Bay leaves, or laurel leaves, are much more versatile and beneficial than many of you knew.

Laurel trees grew everywhere in the region, but changing climates have shrunk their natural growth. Yet, they remained present in the culinary and medicinal world for thousands of years, dating back at least to Roman times.

They can be grinded into a spice and added to soups and stews, but in most cases, they are used in their whole form as a flavoring for certain Italian dishes and are then removed or used as a garnish.

The extracts of bay leaves have various medicinal uses, even though there is no extensive range of culinary application for them. They are commonly used in aromatherapy and herbal treatments for various skin and respiratory conditions.

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However, their most important health benefits include anti-cancer, detoxifying, and antibacterial properties, their ability to slow the aging process, speed wound healing, and manage diabetes. Bay leaves fight inflammation help digestion, improve heart health, and alleviate respiratory issues.

Here is how to use them and reap their benefits:

— These leaves are an incredibly effective way to lower stress, treat anxiety, and improve mood. You can add them to your food, use the essential oil, make bay leaf tea, grind the leaves into a paste, or burn the leaves.

— Bay leaves regulate cholesterol and blood sugar leaves, according to studies.

— These leaves lower the production of interleukin, a small protein released by the immune system and cause inflammation. To treat a congested nose or a respiratory infection, boil bay leaves and inhale the steam through the nose.

— Bay leaves accelerate the healing of sores and wounds. Ground the dried leaves into a paste, and apply it on the affected areas.

— Bay leaves have been found to help prevent cancer, particularly colorectal cancer in the early stages of detection.

— Bay essential oil can be used in aromatherapy to soothe the body and mind, ensure a good night rest, and energize the body

— The essential oil of laurel leaves has potent antifungal properties which fight Candida and inhibits its ability to penetrate the membrane

— The essential oil of these leaves is a powerful insect repellent. You can add a few drops of it on pieces of cotton and keep them in the kitchen and the cupboards

— You can add bay leaves to your foods while cooking, to enrich the flavor of your dishes, but make sure you always remove them after cooking.

Bay leaf tea is a great way to fight a cold and congestion, so here is how to prepare it:

Add 2 cups of water into a saucepan, and boil for three minutes. Then, remove from heat, and steep 3-4 bay leaves in it for about 5 minutes. Next, strain the tea, and sweeten it.

Yet, the most effective way to relieve anxiety and lower stress is to burn bay leaves and inhale their scent. The stress-relieving ingredients in these leaves are Pinene, Cineol, and Linalool.

Pinene and cineol have been found to drastically lower anxiety levels, and linalool has the same effects, by affecting blood cells and genes. Researchers have also found that the inhalation of cineol prevents the release of hormones that cause pain.

Now here is how to burn bay leaves and enjoy their stress-relieving effects:

Close the doors and windows to trap the aroma in the room, light 2-3 bay leaves, and place them on an ashtray or aluminum foil. Leave them to burn completely, and after the ashes have cooled down, get rid of them. Enjoy the soothing scent and relaxing atmosphere in your home!

Pineapples are incredibly healthy and offer a myriad of health benefits. They belong to the bromeliad family but are the only members that produce edible fruit, according to the Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products.

The fruit is made of multiple individual berries that grow together around a central core. Each pineapple scale is an individual flower or berry.

Despite their unique anatomy, pineapples offer powerful nutritional benefits. They are a rich source of vitamin C, manganese, dietary fiber, and bromelain.

Moreover, these delicious fruits also contain other important minerals and vitamins, such as folate, thiamin, riboflavin, potassium, beta-carotene, magnesium, vitamin B-6, and pantothenic acid.

Due to the high antioxidant content, pineapples are believed to protect against cancer and other illnesses. They also prevent premature aging of the skin and reduce the signs of aging.

Here are 8 more reasons why you should consume pineapples often:

Anti-inflammatory
Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain, that can be extracted from the stem and core of a pineapple. According to studies, it effectively reduces inflammation.

Reduce Arthritis Pain
Due to bromelain in their content, pineapples are known to alleviate muscle and joint inflammation, including inflammation due to arthritis.

Improved digestion
The high fiber content of pineapples, both soluble and insoluble, eases digestion and treats digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, and constipation.

Regulate blood pressure
These fruits are abundant in potassium, which acts as a vasodilator and reduces stress and tension in the blood vessels, prevents clotting, and stimulates blood circulation.

Boost Immune System
A single serving of pineapple provides around 130% of the recommended daily dose of Vitamin C, which stimulates the activity of white blood cells to boost the immune system and protect against illness or disease.

Fight colds and coughs
Vitamin C fights common colds and coughs, while bromelain reduces mucus in the respiratory tract and sinus cavities to clear up congestion and fight the cold.

Bone health
Pineapples are high in magnesium, a mineral that is vital for the health, growth, and repair of bones. A single serving of pineapple provides about 70% of the recommended daily intake of this mineral.

Better oral health
Pineapples have potent astringent properties that protect the teeth, prevent tooth loss, and strengthen the gums.
#Live_Healthy.

NATURAL HOME REMEDIES FOR PHLEGM AND CHEST CONGESTION

Dealing with phlegm and chest congestion caused by the flu can be a discomforting experience. Instead of relying solely on over-the-counter medications, why not try some natural remedies that might provide you with relief? If you are open to alternative solutions, we have some suggestions that might just do the trick.

Recommended Usage

To effectively alleviate congestion and coughing, it is recommended to consume 3 to 4 cups of this natural solution on a daily basis. However, for milder symptoms, a single cup on an empty stomach may be sufficient to ease your mucus troubles.

An Effective Natural Remedy for Colds and Flu

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Ingredients:

Fresh garlic, chopped or crushed

Fresh onion, finely chopped

Fresh ginger root, grated

Fresh horseradish, grated

Fresh cayenne peppers (including seeds), sliced or chopped

Preparation and Usage:

Ingredients:

Fresh garlic, chopped or crushed

Fresh onion, finely chopped

Fresh ginger root, grated

Fresh horseradish, grated

Fresh cayenne peppers (including seeds), sliced or chopped

Preparation and Usage:

Combine all the ingredients in a blender until you achieve a smooth and lump-free mixture.

Transfer this blend into an airtight glass jar.

Let the mixture sit for two weeks, remembering to give the jar a gentle shake once a day.

After the two-week period, strain the mixture to separate the liquid.

These natural ingredients possess beneficial properties that may help alleviate your symptoms and provide you with some much-needed relief. Give this natural remedy a try and see if it works wonders for you!

LEG PAIN, RHEUMATISM, VARICOSE VEINS, ARTHRITIS, HEADACHE, JOINT PAIN. MOTHER’S NATURAL REMEDY.

Struggling with leg pain, rheumatism, varicose veins, arthritis, or joint pain? Discover a natural solution right in your kitchen! I’m excited to share a homemade remedy that’s both easy to make and effective in relieving your discomfort.

What You’ll Need:

1 clove of garlic

1 onion

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30g of ginger root

1 teaspoon of black cumin

200ml of olive oil (vegetable oil is an alternative, but olive oil yields better results)

Preparation Steps:

Peel the garlic, onion, and ginger root.

Chop these ingredients roughly and put them in a blender.

Preparation Steps:

Peel the garlic, onion, and ginger root.

Chop these ingredients roughly and put them in a blender.

Add black cumin and olive oil to the mix.

Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.

There you go! Your homemade pain relief remedy is ready for application. Simple, isn’t it?

Application Instructions:

If treating varicose veins, apply the mixture directly without covering the area with a towel.

For general leg pain, wrap the area with a towel after application for deeper penetration and optimal relief.

Remember, the application method is key. For a clear guide, watch the video provided at the end.

These nine plants and herbs boost the immune system, promote healthy lungs, and fight colds and infections:

Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol which eases breathing and relaxes the muscles of the respiratory system. It also fights congestion and is rich in antioxidants which prevent numerous illnesses.

Osha Root
This root is native to the Rocky mountain area, and it contains camphor and other compounds that support the lungs, boost circulation to them and thus help breathing.

Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is included in numerous cough lozenges and cough syrups, because It contains cineole, a compound which fights congestion, soothes a cough, and treat the inflammation of the sinus passages. Its antioxidants strengthen the immune system.

Plantain Leaf
Plantain leaf has powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, so it soothes a dry cough, treats lung irritations and colds, and promotes mucus production in the lungs.

Sage
Sage essential oils and sage tea are extremely beneficial in the case of respiratory illnesses and lung issues. The inhalation of its aromatic properties clears the sinuses and soothes lung problems.

Licorice Root
Licorice cleanses the inflamed mucous membrane and boosts the immune system, and is especially beneficial for the stomach, lungs, and throat. It aids the body to remove the mucus and soothes throat irritations.

Thyme
This common herb can be used to fight chest congestion, thanks to its powerful antiseptic essential oils. Thyme oil is a natural antibiotic and anti-fungal. Drinking thyme tea can also help cleanse bacteria and viruses from the body to fight your infection.

Mullein
Mullein effectively clears the excessive amounts of mucous in the lungs, cleanses the bronchial tubes, and soothes inflammation of the respiratory tract. Its leaves and flowers are used in the preparation of a potent herbal extract.

Oregano
The vitamins and nutrients in this plat strengthen the immune system. It is also high in carvacrol and rosmarinic acid, which act as natural decongestants and reduce histamine. It supports the health of the respiratory tract and helps airflow through the nasal passage.

Benefits of eating pumpkins.

1Sharpens sight: One cup of pumpkin provides 200% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A, which supports vision by protecting the cornea (your eye’s outer surface) and improves night vision – just in time to trick-or-treat! It also contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which can protect your eyes from macular degeneration and cataracts.
Boosts immune system: Beta carotene, vitamin C, iron, and folate strengthen your immune system, and all are found in pumpkins.

2 Lowers blood pressure: A pumpkin’s orange color is a sign that it’s packed with potassium, which helps lower blood pressure, strengthen the bones, and reduce your risk of stroke and kidney stones.

3 Makes your skin look great: Pumpkins are loaded with antioxidants that are great for your skin and help combat the effects of aging. It also contains the provitamin beta carotene, which your body uses to produce vitamin A and vitamin C.

4 Improves digestive health: Pumpkins are high in fiber, which keeps your bowel movements regular, promotes healthy weight management, and can help lower your cholesterol.

5 Reduces cancer risk: Cancer cells produce free radicals to help them multiply quickly. Pumpkins are high in carotenoids, which combat the effects of free radicals in the body and may help protect against certain types of cancer.

Watermelon
As its name suggests watermelon has a high water content – approximately 92% – and may, as a result, help maintain hydration. It’s a useful source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium, and is especially rich in carotenoids, such as lycopene. In fact, the type of lycopene watermelon provides is more readily available, making this fruit an extremely valuable source.

Bananas
Bananas are another high pectin fruit, this soluble fibre helps promote feelings of fullness, may reduce bloating and has a soothing effect on the gut.

In addition to pectin, bananas contain resistant starch, a type of fibre that has pre-biotic properties – it fuels the healthy gut bacteria so they increase in number and as a consequence produce more beneficial compounds called short chain fatty acids.

Nutritional composition of cashew
Cashews are known to be very nutritious and it is a powerhouse of proteins and various essential minerals such as calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and potassium. Sodium is also found to be present in trace amounts.

Cashews contains the following vitamins:

Vitamin B1 (thiamin)
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
Vitamin B3 (niacin)
Vitamin B6
Vitamin C,
Folate

Health benefits of cashew
1. Heart health
Cashews are good source of monounsaturated fats (healthy dietary fats) that are very friendly to the heart. The healthy dietary fats are essential for our body because they makes it possible for the body to absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K and produce fatty acids that are vital for the development of the brain and blood clotting.

2. Weight management
Cashew is known to contain a relatively high fat content (12 grams per ounce, 2 gram saturated fat), but it is also termed as “good fat”. It is a good fat because of the agreeable fat ratio in the nut of 1:2:1 for saturated, monounsaturated and poly-unsaturated respectively, which scientist have agreed that it is the ideal ratio for optimal health.

3. Healthy muscles and nerves
Cashew is vital for the development of bones, tissues, muscles, and organs of the body because it is a good source of magnesium. Magnesium also facilitates the maintenance of healthy blood pressure, sustain the immune system, maintain nerve functions and keep the bones strong. A deficiency of magnesium causes disruption in the metabolism of calcium and the hormones responsible for its regulation.

4. Diabetes
Since cashew contains a very low amount of sugar and no harmful cholesterol. it is highly safe for those suffering from diabetes. It is also effective in lowering the risk of type2 diabetes.

5. Chemotherapy
Cashew contains wealth of antioxidants like anacardic acids, cardanols and cardols. Research have proven that these antioxidants makes cashew to be effective for people undergoing treatments for tumour and cancer.

6. Formation of red blood cells
Cashew contains a huge amount of copper, and copper helps in iron metabolism, formation of red blood cells and assist in keeping bones and immune systems healthy. It is also vital for the nervous and skeletal system of the body. Copper deficiency in humans may result to anaemia, osteoporosis, and irregular heartbeats.

7. Bone and oral health
Phosphorus is also found in cashew, which is essential for the healthy development of teeth and bones. Phosphorus also assists in protein synthesis, maintenance of cellular health, absorption of carbohydrates and fats.


8. Gall stones
Gallstones are stone-like deposits that usually consist of cholesterol that accumulates in the gall bladder. The regular inclusion of healthy nuts like cashews can help to lower the risk of formation of gallstones.

9. Immune system
Cashew plays a vital role in the strengthening of the immune system because of the zinc contained in it. Zinc additionally helps in protein synthesis and healing of wounds.

10. Cancer prevention
Cashew are rich in proanthocyanidins, a class of flavanols that actually starve tumours and inhibits the division of cancer cells. Studies have also shown that cashews are capable of reducing the risk of colon cancers.

11. Hair and skin health
Cashews are rich in copper. Copper is an essential component of many enzymes and it plays a part in a broad array of processes. One copper-containing enzymes called tyrosinase, converts tyrosine to melanin, the pigment that gives colouration to the hair and skin.

References: ehfblog.com
Sylvanus Gbandeh's Health talks-Archives.

Soursop is a fruit with a green peel and spikes on the outside, and a soft, white pulp on the inside. It tastes sweet and is slightly acidic, and can be consumed raw or used in teas, smoothies, desserts, and juices. In addition to the pulp, soursop leaves are also used to prepare tea.

Soursop benefits are mainly derived from its high fiber content, as it can reduce how quickly sugar is absorbed, help with constipation and is a source of fiber that decreases the rate at which sugar is absorbed from foods. This can help to manage blood sugar levels and prevent insulin resistance and diabetes.
This fruit also contains high amounts of vitamin C and flavonoids, which are compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to combat free radicals and reduce inflammation. The leaves can be used to make soursop tea, which can relieve gastric problems (like ulcers and gastritis) and prevent the development of health conditions like high blood pressure and cataracts.
Health benefits
Due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic properties, soursop can offer many health benefits, such as:

1. Relieving anti-inflammatory diseases
Soursop contains anti-inflammatory properties that prevents the reduction of inflammation-producing cytokines. These are generated by the body in the presence of inflammation. This fruit can therefore be useful for the relieve of symptoms of inflammatory diseases, like arthritis, arthrosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Learn more about naturally anti-inflammatory foods you can add to your diet.
Preventing diabetes
Soursop contains great amounts of antioxidants that protect the pancreatic cells that are responsible for the production if insulin. This helps to prevent insulin resistance and diabetes.

Furthermore, soursop is a great source of fibers, which decrease how quickly sugar is absorbed. This can help to regulate glucose levels in the blood, which can help to control diabetes in people who have already been diagnosed with it.
3. Maintain eye health
Because it contains lutein, an antioxidant compound that is important for eye health, soursop helps to decrease the development of illnesses like cataracts and macular degeneration. These conditions are associated with aging and cause eye damage, leading to vision loss.

4. Protecting the stomach
Soursop contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which reduce damage caused by free radicals in the stomach. This promotes a reduction in stomach acid production, making this fruit beneficial for protecting the stomach, improving digestion, and help to manage some diseases, like ulcers and gastritis.

5. Improving stress and anxiety
Soursop leaves contain anonaine and asimilobine, compounds that soothing properties that act on the central nervous system. These compounds interact with serotonin (a neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation), which can improve mood, stress and anxiety. Read more about other home remedies for gastritis that you can prepare to relieve symptoms.

6. Regulating blood pressure
Soursop contains potassium, an mineral that is essential for the body’s elimination of sodium through the urine. Potassium is also important for blood pressure management.

In addition, this fruit also contains antioxidants which promote arterial health and act as a vasodilator. It helps to promote blood circulation, which can also influence blood pressure. Check out other natural home remedies for blood pressure that can compliment your medical treatment.
7. Strengthening the immune system
Because it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, like vitamin C and quercetin, soursop helps to manage excess free radicals and strengthen immune system cells. This helps to prevent allergies, colds and flu.

8. Combating constipation
Soursop helps to combat constipation because it is rich in water and fibers. These components promote natural bowel movements and add bulk to the stool, which facilitate stool elimination. See a list of other naturally laxative fruits that can facilitate regular bowel movements.

9. Maintaining hydration in the body
Soursop pulp contains about 82 g of water, which can significantly hydrate the body. It is often consumed in hot environments or during exercise, which helps to prevent dehydration.

10. Possibly prevent cancer
Recent studies show that soursop is rich in acetogenins, which are a group of metabolic compounds that have a cytotoxic effect that targets cancerous cells. In addition, it was noted in some studies that consuming soursop on a long-term basis can help to prevent and treat many types of cancer, like breast, colon, lung and prostate cancers.

Nonetheless, these studies have only been done in lab settings with isolated cells and animals. More studies are needed in humans to support the possible effect of this fruit on cancerous cells.
References:
Tatiana Zanin-Registered Dietitian
Sylvanus Gbandeh's Health talks-Archives.