Overview: Marshmallow is found naturally in the marshes of Europe. The marshmallow plant has been used for hundreds of years for medicinal purposes because of its natural compounds such as amino acids, selenium and vitamins (Hughes). Benefits: Marshmallow is a soothing herb that is often used to treat gastrointestinal ailments as well as irritations in […]
Lycopene Overview: Lycopene is found in tomatoes, ketchup, sauces and ingredients with tomato products. Lycopene is also found in watermelons, pink grapefruits, apricots, and pink guavas. Lycopene is especially effective at quenching a free radical called singlet oxygen (Whfoods.com). Therefore, it protects cells against damage and increases resistance to disease. It plays a major role
Licorice Overview: Licorice has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy though most people know it for its sweet flavor. Licorice can be used to treat a variety of illnesses ranging from the common cold to liver disease because of its demulcent, soothing, coating and expectorant properties (Ehrlich). Benefits: Research has found
Overview: Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) is commonly known for its sweet smell that is often associated with different types of perfumes and oils. (UMMC, 2012) Benefits: Most of lavender’s beneficial effects come from eucalyptol. (Hajhashemi, 2000) Eucalyptol decreases the rate of central nervous system, which makes it a good drug for treating patients with Insomnia. By
Overview: Kiwis are surprisingly rich in vitamins and minerals, in particular Vitamin C, potassium and beta-carotene. Kiwis also are an excellent source of flavonoids (Health Benefits of Kiwi Fruit). Benefits: Studies published by the Archives of Ophthalmology have found that consuming kiwis along with other fruits can reduce the risk of developing ARMD (age related
Overview: Holy Basil has been used for many years as a medicinal herb which brings the body systems into balance and increase resilience (Roizman). Research has shown that holy basil can help to treat certain medical conditions; however, more research still needs to be conducted. Benefits: Research conducted by the “Journal of Medicinal Foods” found
Hibiscus Tea Overview: Hibiscus is a flower that grows primarily in tropical regions. There are many uses for this plant. It can be used for flavoring in soups, sauces, and jams or leaved in salads. It can also be used for medical purposes. According to WebMD, “Hibiscus is used for treating loss of appetite, colds,
Overview: Gymnema Sylvestre is a natural herbal supplement that is used as a natural way to decrease blood sugar levels, lower triglycerides and help to fight obesity. When taking Gymnema Sylvestre , one has to be very careful of the very serious side effects that can occur so it has to be closely monitored (3
Overview: Green tea (Camellia sinesiss) is one of the oldest beverages in the world. Originating from different parts of Asia, it has now spread across many parts of the world and has become the second most popular beverage to drink. Unlike other teas, green tea is processed from unfermented leaves, which help the tea leaves
Green Peas: It is thought that green peas originated in south west Asia and spread though out Europe. Green peas contain phytonutrients which have powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Benefits: Green peas are an excellent source of folic acid. Folic acid is a b-vitamin complex that is required for DNA synthesis (Green peas nutrition facts).
