterium S.

 

 

Tea! Did You Know?

Did you know tea norishes and rehydrates the body and scientific studies have recognized its antioxidant properties. Herbs for Life teas are fresh, delicious and of the highest quality. We combine ingredients to promote a myriad of protective and revitalizing health benefits.

Relieves stress & anxiety. The herbs in this blend provide nutrients that help strengthen and support our nervous system, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety and irritability. When used over an extended period of time, these herbs help strengthen the myelin sheath of nerves, rebuilding connections and creating a lasting flow of vibrant energy. This tea is delicious and easy to drink with a flavoite.

NOTE: 2oz = 64 tsp, use 2 tsp per 12oz water

More On Fats! Did You Know?

Did you know we all need fats to help nutrient absorption, nerve transmission, maintaining cell membrane integrity etc? The problem is , when consumed in excess amount, fats contribute to weight gain, heart disease and certain types of cancer. Fats are not created equal. Some fats promote our health positively while others increase our risks of heart disease. The key is to replace bad fats with good fats in our diet.

The Good Fats

	Monounsaturated Fats
	Monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) while increasing HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol). Nuts including peanuts, walnuts, almonds and pistachios, avocado, canola and olive oil are high in MUFAs. MUFAs have also been found to help in weight loss, particularly body fat. Click here for more weight loss nutrition tips.
	Polyunsaturated Fats
	Polyunsaturated fats also lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Seafood like salmon and fish oil, as well as corn, soy, safflower and sunflower oils are high in polyunsaturated fats. Omega 3 fatty acids belong to this group.

The Bad Fats

	Saturated Fats
	Saturated fats raise total blood cholesterol as well as LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol). Saturated fats are mainly found in animal products such as meat, dairy, eggs and seafood. Some plant foods are also high in saturated fats such as coconut oil, palm oil and palm kernel oil.
	Trans Fats
	Trans fats are invented as scientists began to "hydrogenate" liquid oils so that they can withstand better in food production process and provide a better shelf life. As a result of hydrogenation, trans fatty acids are formed. Trans fatty acids are found in many commercially packaged foods, commercially fried food such as French Fries from some fast food chains, other packaged snacks such as microwaved popcorn as well as in vegetable shortening and hard stick margarine.

What can we do?

• avoid using cooking oils that are high in saturated fats and/or trans fats such as coconut oil, palm oil or vegetable shortening. Instead, use oils that are low in saturated fats and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats such as canola oil, olive oil and flax seed oil.
• minimize using commercially packaged foods which are high in trans fats. Always read labels to look for trans-fat free alternatives.
• as saturated fats are found in animals products, use lower-fat version dairy such as 1% or skim milk instead of whole milk. Trim visible fats and skins from meat products.

What Is an Unsaturated Fat? Did You Know?

Did you know an unsaturated fat is a fat or fatty acid in which there is one or more double bond in the fatty acid chain?

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A fat molecule is monounsaturated if it contains one double bond, and polyunsaturated if it contains more than one double bond.
Where double bonds are formed, hydrogen atoms are eliminated.
Thus, a saturated fat is "saturated" with hydrogen atoms.
The greater the degree of unsaturation in a fatty acid (ie, the more double bonds in the fatty acid), the more vulnerable it is to lipid peroxidation (rancidity).
Antioxidants can protect unsaturated fat from lipid peroxidation.
Foods containing unsaturated fats include avocado, nuts, and soybean, canola, and olive oils.
Meat products contain both saturated and unsaturated fats.
Unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature.

Do Or Don't Drink Tap Water While Pregnant, Did You Know?

Did you know some studies suggest that, in some areas, drinking tap water during pregnancy is associated with miscarriage, birth defects, and lower birth weight? Christina Chambers, Ph.D., MPH,  associate professor of pediatrics at the University of California, San Diego, and director of the California Teratogen Information Service in San Diego, an epidemologist, says the research doesn't clearly show that tap water, in general, causes these problems.
This has been a hard issue to get a handle on.  (And there's also no good data to show that bottled water is safer.)
Of course, if you know there are contaminants in your drinking water that exceed the legal safety limits, you won't want to drink it, pregnant or not. But we probably don't have enough information to conclude that tap water that meets current water-quality standards in the United States is unsafe during pregnancy.

Cornelia Graves , a medical director of Tennessee Maternal Fetal Medicine and a consultant at Baptist Hospital in Nashville and an Ob-gyn says, most tap water is regulated by the government, so worrisome chemicals like arsenic are present only in trace amounts. This is not true for all bottled water, which has very few regulations.

Also, tap water, unlike bottled water, contains fluoride. Fluoride is essential for keeping your teeth healthy and preventing cavities, and you need it even more when you're pregnant. The increased blood flow to all your tissues, including the gums, makes you especially susceptible to dental decay and tooth problems during pregnancy.

Rhodiola, Did You Know?

Did you know that Rhodiola is also known as golden root or Arctic root? rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is an herb long used in traditional medicine in Russia and some European countries. Rhodiola is considered an adaptogen, a class of herbs said to help the body build resistance to stress.

Uses for Rhodiola

In herbal medicine, rhodiola is typically used in treatment of these health problems:

stress

fatigue

depression

sleep problems

poor attention span

poor memory

cardiovascular disease

cancer

Benefits of Rhodiola

Although the health effects of rhodiola have yet to be extensively studied, research suggests that the herb may be useful in treatment of the following:
1) Stress-related fatigue
Regular intake of rhodiola may help fight fatigue and, in turn, boost mental performance in people struggling with stress-induced burnout, according to a study published in 2009. Study results also showed that the 30 participants taking rhodiola supplements for 28 days had a greater improvement in concentration than those who took a placebo pill for the same amount of time.
2) Depression
In a 2007 study, researchers had 89 adults with mild to moderate depression take 340 mg of rhodiola extract, 680 mg of rhodiola extract, or two placebo tablets every day for six weeks. Among those taking either dose of rhodiola, significant improvements in overall depression, insomnia, and emotional instability (but not self-esteem) were gained over the course of the treatment period. Study members taking the placebo tablets showed no such improvements. What's more, no serious side effects were reported by any participants.
3) Arrhythmia
Preliminary research suggests that rhodiola extract daily may help prevent arrhythmias (disorders of the regular rhythmic beating of the heart). However, rhodiola's heart-protecting properties need to be further studied before the herb can be recommended as a treatment for arrhythmia (a potentially serious problem that can lead to heart disease, stroke, or sudden cardiac death in some cases).

How to Use Rhodiola

Available in capsule, liquid, and tea form, rhodiola can be found in many health food stores. The extract is often sold in formulas that contain other adaptogenic herbs.

Is Rhodiola Safe?

Although rhodiola is generally considered safe, it may trigger adverse effects like irritability and insomnia. If you're considering using rhodiola in treatment of a medical condition, make sure to consult a physician before you begin taking the herb.

Spice Za'atar! Did You Know?

Did you know Za'atar is a versatile spice blend? It can be used on meats, veggies, rice, and breads.

It only takes 10 minutes to make!

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup sumac
• 2 tablespoons thyme
• 1 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons marjoram
• 2 tablespoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt

Preparation:

Grind the sesame seeds in food processor or with mortar and pestle. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
Store za'atar in a cool, dark place in a plastic zip bag or in an airtight container. When stored properly, za'atar can be used from 3-6 months.

Health Benefits of Zaatar

Thyme or zaatar's health benefits are well known by herbalists. Eating zaatar on bread helps digest the heaviness of the bread and can prevent many digestive and allergic reactions related to bread.
Mixed with boiling water and sweetened with honey, the fresh herb has been employed with success as a safe cure for stomach problems and whooping cough as well as in cases of catarrh and sore throat.
Drinking the green leafy tea also has many health benefits. Having a cup of zaatar tea in the morning will ease menstrual cramps and eliminate phlegm. Zaatar is also good for those who are feeling drowsy or depressed as it helps in stimulating the brain, refreshing the mood and improving the memory.

Thyme Oil has Anti-inflammatory and Antiseptic Qualities

Thyme oil is a natural anti-inflammatory and can be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis as it reduces the itching of the skin. It can also be applied to insect bites. Sufferers of insomnia may find thyme oil beneficial by adding a few drops to bathwater to encourage relaxation.
One of the most useful factors of this herb is its antiseptic qualities. Used as a warm tea bag, it can cure styes, pink eye or conjunctivitis. Because of its antispasmodic qualities, it is also of great relief to women suffering from cramps during their monthly periods. Thyme is a safe herb when used appropriately, although occasional allergic reactions to thyme have been reported.

 

Pennyroyal (Mentha Pulegium), Did You Know?

Did you know the Indians of North America taught the white settlers how to use the leaves of Pennyroyal. It will repel insects by rubbing the leaves into the skin. The Chickasaws soaked the plant in water and placed it on the forehead to relieve itchy and watery eyes. The Mohicans drank Pennyroyal tea to soothe the stomach and the Katawbas used the herb to relieve colds.

Pennyroyal has been used effectively to treat delayed menstruation. In feverish conditions, Pennyroyal has a noticeable, increased beneficial effect due to its diaphoretic and stimulant properties. It is most effective when used as a vapour bath. It is also effective for gas, intestinal spasms, colic, pain and restlessness in children. It has been used to purify water and in times past, it was hung in the sleeping room to induce sleep and retard insects.

The oil of Pennyroyal is an abortifacient by its abilities to irritate the kidneys and bladder during excretion and exciting uterine contractions reflexively. The oil is also known to be a CNS depressant. It has been used for spasms and hysteria.

• Pennyroyal is a spicy smelling herb that promotes perspiration in colds and flu's. Pennyroyal aids in expelling intestinal gas. It has a sedative, calming effects on the nerves.
  
• Pennyroyal is useful in lung problems, helps with tootaches brings on perspiration allowing for improved circulation, is helpful in skin diseases and has had good results in gout.

CAUTION: Avoid during pregnancy in first two trimesters, as it can cause an abortion, but may be used in final (5) weeks.

Pennyroyal also helps with: Bronchitis, Childbirth, Colds, Colic, Cramps, Female Problems, Fevers, Gas, Lung Infections, Promotes Menstruation, Nerves, Promotes Perspiration, Induces Sweating.

                           

Herbs For High White Blood Cell Count. Did You Know?

Did you know white blood cells are part of the immune system and responsible for controlling infection-causing pathogens. A high white blood cell count is not necessarily bad, but may indicate the presence of an infection, inflammation or other disease. While there are not any herbs specifically used to control blood cell counts, there are a few which may help fight infection and strengthen the immune system. Check with your doctor before using herbs as medicine.

Echinacea

Echinacea, also known as purple coneflower, is a popular remedy for the common cold and flu. A wildflower native to North America, it has been used for centuries in folk medicine to treat a variety of infectious conditions, including fevers; respiratory infections; urinary tract infections; ear infections; and Candida, or yeast infections. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the herb has been shown to boost the immune system, reduce the severity of colds, and have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. Whether or not the herb actually fights infection is still under debate. The recommended dose is 1 to 2 g in herbal tea up to three times per day. Check with your medical doctor before trying echinacea as it may interact with certain medications.

Elderberry

Elderberry is another folk remedy for the cold and flu. It is specifically used for coughs and sinus infections, and can sometimes be found in over-the-counter cough remedies. It can be found throughout Europe and North America, and to some extent South America. Its main chemical component, sambucol, is naturally antiviral, and has been studied in the treatment of both influenza and herpes simplex. An Israeli study published in 2004 in the "Journal of International Medical Research" found that elderberry was effective in treating seasonal flu symptoms. Patients were given 15 mL of elderberry syrup, four times per day, and saw a decrease in symptoms within four days. More studies are needed, so consult your health care provider before trying this herb.

Garlic

Garlic has been valued as both food and medicine for centuries. Because it is so prolific and easily accessible to most, it makes a convenient home remedy. It is naturally antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant, meaning it protects the cells against free radical damage. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it also has immune-boosting properties and may help fight cancer. It has been shown to both prevent and treat the common cold, as well as reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Using fresh garlic is recommended, although it is also available in capsule or tablet form. The recommended daily dose is 2,200 mg tablets, three times per day, or 2 to 4 g of fresh garlic. Talk to your medical doctor before using garlic for medicinal purposes.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a culinary spice used in curries and other Asian dishes. It is also a common herb used in both ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. Its active ingredient, curcumin, is naturally anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, ranging from benign issues such as indigestion, to chronic health problems like arthritis and cancer. One study published in October 2010 in the "International Journal of Biological Macromolecules" showed that it also helps stimulate the immune system. Researchers concluded that turmeric could be used as an adjunct treatment for cancer patients to help support immune function. Talk to your health care provider about proper use of turmeric.

Fight Cancer With Well Known Herbs! Did you Know?

Did you know the next 5 herbs have wonderful cancer fighting abilities?  You probably have them growing in your garden. These also make great window sill plants for winter so you can take advantage of the fresh herbs all year round!

Rosemary
Rosemary is given alongside the chemotherapy drugs Adriamycin and Velban, cancer cells may begin to absorb the chemotherapy that they had previously resisted. In many cases the plant’s natural terpene either brought about the demise of the cancerous cells or helped reduce their spread.

Parsley
Parsley contains apigenine, a natural oil that has been shown to prevent angiogenesis – the growth of blood vessels that supply cancerous tumors with nutrients. The apigenine from parsley cuts off the blood supply to a tumor, acting similarly to the prescription drug AvaThyme is brimming with an essential oil that is rich in thymol. Thymol, along with rosmarinic and ursolic acids are terpenes (similar to those in rosemary) and possess anti-cancer properties. Thyme can also be used as an antiseptic, antibacterial, and a strong antioxidant. When used in mouthwashes, it can treat inflammations of the mouth and throat.

Thyme
Thyme is brimming with an essential oil that is rich in thymol. Thymol, along with rosmarinic and ursolic acids are terpenes (similar to those in rosemary) and possess anti-cancer properties. Thyme can also be used as an antiseptic, antibacterial, and a strong antioxidant. When used in mouthwashes, it can treat inflammations of the mouth and throat.

Mint
Mint leaves have a phytochemical in them that has been found to cut off the blood supply to cancer tumors, resulting in their untimely death. It’s yet another example of the healing power of nature and the medical efficacy of phytochemicals found in your own garden.


Dill
Dill has many medicinal properties, which come from certain compounds called Monoterpenes. The protective Monoterpenes, are stimulants and activate secretions of an enzyme called glutathione-S-transferase (an power anti-oxidant) which is very effective in neutralizing carcinogens, particularly free radicals, thereby protecting from cancer. The essential oils present in dill are also a natural stimulant and activate bile and digestive juices while encouraging peristaltic motion of the intestine.








                  

Alternative Names For Your Spices. Did you Know?

Did you know that Traditional Chinese Medicine goes back for thousands of years. Written records go back two thousand years, but the tradition may go back 5000 years.Ding Xiang: You most likely have some of this spice in your spice rack right now. It is the Chinese name for cloves. Some of the medicinal uses are the same as found in Western practices; to stimulate the appetite and clear up flatulence and belching. They also use it for impotence. We in the West use the oil of cloves for some dental problems.
Gancao: Licorice root is used in both Chinese and Western practices for sore throats and digestive complaints. Chinese practice includes it for asthma and poor appetite. Care must be taken if you have high blood pressure, as this herb will cause it to go up. Note that the candies called licorice may not contain any of the herb. Most candy makers use anise to avoid side effects and drug interactions.
Lu Hui: Aloe is a handy plant in dealing with minor burns and some skin problems. Both Chinese and Western medicine use it as a laxative, though the Chinese also view it as a means of expelling worms. I don't recommend ingesting the plant because it can cause painful cramping and may interact with your heart and/or heart medications.
Manjingz: Women have found the chaste berry very helpful in dealing with "female complaints." It may ease symptoms of PMS and symptoms of menopause. The Chinese use it for liver complaints and headaches.
Rougui: This is another denizen of many spice racks; cinnamon. Western traditional use includes diabetes, sore throats and digestive problems. It is also used traditionally to lower fevers and "sweat out" illnesses. Chinese medicine includes poor appetite, kidney problems and impotence.
Shengjiang: Unless you do a lot of Asian cooking, you probably don't have fresh ginger, but I try to keep it around. This is especially true during cold and flu season. This spicy rhizome can help with colds and flu, ease stomach pain and nausea. A piece placed between the cheek and gum is said to ward off motion sickness. The Chinese use it for specific types of nausea and vomiting as well as for symptoms of colds and flu.
Cloves, cinnamon and ginger are safe in food amounts for most people. If you wish to use any of these as supplements, it is a good idea to check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure they will not interact with any medication you currently take.