Monday, April 29, 2013

The Cabbage Advantage

 photo cabbage.jpg

Botanical name: Brassica oleracea

Descended from cabbage grown wild in Mediterranean regions thousands of years ago, the leaves in today’s varieties sometimes have interesting dissimilarities. Some appear wide-spread and waffled, while others are smooth and tightly bunched. The colors vary as well, presenting pale green, blue green, red, reddish purple, and nearly white. All have very short stems which, other than garden dirt on the very end, are just as delicious and nutritious as the leaves.

Cabbage is best prepared as close to raw as possible – sometimes called tender-crisp – to preserve this veggie’s many nutrients.

Coleslaw may be the most familiar cabbage preparation for Americans, but it’s also revered world-wide for the scrumptious flavor it lends to many kinds of hot soup.

 photo cabbage2.jpg

Health Benefits of Cabbage

Cabbage has the highest amount of some of the most powerful antioxidants found in cruciferous vegetables – phytonutrients such as thiocyanates, lutein, zeaxanthin, isothiocyanates, and sulforaphane, which stimulate detoxifying enzymes. Research has shown these compounds to protect against several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and prostate cancers. They also help lower the LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or "bad cholesterol" levels in blood, which can build up in arteries and cause heart disease.

Rich in vitamin K, cabbage provides 85 percent of the body’s daily requirement. This is very important, not only for bone metabolism, but as a known Alzheimer's disease preventative by limiting neuronal damage in the brain. The 54 percent daily value of vitamin C supplied to the body with one serving of cabbage is impressive, too – even more than oranges – which can help scavenge harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals and protect against infection.

Cabbage is also an excellent source of fiber, vitamin B6, folate, and manganese, as well as healthy amounts of thiamin (vitamin B1), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), and pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). It also provides iron, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium for strong bones, and potassium for regulating the heart rate and blood pressure.

Cabbage Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: One cup (89 grams) of raw cabbage
  • Calories: 22
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Sodium: 16 g
Studies Done on Cabbage

Evidence in abundance shows cabbage to be an amazing cure for stomach ulcers, due to its high phytonutrient content. One in particular – indole-3-carbinol – has research behind it proving it to prevent and slow the growth of cancer cells.1 Two tablespoons of cooked cabbage a day has been shown to protect study subjects against stomach cancer, and speeding up estrogen metabolism to help block breast cancer and inhibit polyp growth, a forerunner of colon cancer. Another report showed a 66 percent cut in colon cancer in men who ate cabbage once a week.2

Compounds in cabbage strengthen stomach muscles, which helps resist acid attacks, according to another study. A household European remedy for stomach ulcers, backed up by scientific research, showed complete healing within 10 days of drinking just one cup of cabbage juice a day. That study backed up research done in the 1950s in which a quart of cabbage juice was taken per day, with similar healing affect.

Cabbage Healthy Recipes: Indian Cabbage Salad

 photo cabbage_salad.jpg

Ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 4 cups white or red cabbage, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Procedure:
  • In a heavy skillet over medium heat, heat coconut oil.
  • Add mustard seeds and turmeric, sauté for 1 minute
  • Stir in cabbage; add salt, stir-fry for a couple more minutes.
  • Add a few tablespoons of water, cover, and let cabbage steam for a couple more minutes.
  • Remove from heat and serve. This recipe makes four servings.
(From Healthy Recipes for Your Nutritional Type by Dr. Joseph Mercola)

 photo cabbage3.jpg

Cabbage Fun Facts

Spiced cabbage in vinegar was a staple food for sailors on long voyages, not just for New Year good fortune, but because of the many vitamins, probiotics, and nutrients it provided. Salted boiled cabbage was also added to the rice given to workers on the Great Wall of China, giving them strength and endurance.

Summary

Ample proof is available showing cabbage to have more medicinal value than any other natural food. It helps heal stomach ulcers and may help prevent cancer. Colon, prostate, and breast cancer risk are minimized with good amounts of cabbage in the diet. In fact, some studies indicate that cabbage ingestion may be more effective than any other treatment.

Chopped in cold salads for a delicious crunch, added to vegetable soups for a satisfying flavor or even juiced, cabbage is truly a super food.

Other sources

http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2371/2
http://www.phytochemicals.info/phytochemicals/sulforaphane.php
http://www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/ldl_hdl.htm
http://www.naturalnews.com/027454_cabbage_ulcers.html

References

1 http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/phytochemicals/i3c, Indole-3-Carbinol, Aug. 2012

2  http://www.naturalnews.com/027454_cabbage_ulcers.html#ixzz23WkCE9oO, Is cabbage the ultimate anti-cancer food?, Aug. 2012.


Bookmark and Share

Tuesday, April 09, 2013

Herbs For Insomnia

 photo insomnia.jpg

While most people experience lack of restful sleep from time to time, insomnia is defined as a frequent or chronic inability to fall asleep at night. Of all problems concerning sleep or lack thereof, insomnia is the most prominent and also the least-researched.

If you suffer from chronic sleeplessness, you'd also know how it is to experience daytime fatigue, mood swings and headaches. Often caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitter chemicals like serotonin which regulates our moods and emotions, insomnia is a global concern estimated to affect over 30% people at some point in their lives.

While conventional treatments such as prescription or over-the-counter sleeping pills are commonly used by people who suffer from insomnia, other treatments exist which may be preferable for those with qualms about using chemical and synthetic drugs. According to scientific research, insomnia has been effectively treated by herbal formulas, [1] some of which are described as follows:

Top 10 Herbs For Insomnia

 photo lavender.jpg
Lavender (Lavandula augustifolia)

Indigenous to mountainous regions of the Mediterranean, lavender has a history of use in folk medicinw. Used by traditional healers as a cure for sleeplessness, lavender has been the subject of clinical research in recent years for its potential to treat sleep disorders. [2] According to conclusions made by the Associated Sleep Society, lavender oil may be an effective means of relieving mild insomnia, especially in women and young people. Results from a single blind, randomized study (published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2005) indicate that lavender oil might treat insomnia when used as an aromatherapy treatment. [3] Outcomes were measured by the Pittsburg Sleep Quality index (PSQI) and evaluated for treatment credibility by the Borkovec and Nau (B&N) Questionnaire. Attitudes and beliefs about complimentary and alternative medicine were also taken into consideration. Judging from data collected from the trials and questionnaires, researchers determined that lavender was beneficial in cases of mild insomnia when compared to the placebo/control. [3]

 photo St_Johns_Wort.jpg
St. John's Wort (Hypericum prolificum)

Native to Europe, St. John's wort was used by folk healers and herbalists to treat wounds, relieve pain, and induce sleep. The first medicinal use of the plant dates back to ancient Greece, where it was considered to be a treatment for various disorders associated with nervousness. [4] Despite the importance of St. John's wort as a traditional healing herb, research into its potential benefits has yet to result in conclusive evidence. Results from clinical trials indicate that St. John's wort might help to balance REM sleep patterns. [1] St. John's wort has been studied regarding its potential to be used for hypnosis, but data is lacking and reports are inconclusive.

 photo Valerian.jpg
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

A powerful sedative herb, valerian has a history of use as a medicinal plant among various cultures. Originally used by folk healers to hypnotize patients and induce sleep, valerian has been the subject of scientific studies in research years regarding its potential to treat insomnia. The effects of valerian on the brain are yet to be fully understood in terms of modern science, but contemporary research suggests that it increases concentrations of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the human brain, thereby decreasing anxiety levels--an effect similar to that of pharmaceutical drugs such as alprazolam (Xanax] and diazopan (Valium). [5] Results from in vivo trials suggest that valerian can be used as an effective natural alternative to sedative drugs of the benzodiazepine class. [1] When compared to prescription drugs, valerian is considered to be safer and reportedly produces fewer side effects. [5]

 photo lemonbalmfix.jpg
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm is a plant of the mint family and popular home remedy still used today. Indigenous to Europe, lemon balm was first documented for its medicinal value during the middle ages. [6] The most notable medicinal uses of lemon balm include stress reduction, and relief from anxiety, muscle spasms, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, pain, and general discomfort. [7] Lemon balm is also considered a remedy for cold sores and other inflammatory conditions such as those caused by insect bites, and has been reported to improve the appetite and promote restful sleep sleep. [6] Most claims about the medicinal value of lemon balm are related to its classification as a calming herb. Results from clinical trials suggest that lemon balm is most effective as a remedy for insomnia when used in combination with valerian, chamomile, hops, and/or other calming herbs. According to a recent study in which sufferers of mild insomnia were given an herbal formula of lemon balm and valerian root, researchers found that symptoms were significantly reduced when compared with the placebo. [6]

 photo hops-cones.jpg
Hops (Humulus lupus)

Used for centuries as a flavoring agent in the fermentation of beer, hops is considered to have medicinal value and has recently been a subject of interest in the medical community. A 2001 study found that when used in combination with valerian root, hops was found to reduce symptoms of anxiety. [8] In a randomized clinical trial controlled by a placebo, scientists in Canada found that hops is most effective when used in combination with valerian root. Other results from the study indicate that hops is safer, but not significantly more effective, than synthetic drugs prescribed to treat insomnia. [9]

 photo chamomile.jpg
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita and Chamaemelum nobile)

Chamomile, one of the most widely-used herbs and popular home remedies, has a history of use in Ancient Egypt and subsequent civilizations as a “calming” herb. [10] Used today as a remedy for insomnia by practitioners of natural medicine, chamomile has been assessed in recent years for its potential to treat insomnia. [11] Results from in-vivo trials suggest that chamomile may promote restful sleep, but little evidence has been found to support a connection between chamomile and human sleeping patterns. Researchers in a 2005 study found that chamomile may have a long-lasting soothing effect when consumed regularly over a period of time. [12]

 photo motherwort1.jpg
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Indigenous to Europe and regions of Asia, motherwort is a perennial plant that now grows in North America and has a history of use in various cultures for its calming effect on the heart . [13] Considered to be effective as a natural relaxant and mild sedative, motherwort is also thought to promote heart health, reduce mood swings, and relieve other symptoms associated with childbirth and menopause. [14] According to scientific study, motherwort can potentially relieve anxiety and prevent insomnia. [14] The plant is also considered to decrease spasmodic activity and help with medical conditions such as epilepsy. Despite the reported health benefits of motherwort, caution should be taken before discontinuing medication or lowering your dosage. Experts recommend that sufferers of insomnia talk with their doctor before making changes to their current health care schedule.

 photo passion_flower.jpg
Passion Flower (Passifloraceae)

Sleeping well isn't just about falling asleep faster but also remaining deep asleep throughout the night. In this regard, passion flower is a helpful herb for both children and adults that have trouble staying asleep. Passion flower was once approved as an over-the-counter sedative and sleep aid in the USA but its effectiveness is considered unproven by official sources. There is some evidence that passion flower can be effective against anxiety. [15]

 photo California_poppy.jpg
California Poppy

A native flowering plant in Mexico and US, California Poppy has long history of treating different illnesses including anxiety, depression and insomnia. This sleep inducing herb works because of its two active compounds, protopine and californine. These alkaloid compounds work like benzodiazepines which are considered as good treatment for insomnia. [16]

In addition to its sedative effects, California poppy is considered as one of the best herbs for insomnia because it doesn’t result to morning grogginess. This herb can also be used to treat anxiety and depression which may trigger insomnia. Research shows that California Poppy is also used to treat toothaches, ADHD, memory problems, muscle pain, headaches and colics. [17]

 photo magnolia-bark.jpg
Magnolia bark

Widely used in oriental medicine, magnolia bark is probably one of the most popular natural treatments for insomnia. Studies show that it is five times more effective than the drug valium in reducing the anxiety levels of patients. According to research, anxiety is one of the major factors that may trigger the onset of insomnia. The sedative effects of magnolia bark help in calming down patients and helping them achieve better quality sleep.

Aside from its ability to reduce stress, magnolia bark also makes an excellent aid to weight loss. It is also useful in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, cough, asthma, bloating, cramps and intestinal problems.


Herbs For Insomnia - Safety Note

There are herbs that can contradict the effects of prescription drugs or can be dangerous if combined with alcohol or antidepressants. Hence, despite their tranquilizing effects, caution should be taken as to the exact dosage and duration of usage for each specific herb.

Sleep specialist Lisa Shives of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine admits that while research for herbal sleep remedies may not be scientifically conclusive, they have not been found to be dangerously detrimental either. If you complement these herbal remedies with healthy foods beneficial for promoting sleep like those rich in magnesium, avoid caffeine and sweets, engage in a relaxing routine like a warm bath prior bedtime, then the results you reap from herbs can truly be optimized.


References

[1] Wing, YK. Herbal treatment of insomnia (seminar paper). HKMJ 2001;7:392-402. Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong

[2] Lavender. University of Oregon Medical Center. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/lavender-000260.htm.

[3] Lewith GT, Godfrey AD. Prescott P. Asingle-blinded, randomized pilot study evaluating the aroma of Lavandula augustifolia as a treatment for mild insomnia. University of Southampton, United Kingdom. Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine. 2005 Aug;11(4):631-7.

[4] St. John's Wort. University of Maryland Medical Center. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/st-johns-000276.htm

[5] Valerian. University of Maryland Medical Center. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/valerian-000279.htm

[6] Lemon Balm. University of Maryland Medical Center. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/lemon-balm-000261.htm

[7] Scientific and Regulatory Endorsement for Herbs used in the ARTEMIS Therapeutic Herbal Tea Range. Pp. 23 -25. February 2008. Artemis Therapeutic Natural Remedies. Artemis Ltd. www.herbalmedicine.co.nz.

[8] Salter S and Brownie S. Treating primary insomnia - the efficacy of valerian and hops. Australian Family Physician. 2010 Jun;39(6):433-7.

[9] Morin CM, Koetter U, Bastien C, Ware JC, Wooten V. Valerian-hops combination and diphenhydramine for treating insomnia: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Université Laval, Ecole de Psychologie, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Canada. Sleep. 2005 Nov;28(11): 1465-71.

[10] A History of the 'Noble' Chamomile - Anthemis nobilis. http://www.chamomile.co.uk/history.htm

[11] Sanchez-Ortuno MM et al. The use of natural products for sleep: a common practice? Sleep Medicine 2009 Oct; 10(9): 982-87

[12] Smucker, Celeste M. MPH, PhD. Chamomile helps with anxiety, sleeplessness and depression. Natural News. http://www.naturalnews.com/034454_chamomile_anxiety_depression.html

[13] Motherwort. AltMD: smart alternatives. 2008. http://www.altmd.com/Articles/Motherwort--Encyclopedia-of-Alternative-Medicine

[14] Joseph L. Mayo, MD. Black Cohosh and Chasteberry: Herbs Valued by Women for Centuries. Clinical Nutrition Insights. 1998. Advanced Nutrition Publications, Inc.

[15] http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/871.html

[16] http://sleepdisorders.dolyan.com/california-poppy-as-a-natural-remedy-for-insomnia/

[17] http://voices.yahoo.com/benefits-california-poppy-7376950.html?cat=5

[18] http://www.alprazolam.org/natural-cures/magnolia-bark.html

Article researched and created by Kelsey Wambold, Cathy Ongking and Elfe Cabanas © herbs-info.com 2013

Article Source: http://www.herbs-info.com/herbs-for-insomnia.html

Bookmark and Share

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

What Are Carrots Good For?

Carrot Chronicles

 photo Carrot.jpg

Botanical name: Daucus carota

Extremely versatile to eat and available nearly anywhere in the world, carrots have been around for centuries. Historians believe that carrots were cultivated by the Ancient Greeks and Romans, as they were mentioned by Pliny the Elder and prized by Emperor Tiberius. Carrots belong to the Umbelliferae family, a term derived from the umbrella-like flower cluster on top of the plants in this family. You’ll find similar fern-like leaves on plants the carrot is related to, such as fennel, parsley, dill, and anise.

Colors of carrots first ranged from black, pink, red, yellow and white before the more common orange hue emerged, reportedly just after the fifth century. In the Middle Ages, references to carrots and parsnips seemed to be interchangeable, in spite of the marked size and color difference.

In today’s kitchens you’ll find carrots in everything, from healthy vegetable soups to salads. They can also be juiced and sliced into sticks for raw snacking. Carrots can be sliced, grated, julienned, sautéed, puréed, and baked as chips – and you’ve only just started! As if the creation of all those dishes wasn’t enough, carrots also have an amazingly long list of health advantages.

 photo carrot2.jpg

Health Benefits of Carrots

When kids ask if it’s true that carrots are good for their eyes, you can answer in the affirmative, because carrots are very high in vitamin A, an essential nutrient for good vision. In fact, carrots are loaded with beta carotene and are subsequently converted into vitamin A in your liver. Because beta-carotenes can’t be manufactured in the body, they must be obtained from your diet.

It’s no coincidence that “carotene” sounds like “carrot.” The word was devised in the early 19th century by a German scientist after he crystallized the carotene compound from carrot roots. Beta-carotene is one of more than 600 carotenoids, which are the pigments that give color to egg yolks, tomatoes, fruits, dark leafy vegetables and some types of seafood.

Known for ultraviolet radiation protection, carrots are also noted for the role they play in heart disease and stroke prevention, as a poultice to prevent infection in cuts and scrapes, for maintaining youthful skin, and for colon cleansing and toxin flushing.

The calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium in carrots help build strong bones and a healthy nervous system. Calcium consumption, especially, is essential for healthy heart muscles. Phosphorus is essential for softening skin and strengthening teeth, hair, and bones, while magnesium can be thanked for its role in mental development, digestion of fats, and nutrient absorption. Carrot crunchers also get the benefits of potassium, vitamins C and B6, copper, folic acid, thiamine, and magnesium.

Carrots Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: One medium, raw carrot (128 grams)
  • Calories: 52
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Sodium: 88 mg
Studies Done on Carrots

A 2011 study1 found overwhelming evidence that the bioactive chemicals in carrot juice extracts may play a role in treating certain cancers, including leukemia, due to the beta carotene and polyacetylene antioxidants found in the vegetable. The study found that when myeloid and lymphoid leukemia cell lines were treated, cancer-causing cell growth was inhibited. Carrots also are mentioned specifically in a list of foods responsible for lowering the risk of bladder cancer in a study at San Diego Medical Center2.

While most of us have been taught that raw vegetables have the highest nutritional value, surprisingly, recent studies have found that cooking helps increase the health benefits of carrots.

Research conducted at the University of Arkansas centered on the antioxidant activity of raw carrots in comparison with cooked carrots3. The result was that pureed, cooked carrots not only retained their nutritional value, but actually contained more healthy properties than when eaten raw. Over a period of four weeks, it was discovered that the phenolic acids and beta-carotene levels increased dramatically when the carrots were introduced to heat.

The study also indicated that the antioxidant activity continued to increase in the pureed carrots even after a week of refrigeration. Although the levels dropped after that time period, they did not drop to the antioxidant levels of carrots in the raw.

That’s a huge health benefit, since antioxidants are known scavengers of free radicals in your body, which in turn could help prevent chronic diseases as cancer, Alzheimer's, irritable bowel syndrome, and a host of other health problems.

Carrot Healthy Recipes: Summer-Chilled, Creamy Carrot Soup

 photo carrot_soup.jpg

Ingredients:
  • 3 large organic tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tbs. green onions, chopped
  • Small handful fresh basil, chopped
  • Flesh of 1 avocado
  • Juice from half a lemon
  • 1 1/2 c. freshly juiced carrots
  • 1/3 tsp. cumin
Procedure:
  • Place first 4 ingredients into food processor in batches, if necessary and add the carrot juice, cumin and lemon juice.
  • Whiz up until smooth. That’s it! Serve and enjoy!
(Adapted from “What's Up, Doc? A Soup That Even Bugs Bunny Would Love”, mercola.com, 2007)

 photo carrot3.jpg

Carrot Fun Facts

Wild carrots are often seen in fields and along roadsides, only they’re usually known by a more common name: Queen Anne’s Lace. Pull up the root of a wild carrot, and you’ll find a long, fibrous tuber. Break it and you’ll discover it has the unmistakable aroma of a carrot.

Summary

Carrots contain higher levels of beta carotene than any other vegetable or fruit. Why is that important? Not only does beta carotene give carrots their distinctive orange color, more importantly, it converts in your body to vitamin A. Noted for health benefits throughout your body, including cancer cell growth inhibition, carrots have that distinction known in many other foods grown in the garden – they’re nutritious and delicious.

Related articles: Chlorine in Your Baby Carrots

Other sources:

http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2383/2
http://www.carrotmuseum.co.uk/carrotpower.html

References:

1 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21864090, Bioactive chemicals from carrot (Daucus carota) juice extracts for the treatment of leukemia, June 2012
2 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19819528, Evidence-based principles of bladder cancer and diet, June 2012
3 http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2000/09/000904124728.htm, Cook Your Carrots For More Antioxidants, University Of Arkansas Researchers Say, June 2012

Article source: http://foodfacts.mercola.com/carrot.html

Bookmark and Share

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Herbal Antibiotics

 photo herbal-antibiotics.jpg

Have you become dependent on antibiotics? If you have, you'd also probably notice how the more frequently you use antibiotics, the more you will need to consume larger doses each time to experience the same effects as before. Indeed, developing an increased resistance to synthetic antibiotics today is not uncommon. Moreover, pharmaceutical antibiotics kill both healthy and unhealthy bacteria which compromises your immune system. [1] And as stronger antibiotics are created to counter attack this resistance, stronger forms of viruses and bacteria have also evolved. [2]

Worse, did you know that even without an overdependence on antibiotics, resistance can still occur because some animal feeds are nevertheless mixed with minimal dosages of antibiotics? [3]

Fortunately, you have herbs that possess antibiotic and blood cleansing properties at your disposal. Herbs that can easily be found in your local grocery store, garden or even kitchen. These herbs works differently than your common antibiotics without increasing your resistance against them. In fact, most simple ailments like sinus issues, sore throats, shallow wounds and mild urinary tract infections often only need the antibiotic properties of herbs than drugs [3] such as these 7 gifts of nature:

7 Herbal Antibiotics

 photo garlic-1.jpg
Garlic

It is best when eaten raw, garlic has antibacterial properties to strengthen the immune system. What's even better about garlic is your body will not naturally develop resistance against it [4] nor does it fight the healthy bacteria your body needs like those which line your intestines. [5] Because the potent effects of garlic remain when uncooked, it's better to take it in smaller doses to avoid upsetting the stomach. [6]

 photo tea-tree-oil.jpg
Tea tree 

Mixed with olive or almond oil and externally applied, the Australian native tea tree is an herbal antibiotic to fight bacteria, fungal infections and viruses on contact. In some cases, it is likened to a milder form of rubbing alcohol. [4] Its practical uses include combatting fungal nail infections and athlete's foot. [5]

 photo Goldenseal.jpg
Goldenseal 

It is an anti-inflammatory herb, goldenseal alleviates liver, gastrointestinal issues [2] and is known to effectively fight 19 types of bacteria when used long-term. [4]

 photo aloe.jpg
Aloe vera

When its sap is externally applied to wounds or burns, aloe vera hastens the healing, adds comfort and prevents infection.[6] Aside from wounds and burns, this native plant can kill bacteria causing rashes, inflammation and constipation. [2]

 photo ginger-1.jpg
Ginger

Like garlic, ginger is best consumed raw to maximize on its antibacterial effects. Ginger also has known anti-nausea and anti-fungal properties and can aid sufferers of diarrhea.[5]

 photo Echinacea.jpg
Echinacea 

If you experience early signs of colds, sore throat or flu, try this herb before resorting to more drastic antibiotics. Echinacea can also help those suffering from hay fever, ear infections, urinary tract infections, sunburn, enlarged prostate and lymph glands recover faster. [2]

 photo licorice-1.jpg
Licorice

Another powerful anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal herb that can be used to improve indigestion, small intestinal ulcers, viral infections and hepatitis. [2]Be careful however of its side effects especially when taken with other medications.

This doesn't mean though that all synthetic antibiotics should be forbidden. But where mild infections, cuts, injuries can be remedied by herbs, these will help you reduce dependency on pharmaceutical drugs so that when you really do need these medications for more serious disorders, they can more effectively work for you even in smaller dosages. [4]

References

[1] http://www.care2.com/greenliving/common-foods-herbs-with-antibiotic-properties.html 

[2] http://www.seattleorganicrestaurants.com/vegan-whole-foods/top-20-herbal-antibiotics/ 

[3] http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/herbal-antibiotic-alternatives 

[4] http://www.livestrong.com/article/94277-natural-antibiotic-herbs/ 

[5] http://www.herbco.com/t-herbs-infection.aspx 

[6] http://www.commonsensehome.com/herbal-antibiotics/

Article researched and created by Cathy Ongking, © herbs-info.com 2013
Bookmark and Share

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Sunday, June 03, 2012

Lapis at Papel, Unang Hirit!

Sa taong ito ng Lapis at Papel na Project, may napadagdag na mga batang beneficiaries mula sa Luzon.  Sila 'yung mga batang nasa SUHAY Feeding Centers ng Mayondon at Bayog, Los Baños, Laguna.  Nalaman ko ang programang ito mula sa isang kaibigan at sila ay nanghingi ng tulong para sa mga bata ngayong pasukan, at tamang-tama rin naman sa mission ng project, pwede silang ambunan ng konting biyaya.

Medyo maraming naging involve para sa project or activity na ito.  Siyempre ang Komikero para sa fund-raising campaign ng Lapis at Papel...'yung grupo ng kaibigan ko na United Architect of the Philippines (UAP) - San Pablo City Chapter, sila ang sumagot sa renovation at pagpapintura n'ung feeding/health centers ....ang isang Non-Profit Organization (NPO) na SUHAY, samahan ng mga ginang/asawa ng empleyado ng isang kumpanya, ang umampon  at  namamahala sa paghanap ng tulong sa mga bata sa lugar na nabanggit...at isang student organization sa UPLB, na nag-volunteer tumulong sa pag-aasikaso ng mga nakuhang gamit para maibigay sa mga bata, ang University of the Philippines Society of Agronomy Major Students (UPhilSAMS).

Dalawang (2) Barangay na may tig-25 kabataan (TOTAL: 50) ang nabigyan ng konting gamit para sa pasukan, ito ang laman ng bawat kit na ibinigay sa mga bata na umabot sa P60.00/set (TOTAL: P3,000.00):

1 pc. plastic envelop
2 pcs. pang-grade 1 na lapis (Amspec)
1 pc. pad na pang-grade 1 na papel
1 pc. notebook pang-grade 1 
1 pc. crayola (8 colors)
1 pc. pantasa (sharpener)
1 pc. pambura (eraser)
1 pc. plastic na gunting (scissors)

Photobucket
Ito na 'yung mga school supplies...

Photobucket
...eto 'yung isang set na matatanggap ng isang estudyante.

Photobucket
Busy-busy sa pag-eempake ang UPhilSAMS...

Photobucket
...last-minute na paglalagay ng mga kulang pa....

Photobucket
...posing muna!

Tapos, pumunta kami sa SUHAY para i-turn-ver ang mga gamit para sa mga bata.  Si Mrs. Judy Buresh ang nakausap namin, siya ang pinaka-head para dito.

Photobucket
Piktyur, piktyur!  

T'yak na sa pasukan, may 50 mag-aaral ang magiging masaya dahil sa konting biyaya na ito...at muli po, SALAMAT PO SA LAHAT.

P.S.

Sa LAPIS at PAPEL na fundraising ay nakakuha ng P20,000.00...P3,000.00 para sa 2 feeding centers na ito at ang natirang P17,000.00 ay ipinadala ko na po sa taong in-charge para sa LAPIS AT PAPEL sa Mindanao, kay Ate EMMA LINDA OCAMPO.

Photobucket
...eto 'yung bank receipt...

Photobucket
...Ayan, para mas klaro!   

Bookmark and Share

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

KOMIKON 2012...Whohoooh, Da BEST!!!

Whohoooh, DA BEST nga ang katatapos na SUMMER KOMIKON!

Ang daming tao!

Ang saya-saya!

CONGRATULATIONS sa KOMIKON Organizers talaga!

At siyempre, maraming mga may ginintuang puso!

Tulad ng nakaraang KOMIKON, nag-organize ulit kami ng charity event para sa LAPIS at PAPEL Project, para makapangalap ng tulong para sa mga bata sa Mindanao.  At ngayong taon naman ay bukod sa mga bata sa Mindanao, nadagdagan pa ng 2 Feeding Centers sa may Los Baños, Laguna ang beneficiaries.

Nakakataba ng puso at maraming mga taong gustong tumulong.  Nanghingi kami ng mga original art sa mga artist at ang iba naman ay nagbigay pa ng oras nila sa pag-i-sketch.  

MARAMING SALAMAT din po kay G. TONY DE ZUÑIGA, lalo na po sa kanyang maybahay na si ma'am TINA, MABUHAY po kayo!

Eto po sila...

Photobucket
Si Carlo Pagulayan, sa kanyang napakahusay na sketch....

Photobucket
...at may bonus na prints pa ni POISON IVY at BLACK WIDOW/HAWKEYE!

Photobucket
Si Heubert Khan Michael, ang aming suki sa ganitong event!  VAMPIRELLA ang raket nya ngayon!

Photobucket
Aaaaaay, si Manix Abrera!  Na kararating pa lang sa event eh, pinilahan na kaagad ng kanyang mga fan.  Sabi nga ng isang kaibigan eh, parang pila sa bigasang bayan!

Photobucket
Si Kajo Baldisimo...graveh, LOLITA na TRESE!

Photobucket
Si Carlo Vergara ng Zsazsa Zaturnnah...super busy rin sa kakapirma, grabeh, ang ganda ng drawing nya, sayang, 'di ko napicturan!

Photobucket
Si Pol Medina, Jr...ang may gawa kay POLGAS!!!

Photobucket
Si Leinil Francis Yu...grabeh 'yung HULK!

Silent auction 'yung nangyari, pero n'ung hapon, dinala namin sa stage para makita ng mga tao kung ano 'yung mga binebenta namin...

Photobucket

Ako at si Gerry Alanguilan.

At nung bandang hapon, at natapos na ang lahat, eto po ang nakuha namin...umabot sa P20,000.00!!!!

Whoohooh! SALAMAT po talaga!

Photobucket
Whooohoooh, 20,000 pesoses na tumataginting....tiyak na maraming bata ang mapapaligaya nito!

Grabeh, SALAMAT din po sa mga sumusunod:

Rod Andres
Gerry Alanguilan
Ilyn Alanguilan
Jonas Diego
Myke Guisinga
Zara Macandili
Robin Rivero
Ed Tadeo
James Ryan Toledo
Harvey Tolibao
Jason Torres
Kevin Valentino
Enzo Vega
Andrew Villar
Komikero Artist Group
KOMIKON Organizers

...at kung may hindi man akong nabanggit, pasensiya na po.

P.S.

Salamat din po sa mga picture na ginamit ko rito, kinuha ko lang po ito sa Facebook.


Bookmark and Share
Related Posts with Thumbnails