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Showing posts with label herbs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label herbs. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

CAROLYN'S CORNER ON HEALING HERBS

pic from http://www.homestead.org/
Ginger:



•Grated ginger root mixed with diluted lime juice can help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce flatulence.


•Ginger supports a healthy cardiovascular system by making platelets less sticky which in turn reduces circulatory problems.


•Ginger is aromatic, pungent, spicy, and is good for nausea, digestive problems, circulation and arthritis.






Cinnamon:


•Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol.


•When cinnamon is added to food, it inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.


•One study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.






Alfalfa:


•Has protein and vitamins A, B1, B6, C, E, and K. Nutrient analysis demonstrates the presence of calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc.






Cranberry:


•Useful as a preventative for urinary tract infections.






Dandelion:


•Used to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney and joint problems. Dandelion has also been used to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver, including hepatitis.






Garlic:


•A natural antibiotic! It's antibacterial action is equivalent to 1% penicillin. Garlic fight inflammation, stop infections, kill parasites and restore vitality. Garlic can help heal injuries like bites, cuts and burns, while quite possibly sooth headaches, lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, acne, boils, arthritis, candida, respiratory ailments, the common cold and earaches. It can protect the digestive tract by inhibiting dysentery-causing amoebas and other infections. Studies have shown that garlic may reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, help to lower total and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, inhibit platelet aggregation and reduce blood pressure.




Live & Thrive in Abundant Good Health!


Carolyn Akens


Raw Food Educator, Chef, Health Coach, Speaker


Health Coaching, Speaking Engagements


Classes & Workshops, Raw Food Chef & Instructor Certifications


www.carolynakens.com


info@carolynakens.com


Twitter: www.twitter.com/carolynakens


FaceBook: www.facebook.com/carolynakens


Phone: 770-559-1773


PO Box 11


Alpharetta, GA 30009-0011

 
** Wow!! Carolyn, thanks again for a wonderfully, informative post!
Peace and blessings,

Post Title CAROLYN'S CORNER ON HEALING HERBS

Thursday, July 22, 2010

VALERIAN ROOT - AN HERBAL SLEEP AID


Hola Beautiful Ones!

I believe I've found the right sleep aid. Some years ago, my brother had mentioned Valerian Root to me and how potent it was. Based on the picture he painted for me, I quickly deduced that it was something that I would not mess with. Fast forward to the present, I was desperate to give it a try. Although a bit apprehensive, after researching it, I went for it since it's totally "non-pharm". Please note: Medicinal herbs require the same amount of caution & responsible use as pharm drugs. Just without the many pharm nasties.

What exactly is Valerian root?
Valerian root is a flowering perennial plant with pink and white flowers exhibiting a sweet aroma. However, in my opinion, the dried root, which is the part of the plant used is quite stinky. Valerian root has been widely used in preventing & treating insomnia. Its quiet and soothing effects help a person sleep. Although a person can experience this effect immediately after using valerian root the first time, it is common that a person may use it for a few weeks before experiencing the full effect of the herb.


Valerian (Nervous) has been used as a sleep aid for over 1,000 years. Its ability to help relax the central nervous system, promote feelings of calm, decrease levels of anxiety and stress, and enhance sleep are known to millions the world over.


 It can and is also used to treat anxiety, fatigue, nervousness, stress, ulcers, menstrual cramps, muscle cramps, pain, spasms, and high blood pressure.


Possible Side Effects:
1.  It is a natural diuretic, meaning it causes your body to naturally lose excess water weight. So it is possible that a middle-of-the-night need to go to the bathroom may occur thus frustrating the goal to get a full nights sleep.

2.  Don't suddenly stop taking it. Due to the way it works in the body, it shouldn't be stopped suddenly. Rather, the body needs to be weaned from the valerian root. This protects the central nervous system.

3.  Drowsiness

4.  Difficulty concentrating

5.  Lack of ability to remain alert during the day

6.  Sleepiness during the day

7.  Difficulty with short-term memory
 
These side effects are to be expected in most people after they take a dose of the treatment.To avoid complications, take the valerian root about an hour before bed. Be sure you can dedicate at least six to eight hours to sleep after taking it.


Valerian root is a highly effective tool at calming the central nervous system. Therefore, use it cautiously. You should not use the herbal remedy for longer than two weeks at a time. Slowly stop taking the root after that time and avoid using it for several weeks prior to using it again.

It should not be taken if pregnant or with alcohol.
 
My experience:
I used about a teaspoon of the root and steeped it in hot water for about 15 minutes. I sweetened it with Stevia powder and was quite surprised to find the taste pleasant. It did not take long for me to begin feeling the effects of it. My gestimation would be less than 30 minutes. And I must say, I slept like a baby. A sweet, deep sleep.

And yes, I definitely noticed the diuretic nature of the root. I did get up in the middle of the night for a trip to the restroom but that didn't bother me. I was back to sleep immediately when I laid back down. I also noticed that I woke up with dry mouth. Me no likey that.

Was I groggy? Hell yes. And it took me a minute to shake it off. At the same time, I have to admit that I drank a cupful of the tea a little late. So I did not have a full 8 hours to dedicate to sleeping. Next time will be different. And I'll definitely use a little less of the root next time.

My personal conclusion:
I really was impressed with this herb. I'm pleased, aside from the morning dry-mouth. I achieved the rest & sleep that I was looking for and will continue to use it for a couple of weeks. I do think its a great natural sleep aid that certainly should be used cautiously.



Post Title VALERIAN ROOT - AN HERBAL SLEEP AID

Saturday, February 13, 2010

MACA-NATURE'S LOVE DRUG **Repost**



**With respect to Valentine's Day (and due to the feedback that I continue to get on this particular post) I've decided to "repost" from September. Hope you all enjoy this repeat!!**

In my journey to incorporate a majority of raw/living foods into my diet, I have come across a lot of foods, supplements and herbs that I had never heard of. One of such herbs was Maca.

It has amazing properties and is becoming more well known of for its effectiveness in health challenges, including osteoporosis, male impotence, menopause, menstrual difficulties, chronic fatigue, and depression. Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is related to the turnip and beetroot. It grows underground, enduring extremes of temperature due to the altitude and proximity to the equator. A true superfood it is the only native vegetable in South America to be a member of the cruciferous family, sharing the cancer fighting properties of its relatives. It is similar to a sweet potato but in the West we can buy raw organic maca in powdered form, keeping all of the nutritional benefits intact. Maca is an adaptogen - that is, a plant classified to have certain medicinal qualities that can fight stress and reduce many degenerative diseases. Maca supplements are often marketed as an herb, although 'herbal maca' is actually a root vegetable. It is widely known for its libido enhancing powers and medicinal properties, but it has been a food product for thousands of years in South America.

Key phrase here is “libido enhancing powers”. So let me lay this personal experience out to you.

Some months ago, I decided to incorporate Maca powder into my diet because I wanted to try this popular food out. After all, it was well known and often mentioned in recipes on raw food blogs, sites and circles. So, of course, me being me decided to give it a try. After all, it’s a raw food and certainly is good for you. Well, I should have read a little more about it or asked some other raw foodies more indepthly about this food because it really had an impact on me. Not long after consistently taking it (I purchased the powdered form and would add it to my smoothies), I noticed something..different about myself.

I was abnormally “hot-n-bothered”. Now please understand. I am a healthy, adult woman with natural sexual desires. But suddenly, I noticed that I was always….ready. Oh my goodness! It got to the point where I could just be reading, laying in the bed, talking on the phone, reading the bible (insert holy book of choice) and urges would just hit me almost overwhelmingly. (Please note that at this same time, I was not in a relationship so I had no one to work this out with. Pure torture, I say! Pure torture! Lol.) I was about ready to jump the mailman, and believe me, he’ ain’t “jump-worthy”!


Yes, this dude needed to watch his back! Really!!

So let’s talk a little more about the uses & history of Maca because I obviously didn’t pay close attention to the stuff I read or didn’t give it much stock.

JUST SO YOU KNOW:

When the farmers were grazing their flocks in Peru many years ago they noticed that when they let their animals graze where there was lots of Peruvian maca root growing the animals would become much healthier, hardier, and stronger, and also they would tend to copulate a lot more and have a much higher fertility rate.

After a while the farmers tried the Peruvian maca root on themselves and found that it made them much more energetic, and strong, and better able to withstand the high altitude, and harsh climate, and also that it made them more sexually active, and fertile as well. Since then, there has been much widespread recorded knowledge and facts about the reputed abilty of Peruvian maca root to be a true aphrodisiac, and a fertility enhancer as well as a very effective energizer, strengthener, and instiller of a feeling of well being.

Maca holds a special place in Peruvian culture. Its dried roots have been treated as a delicacy for thousands of years. To the ancient natives of the Andes, maca was also reputed to restore the fertility of their livestock which often suffered in the high elevation. The Inca's used maca as an energy enhancing potion to give themselves more power before going into battle.

Maca has also been valued as trading commodity. Maca crops are often exchanged with communities at lower altitudes for other food staples such a rice. They were also traded with the Spanish conquistadors as a means of paying taxes. Maca has also been used as a herbal medicine believing to improve fertility, sexual desire, strength and endurance.

Did you notice the words “fertility”, “sexually active”, “libido “and similar terms as it relates to Maca? I challenge you to google it. As a matter of fact, I double-dare you to google it! I guarantee you that you won’t find anything different. And from personal experience, I can definitely tell you that its true.


Now of course, it offers other benefits like:
* Increases energy and endurance

* Increases stamina

* Alleviates chronic exhaustion (fatigue) syndrome

* Can regulate hormonal irregularities

* Aids in alleviating depression, gives a sense of well being, reduces anxiety

* Reduces anxiety and stress

* Has a beneficial action on the circulatory system; Speeds wound healing and reduces anemia

* Enhances memory, learning, and mental ability

* Has a beneficial action on the circulatory system; gives skin a more youthful appearance

* Helps treat anemia, rickets, osteomalacia, and stomach cancer

* Good for healthy teeth and bones

* Inhibits the growth & reproduction of fungi and bacteria

* Acts as an anticarcinogen and antioxidant

* Is an alternative to anabolic steroids, helps to build muscle


So it will definitely benefit you while getting your wheels in gear. I’m just sayin’.

So if you’re looking to increase you and/or your mates libido, I’d say go for. I had to put this stuff away…at least for a minute.

Lol,
ChocolateOrchid

Post Title MACA-NATURE'S LOVE DRUG **Repost**

Thursday, December 10, 2009

YOU KNOW, THERE ARE OTHER FISH IN THE SEA



Hi Sweetie!

I hope I didn’t break your heart too much to learn about (dare I say the name), Sugar. I just didn’t want to see you get hurt any further. I know it was a bit harsh but the truth is always a good thing.

Listen. I know you may think this is too soon but I do believe in moving on. There. I said it. And yes, I know you’ve heard this before but there really are more and better fish out there.
So let’s get to fishin’.

Allow me to introduce you to a few of them:

Agave Nectar – this unprocessed, low glycemic index sweetener is a wonderful flavor enhancer.
Carob Powder – A sweet, calcium rich, chocolate-like powder produced from the pods of the carob tree.
Coconut Palm Sugar - Although this item is not raw, it is one of the most nutritious sweeteners available. Great for making raw chocolate.
Lucuma Powder – The powder of an exotic Peruvian fruit, this low sugar sweetener has a flavor similar to maple syrup.
Mesquite Powder – A staple food of the Native American peoples of the southwest, this nutrient-rich sweetener has a molasses-like flavor with a hint of caramel.
Really Raw Honey – An anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, highly-nutritious sweetener.
Stevia Concentrate – A potent sugar substitute which actually helps to moderate blood sugar levels.
Vanilla Agave Nectar – a synergistic combination of vanilla powder and agave nectar.
Yacon Root Syrup – The healthiest sweetener in the world. Yacon feeds your friendly bacteria and doesn’t create blood sugar spikes.
Yacon Root Powder – a mildly sweet prebiotic (food for your friendly intestinal bacteria).
Brown Rice Syrup - This is not a raw food item however is great for other diets. Basically to get this syrup, manufacturers will take brown rice and boil it until most of the moisture has evaporated. What is left is a wheat-free and gluten free sweetener that can be used in almost anything.

I’ve also read of people using dried fruit, pureed bananas and applesauce.
Hope this helps to ease your heartache.

And as always, moderation along with how your body responds to it, is very important. Even with the healthier alternatives.

Luv,
CO

Post Title YOU KNOW, THERE ARE OTHER FISH IN THE SEA

Monday, November 30, 2009

SPECIALS!! SPECIALS!! EVERYWHERE!!


Hola Beautifuls!

I hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. If you don't observe Thanksgiving, I hope that you had a wonderful weekend.

I've been coming across so many specials (as usual per this time of year), that I just have to share. This one really sparked my interest. I figure with so many mixtresses, almost mixtresses, every-once-in-awhile mixtresses & thinking-about-it mixtresses out there that it might spark your, too.

Mountain Rose Herbs is having a youtube video contest that could win you $1000. I repeat. $1000. Check out their vid! And while you're at it, subscribe. Always great information.



Wish you the best!
CO

Post Title SPECIALS!! SPECIALS!! EVERYWHERE!!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

GINGER {revisited}

**THIS IS A REPOST**----**THIS IS A REPOST**
I wanted to revisit this because ginger is a "warming" herb. Great year-round but also during the cooler/colder months. So if you're looking to spice it up a bit, this is one of the herbs for you.


One of my fave smoothies of the moment contains mixed berries, an apple, spinach, and a little ginger. Oh, how I love the smell of ginger. When grating it, you partake in such a wonderful aroma. It’s so pleasing to the senses. It’s also pleasing to the body. Let me tell you how.

A researcher at Cornell University Medical College discovered that ginger has an effect on blood clots that is similar to that of aspirin. By the same token, it appears that high cholesterol levels are lowered using the same active ingredient in ginger.

Health & Nutrition Benefits of Eating Ginger

Ginger has been found to be helpful in blocking the harmful effects of prostaglandin, a substance that can lead to inflammation of the blood vessels in the brain and even cause migraines.

Ginger has been associated with alleviation of the feeling of nausea, even in the case of pregnant women.

The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger make it effective in alleviation of the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Ginger helps to promote warmth in the upper respiratory tract and thus, is quite effective in treating the cold and flu.

Those suffering from cramps, caused by stomach gas have found ginger to be quite effective.

Ginger makes the platelets less sticky and is thus, pretty helpful in case of circulatory disorders.

The cineole content in ginger has been found to be a mood enhancer and can help in relieving stress. (Hmmm…no wonder.)

Ginger is a natural and effective mouth freshener and also aids digestion.

Ginger reduces inflammation and also helps lower cholesterol.

Ginger is good for those suffering from gas and bloating.

Naturally firms and tones skin with moisture retention properties

Ginger is believed to have anti-caner properties.

Ginger has been associated with easing of menstrual cramps and mitigation of headaches and migraines.

Ginger is quite effective in treating diarrhea.
Note this: When buying ginger, fresh is best! Be sure to avoid ginger with dry, wrinkled skin, mold or soft spots. African and Indian ginger are the most potent. Grating or using a garlic press will give you the maximum benefit. Also, ginger can give you many benefits but more is not always better. An ounce a day should give you all the benefits you will need.

Post Title GINGER {revisited}

Thursday, September 24, 2009

TGIF & A GIVEAWAY!!


HAPPY FRIDAY, BEAUTIFULS!!

I hope that you all have had a wonderful week and have an even better weekend planned, whatever it may include. I was so happy when I got home to see that my package from Moutain Rose Herbs had arrived. Wanna know what all was in it?....

Well, here goes:
1. Some Press & Brew tea bags
2. Herbs: Coltsfoot, Rosemary Leaf, Peppermint Leaf, Nettle Leaf, Rosemary Leaf, Rosehips
3. Teas: Vita Blend, Blossoms of Health, Hisbiscus High, Honeybush Tea, Firefly Chai, Red Rooibos Tea
4. Essential Oils: Eucalyptus, Chamomile (German), Red Thyme, Rosemary, Geranium, Hyssop, Lemon, Peppermint

Yes, it was a big box full of goodies. So full of goodies that I discovered I ordered two 8 oz bags of Rosemary leaf. No, that was not a misprint above.
Sooooo... Seeing as my one year blogiversary is this Sunday, Sept. 27th (Woo hoo!!) and there is absolutely nothing I’d like more than sharing the love. I will be doing another giveaway.

The winner will receive the following:

8 oz bag of Rosemary leaf
4 oz bag of Hisbiscus Flowers
4 oz bag of Hisbiscus Flower Powder


All organic. All from Mountain Rose Herbs. These herbs can be used in foods, teas, hair products, etc. You can find some info. on these particular herbs here and here.

The guidelines for this giveaway are as follows:

1. You have to be a follower or subscriber. In the comment section of this blog post, please specify which one you are.

2. You must leave a comment in the comment section of this particular post.

3. Share how you plan to use these particular herbs. You never know. You may inspire someone to try something new and/or different.

4. All comments must be in by next Thursday, Oct, 1st. No later than 8pm, EST.
I will use the random number generator to pick the winner and will announce your name in next Friday’s post. So be sure to check back!
I wish each and every one of you the best!

Have an awesome weekend! Do something good for yourself. Do something kind for someone else. And as always, “Do you.”


Peace, blessings and much luv,
ChocolateOrchid

Post Title TGIF & A GIVEAWAY!!