Piper sarmentosum is an erect herb with long creeping stems. The plant is usually found as a weed in villages and places with plenty of shade (Hsuan, 1990). Leaves alternate, simple, heart shaped
and young leaves have a waxy surface. Flowers are bisexual or unisexual, in terminal or leaf opposite spikes. Fruit is small, dry, with several rounded bulges. Plant has a characteristic pungent odour (Wee, 1992; Wee and Hsuan, 1990; Hsuan, 1990; 1992).
Common names Chinese: Jia ju; Malay: Sirih tanah (Indonesia), Chabei, Kadok; Thai: cha-phloo.
This plant, known as Daun Kadok in Malaysia, is often for its cousin Piper betel leaf plant. Daun Kadok is very popular and more widely used.
It is a common plant used in traditional medicine and cooking (the subtly peppery taste of the heart-shaped and glossy leaves adds zest to omelets and other viands). A study conducted by the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) shows that extracts from Kadok leaves have anti-oxidant properties. Piper sarmentosum is often made into drink to relieve the symptoms of malaria. The roots could be chewed to stop toothaches. A portion made from its roots is said to be diuretic. The drink has also been known to be effective in treating coughs, flu, rheumatism, pleurosy and lumbago. Young leaves are taken as ulam (condiment).
According to the World Health Organization website, 80 percent of the population in some Asian and African countries count on herbal treatments for their primary health care.
Overview of Menopause symptoms
Menopause should not be regarded as an illness or a disease. It is simply an occurrence wherein the woman is entering her second phase of feminine life. Of course, these women are experiencing a gradual discomfort because of the transition…this is only natural. If there are telltale signs of menopause symptoms, you can opt to procure some treatment in order to minimize the feeling of discomfort.
But it is important to remember that any kind of treatment will not prevent you from undergoing menopause process, especially when your age is already falling from and between 48 – 55 years old. It will only help you to deal a lot easier with menopause symptoms or relieve majority of their major discomfort effects. Your lifestyle might also need some changing especially your smoking, eating, drinking, and sleeping habits in order to minimize the severity of menopause symptoms.
What can herbs do to treat menopause symptoms?
There are many types of reliable herbs available that can treat menopause symptoms. They can maintain women’s healthy life even when menstruation process causes a lot of discomfort and decline in their health aspect. With herbs carefully and religiously applied you may not only alleviate those various forms of discomfort but you will also maintain your healthy life.
Two basic types of herbs for menopause
Phytoestrogenic herbs
These are the herbs or plants that contain natural phytoestrogen, a type of chemical compound, which is similar to the women body estrogen. These herbs work by replacing the lost natural body estrogen with the plant hormones, phytoestrogen. Aside from this, there are other elements of phytoestrogenic herbs that are considered beneficial to menopausal women such as amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Generally, these herbs are an alternative to disorders relating to low hormonal/estrogen levels.
Most popular phytoestrogenic herbs:
· Ginseng. Used to improve your overall vitality and energy, this is a dried root from one of the Araliaceae herb species.
· Ginkgo. Used to enhance memory, prevent memory-related diseases such as Dementia, Alzheimer’s and others. This herb is one of the oldest herbal medicines used in China.
· Dong Quai. Most effective in treating gynecological complaints caused by the change in hormonal production.
· Red Clover. Diseases treated are skin disorders and bronchitis, asthma and spasmodic coughing.
· Black Cohosh. Symptoms treated include depression, night sweats and hot flashes.
Non-estrogenic herbs
In contrast with the phytoestrogenic plants, non-estrogenic herbs, as the name suggests, are those plants that do not produce estrogen chemical structures. These plants are widely recognized by the doctors and medical experts because of their effectiveness to relieve women’s menopause symptoms. Furthermore, they are considered completely safe and do not provide side effects.
The right non-estrogenic herbs contain nutrients that can nourish endocrine system, eventually balancing your hormonal levels. With the proper application, occurrences of the loss of hormones will be reduced as they can promote your body to naturally produce the needed healthy level of estrogen hormones, without the distracting side effects.
Specifically, non-estrogenic herbs will provide relief to the following disorders relating to menopause symptoms:
- majority of the menopause symptoms
- hormonal imbalance
- osteoporosis or bone mass loss
- infertility
- sexual intercourse problems
- cardiovascular disease
It is important to note, however, that even these herbs are a natural treatment you need to research on the kind of plant that you are going to take as not all of these will relieve and alleviate you from those menopause symptoms. There are herbal plants that can cause many other side effects, may it be minor or major.
The problem of insomnia is as old as time itself and affects the lives of millions of people from just about every country causing modest irritation to some and severely affecting the quality of life for a large number of us.
Curing insomnia and getting back to night after night of natural sleep can be difficult however, for many of us, the answer lies in using time-honored traditional herbal remedies such as valerian root.
Valerian, a hardy perennial flowering plant with sweet smelling white or pink flowers, can be grown in many parts of Asia and Europe and now also grows naturally in areas of north America. Other names normally used for valerian include: garden valerian, and garden heliotrope (not related to Heliotrope - Heliotropum).
Valerian is also known by various folk names: Amantilla, Fragrant Valerian, St. George's Herb, English Valerian, Set Well, Capon's Trailer, Sets Wale, Cat's Valerian, Phu, Bloody Butcher, All-Heal, , and Vandal Root.
The prim
ary components used for medicinal purposes are the roots, rhizomes (underground stems) and stolons (horizontal stems). Normally harvested in September, the dried roots can be used to brew teas and tinctures, while the dried plant materials generally find their way into capsules or tablets.
There is reference to the use of valerian as a medicinal herb as far back as the time of ancient Greece and Rome. Hippocrates wrote of its therapeutic uses and, in the 2nd century, Galen prescribed valerian for insomnia. The 16th century saw it used to treat nervousness, trembling, headaches, and heart palpitations. In the mid-19th century, many people considered valerian a stimulant which caused a few of the same complaints it was thought to treat and held it in low regard. During World War II the English used it to relieve the stress of air raids.
Unlike many other natural herbal sleep aids, to gain the benefits of the effects of valerian it should be taken on a regular basis, with the full effects coming slowly and steadily over time.
Results will normally appear after about a month and regular use promotes natural sleep and deep relaxation. Several studies suggest valerian as far and away the best natural solution for insomnia and general sleeplessness for many individuals.
Research at the Nestlé Research Laboratories in Switzerland showed that a 450 mg dose of valerian in an aqueous extract is the optimum dose as an insomnia treatment. A larger dose ordinarily results in grogginess without any increase in effectiveness, and therefore care ought to be exercised when taking that valerian is a treatment for insomnia.
In addition, a double-blind crossover study of 128 individuals undertaken in 1982, found valerian root to not only be effective as a sedative for insomnia, but also to be helpful in increasing the overall quality of sleep in the participants.
Typically prescribed as a calming sleep aid, valerian also plays a helpful part in taking care of anxiety-related sleeping difficulties.
Unlike other commonly prescribed sleep medicines, valerian is not toxic, does not impair your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery and does not exaggerate the effects of alcohol.
It has been documented that valerian acts as a delayed stimulant for some people dependant on body chemistry. In the case of certain metabolic conditions, the effect is one of initially calming you down only to cause a surge of energy some hours later - not an effect desired by those people interested in using valerian as a nighttime sleep remedy.
Various professional herbalists recommend using fresh valerian root extract rather than an extract of dried valerian, as this is less likely to induce such a reaction.
Common names:
- Crampbark
- Cranberry Bush
- Cranberry Tree
- Guelder Rose
- Pembina
- Pimbina
- Whitten Tree
Crampb
ark - native to both North America and Europe, crampbark was recognized in the US National Formulary as recently as 1960 as a sedative for nervous conditions and an antispasmodic in the treatment of asthma. As its name implies, the herb's primary medicinal use is to relieve cramps and other conditions, such as colic or painful menstruation caused by over contraction of muscles.
USES
Native American remedy - The Meskwaki people of North America took crampbark for cramps and pains throughout the body, while the Penobscot used it to treat swollen glands and mumps.
Muscle relaxant - Crampbark is effective at relieving any over tense muscle, whether smooth muscle in the intestines, airways, or uterus, or striated muscle (attached to the skeleton) in the limbs or back. Crampbark may be taken internally or applied topically to relieve muscle tension. The herb also treats symptoms arising from excess muscle tension, including breathing difficulties in asthma, and menstrual pain caused by excessive contraction of the uterus. For night cramps and back pain, lobelia is often mixed with crampbark. The herb also relieves constipation, coilic, and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as the physical symptoms of nervous tension.
Arthritis - In some cases of arthritis, where joint weakness and pain have caused muscles to contract until they are almost rigid, crampbark can bring remarkable relief. As the muscles relax, blood flow to the area improves, waste products such as lactic acid are removed, and normal function can return.
Other medical uses - Cramp bark is commonly used in treatments for high blood pressure and other circulatory conditions.
HABITAT AND CULTIVATION
Crampbark grows in woodlands, hedges, and thickets in Europe and eastern North America. Crampbark is propagated by seed sown in autumn. Bark from the branches is collected in spring and summer when the plant is in flower.
RESEARCH
Active constituents To date, crampbark has been poorly researched, and there is also some confusion over which active constituents it contains, and which occur in the closely related black haw.
CONSTITUENTS
Crampbark contains hydroquinones, coumarins, tannins, resin.
USUAL DOSAGE
For internal use as a decoction, crampbark is taken when spasm is present, rather than on a continuous basis. To relieve cramp from period or other sources, take 100 ml (4 fl oz) up to a maximum amount of six times daily. The tincture can be similarly used: take 2 1/2 ml (50 drops) up to six times in one day. For external relief of muscle spasm, add 2 ml (40 drops) of the tincture to 30 g (1 1/2 oz) cream, e.g. comfrey, and mix well in. It is possible to add 2 ml (40 drops) of lobelia tincture, which will enhance the antispasmodic effect. Apply up to three times a day.
HOW IT WORKS IN THE BODY
Crampbark acts as a muscle relaxant, particularly of smooth muscle. As mentioned, the opulus variety is thought to act on the body as a whole, while the prunifolium variety acts particularly to relax the muscles of the uterus. For this reason its main function has to do with the reproductive system, for example, to relieve the cramping which occurs during a period. It is also used in cases of threatened miscarriage, but should only be used in this context under the supervision of a qualified herbal or medical practitioner. Crampbark also has uses in many other systems of the body: in the stomach to relieve symptoms in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome; in the respiratory system to help relax the airways in asthma; and for the musculoskeletal system to relieve the tension of arthritic pain. It is also employed in the cardiovascular system, together with other herbs to help reduce high blood pressure.
COLLECTION AND HARVESTING
The bark is collected in April and May, cut into pieces and dried.
COMBINATIONS
For the relief of cramp it may be combined with prickly ash and wild yam. For uterine and ovarian pains or threatened miscarriage it may be used with black haw and valerian.
If you have ever woken with a pounding headache or an excruciating migraine, then Nigella Sativa is right for you. The Greeks and the Arabs have been prescribing Nigella Sativa for over 2000 years in the treatment of headaches and it works quickly and efficiently. By simply applying the oil around the eyes and nose, the headache usually disappears within a short period of time. Nigella Sativa(also known as black seed) has been shown to be effective against Pancreatic Cancer, one of the most aggressive cancers known.
Nigella Sativa has over 100 chemical compounds and has Vitamins such as calcium, potassium, zinc, magnesium and Vitamins A, B, C, D and E in the seeds. Prophet Mohammad said, "Use this seed regularly, because it is a cure for every disease, except death." The use of Black Seed as a natural herbal therapy is increasingly recognized as Thibbun Nabawy (treatment of the Prophet), as one type of treatment proved to be the solution to human health problems, the more vivid is practiced and developed in various parts of the world.
Nigella Sativa has been regarded as a true "Miracle Cure" and was found in King Tut's tomb, suggesting that even centuries ago, the Kings thought of it as a valuable plant and herb of blessings.
As soon as the person gets the first sign of an attack, they must take their first dose of Nigella Sativa. Nigella Sativa comes two ways, in the original small tiny black seeds(that need to be heated) and the oils. The oil is what is needed for the migaine
, as the oil is very concentrated. For migraines
, you need to take the oil and rub it on the back of your neck and over the eyes and at the hairline. Also, if you have pain at the top of your head, dab some there. Then take a few drops and put in each nostril, not deep inside but at the bottom of the nostril, and then breathe in deeply. This needs to be done 3 times a day or as long as the headache remains. You also need to take 1 teaspoon of the oil with one teaspoon of honey
when you wake up in the morning. Wait one hour before eating anything for breakfast.
It is best to use raw honey if you have that available in your area. This remedy must be done on the onset of the migraine. It will help a full blown attack, but it is easier to get rid of in the beginning stages. Also, it is very important to avoid all triggers during this period. Nigella Sativa seeds are fairly inexpensive and can be obtained from many sources but many companies do not have the same quality.
If you buy the organic seeds that have not been prepared, you must heat them to get rid of the bitterness and the hotness. This is a very simple procedure, but you must take precautions and do a small amount at a time, till you understand the process completely. Take a small portion of the seeds and place them in a heavy bottom skillet. Turn the gas or electric burner on low and heat slightly, stirring constantly. You must keep tasting them until the hotness is gone. When the seeds are very bland, remove them from the stove. Be careful not to burn them as they do burn easily. After they have finished, place them in a coffee grinder or blender and mulch to a very fine powder. This powder can be put in honey at this time or in vegetarian
capsules. Always use vegetarian capsules, as gelatin is made from pork.
To make the mixture with honey, fill the jar halfway up with honey and then begin adding small amount of the black seed mixture at a time. Keep stirring the honey and black seeds and add till the top is almost full. You want the mixture to be a very thick consistency. By the next day, the honey and black seed mixture will be thick, almost like candy - extremely delicious. You will have no problem eating your minimum of 2 teaspoons per day.
Note: Nigella Sativa is toxic in high doses, so moderation is the key here. Nigella Sativa will increase your energy and take away your fatigue. Never take the oil on a full stomach as it will cause you distress.
The health benefits of lavender essential oil include its ability to remove nervous tension, relieve pain, disinfect scalp and skin, enhance blood circulation and treat respiratory problems. Lavender has the Latin name Lavare, which means “to wash”, due to its aroma which fills a room spread with lavender oil with a clean aroma.
Lavender oil is extracted mostly from the flowers of the plant, primarily through steam distillation. The flowers of lavender are fragrant in nature and have been used for making potpourris since years.
Lavender essential oil has been traditionally used in making perfumes due to its aroma. The oil is very useful in aromatherapy and many aromatic preparations are made using lavender oil. Lavender oil blends well with many other essential oils including cedarwood, pine, clary sage, geranium, and nutmeg. Today, lavender essential oil is used in various forms including aromatherapy oil, gels, infusion, lotion, and soaps.
The various health benefits of lavender essential oil include:
- Nervous System: Lavender essential oil has a calming scent which makes it an excellent tonic for the nerves and helps in treating migraines, headaches, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and emotional stress. Its refreshing aroma removes nervous exhaustion and restlessness and increases mental activity.
- Sleep: Lavender essential oil induces sleep and hence it is often recommended for insomnia.
Pain Relief: Lavender essential oil is also an excellent remedy for various types of pains including those caused by sore muscles, tense muscles, muscular aches, rheumatism, sprains, backache and lumbago. Massage with lavender oil provides relief from pain in the joints.- Urine Flow: Lavender essential oil is good for urinary disorders as it stimulates urine production. It helps in restoring hormonal balance and reduces cystitis or inflammation of the urinary bladder. It also reduces any associated cramps.
- Respiratory Disorders: Lavender oil is extensively used for various respiratory problems including throat infections, flu, cough, cold, asthma, sinus congestion, bronchitis, whooping cough, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. The oil is either used in the form of vapor or applied on the skin of neck, chest and back. It is also added in many vaporizers and inhalers used for cold and coughs.
- Skin Care: The health benefits of lavender oil for the skin can be attributed to its antiseptic and antifungal properties. It is used to treat various skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations. It heals wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburns rapidly as it aids in the formation of scar tissues. Lavender oil is added to chamomile to treat eczema.
- Hair Care: Lavender essential oil is useful for the hair as it can be very effective on lice and lice eggs or nits.
Blood Circulation: Lavender essential oil is also good for improving blood circulation. It lowers blood pressure and is used for hypertension.- Digestion: Lavender oil is useful for digestion as it increases the mobility of the intestine. The oil also stimulates the production of gastric juices and bile and thus aids in treating indigestion, stomach pain, colic, flatulence, vomiting and diarrhea.
- Immunity: Regular use of lavender essential oil provides resistance to diseases.
Other health benefits of lavender essential oil include its ability to treat leucorrhea. It is also effective against insect bites. The oil is also used to repel mosquitoes and moths. You will find many mosquito repellents containing lavender oil as one of the ingredients.
As with many other essential oils, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using lavender essential oil. It is also recommended that diabetics stay away from lavender oil. It may also cause allergic reactions to people having sensitive skin. Some people may also witness nausea, vomiting and headaches due to usage of lavender oil.
Whether you have your own herb garden or purchase your fresh herbs from the grocer or market, drying herbs is a great way to preserve them for later use. Drying herbs isn't a complicated procedure, and you don't need any special equipment or appliances to be successful.
Certain recipes require fresh herbs as the central component of the dish. You wouldn't want to use dried basil in the classic Italian salad that layers mozzarella, tomatoes and basil leaves. Other recipes may be enhanced by fresh herbs but you could still get similar results using a dried version. A salad dressing where the dried herbs would become saturated is a good example.
There are two basic ways to dry fresh herbs: air drying and heat drying. Air drying takes longer, but results in a more flavorful product. Heat drying is quicker, but the addition of heat to the process can, in effect, cook the herb and cause it to loose some of its flavor. Both methods, however, result in aromatic dried herbs that can last up to two years if stored properly.
Dried bay leaf
Herbs are a great way to give the dish you are creating a more rounded and flavorful experience. Both herb types have a spot in my kitchen as their uses are different.
Dried herbs are great for cooking entree's that will take a longer time to cook. In a soup or on top of a roasting chicken or turkey for example. Where as fresh herbs would just burn on the chicken, dried will give a nice crispness and flavor. Some dried herbs are much more concentrated in flavor so a little goes a long way. Herbs like rosemary and oregano tend to be full flavor and can be over powering so always start with a little and add more as you see fit. Dried herbs keep best in a cool cabinet and usually last 4 to 6 months for the best flavors.
When creating dishes with just a few ingredients only the best and freshest should be used. With minimal ingredients, the ingredients are the "stars". This is when you want to use fresh herbs. The sweet lemony, earthy, anise flavor of basil is a great way to brighten a finished
pasta dish or create a pesto . Not only does this fresh herb add beautiful flavor but color as well.
Fresh herbs bring a finishing touch to many types of dishes. Some dill on new red potatoes give some extra life to the earthy potato flavor or that fresh caught fish gets a punch of flavor from a light basil sauce with creme fresh.
Fresh herbs are easy to have around as well , as many will do great on a kitchen window sill. Many Bay area communities have farmers markets year round so if growing them yourself is not a goal there are local organic business that sell many to choose from. Local super markets as well carry a variety of fresh herbs. Finding a Mexican or Asian market will cover many fresh and dried herbs too. A great way to try something different.
Using Dried Herbs
When you're ready to use your stored, dried herbs, crumble them in your hands before adding to your recipe. This will allow the aroma and flavor to escape the dried leaves much better than adding the whole herb at once. Alternatively, use a mortar and pestle to finely grind your herbs.
As they age, dried herbs tend to lose their flavor and potency. If you're using older herbs, add a little more than the recipe calls for in order to get the maximum taste in your food.
Herbs are also a great way to add flavor and use less salt.
Both types of herbs are useful and have a place in the kitchen!
"Hot,'' and "spicy'' may be common terms used to describe Korean food among Koreans and foreigners, as red chili peppers are used in variety of dishes.
Many Koreans who are accustomed to such stimulating and spicy foods often find some Western dishes quite unfamiliar. Foods with lots of butter, cheese, creams and other mild flavors are seen as ``boring.''
The flavors of Mexican and Indian foods are more familiar to Koreans. The use of red pepper in Mexican dishes and various spices in Indian cuisine are at least a little more familiar to even the most conservative Koreans.
The Korea Times met two chefs striving to meet in the middle ― keeping the original characteristics of their dishes while adding something extra to attract Koreans, too.
Mexican ― Chili, Chili, Chili
 At the Millennium Seoul Hilton, chef Montserrat Pineiro of the Mexico City Airport Hotel is presenting some of her best dishes at the end of September for the ``Mexican Fiesta'' event. ``Before coming here, I was informed by a Korean acquaintance that Koreans wouldn't really appreciate creams or rich flavors. I had to look into all the dishes I could make and took many out,'' she said. But she isn't too concerned. ``There are chili peppers everywhere, and I guess Koreans would like them,'' she said. The spiciness of the vegetable is softened by sugar, and is used everywhere from pasta to meat dishes.
Among the 24 dishes she is presenting, Pieniro picked Mole Poblano, Turkey in Puebla-style sauce, for Koreans. The dish is made of 68 different ingredients, from turkey broth to fried rice, and takes more than two hours to cook.
``It represents the Pueblo cuisine, which is one of the main streams back in Mexico,'' she said.
 From unfamiliar names such as Ensalada de nopales (Nopal cactus salad), to Chilaquiles rojos, or tortilla chips with red sauce, the food represents each region of Mexico. ``Mexico is a country of various ethnic settlements, and their food culture got mixed up, too,'' she said. Pineiro said chili is what made Mexican food popular worldwide.
While Mexican restaurants are crammed in Itaewon in central Seoul, Pieniro thinks it's just matter of time until more Koreans enjoy Mexican food.
``Americans love tacos. They get tacos and soup all the time,'' she said. ``And I hope Koreans would indulge in the Mexican cuisine ― a bit beyond chili, too!'' she said.
Indian ― Curry, Naan and Rice
Even those who have never tried exotic dishes can easily get accustomed to Indian food because it usually includes steamed rice and flour flatbread Naan to wrap the food.
Shovan Das, chef at Coex InterContinental Seoul, said it is quite important to keep a balance between the herbs and spices used in his home country and those of Korea.
In contrast to Pineiro, Das has to take out the really strong-flavored spices. ``I have tried several times, but many people advised me to go relatively subtle and mild,'' he said. Some of the strong flavors would not attract even the younger generation here, which is more open to world cuisine, he said.
``I am still in the process of figuring out how to use the right spice for the right people,'' he said.
Das, who is presenting some refined Indian dishes for the I-Chef Festival held through the end of the week at his hotel, said he had drawn up some menus including the steady sellers at the hotel and his own selection.
``Chicken and seafood curries are always popular. Especially shrimps, scallops and many other seafood make curry deeper and rich in flavor,'' he said.
Koreans, who are more accustomed to Japanese-style curry, can enjoy some flavor and edginess in a King Prawn dish. The Jheenga Vindaloo made of barbequed king prawn, pepper, chili sauce and others have gained a strong fan base. ``It is spicy ― the more you get to taste it, the hotter you may feel,'' he said.
He is trying out some other items on his regular menu. He said he is trying to push some original-style Indian dishes to Koreans and some of them are getting good responses.
Spinach curry is one of them. ``The vegetable makes the food color green and many people didn't like it at first. However, after constantly recommending it to people here, sales are going up,'' he said.
Coriander, used in many Indian and Southeast Asian dishes, is also getting good feedback, too. ``I heard many Koreans did't like it. But once they taste it, they keep coming back,'' he said.
Das said localization is important. These days, there are dozens of Indian restaurants in Seoul with waiting lists and ardent fans. He said it is because they are edible and attractive to Koreans. ``I have tried them several times. They are well balanced. In fact, I think they have reflected more Indian aspects than I expected,'' he said.
For Koreans who are used to rice rolls, he also prepares Naan-rolls with chicken and vegetables as a side dish.
``Indian food is growing, but we still have long way to go,'' he said. ``I am sure it could get as popular as any other cuisines in the world!'' |
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The idea of fresh herbs right from the garden intrigues a lot of people especially those who enjoy cooking. There really is no other taste like sweet basil freshly picked. or the tangy taste of tarragon. The best part of all is that you can grow your own parsley, rosemary, thyme, or just about any other fresh herb without even having a yard or garden. In fact you can even raise them on a balcony. It is really easy to grow herbs.
Tarragon Parsley Rosemary And Basil Herb garden In A Container
A simple container like the one above can be put together in 15 or 20 minutes but provide you with fresh herbs the whole summer long. Below is another arrangement.
Basil Dill And Thyme Planter
Basil Dill And Thyme Planter
Not only do these containers provide you with fresh picked herbs they look nice out on a patio or deck. There are so many different ways to grow fresh vegetables fruits and herbs in your own garden.
More and more people every year are venturing into gardening and enjoying the fruits of a little time and healthy exercise. Besides that, gardening has become a major stress reliever for millions of people. You may not think of gardening as relaxing when you think of digging and pulling weeds but it really is. When you are gardening you are out in the fresh air and exercising. This alone will make you feel better. It is amazing how a little work can pay such benefit to your body and soul.
When you are out in the garden your mind tends to wander away from the day to day worries and you get involved in what you are doing. Your problems and cares are still there but they are put on the back burner for a little while. While you are busy working on the garden you are able to slow down and relax not be under pressure to get to the next appointment or to finish an assignment you are there to enjoy a little time away from all the rush. Makes your lifestyle better!
ANCIENT remedies die hard.
Do you know that ginger is a powerful anti-aging remedy? Ginger, especially when taken fresh, aids digestion, soothes stomach ailments and controls arthritis. Its enzyme zingibain is more powerful than the papaya enzyme papain, according to Paul Schulick in “Ginger: Common Spice & Wonder Drug.”
In fact, 1 pound of ginger is equivalent to 180 pounds of papaya. And unlike papaya, it has low glycemic index. Ginger is a strong anti-inflammatory agent (gingerol compound) and is effective as astirine with no side effects.
The best way to take ginger is to grate two teaspoons and mix with very hot water.
Steep for five minutes, strain and stir slowly.
Instant lift
Ever wondered why your skin isn’t as plump and supple as it was when you were 16? That’s because the levels of hyaluron and collagen diminish over time. A primary component of young, healthy skin and connective tissue, these can be replenished.
Hyaluron’s main function is to lubricate and cushion all tissues and organs. A drastic decrease in this substance leads to deep wrinkles, fragile arteries leading to stroke and heart attack, and poor eyesight/vision leading to blindness.
Collagen is a fibrous protein that connects and supports tissues and organs, skin, bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons. Without collagen, tissue cells will be torn apart.
Collagen works with elastic, a protein molecule inside connective tissue. Its main job is to make skin firm.
Now, a natural face and body lift minus surgery is possible. Slowly but surely, a Japan-made regimen of hyaluron and collagen taken as a potent tea provides 7,000 mg a day of youth drink. Each sachet is more than enough to give the boost you need from inside-out. This is so effective that within two weeks, visible results are dramatic.
Ask your doctor about Hyaluron-Collagen supplements, or call Dr. Rudy Apostol, aesthetic anti-aging medicine expert (0917-5782088).
This imported product is also available at the World of Wellness, SM Fairview and V-Mall (332-3864, 723-3878).
Managing stress
Managing the power of touch is a science of healing that dates back to ancient times in Egypt, China and India. The right pressure, when applied at specific points or meridians in the body, has therapeutic benefits.
The Mandarin Reflexology Foot & Body Spa at the Alabang Town Center has successfully harmonized massage and reflexology into a one-hour relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
In a dimly lit spa ambience, one can simply sink into the cozy lounging chairs and drift into slumber. Expert hands, trained by two Taiwanese specialists, have brought into the Philippines their famous reflex regimen. A complimentary cup of wolfberry tea, an added touch of entrepreneurs Maan Uy and Annie Ting, hits the healing spot (809-6108; 0917-5208950).
Affirm: “I am in charge of my body, mind and spirit.”
Love and light!
Natural herbs have been used all throughout history for a number of things. One of the most important areas of focus when it comes to these particular plants has been directly related to the overall health of an individual. In the early years of medicine, individuals who practiced believed that herbs played a large role in the overall health of an individual.
It was believed that by ingesting these herbs, or applying them to a specific area of the body, one could experience relief from the complications of the body. Throughout this article, you will be introduced to natural herbs and the role that they play on the health.
In today’s world, where over-the-counter and prescription medications are readily available in abundance, many individuals seek to care for their body in a more natural way. It is believed that herb based remedies are a bit more safe than medicinal treatments that are created using chemicals and compounds that are not natural.
However, there is still a relatively large debate occurring when it comes to the overall effectiveness and safety of these particular remedies. Still, herbs are basically viewed in a positive light and are pursued by those who wish to optimize their overall health.
In addition to the many health uses for herbs, individuals have found other ways to use these natural substances. Many have found that these items enhance the overall flavor and appeal of many different dishes. It is not uncommon to see herbs like garlic and parsley being sold in grocery stores.
Many other herbs are used in beauty products, like items that go on the hair, skin cleansers, and other types of products. As you can see, natural herbs play a large role in the health, in the diet, as well as the beauty and hygiene needs of people.
In this next section, I will introduce you to a few natural herbs, as well as their uses. It is important to know and understand that there are numerous herbs available. This is just a small sample of the ones that are available for use:
1. Chamomile – This particular herb is especially popular when it comes to relaxation. Many have found that this is a successful herb when it comes to treating sleep complications and high levels of anxiety. This herb can be brewed, used in cooking, or even in aromatherapy.
2. Dill – This herb has been used by a number of individuals who have gastrointestinal difficulties. Those that suffer from irritable bowel syndrome and similar conditions can experience relief when ingesting this particular herb.
3. Aloe Vera – Aloe Vera is a very diverse herb when it comes to medicine and the health of an individual. Many who experience skin complications such as dry skin, and acne have benefited in many different ways by using this herb. In addition to this, individuals who have dry hair and scalp conditions may choose to use this herb as a rinse. Inflammatory conditions have also been successfully treated by implementing the use of the Aloe Vera plant.
4. Arnica – Arnica has been used in many individuals who experience complications with healing, those that have sore muscles, and other types of pain. If you suffer from fibromyalgia, muscle strain and injury, and similar conditions, this herb may prove to be extremely beneficial.
Conclusion
There are many benefits associated with natural herbs. Many use these substances in order to optimize their health, while others use these substances in order to increase the effectiveness of their beauty regime. Then, there are many who simply use the many natural herbs in order to enhance the flavoring of the meals that they prepare.
