Thursday, January 27, 2011

health benefits of GREEN APPLE

Fruits must be part of one’s daily diet. They contain a lot of vitamins and minerals that are essential for proper functioning of the body. There are immense green apple benefits which is discussed below.
Apple is also very nutritious. As the saying goes – an apple a day, keeps the doctor away.
Green apple is a favorite fruit of many. There are almost 7000 types of apple available in the world. The red apple is very popular as well as the green apple. Usually apples are sweet, but some are sour as well. The sour apples are used for cooking, refining it for the preparation of oil, as well as making wine. The green apple falls into the latter category.
Green apple has a green colored radiant skin and is sweet and sour in taste. It is very juicy also and very tasty to eat.
The green apple not only tastes good but as several benefits. Let us have a look at the benefits.
Green Apple Benefits
Some of the primary health benefits of green apple are:
  • Contains a lot of fiber, which is good for digestion.
  • The chances of colon cancer are less if one eats green apple.
  • Relieves constipation.
  • Beneficial in treating gout.
  • Useful in controlling diarrhea.
  • Reduces blood pressure.
  • Blood sugar gets stabilized.
  • Helps in treating rheumatism.
  • Improves one’s appetite.
  • It contains carbohydrates and therefore provides much energy.
  • It contains protein.
  • Has plenty of vitamins, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6 and it is one of the most prominent green apple benefits.
  • It also has plenty of minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, Manganese, Iron, Potassium, Copper, Zinc
  • It helps in preventing liver problems.
  • Lessens the chances of developing skin diseases.
  • It consists of several anti-oxidants such as polyphenol as well as flavonoid that helps in reducing the risk of cancer by not allowing DNA damage to occur.
  • It has less cholesterol and is therefore useful for those losing weight.
  • As green apple contains a lot of Vitamin A,B as well C, it is very good for the nourishment of skin and also has a whitening effect on it.
  • It purifies the blood as it contains a lot of minerals.
  • One also less chances of suffering from liver problems.
Apples have essential nutrients and green apple is no exception to it. Green apple has lots of benefits due to which it should be included in the daily diet.
green apple benefits




Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Health Benefits of Drinking Green Tea

 

 

Burn Fat Quickly with Green Tea

Burning calories is not easy—it takes a lot of energy and effort to remove huge amounts of fat, but with the help of green tea extracts you can easi...


Burning calories is not easy—it takes a lot of energy and effort to remove huge amounts of fat, but with the help of green tea extracts you can easily speed up the burning process. Researchers have discovered that drinking a cup of green tea daily will boost your metabolism from 8 to 14 percent, that’s why they highly recommend it to those who are looking for a quick method to lose fat.
Tea is made from Camellia Sinesis and has three main varieties: green, black and oolong. The difference between these types is their concentration levels of polyphenol antioxidants. The more polyphenols there are in the ingredients, the better the fat-burning effects and benefits will be. Green tea is a rich source of this particular antioxidant, that’s why it is considered as one of the best weight loss alternatives available in the market today.
Green tea originates from Asia, mainly from China and other neighboring countries like Japan and South Korea. Asians in general have slim bodies, good skin complexions and higher life expectancy rates, and this is because drinking tea has become part of their culture for several centuries. In the past, this herbal beverage was normally consumed for its healing qualities, but ever since more benefits have been discovered, it has become an all-around remedy. So if you include it in your diet, you’ll not only be reducing fat but you’ll also be cleansing and protecting your body from various diseases.
Exercising will help you burn calories, but if you exercise and take green tea every day, you’ll have more chances of getting your body in shape. Your friends will be surprised the next time they see you because you’ll look much younger and sexier. They’ll want to know what supplements you took to achieve those results, and when you say you only drank tea, they’ll be desperate to try it out themselves!
So you if you want to have a healthier, slimmer and more youthful body, go ahead and get some of this amazing tea today! For just a small amount of money, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits that this beverage brings. Compare that to all the expensive weight loss supplements that do not really deliver the results they strongly claim. With green tea, you’ll not only save a lot of money but also attain a great-looking body within a short period of time!

Green Tea Diet – The Best Way to Lose Weight Effectively

 
Looking for the most natural and effective way to keep your body in shape? Then a green tea diet is the perfect solution for you! There have been discoveries and reports that green tea extracts can increase your metabolism, therefore helping you burn fat and lose weight much faster. Now, isn’t that amazing? It’s also completely safe and economical to drink because it’s 100% natural and a lot cheaper than other weight loss supplements.
Green tea has long been considered as a natural remedy for pain and other medical problems. It has been used even during the ancient times, and it still continues to perform wonders for us today. Aside from its healing capabilities, this herbal drink also contains antioxidants that protect you from free-radicals and slow down the aging process. So it does not only help you lose fat but makes you look younger as well.
Researchers believed that the normal rate of burning calories from 8-10%, but when they experimented with the tea, they were thrilled with the results because the percentage reached up to 14%. This outcome can be achieved if you drink the beverage on a daily basis, ideally during daytime because that’s when your metabolism works best.
One of the reasons why green tea boosts the burning of calories is because it contains a special ingredient called catechin that prevents free-radicals from damaging your body after a heavy workout. The beverage also has large quantities of potent antioxidants which help fight aging. These natural elements protect us from harmful diseases and illness while keeping our bodies fit at the same time.
For the best results, drink one cup of tea every day after every meal and soon you’ll notice your body has become much slimmer and healthier. Being in shape not only increases your self-esteem but also makes you feel good inside because the herbal ingredients are always cleansing your system from bacteria.
This herbal weight loss drink should always be part of your daily intake so that you can take advantage of its natural elements and achieve a sexier body in no time. Whether you’re a body builder or just someone who wants to get rid of unwanted fat, a green tea diet is the right answer for you! Now you don’t need to waste your money on ineffective products because you can easily stay fit with this wonderful tea.
So why not get yourself a green tea diet today so you can receive the amazing benefits from one the world’s most famous beverages and medical remedies. It’s Mother Nature’s gift to keep you healthy and in shape!

Slimming Down the Facts: Weight Loss Studies on Green Tea

 
Rumor has it that Green Tea can help with weight loss. However, the rumors, like so many other diet secrets, may just be a fad that is being passed around in order to promote green tea as a product. If you want proof to see if green tea really is all that it promises, then you can look at some of the weight loss studies on green tea to find the legitimacy of the substance. The studies that have been provided all point to the same fact; Green Tea is a good supplement for helping with weight loss.
One of the weight loss studies that have been done for green tea began with monitoring individuals who drank green tea, showing the effects that were a part of the continuous part of green tea. It was shown that for those that drank green tea continuously for three months, were able to loose more body fat than those who were using regular exercise and weight loss routines without the green tea.
The study that was done showed that the support for weight loss came from a substance in green tea known as Catechin. This particular part of the extract of green tea works with the chemicals in the body that naturally trigger communication to the brain. Catechin will tell the body that it needs to speed up the metabolism and begin to burn more calories. This particular study has been considered as completely legitimate and has become a study that has been highlighted in places such as the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Other studies have supported this particular scientific knowledge on green tea, showing that both humans and animals react to the green tea in the same way. Another weight loss study on green tea, conducted at the Linus Pauling Institute, showed that the Catechin triggered specific areas of the brain for weight loss. Specifically, it moved to the Thermogenesis area of the brain. This particular area is one that communicates with the metabolism, telling it to produce more energy for the body. This particular effect from this study was then compared to caffeine. It was shown that green tea is more effective than any type of caffeinated drink in helping the body to produce more energy.
Of course, all of the studies state that green tea can not work alone for weight loss. It is a beneficial supplement for those that have a well-rounded routine and are working towards loosing weight. By adding it into the program, it can work with the other areas that you have in order to produce the best benefits of green tea.
If you are working towards loosing weight, and want to know exactly what you need to use to be effective in your routines, then adding green tea as a supplement can be effective. As science promises and points out with the weight loss studies on green tea, there are specific benefits and triggers that can work effectively with what you need to gain control of your weight loss.

Green Tea Diet for Natural Weight Loss and Better Health

 
The simple fact that green tea has been used to treat a wide range of ailments for more than four thousand years indicates that this natural ingredient is indeed special. Even though green tea has been a traditional medicine among the Asians for all of the past four thousand years, it is only in the past few years that scientific research into the medicinal properties of green tea has been carried out.
The findings of these studies have shown that indeed, green tea possess various curative and therapeutic features. Scientific research in both Asia and the west is providing firm confirmation and evidence for the health benefits long associated with drinking green tea.
It has also been found that in addition to boosting one’s vitality, green tea diet has properties which assist with weight loss. To date, a lot of scientific investigations have been carried out to establish the benefits of green tea diets. The outcome of these studies is positive; showing that indeed green tea diet is a healthy and effective way to lose weight.
What are the key benefits associated with green tea diet? Firstly, it’s a possible cure for cancer. Based on some studies which have been carried out in the past, some specific substances in green tea diet can wipe out cancer cells with no harm to other healthy tissues in the body.
The very essential substance in green tea diets which gives it these healing properties is called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Green tea is rich in these EGCG anti-oxidants. EGCG slows down and stops the growth of new cancer cells in the body. It also kills some existing cancer cells without harming normal cells. Additionally, EGCG is also apparently effective at stopping blood clots formation which has been known to cause thrombosis, which in turn causes stokes and heart attacks.
Some American and Swiss scientists carried out a study which also show that the EGCG antioxidants found in green tea diets can accelerate energy expenditure is a body. The conclusion of their study was that given the ability of antioxidants in green tea diet to stimulate thermogenesis (fat metabolism) is effective for losing weight. The study carried out by these scientists showed that people who were on a green tea diet showed a considerable 4% increase in their normal metabolic rates. This led the scientists to conclude that the diet has a major contributing factor in weight loss because it boosts the metabolic rate.
In a separate study that was carried out in China to further examine green tea diet’s weight loss benefits, the findings confirmed the initial conclusion that green tea indeed can assist with weight loss. In this Chinese study, it was established that green tea diet can considerably boost fat metabolism and reduce cholesterol levels. In a case study which they carried out, these scientists observed that when a green tea diet was introduced to a group of 240 people with moderate to very high cholesterol levels, after only three months, they observed that those on a green tea diet dropped 16% in their cholesterol levels. The drink is a possible cure for obesity.
In addition, the green tea diet is also extensively acknowledged as a substance that can defend the body against many different cancers such as stomach cancer, ovarian cancer, cancer of the colon, oral cancer, prostate cancer, and breast and cervical cancers. All these various types of cancer can be cured by green tea.
Green tea is definitely an extraordinary drink which helps lose weight and boost one’s health and vitality in many ways. In recent years, it has also been proved that it can successfully defend the skin from damage due to ultraviolet light radiation.
Green tea diet is indeed the miracle brew that has many benefits. The fact that it is a natural ingredient further makes it safe to consume in the long term.

Studies on Green Tea and Weight Loss

 
For many years now, several benefits are attributed to drinking green tea. Today, researchers have come up with newer proofs to solidify the belief that green tea can be used as a treatment for obesity and for weight loss.
It is held that more than half of the American population have weight problems or are obese. Conditions like these are almost always linked to certain complications like heart disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, sleep apnea, gall bladder disease, and hypertension. Weight loss can aid in assuaging the symptoms of some of these conditions.
Scientists have tirelessly investigated the weight loss benefits of green tea. They have found that green tea can actually enhance the total amount of energy spent by the body. From their findings, they were able to deduce that green tea has great potential for a weight loss benefit.
Other researches were able to confirm the weight loss benefit of green tea. A recent study at the University of Geneva had the conclusion that, “Green tea has thermogenic properties and promotes fat oxidation beyond that explained by its caffeine content per se.” Where before it was generally believed that the caffeine content in green tea is the reason for its weight loss benefit, this recent study deviated from that theory. Green tea has other substances in them that are helpful in weight loss.
The same team who conducted the study on green tea’s caffeine content and weight loss banded together in Switzerland to perform another experiment. They were still able to come up with the same results – that green tea has several thermogenic attributes that make it perfect to use in any weight loss program.
Green tea reduces body fat accretion caused by high-fat diet in rats through beta-adrenoceptor activation of thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. Conducted by chief scientist J.J. Choo of the Department of Food and Nutrition, Kunsan National University, this study aimed to find out if green tea can suppress body fat and to find out whether this suppression is connected with thermogenesis spurred by the body’s beta-adrenoceptor being activated.
To investigate the weight loss benefit of green tea on rats, the scientists placed their subjects on a high-fat diet and provided them with green tea extract. It was discovered that even though the rats were on a high-fat diet, the green tea extract counterbalanced fat gain without affecting the amount of energy they took in. Green tea was said to have shown some weight loss benefits in the fact that it can prevent fat from being stored, can increase protein levels, and promote thermogenesis by triggering beta-adrenoceptor to action.
Recent findings of green tea extract AR25 (Exolise) and its activity for the treatment of obesity. This study is a collaborative work between Doctors P. Chantre and D. Lairon of the Laboratoires Arkopharma in Carros, France. Published in the 2002 issue of Phytomedicine, this study aimed to find out if green tea extract has weight loss benefits and can be a potential cure for obesity.
In their study, they used an 80% ethanolic concentrate in green tea extract with standardized 25% catechins. They tested the green tea extract and were able to find that it could directly inhibit gastric and pancreatic lipases. These enzymes are the primary cause of fat storage and by delaying their actions; green tea extract therefore exhibits a weight loss benefit that can help solve obesity problems.
It was also discovered in this study that green tea can stimulate thermogenesis. Given to moderately obese patients, the green tea extract was said to have caused a decrease in weight by 4.6% and a reduction of waist circumference by 4.48% after only three months. The findings of the study clearly implicate the weight loss benefits of green tea.


Recipe for Green Tea Cake

 
Over the years, people have come up with some very interesting cake recipes. For instance, there is chocolate and zucchini cake, Coca Cola cake, and Kaluha cake, all delicious but not necessarily healthy. As you will discover in this article, you have another option in the form of a recipe for green tea cake. With this, you have both flavor and a healthy snack.
Although we have provided you with our favorite recipe for green tea cake, keep in mind that you will find many variations. In addition, you might take the recipe we have and modify it using your own creativity. Regardless, a green tea cake makes a wonderful dessert when entertaining guests or snack for the kids after school. Green tea cakes are light, moist, and offer just the right amount of sweet.
You will even find that with this recipe for green cake tea fills the room with a wonderful, green tea fragrance. This type of cake can be made as a sheet cake, layer cake, or for different types of molds. As far as icing, you could choose whatever you like but we do suggest you consider a cream cheese based icing, which adds just the right touch of flavor to complement the cake’s ingredients. If you want to give this recipe for green tea cake a slight green color, you can add an additional amount of Matcha, which is green tea powder.
RECIPE FOR GREEN TEA CAKE
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cake flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
4 to 5 teaspoons powdered green tea
1 ¼ cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 eggs
RECIPE FOR ICING
1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
2 ½ teaspoons powdered green tea
2 tablespoons butter or margerine, soft
3 ounces cream cheese, soft
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons milk
Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch or two, 9-inch cake pans. In a bowl, sift the all-purpose flour with cake flour, baking soda, salt, and green tea powder, mix well and set aside. In another bowl, beat the white sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Gradually beat in the flour mixture, alternating with the yogurt. Mix well and pour the batter into the prepared baking pans. Bake the cake for 30 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a cake rack for 30 minutes before icing.
For the icing, sift the powdered sugar with the green tea powder in a bowl. In a second bowl, mix the sugar/tea mixture with butter, cream cheese, vanilla, and milk. Beat until smooth with an electric mixer. Spread the icing on the cooled cakes, distributing evenly. To enhance the appearance for this recipe of green tea cake, you could sprinkle a small amount of the green tea powder on top.

Green Tea Smoothie Recipe

 
Whether dieting or needing energy for sports performance, a smoothie made with the right ingredients would provide a huge nutritional benefit. A growing trend is the incorporation of green tea into our society. Considering that green tea has been studied intensely and proven to provide excellent health benefits, it would only make sense that someone would come up with a green tea smoothie recipe.
Over time, the initial green tea smoothie recipe has evolved. Now, while we are providing you with more than one green tea smoothie recipe, remember that you can add or delete whatever ingredients you want. This would be a great time to experiment, coming up with a smoothie that you love. Green tea adds a slight, sweet taste that works exceptionally well with fruits and vegetables.
You will even discover that your kids love smoothies made from green tea. Used as a breakfast food, afternoon or after school snack, or to improve performance and stamina, you cannot beat green tea. Oriental people have long appreciated green tea and now, people in this country are discovering the benefits. These smoothies can be made using actual brewed green tea or green tea powder, known as Match, which can be found at health or Asian food stores. Below we have listed recipes for green tea smoothies, which are delicious and nutritious.
Green Tea Smoothie Recipe – One
1 large peach, fresh, pitted, and sliced or cubed or ¾ cup canned peaches, drained
1/2 banana, sliced
1 ½ tablespoons honey
1 cup of brewed green tea, chilled
1/2 to 3/4 cup ice cubes
Brew the green tea and then chill for 45 to 60 mutes. In a blender, mix all the ingredients until creamy and smooth. If you like, this green tea smoothie can be decorated with a fresh peach slice.
Green Tea Smoothie Recipe – Two
1 cup milk
1/2 cup low-fat vanilla or vanilla bean ice cream
2 ½ tablespoons smooth peanut butter
1 banana, frozen and cubed
In a blender, add all the ingredients, blending until smooth.
Green Tea Smoothie Recipe – Three
1 1/2 cups cantaloupe or honeydew, diced
1/2 cup lemon or vanilla yogurt
1 cup green grapes, frozen
1 tablespoon fresh mint, minced
Lemon juice, fresh
In a blender, add all the ingredients, blending until creamy. If you prefer a tarter flavor, add additional lemon juice.
Again, we suggest you take a base green tea smoothie recipe and have fun coming up with your own creation. This would be an excellent project for the kids too while also having the opportunity to teach them about health and nutrition. In addition to cold smoothies, you might also consider creating hot smoothies, similar to green tea soup. Today, we often grab fast food simply due to a lack of time. Now, you could use a green tea smoothie recipe instead, knowing you are providing your body with rich nutrients while also having excellent taste. Quick and easy, it is no wonder green tea has become such a huge hit!
 

Negative Effects of Green Tea Leaves

 
Most people think only of positive benefits of green tea. However, while this type of tea does offer some excellent benefits, many directly related to health, it is also important to understand there are some negative effects of green tea leaves. Just as with many foods and drinks we consume, green tea may not be good for everyone. Therefore, we wanted to address some of the negative effects of green tea leaves so you can determine if this is right for you.
Green tea comes from a bush in the Camellia family, which is why the official name for green tea is Camellia sinensis, which is Latin. This evergreen bush has shiny, pointed leaves that have a wonderful aroma. This particular bush also produces beautiful white flowers. Today, green tea is grown in more than 50 countries to include Argentina, Brazil, and Russia, among others.
The exciting thing about this tea is that study after study shows positive effects on the body, meaning the negative effects of green tea leaves is minimal. For instance, green tea contains powerful antioxidants that have been proven to help fight various forms of cancer, as well as tooth decay, obesity, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Because of the amazing benefits, the level of consumption for green tea has skyrocketed throughout the globe.
Now, when it comes to the negative effects of green tea leaves, we want to start with pregnant women. Although most doctors agree that a small consumption of green tea is fine but when large amounts are consumed, caffeine can increase the risk of spontaneous abortion, low birth rate, and even growth retardation. Keep in mind that these risks are associated with the beverage of green tea, as well as supplements.
EGCG molecules, which are similar to a methotrexate compound, work by fighting off cancer cells by bonding with the dihydrofolate reductase enzyme, which is good in non-pregnant women. However, in pregnant women, the negative effects of green tea leaves involves involve the epigallocatechins, otherwise known as EGCG. In this situation, EGCG can affect the way in which the body uses folate, which is vital in the prevention of neural tube birth defects.
Nursing women should also consider the negative effects of green lea leaves. Remember, green tea is high in caffeine. Therefore, a woman who is breastfeeding and consuming green tea would be passing the caffeine on to the baby. Even small amounts or green tea powder used for baking, smoothies, and other foods should be avoided while nursing a baby.
In addition, negative effects of green tea leaves would link to individuals who have allergies. In this case, someone who is caffeine sensitive could develop problems such as hives and rash from consuming green tea. With caffeine being a stimulant that affects the central nervous system, other problems could result such as insomnia, excessive urination, reduction of potassium levels, and even incontinence. Just keep in mind that if you have any concerns about negative effects of green tea leaves for you, we recommend that you talk to your doctor or a health food specialist.

A Review of the Reasons Why You Need to Drink Green Tea Diet

 
Green tea has become very popular due to the essential health benefits it brings. It has a very long history in being used by Asians as traditional medicine for many years. In addition to adding to one’s vitality, in recent years scientific research has also shown that green tea can help with weight loss.
The green tea diet is different from all other tea diets because its liquid is extracted by steaming the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant as opposed to full oxidation. As a result, the green tea diet preserves a lot more antioxidants for the body to use. The fact that green tea is a natural ingredient makes it a healthy drink which anyone can drink with no long term harmful side effects, unlike other drugs for weight loss.
What are the key health benefits of green tea diet?
The green tea can diet can help fight the signs of aging since it contains big amounts vitamins C and E which are antioxidants. This marvelous drink is an outstanding source of polycatechin polyphenols, antioxidants that can fight free radicals that damage cells. Heart attacks, cancer and diabetes are some of the diseases that can be caused by damaged cell membranes. Due to green tea diet’s polycatechin polyphenols, a person has a better chance of evading ailments and keeping himself healthy for a much longer period of time. One can get better vitality by simply drinking green tea diet.
There are currently ongoing studies on another antioxidant which is available in green tea diet which can potentially cure cancer. Epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG found in green tea diet has been discovered to destroy cancer cells while keeping surrounding healthy cells unharmed. By simply drinking green tea diet, one can also reduce the risk of cancer.
Some studies in recent years have also shown that drinking green tea can help lose some weight. It has been noted by a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that with the consumption of green tea diet, the body’s total 24-hour energy expenditure is boosted by up to 4%. Green tea diet helps increase the body’s metabolic rates. With its thermogenic properties, it is only natural that green tea diet can also promote faster metabolism of fats and sugars. With the green tea diet, one can therefore lose weight without doing a workout at the gym.
Green tea can also help your body fight any infections. Some recent studies have shown that drinking tea increases the immunity system, thus strengthening the body’s ability to fight diseases.
In recent years, the green tea diet has also been proved to lower blood pressure and also help asthma sufferers. Green tea contains theophylline which can help muscles surrounding bronchial tubes to relax, thus helping asthma sufferers to breathe easier.
With all these benefits of green tea diet, why should you pass up on boosting your body’s vitality and lose weight at the same time?
Are there any downside effects to green tea diet? Even though green tea diet has a reputation for boosting health, scientific evidence of its health benefits are rather mixed.
In an article published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, American researchers collaborated with their Chinese counterparts to discuss the positive effects of green tea diet on cholesterol levels. Using a sample of 240 men and women (average age 55) who possess moderate to high LDL cholesterol levels, the researchers instructed them to retain their usual low-fat diet, green tea diet intake, and activity levels. After three months, those who consumed green tea diet extract with their regular meals lost more than 15% of their total LDL cholesterol levels. This finding therefore further supported the benefits of green tea.
Based on recent studies and experience, the general consensus is that green tea offers several health benefits and also help with losing weight.
Dieting generally involves eating well and exercising. Green tea diet, like all other diets, needs a lot of effort and commitment for those who try it. This diet requires both discipline and dedication for it to make any significant impact on your weight loss goals. With the green tea diet, you lose weight and also keep your body healthy.

Understanding the Properties of Green Tea

 
Today, most people have heard about green tea, learning about the many benefits offered. For instance, green tea helps fight cancer, lower bad cholesterol, fight tooth decay, reduce weight, and lower high blood pressure. While these benefits are proven facts coming from in-depth studies performed around the world, the properties of green tea are not completely understood by most consumers.
As you will discover in this article, the properties of green tea are basic but powerful. First, green tea originates from various Asian countries to include Japan and China. The leaves are removed and used as the tea, usually by being steamed rather than boiling as we do in the United States. Additionally, green tea leaves can be dried and made into powder form used for baking, cooking, and even developed into supplement form via tablet or capsule.
Regardless of the form, the properties of green tea are what we find so fascinating. Keep in mind that while you will find different forms and strength of green tea, the properties of green tea do not change unless you purchase a product blended with other tea or ingredients. The primary benefit is antioxidant properties of green tea. In addition, each leaf contains caffeine, theanine, an amino acid, catechin, chlorophyll, butyric acid, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, E, F, P, and U, and minerals to include saponin, saccharides, and pectin.
In addition to the obvious benefits, remember that the ingredients are natural, making green tea use even more attractive. However, the way in which the tea is processed could change the base structure of the properties. As mentioned, Asian people steam the leaves, which mean the properties of the green tea are unchanged. Therefore, the benefits by consuming green tea are much greater than when the leaves are boiled.
Since the antioxidant properties of green tea are the most valuable, we want to address them. A number of studies show lipid peroxidation is inhibited up to six times more consuming green tea than other types of tea. Lipid peroxidation is a reference to the oxidative degeneration of lipids in which free radicals rob important electrons from the lipids found in cell membranes. When this occurs, cells are damaged.
The properties of green tea also include catechine, an active ingredient that performs up to ten times better than beta carotene and vitamin C in cleaning out alkyl peroxyl radicals. Another of the green tea properties known as polyphenols has been proven more powerful than antioxidants found in rosemary, curcumin, and vitamins C and E. Broken down, this means oxidants within the body are found and cleaned before cell damage occurs. Other benefits to this green tea property are the reduction and elimination of cancer cells.
In addition, properties of green tea help grow strong nails and hair, as well as prevent tooth decay by killing off bacteria that causes plaque. In addition to eliminating problems with cavities, bad breath is also stopped. The bottom line is that properties found within green tea have multiple impacts on the body, all good.

Health Benefits of HONEY



We want honey, not sugar
The health benefits of honey are so amazing that it's such a shame they have become almost forgotten with the introduction of sugar and sugar substitutes.  Honey is not just a sweetener for foods and drinks, but is actually an ancient form of medicine that is nutrition-packed.
Top athletes use honey water to boost and stimulate their performance.  They swear by it and you won’t catch them drinking poisoned chemical sports drinks.
There are many pretty jars of honey on shop shelves.  They are the clear and "clean" looking ones¾steer clear of them!  These pretty jars are fake honey which have been heavily processed and blended with corn syrup or plenty of sugar.  These are not genuine honey at all.  They may cause more harm than good.

Best Honey
The best way to buy honey is locally from a beekeeper or a local farmers' market.  Those are more often raw honey.  Raw honey can prevent hayfever-type symptoms because of the pollen spores it contains. It actually de-sensitizes you.
Only spend your money on the best, good organic honey as they can only be labeled as such if it is produced under strict guidelines. The bees are not subjected to any form of pollution.  Always read the labels on the jar, nothing added, nothing blended, just pure honey is what you should look for and buy.

Honey Remedies
Most people go to the chemist or drug store for cough, cold and flu remedies, seeking a product with honey and often lemon in the ingredients.  They know it is supposed to be good for them; but, they are very often wasting their money.
A glass of warm water with raw honey and fresh lemon juice is far more effective.
Raw honey contains the anti-oxidants we need in our daily diets to mop up those free radicals which are so harmful to our health. In fact honey contains far more anti-oxidants than some fruits and vegetables. However the combination of the two is indeed an excellent way to eat healthily.
Raw honey has the right enzymes that help to ensure our foods are digested properly and it's extremely helpful for irritable bowel syndrome. Eating honey also stimulates B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes making them multiply, thus boosting the immune system.

Honey Medicine
Thousands of years ago Hippocrates (we know him as the author of the Hippocratic Oath) cured most of his patients with honey. He dedicated most of his life to the healing of sick children who thrived on the nourishment of the honey they were given.
Today there are many health and medical benefits of honey of which we are becoming once again aware, all of which are documented in many medical journals.  Perhaps the most famous "modern doctor" in this field is Dr Peter Molam. He is a scientist who works at the Waikato Honey Research Unit in New Zealand. Dr Molam has spent almost his entire life researching and proving the benefits of honey.
We must also give credit to Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem who have proved that taking two to three ounces of healing honey a day wipes out the toughest to treat stomach ulcers. Honey helps stop a stomach ulcer from forming or healing one, if present.  All you need to do is eat two to five teaspoons of good raw honey every day.
Honey also helps eliminate MRSA the dreaded flesh-eating disease which rears its head quite often.  E-Coli is yet another disease that doesn’t stand a chance once honey gets a grip.  Hospitals today use "Honey Dressings" called Medi-Honey.  These are applied to all kinds of skin infections such as bedsores, burns and even babies nappy rash with spectacular results.
In fact honey heals these infections faster than any chemical medications. Even after major operations honey is the preferred dressing in today’s hospitals.  Apart from being sweet, aromatic, and tasting nice, honey cures most ailments due to its ability to eat away and destroy bad bacteria (stomach ulcers are caused by these bacteria, not stress) without destroying the good bacteria we need in our digestive systems and on our skin, to promote healing.
Can you think of a more versatile food source than good ole pure honey?   Honey can be used in cooking and baking, can be mixed with fruits to naturally sweeten a delicious smoothie, will calm a tickly cough thus enabling sleep, can be used as a beauty product for the skin and is an amazing natural medicine just to name a few of its benefits.
All of this and more is due to the tiny insect called the "honey bee", the only insect that produce food for human consumption.  It's little wonder then, that we refer to them endearingly as "busy little bees".
Caution: As wonderful as honey is for our health, it is not suitable for infants (babies under 12 months).  Honey contains bacterial spores that older children and adults may be able to handle.  But babies' digestive systems are much more delicate and is not yet fully colonized with beneficial bacteria to combat infantile botulism.  Although this is rare, it can be potentially fatal.
Infant botulism affects a baby's nervous system and can be deadly.  Some of the symptoms of infant botulism include:
  • Weak cry due to muscle weakness
  • Difficulty breathing and swallowing
  • Weak sucking and poor feeding
  • Lethargy

Health Benefits of Atis (Sugar Apple)

I am not a fan of atis. I tasted it once and have never eaten it again. The taste and texture is somewhat similar to guyabano but the latter is more delectable and the first has more seeds.
I prefer guyabano over atis but I am not placing the latter under a dim light. Atis/ sugar apple is one of the favorite fruit of Filipinos. It has many nutritional and medicinal benefits.
Food Value Per 100 g of Edible Portion* (via Purdue University)
Calories  =  88.9-95.7 g small atis tree
Moisture  = 69.8-75.18 g
Fat   =  0.26-1.10 g
Carbohydrates**  =  19.16-25.19 g
Crude Fiber   =  1.14-2.50 g
Protein  =  1.53-2.38 g
Amino Acids:
Tryptophan   = 9-10 mg
Methionine   = 7-8 mg
Lysine   = 54-69 mg
Minerals:
Ash  =  0.55-1.34 mg
Phosphorus   =   23.6-55.3 mg
Calcium   =  19.4-44.7 mg
Iron   =  0.28-1.34 mg
Vitamins:
Carotene   =  5-7 I.U.
Thiamine   =  0.100-0.13 mg
Riboflavin   =  0.113-0.167 mg
Niacin   =  0.654-0.931 mg
Ascorbic Acid   =  34.7-42.2 mg
* Minimum and maximum levels of constituents from analyses made in the Philippines, Central America and Cuba.
**The average sugar content is 14.58% and is about 50-50 glucose and sucrose.
Medicinal value of Atis (courtesy of Bureau of Plant Industry)
1) The leaves are applied as a poultice to children with dyspepsia.
2) Crushed seeds with coconut oil are applied on the scalp to rid it of lice.
3) A decoction of the seeds is used as an enema for the children with dyspepsia.
4) Externally the leaves, the unripe fruit, and the seeds (which contain acrid principle) possess vermicidal and insecticidal properties.
5) The crushed seeds, in a paste with water, are applied to the scalp to destroy lice.
6) The unripe fruit is astringent, and is given in diarrhea, dysentery and atonic dyspepsia.
7) The bark, according to Nadkarni, is considered a powerful astringent and tonic.
8) The roots are considered a drastic purgative.
I rarely see an atis tree. Maybe Filipinos are not giving it much attention. Farmers are always focus on planting high value fruits such as mango, lanzones, durian, rambutan, lychee, ponkan and dalandan. I hope we can give this fruit a shot!

Health benefits of BLUEBERRIES top 10

Top 10 health benefits of Blueberries


A new University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center study suggests that blueberries may help reduce belly fat and risk factors for cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.


Blueberries are the fruits of a shrub that belong to the heath family, which includes the cranberry and bilberry as well as the azalea, mountain laurel and rhododendron. Blueberries grow in clusters and range in size from that of a small pea to a marble. They are deep in color, ranging from blue to maroon to purple-black, and feature a white-gray waxy "bloom" that covers the surface serving as a protective coat. The skin surrounds a semi-transparent flesh that encases tiny seeds.


According to a study presented at the 2009 Experimental Biology conference, a diet rich in blueberries lowers blood cholesterol levels while improving glucose control and insulin sensitivity, lowering the risk of subsequent heart disease and diabetes.


Not only are blueberries yummy, they have some fantastic health benefits which include:

 

1.The highest antioxidant capacity of all fresh fruit: Blue Berries, being very rich in anti oxidants like Anthocyanin, vitamin C, B complex, vitamin E, vitamin A, copper (a very effective immune builder and anti-bacterial), selenium, zinc, iron (promotes immunity by raising haemoglobin and oxygen concentration in blood) etc. boost up your immune system and prevent infections. Once your immunity is strong, you won’t catch colds, fever, pox and all such nasty viral and bacterial communicable diseases.

 

2.Neutralizes free radicals which can affect disease and aging in the body: Blue Berries bring you the brightest ray of hope, for they are laden with anti oxidants and rank number 1 in the world of anti oxidants. This is mainly due to presence of Anthocyanin, a pigment responsible for the blue color of the blue berries. The abundance of vitamin-C is also a big factor for this as well.

 

3.Aid in reducing Belly Fat: A new University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center study suggests that blueberries may help reduce belly fat and risk factors for cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. So far, we know that the fruit works on rats, which were the test subjects. A blueberry-enriched powder was mixed into the rats' diet, which was either low-fat or high-fat rat chow. After 90 days, the rats with the blueberry-enriched diet had less abdominal fat, lower triglycerides, lower cholesterol and improved fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity. And their health was even better when combined with the low-fat diet. That group had lower body weight, lower total fat mass and reduced liver mass than the rats on the high-fat diet. An enlarged liver is linked to obesity and insulin resistance, a hallmark of diabetes. Although more research is needed to confirm these results in humans, a related study presented at the same conference showed that men with risk factors for heart disease who drank wild blueberry juice for three weeks seemed to experience slight improvements in glucose and insulin control.

 

4.along the lining of the inner walls of urinary tract is responsible for this infection, resulting in inflammation, burning sensation during in passage of urine and other complications. Here, Blue Berries can be surprisingly beneficial. It has a compound formed of big polymer like heavy molecules which inhibits the growth of such bacteria. It also has some anti biotic properties which adds to this effect. These heavy and big molecules almost wash-off these bacteria along the tract, thereby preventing the infection.

 

5.Been proved to preserve vision: Blueberry extract, high in compounds called anthocyanosides, has been found in clinical studies to slow down visual loss. They can prevent or delay all age related ocular problems like macular degeneration, cataract, myopia and hypermetropia, dryness and infections, particularly those pertaining to retina, due to their anti-oxidant properties. Blue Berries contain a special group of anti oxidants called Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin etc.), Flavonoids (like rutin, resveritrol, quercetin etc.), in addition to others such as vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin A, selenium, zinc and phosphorus, which are very beneficial and essential for the ocular health. Data reported in a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology indicates that eating 3 or more servings of fruit per day may lower your risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), the primary cause of vision loss in older adults, by 36%, compared to persons who consume less than 1.5 servings of fruit daily.

 

6.Brain Health: The anthocyanin, the selenium, the vitamins A, B-complex, C and E, the zinc, sodium, potassium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese etc., among others, can prevent and heal neurotic disorders by preventing degeneration and death of neurons, brain-cells and also by restoring health of the central nervous system. It is hard to believe that these berries can also cure serious problems like Alzheimer’s disease to a great extent. They even heal damaged brain cells and neuron tissues and keep your memory sharp for a long-long time. Researchers found that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging animals, making them mentally equivalent to much younger ones.

 

7.Heart Disease: The high fiber content, those brilliant anti oxidants and the ability to dissolve the ‘bad cholesterol’ make the Blue Berry an ideal dietary supplement to cure many heart diseases. It also strengthens the cardiac muscles. In this study, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, researchers found that a moderate drink (about 4 ounces) of white wine contained .47 mmol of free radical absorbing antioxidants, red wine provided 2.04 mmol, and a wine made from highbush blueberries delivered 2.42 mmol of these protective plant compounds.
 

 

8.Constipation & Digestion: While roughage (fiber) in Blue Berries keep away constipation (Of course, a single piece alone will not do. You need to eat a big handful of them), the vitamins, sodium, copper, fructose and acids improve digestion.

 

10.Cancer: Blue Berries can prove to be bliss for the cancer patients, for they contain certain compounds like Pterostilbene (excellent remedy for colon and liver cancer) and Ellagic Acid which, in harmony with Anthocyanin and other anti oxidants like vitamin-C and copper, can do miracles to prevent and cure cancer. Laboratory studies published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry show that phenolic compounds in blueberries can inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death). A significant 34% reduction in ovarian cancer risk was also seen in women with the highest intake of the flavone luteolin (found in citrus).

Health benefits of SPINACH

The benefits of spinach are many. Leafy greens like spinach provide more nutrients than any other food, when compared calorie for calorie. Here are some spinach facts to consider:
  1. This is a very nutrient-dense food. It’s low in calories yet very high in vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients. When you consume this healthy food, you don’t need to worry about your weight-loss diet as you take in abundant, good-for-you nutrients.This leafy green is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, magnesium, folate, manganese, iron, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B2, potassium, and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein, phosphorus, vitamin E, zinc, dietary fiber, and copper. Plus, it’s a good source of selenium, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  2. One of the benefits of spinach is that this green is readily available, nearly all over the world. Even though, with its abundant nutrient profile, it sounds like an amazing super food, it’s still easy to find in the market or easy to grow. In addition, it’s affordable.
  3. This is a versatile food. It can be eaten raw in a salad (and is much more nutritious than iceberg lettuce) or a green smoothie. Or it can be cooked (lightly, please) and eaten as a dish on its own or added to soups and other dishes. If boiling, use the least amount of water possible for the shortest time.
  4. Spinach is loaded with flavonoids which act as antioxidants, protecting the body from free radicals. Researchers have discovered at least 13 different flavonoid compounds that act as anti-cancer substances. The various nutrients offer much in the way of disease protection.Remember Popeye? He squeezed those cans of spinach into his mouth and instantly developed muscles and super strength. Well, he also may have been protecting himself against various illnesses and conditions.
    Spinach Bunch
  5. Another of the benefits of spinach is that this is a heart-healthy food. It’s an outstanding source of vitamins C and A which are antioxidants that help reduce free radical amounts in the body. The antioxidants work to keep cholesterol from oxidizing. In addition, folate is good for a healthy cardiovascular system, as well as magnesium, a mineral that helps to lower high blood pressure.
  6. Gastrointestinal health can be guarded by eating more of this food. The beta-carotene and vitamin C work to protect the cells of the body’s colon from the harmful effects of free radicals. Also, DNA damage and mutations in colon cells may be prevented by the folate that’s present in this green leafy vegetable.
  7. Some conditions that are identified as inflammatory, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, migraine headaches, and asthma, may be helped because of the anti-inflammatory properties of some of the nutrients found in spinach.
  8. Studies have shown that consumption of green leafy vegetables such as spinach may slow the age-related decline in brain function. So, eat your greens and keep working those crossword puzzles to keep your brain young and agile.

    Spinach Salad with Pine Nuts
  9. Have you heard of lutein? It’s a carotenoid found in spinach that is protective against eye diseases such as age-related cataracts and macular degeneration. There is some indication that it might be absorbed better if you eat it with a little fat, such as a small amount of olive oil, or the food that you’re eating it with may contain some fat.
  10. The mineral iron is particularly important for menstruating women and growing children and adolescents. In comparison to red meat, spinach provides a lot less calories, is fat and cholesterol free, and an excellent source of iron. Because iron is a component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to all body cells, it’s needed for good energy.
These are 10 wonderful benefits of spinach. However, there are a few things to be aware of that might not be so wonderful:
  • Some people are allergic to spinach.
  • Spinach is one of the high pesticide-containing foods, so it’s important to eat organic spinach if you can.
  • The oxalates in spinach may interfere with the absorption of calcium, as well as potentially crystallize. People who have kidney or gallbladder problems may want to be careful about eating this green.
  • It’s possible that it can interfere with proper thyroid gland functioning, although cooking may reduce the goitrogenic compounds.
  • Gout-prone people may be affected by the purines in this food.

Health benefits of BLACKBERRY WINE and JUICE

Tinctures are one way to take herbs but herbal wines are still another. They have the advantage of lower alcohol content and are cheaper because you don’t have to buy alcohol to make and preserve the extract, you can just allow the berry or herbs to make their own alcohol.
Blackberry wine is a delicious beverage with a lot of healing benefits for the blood and lower bowel. It was actually was the preferred alcoholic drink during mid 19th century North America since grapes where not as yet established in the Midwest and Western part of the country.
Blackberry wine like blackberry leaves and blackberry root is a treatment for general sickness and especially bowel diseases including diarrhea and IBS. A shot glass two or three times a day is a good dose but it is so delicious that it is hard to limit oneself to only that amount. In many parts of the country, the Blackberries are only just coming to fruition. Here’s a fine old-time recipe for making Blackberry wine.
1 gallon of blackberries
Add 1 quart of boiling water.
Let it stand for 24 hours, stirring occasionally
Press strain through a strainer or cheesecloth
To every gallon of liquid dissolve 2 lbs of sugar
Warm slightly no higher than 103 degrees Fahrenheit
Float a teaspoon of wine or baker’s yeast.
Cover with a clean cloth to keep dirt out of it
Let it stand in a warm place (the attic is a good place) until the fermenting activity has nearly finished -- this can take a couple of weeks. One way to tell is to put a small pinhole in a balloon and fasten it over the lip of a bottle. It will inflate with the escaping gas. When the balloon naturally deflates, the fermentation is mostly complete, and it should be tightly corked and bottled for future use.
Strain again through a finer cotton or linen cloth
Bottle a cork tightly letting it stand for at least a year.
The original recipe indicated to cork it tight without adding the yeast and after the sugar has been added and simply let it stand for a year.
The same recipe can be followed substituting any berries or fruit. You can make wine with any herb by making a strong decoction from any root, bark or leaves. Follow the same procedure but dissolve 3 lbs of sugar into the liquor instead.
To make old fashioned root beer, make a strong decoction of sassafras, sarsaparilla, burdock root and perhaps a little licorice or anise seed. Follow the above procedure but only use 1 lb of sugar per gallon of tea and do add yeast and keep warm overnight to allow the fermentation to begin. Before it is completely done, this should be consumed within a day.

Blackberry Juice

Blackberry juice is not only delicious but is also good for you. The health benefits and medicinal uses are numerous and may be just what you are looking for if you suffer from certain ailments.

Blackberries – The Fruit This Juice Is Made Of

Rubus fructicosus is the formal name for the blackberry, and there are over 40 species. Although it is difficult to trace the origin, history shows that Romans and Greeks used this fruit as medicine. European villages used blackberry bushes to protect against large animals and enemies. Native Americans made use of blackberries for medicine, food, for coloring animal skins, and to make twine from the canes and vines. The first United States Botanical Garden was founded in 1728. In 1880 blackberry breeding began in California. Amazingly, blackberries grow on every continent except Antarctica and Australia. A new Triple Crown blackberry has been approved by the USDA and is a thornless berry with a sweet taste.

About Blackberry Juice

Plump blackberries make a wine-like tasty juice. For a quart of blackberry juice, it will take approximately three and a half pounds of berries. The juice can be used in jams and jellies, in pies along with the whole fruit, added to tea or lemonade or carbonated water for refreshing drinks, be an ingredient in smoothies, added to homemade ice cream, used in cooking and marinating, or to make cordials and wine.

Health Benefits of Blackberry Juice

The many health benefits of blackberry juice have extended back thousands of years. It was used to treat fever and bowel problems for more than 2,000 years. Additional illnesses believed to be cured by blackberries are ulcers, whooping cough, gout, stomach problems, diarrhea, nausea, sore throat, and venomous creature bites.
Blackberries are rich in vitamins such as A and C, have cancer-fighting antioxidants, and have minerals such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. They also fight aging, protect eyesight, reduce cholesterol, fight heart disease, and strengthen blood vessels.

Making Your Own Blackberry Juice

Pick a firm, bright, dark berry for the sweetest flavor. Use the berries as soon as possible, but while you wait, put the berries in containers or plastic zippered bags and squeeze out as much air as you can.
There are many recipes for making blackberry juice, but the easiest method takes only ten minutes of preparation time and eight minutes of cooking time. You can also substitute two 16-ounce packages of thawed frozen blackberries if fresh berries are not available. To make two cups of juice, use two quarts of fresh cleaned blackberries and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a boil in a three-quart saucepan. Reduce heat. Simmer for five minutes or until the blackberries are soft. Mash blackberries with a fork or potato masher. Pour through a large strainer into a bowl. Use the back of a spoon to squeeze out the juice. Discard the seeds and pulp. Sweeten with sugar or honey to taste.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Health benefits of GARLIC

The extracts of Allium sativum bulb and compound preparation possess pharmacodynamic properties. The extract of garlic was found to have a significant protective action against a fat induced increase in serum cholesterol and plasma fibrinogen and in fibrinolytic activity.

Garlic is used as a carminative, aphrodisiac, expectorant, and stimulant.

Anticancer Actions:

Human population studies show that eating garlic regularly reduces the risk of esophageal, stomach, and colon cancer. This is partly due to garlic's ability to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds. Animal and test tube studies also show that garlic, and its sulfur compounds, inhibit the growth of different types of cancer-especially breast and skin tumors.

Circulatory Effects:

More than 250 publications have shown that garlic supports the cardiovascular system. It may lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, inhibit platelet stickiness (aggregation), and increase fibrinolysis-which results in a slowing of blood coagulation. It is mildly antihypertensive and has antioxidant activity.

Antimicrobial Actions:

Garlic has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal activity' It may work against some intestinal parasites. Garlic appears to have roughly 1 % the strength of penicillin against certain types of bacteria. This means it is not a substitute for antibiotics, but it can be considered as a support against some bacterial infections. Candida albicans growth is inhibited by garlic, and garlic has shown long-term benefit for recurrent yeast infections.

High Blood Pressure:

Garlic is regarded as one of the most effective remedies to lower blood pressure. The pressure and tension are reduced because it has the power to ease the spasm of the small arteries. It also slows the pulse and modifies the heart rhythm, besides relieving the symptoms of dizziness, shortness of breath and the formation of gas within the digestive track As these days garlic capsules are available with the chemist shops, the average dosage of two to three capsules a day to be given to make a dent in the blood pressure.

Digestive System Disorders:

Garlic is one of the most beneficial foods for the digestive system. It exercises a beneficial effect on the lymph, aids in elimination of noxious waste matter in the body. It stimulates peristaltic action and the secretion of the digestive juices. Crushed cloves of garlic may be infused in water or milk and taken for all types of disorders of the digestion. It has an antiseptic effect and is an excellent remedy for infectious diseases and inflammations of the stomach and intestine. The oil of garlic is absorbed into the alimentary tract and is eliminated partly through the urine.
Garlic produces a very marked effects on the intestine. It is an excellent agent as a worm expeller. It has also a soothing effect on the various forms of diarrhoea. Problems such as colitis, dysentery and many other intestinal upsets can be successfully treated with fresh garlic or garlic capsules One garlic capsule taken three times a day is usually sufficient to correct mild cases of diarrhoea or dysentery. For more persistent cases, upto six capsules a day can be taken. Garlic has the ability to destroy harmful bacteria in the intestines without affecting the beneficial organisms which aid digestion.

Skin Disorders:

Garlic has also been used successfully for a variety of skin disorders Pimples disappear without scar when rubbed with raw garlic several times a day. Even very persistent form of acne, suffered by some adults, has also been healed with garlic. The external use of garlic helps to clear the skin of spots and pimple, and boils. The process is further helped by taking the garlic orally also, to purify the blood-steam so as to secure a long term clearance of the skin. A regular course of three garlic capsules per day should help to clear minor skin infections quickly.

Whooping Cough:

Garlic is an excellent remedy for whooping cough. Syrup of garlic Should be given in doses of five drops to a teaspoonful two or three times a day in this condition. It should be given more often if the coughing spells are frequent and violent.

Health benefits of GUAVA

he health benefits of guava include treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, constipation, cough, cold, skin care, high blood pressure, weight loss, scurvy, etc.
Many of you might have tasted this mouth-watering treat, or at least have seen it or heard about it. Guava is very common in Asian countries. It is a good looking pear shaped or round shaped seasonal fruit, light green or yellow or maroon in color from outside when ripe, with white or maroon flesh and lots of small hard seeds enveloping very soft and sweet pulp. It is eaten raw (ripe or semi-ripe) or in form of jams and jellies. This attractive fruit is a real storehouse of nutrients. If it is “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” in Europe and Americas, it must be “A few guavas in the season keeps the doctor away for the whole year” in the Indian Subcontinent and places where guavas grow. Its scientific name is Psidium Guajava.

Let me share some of its brilliant health benefits with you.
  • Diarrhea & Dysentery: Guava is very rich in astringents (compounds those make your gums feel tighter and fresh after you chew guava leaves or eat a raw guava or use some toothpaste) which binds up loose bowels in diarrhea. These astringents are alkaline in nature and have disinfectant and anti-bacterial properties, thus help cure dysentery by inhibiting microbial growth and removing extra mucus from the intestines. Further, other nutrients in guava, such as vitamin-C, Carotenoids and potassium strengthens and tones up the digestive system and disinfect it. Guava is also beneficial in gastroenteritis due to reasons stated above.
  • Constipation: Guava is one of the riches sources of dietary fiber. Its seeds, if ingested whole or chewed, serve as excellent laxatives. These two properties of guava help forming bowels, retaining water and clean your intestines and excretory system thoroughly. It is said that single constipation can lead to seventy two types of ailments. It is absolutely true. Every way to your total health goes through proper digestion and more importantly, proper excretion. Guava ensures both of these.
  • Cough & Cold: Juice of raw and immature guavas or decoction of guava-leaves is very helpful in giving relief in cough and cold by loosening cough, reducing mucus, disinfecting the respiratory tract, throat and lungs and inhibiting microbial activity due to its astringent properties. Guava is one of richest in vitamin-C and iron which are proven to be preventive against cold and viral infections. In some areas in India, roasted ripe guava is used as a remedy against extreme cases of cough and cold and congestion.
  • Skin Care: Guavas can help improve your skin texture and avoid skin problems more than the best of beauty creams or skin toner gels can do. This is chiefly due to the abundance of astringents in its fruits (more in immature ones) and in leaves. You can benefit from it either by eating the fruits (this help tighten your muscles apart from your skin) or by washing your skin with the decoction of its immature fruits and leaves. It will tone up and tighten the loosened skin. In addition to the astringents, guava is very-very rich in vitamin-A, B, C and potassium which are very good anti oxidants and detoxifiers and keep your skin glowing and free from aging, wrinkles and other disorders.
  • High Blood Pressure: Guava helps reduce cholesterol in blood and prevents it from thickening, thereby maintaining fluidity of blood and reducing blood pressure. Studies have shown that food stuffs which lack fiber (such a refined flour) add to blood pressure, due to quick conversion to sugar. Guava, being very rich in fiber and hypoglycemic in nature, helps reduce blood pressure.
  • Weight Loss: Guava is very helpful for those who want to lose weight without compromising with their intake of proteins, vitamins and fiber. Guava, being very high in roughage and very rich in vitamins, proteins and minerals, but with no cholesterol and less digestible carbohydrates, is very filling and satisfies appetite very easily. Just have a medium sized guava in the lunch and you will not feel hungry till night. But ironically, it helps gaining weight in lean and thin people. This is probably due to its richness in nutrients, which keeps your metabolism right helping proper absorption of nutrients.
  • Scurvy: Guava can outdo many other fruits, including orange and other citrus fruits, when it comes to concentration of vitamin-C, whose deficiency causes scurvy and which is the only remedy to it. It contains five times the vitamin-C in oranges.
  • Other Benefits: Where to begin? Shall I start with the fact that guava helps control diabetes, protects prostrate, its Lypocene reduces the risk of cancer, the juice of the leaves cures toothache, swollen gums & oral ulcers, heals wounds when applied externally, convulsions, epilepsy, bacterial infections and so on and so forth.