DECEMBER 23, 2024 FOODS THAT FIGHT DISEASE
A disease is a cellular malfunction that can be caused by a variety of external agents, such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites There are also genetic mutations that cause disease. Buty most if not all diseases propagate by not eating well. There are foods that fight propagation of microbes.
There is one herb that I utilize a lot in my practice. It is Ginger For centuries, ginger has been used as a natural remedy for various ailments. Its most well-known benefits are its anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce pain and swelling Ginger is also used to improve circulation
The next herb used to fight infection and stop propagation of disease is Garlic Garlic is a member of the Allium family, which also includes onions and leeks This compound has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it effective in treating various conditions. Allicin is produced when garlic is chopped or crushed, so it is important to add garlic to recipes early in the cooking process
The last herb is Curcumin I mnmeant to talk about foods- BUT herbs are food. turmeric also has powerful health benefits. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it a valuable spice for people who have arthritis or Crohn’s disease and much more
Add these herbs to your dietary regimen
Until tomorrow…
DECEMBER 19, 2024 HOPS
Most of know Hops as in beer/. Hops ( Humukus lupulus) doe contains natural healing properties. It has been used to promote sleep and eases stress and anxiety. Who doesn’t need that in today’s world
It’s ancient uses are that of a natural sedative. There are any natural sedatives in botanical medicine. These are called nervines and there are ol plenty Some include blue vervain, lemon balm, Chamomille, and much more. I do use Hops. In traditional herbal medicine Hops has been used as a digestive aid and to relieve bloating and abdominal discomfort.
The most used part of the Hops plant are the female flowers referred to as the ‘ cones ‘ When used as a calming tea it can be consumed 1-2 cups per day I have seen patients use Hops as an aid to go to sleep Better yet if Hops is combined with Valerian for sleep I do see some patients have a paradoxical response and Valerian might stimulate him/her
Until tomorrow…
DECEMBER 18, 2024 BURDOCK
Burdock ( Arctium lappa) is known as the blood purifier. The root , leaves and seeds have medicinal properties. It has been used by civilizations for centuries. I have used it for years in my clinical practice.
It’s ancient, the root was used were as a treatment for cancer and syphilis The English herbalists used it for scurby and skin boils. In the 1920’s it was added to other herbs as a cancer formula as in Essiac and Hoxley
I have read rerts of it being used to aid in cholesterol lowering. It does have antimicrobial actions I think the most use for Burdock has been as a blood purifier, lymphatic system strengthener and a natural diuretic
What I love about most herbs it is not only used for one illness. Because of its dietary fiber and polyphenols I have used it in sugar management in diabetes This is especially seen with fermented burdock I do combine Burdock with Nettles for sugar management Burdock can also be combined in a tincture licorice, Motherwort, wild yam and gnseng for relief of menopausal symptoms
Until tomorrow…
DECEMBER 17, 2024 CHOLESTEROL
Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is essential for cardiovascular health. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death worldwide. There are medications, herbs and supplements to lower cholesterol You can even lower by eating certain foods.
One food is avocados. Avocados are renowned for their heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats aid in lowering LDL cholesterol while maintaining levels of HDL cholesterol. Additionally, avocados are rich in potassium, a nutrient that helps in regulating blood pressure.. Avocados are inflammatory for Blood Type O Several studies indicate that consuming avocados regularly can lead to significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Grapes, especially the darker varieties, are a rich source of antioxidants, including resveratrol, which is known for its cholesterol-lowering properties. These antioxidants help reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a process that contributes to plaque formation in arteries Grapes are also high in sugar so limit the amount of grapes you ingest
White beans are a fantastic source of fiber, which is essential for lowering cholesterol. The fiber in white beans helps bind cholesterol in the digestive system, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream.
Then there are almonds. ( For my Blood type O I can ingest ) Almonds are known for their ability to help reduce LDL cholesterol. This is largely due to their high content of monounsaturated fats and fiber. Almonds also contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect against cholesterol oxidation
Add these foods to your diet. I use Hawthorne, Snakeroot, Motherwort, and other herbs to lower blood pressure
Until tomorrow…
DECEMBER 16, 2024 THE LIVER
You must take care of your liver The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body, responsible for over 500 essential tasks, including detoxification and nutrient absorption. Often, the liver’s importance is overlooked
There are foods, especially fruits and vegetables to protect your liver as well as herbs and supplements. The liver is a multitasking organ that plays a significant role in digestion. It produces bile, a substance that helps break down fats and absorb nutrients from the food you eat.The bile is stored in your gallbladder
One vegetable you should consume are beets hey are rich in betalains, a type of antioxidant that has been shown to support liver detoxification. These antioxidants neutralize toxins and help in their removal from the body. Additionally, beets are high in fiber and nutrients like iron and potassium, which further support liver health.
Spinach, a leafy green wonder, is packed with a variety of antioxidants and nutrients beneficial for the liver. It contains glutathione, a molecule that assists the liver in the detoxification process. It is not easy to get gluthathione unless you take a reduced form or its precursor N acetyl cysteine. I always incorporate gluthathione into one’s daily vitamin regimen Moreover, the high levels of folate and vitamin C in spinach help in protecting the liver from damage and inflammation
This citrus fruit is rich in antioxidants, particularly naringenin and naringin, which have been shown to improve liver enzyme levels. These compounds also help in reducing inflammation and protecting liver cells. Ask your doctor if you can consume grapefruits as some cardiac medications is contraindicated with grapefruits
Incorporate these simple fruits and vegetables.
Until tomorrow..
DECEMBER 12, 2024 A MUSHROOM FOR MEMORY
Lion’s Mane mushrooms, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, have garnered attention for their distinctive appearance and remarkable health benefits Their historical significance lies in their use as a natural remedy in traditional Chinese medicine, where they were believed to promote longevity and improve health. There are many mushrooms that have medicinal health benefits. Lion’s Mane is just one of those I use
Studies suggest that compounds found in these mushrooms, such as hericenones and erinacines, can stimulate the growth of brain cells. This stimulation is believed to enhance memory and focus, making these mushrooms a subject of interest for those seeking natural cognitive boosters
All medicinal mushrooms can boost your system The immune-boosting properties of Lion’s Mane mushrooms are attributed to their rich content of beta-glucans, antioxidants, and polysaccharides. These compounds are known to enhance the body’s immune response
Lion’s Mane mushrooms contribute significantly to digestive health thanks to their gastroprotective effects. Compounds such as polysaccharides found in these mushrooms have been shown to protect the gastric lining, potentially preventing ulcers and aiding in the healing of the gastrointestinal tract
Most if not all medicinal mushrooms are antioxidants and help free radical damage due to toxins.
Add Lion’s Mane to your list of medicinal mushrooms you should consume
Until tomorrow…