Thursday 28 April 2016

Unveiling the Wellness Elixir: Exploring the Health Benefits of Herbal Tea


Herbal tea has been cherished for centuries for its medicinal properties and soothing effects. In this exploration, we delve into the multitude of health benefits that herbal tea offers:

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Herbal teas are abundant in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
  • Supports Digestive Health: Many herbal teas, such as peppermint, ginger, and chamomile, have been traditionally used to alleviate digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, indigestion, and nausea. They can also promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
  • Relieves Stress and Anxiety: Herbal teas like chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm possess calming properties that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. Sipping on a warm cup of herbal tea can be a comforting ritual to unwind after a long day.
  • Boosts Immunity: Certain herbal teas, such as echinacea, elderberry, and ginseng, are renowned for their immune-boosting properties. They can help strengthen the immune system, ward off infections, and reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu.
  • Improves Sleep Quality: Herbal teas like valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile have sedative effects that can promote better sleep quality and alleviate insomnia. Enjoying a cup of herbal tea before bedtime can help relax the mind and body, facilitating a restful night's sleep.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Many herbal teas, including turmeric, ginger, and green tea, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, alleviate pain, and protect against chronic diseases like arthritis and cardiovascular disease.
  • Supports Weight Management: Some herbal teas, such as green tea, dandelion tea, and hibiscus tea, have been shown to aid in weight management by boosting metabolism, promoting fat burning, and suppressing appetite.
  • Promotes Hydration: Herbal teas are a hydrating alternative to sugary beverages and can contribute to meeting daily fluid intake needs. Staying properly hydrated is essential for overall health, including maintaining skin health, regulating body temperature, and supporting bodily functions.
  • Rich in Nutrients: Depending on the herbs used, herbal teas can be a good source of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds that contribute to overall health and well-being.

Incorporating herbal tea into your daily routine is a simple and enjoyable way to reap the numerous health benefits it offers. Whether you prefer a soothing cup to unwind or a revitalizing blend to boost immunity, there's a herbal tea to suit every taste and health need.

Herbal teas are also called as 'tisanes'. Herbal teas are simple, effective, inexpensive, caffeine- and drug-free ways to enjoy the taste and benefits of herbs and spices. Herbal tea is a low-calorie beverage but avoids purchasing the flavoured ones.


Different Types of Teas and its Health Benefits:

Green Tea:
Green tea is called the “wonder herb”.
It helps to reduce free radicals.
It reduces the chances of cancer.
Prohibits the formation of tumors.
It lowers cholesterol.
It strengthens our immune system.
Helps fight against tooth decay and different viruses and also lowers blood pressure.

Ginger Tea:
Ginger increases our energy.
It also acts as a stimulator.
It helps to digest our food and to control problems like nausea.
It is helpful to Arthritic patients.

Peppermint Tea:
It reduces the problems of vomiting, motion sickness and nausea.
Strengthens our immune system.
It gives our body protection against mild coughs, mild asthma, and clearing of congestion, mild aches and chronic pain.

NOTE: Those who have been suffering from heart problems must avoid drinking peppermint tea because it might deteriorate your health.

Chamomile Tea:
It reduces our stress and helps to digest food.
It secures peaceful sleep and reduces the problems of insomnia.
People who are allergic to chamomile should abstain from drinking this tea.

Rose hip Tea:
Rose hip Tea is a rich source of vitamin C.
Beneficial to our tissue health, adrenal function and skin
It helps to strengthen our immune system.

Lavender Tea:
It helps to reduce respiratory issues, cough, asthma, bronchitis and body temperature.
Used for treating fever.
It helps to heal ulcers, sores, cuts and wounds.

Lemon Balm Tea:
Reduce stress and calm nerves.
It also helps to control thyroid problems and lowers insomnia and anxiety.
It increases the capacity of our memory and refreshes our mood.
It lowers the problems of stomach, digestive system and flatulence.

Hibiscus Flower Tea:
It helps to reduce hypertension, cholesterol and blood pressure.
Protection against cell-damaging free radicals.

Milk Thistle Tea:
Helps to clean liver, and its components improve liver function.
It also improves our digestive system through the production of bile.

Echinacea Tea:
Helps to improve immune system.
It reduces pain and inflammation.
It helps us to prevent the common cold.

Blackberry leaves Tea:
It boasts of the refreshing berry-flavor.
It contains anti-oxidant like flavonoids.

Dandelion Tea:
It lowers fluid retention
Provides soothing pleasure to pain and swelling caused by arthritis.
It improves our digestive system and liver function.

Hawthorn Tea:
It enhances blood circulation
It helps to improve cardiovascular health.
It reduces stress and improves the process of drainage of excess salt from our body.

Cinnamon Tea:
It is beneficial for weight loss.
It enhances our bodily strength to fight against viruses.
It helps to control blood sugar.

Cardamom Tea:
Cardamom tea is made from dried white cardamom flowers and aromatic seeds.
It lowers indigestion, stomach pain and reduces flatulence and the problem of feeling nauseous.
It aids the fight against pulmonary disorders and coughs.
It helps to discard caffeine from our system.
During the period of menstruation, it also helps to refresh the mind of women.

Red Clover Tea:
It helps in relieving the complications and discomfort related to menopause.
It reduces stress and helps to have a peaceful sleep.
It strengthens bones and improves the power of our memory.

Rooibos Tea:
Reduces stress and lowers the problems of insomnia.

Nettle Tea:
It is really effective in anemia
Reduces high blood pressure as well as relieves the pain of rheumatism and arthritis.
It strengthens our immune system.
It helps fight against coughs and colds.
It lowers problems like urinary tract infections, kidney and bladder problems and congestion.
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Monday 18 April 2016

Optimizing Nutrition for a Healthy Pregnancy: Essential Guidelines for Expectant Mothers

Good nutrition during pregnancy is crucial for both the health of the mother and the development of the growing baby.


Here are some essential guidelines to ensure optimal nutrition during this important time:

  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods from all food groups, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Aim for a colorful plate to ensure a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • Meet Increased Nutrient Needs: During pregnancy, the body requires higher amounts of certain nutrients, including folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Incorporate foods rich in these nutrients into your diet or consider prenatal supplements if recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially as blood volume increases during pregnancy. Aim for at least 8-10 cups of water daily, and adjust based on individual needs and activity levels.
  • Monitor Weight Gain: While weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy, it's essential to gain weight at a steady and healthy rate. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized recommendations based on your pre-pregnancy weight and BMI.
  • Focus on Fiber: Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, so prioritize fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
  • Limit Processed Foods: Minimize consumption of processed and high-sugar foods, as well as foods high in unhealthy fats and added sugars. Instead, opt for whole, unprocessed foods to provide essential nutrients without unnecessary additives.
  • Include Healthy Fats: Incorporate sources of healthy fats into your diet, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, fatty fish (like salmon and sardines), and olive oil. These fats are important for fetal brain development and can help support your own health during pregnancy.
  • Practice Safe Food Handling: Pay attention to food safety practices to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. Avoid unpasteurized dairy products, raw or undercooked meats and seafood, and deli meats and soft cheeses unless they are heated to steaming hot.
  • Listen to Your Body: Pregnancy can bring about changes in appetite and cravings. Pay attention to your body's signals, eat when hungry, and choose nutrient-rich options to support your and your baby's health.
  • Consult with Healthcare Providers: Work closely with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your individual needs and addresses any specific concerns or conditions.

By following these guidelines and prioritizing good nutrition, you can support a healthy pregnancy and lay the foundation for your baby's lifelong health and well-being.

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Saturday 16 April 2016

Health, Skin and Hair Benefits of Watermelon


Health, Skin and Hair Benefits of Watermelon
Watermelon is an extremely popular fruit, and the watermelon seed is also  called as "tarbooj ke beej" in Hindi are used in Asian and  Middle Eastern cuisines. Watermelon seeds are rich in vitamin B like  thiamine, niacin, folate and minerals like magnesium, potassium, manganese,  iron, zinc, phosphorus and copper and nutrients including fatty acids,  essential proteins and lots of minerals. In Nigeria they are used in certain  soups and Roasted watermelon seeds are served as a snack or used to garnish  salads. Watermelon seeds are edible and can be a healthy option. It extracts  oil which is good for your hair and skin.

Health Benefits of  Watermelon Seeds:

Some of the health benefits of watermelon seeds are given below.
  • Your body requires some essential amino acids such as arginine and lysine  which cannot produce from the body on its own.Watermelon seeds contain some of these essential amino acids such as  tryptophan and glutamic acids, whereas Lysine helps in connective tissues in  the body and also improves calcium absorption to facilitate formation of collagen  and arginine improves the body’s metabolism, cardiovascular system and sexual  health.
  • Watermelon seeds are good sources of magnesium;  it plays a vital for normal heart functioning, maintenance of normal blood  pressure, supporting metabolic process and protein synthesis, treatment of  cardiovascular diseases and hypertension besides controlling blood pressure and  diabetes.
  • Watermelon seeds contain lycopene which is good for your face, helps for effective  in recovering health after illness and sharpening your memory.
  • It also helps in improving male fertility.
  • These seeds can be used for treating diabetes
  • Vitamin B present in watermelon seeds for maintaining healthy blood, nervous  system and effective immune response.
  • Watermelon seeds can be extremely beneficial in combating protein  deficiencies, leading to diseases like marasmus and kwashiorkor in poorer  countries of the world.
  •  Protein is also required for the maintenance of long and strong nails.

Skin Benefits of  Watermelon Seeds:
  • Watermelon seeds contain unsaturated fatty acids; it keeps the skin moisturized,  soft, firm, well-toned.
  • It prevents acne, signs of ageing because they contain antioxidants and  other skin disorders. Consuming a handful or two of watermelon seeds a week is  advisable.
  • Water melon seed oil, also known as Ootanga oil  or Kalahari oil is beneficial for your skin, is a great moisturizer. This oil  is is used as an essential ingredient in baby oils.
  • Watermelon seed oil removes sebum, dirt and grease which present in your  skin pores.
  • Watermelon seeds protect your skin from skin cancers and infections as well.
Hair Benefits of  Watermelon Seeds:
  • Watermelon seeds have a high protein, which keep your hair healthy and look  shiny.
  • Roasted watermelon seeds contain copper which is involved in the production  of melanin (pigment that provides color to your hair and skin.).
  • Watermelon seed oil can also be used for your tresses.
  • Watermelon seed oil provides the hair with essential fatty acids which prevent  your hair from breakage and keep it moisturized.
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Thursday 14 April 2016

Mushroom and its Health Benefits

Mushroom and its Health Benefits


Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. It help to provide energy by breaking down proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

Many mushrooms are also good sources of selenium, an antioxidant mineral, as well as copper, niacin, potassium and phosphorous. Additionally, mushrooms provide protein, vitamin C and iron.

Mushroom in Different Languages:

  • English - Mushroom
  • Afrikaans - sampioen
  • French  - champignon
  • Italian  -  fungo
  • Spanish - seta

Vitamins:
  • Riboflavin - 24%
  • Niacin -  18 %
  • Pantothenic Acid - 15%
  • Vitamin D - 5%

Nutrients:
  • Protein - 6%
  • Dietary Fiber - 4%
  • Carbohydrate - 1%
  • Calories - 1%

Minerals:
  • Copper - 16%
  • Salenium - 13%
  • Phosphorus - 9%
  • Potassium - 9%
Health Benefits:
  • Protects diabetics from infections
  • Helps lower cholesterol levels
  • Prevents breast and prostate cancer
  • Helps lose weight
  • Stimulates absorption of iron
  • Improves bone health
  • Boosts immune system
  • Reduces blood pressure
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Thursday 7 April 2016

Health Benefits of Amla/Gooseberry

 Health Benefits of Amla/Gooseberry

The Indian Gooseberry belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. In India it is considered a sacred tree. It is very nourishing, but it tastes sour. Gooseberry is very rich in Vitamin C, and contains many minerals and vitamins like Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron, Carotene and Vitamin B Complex. Amla is also a powerful antioxidant agent; fruit ripens in the autumn in wet, forested, hilly areas on the Indian subcontinent. It is famous for its nutrient rich fruits and the ancient Indian medicinal practice of Ayurveda.

Benefits of Amla

  • Slows Down Ageing
  • Cures a Sore Throat
  • Fights against Heart Disease
  • Increases Diuretic Activity
  • Increases Metabolic Activity
  • Reduces Blood Sugar
  • High In Digestive Fiber
  • Boosts Immunity
  • Prevents Formation Of Gall Bladder Stones
  • Prevents Ulcers
  • Is Anti-Inflammatory
  • Improves Eyesight
  • Purifies Blood
  • Strengthens Bones
  • Cools the Body
  • Prevents Constipation
  • Prevents Jaundice
  • Reduces The Risk Of Cancer
  • Protects Your Liver
  • Makes Skin Glow
  • Brightens Skin
  • Reduces Pigmentation
  • Prevents Lice
  • Prevents Greying Of Hair
  • Helps Increase Hair Growth
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