Forget Olive Oil, it's the Leaves Where the Power Lies

The olive leaf has been a sign of peace and prosperity for many generations. In the book of Genesis, a dove returns to Noah's ark with a fresh olive leaf in its mouth, pronouncing the end of the flood. Today, the olive branch has become a symbol of peace, and even appears on the flag of the United Nations. We have heard plenty about the health benefits of olive oil, but very little of the health benefits of olive leaves. Recent research has shown that the extract made from olive leaves can both cure people of, and protect them from, various diseases and symptoms.

It all begins with phytochemicals ("plant chemicals") whose main purpose is to protect the plant from parasites and maladies. By consuming the plants, our bodies absorb the phytochemicals that protect us from the same hazards. One of those phytochemicals is called Oleuropein, which can be found in olive leaves. 

 

 

Here are 10 health benefits of olive leaves

1. They help to prevent or slow down the development of cancer

 

 

Findings from a study conducted in 2010-2011 show that the active ingredient in olive leaves can slow down the development of cancer cells in women suffering from breast cancer, as well as slow down the development of melanoma in cells that were taken from mice.

2. They encourage bone formation 

 

 

In a study conducted in Spain in 2011, researchers discovered that the Oleuropein found in olive oil encourages the production of osteoblasts - large cells responsible for the development of the bone, which prevent osteoporosis and decreases in bone mass. 

 

3. They fight against bacterial and viral infections

Oleuropein is especially useful in fighting against micro-organisms such as viruses and bacteria. It transforms into elenolic acid in the body, which stops the reproduction of amino acids in viruses and bacteria, thus preventing them from replicating and spreading. 

 

4. They prevent aging

 

Free radicals can damage the skin by disrupting the process of DNA formation. Olive leaves are rich in phenols, antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and help revitalize our skin. 

 

5. They reduce inflammation

 

Oleuropein's ability to fight against germs can cure infections and relieve inflammation.

6.They lower blood pressure

Researchers found that oleuropein can also improve blood circulation and prevent blood clotting. Olive leaves can also balance your blood sugar levels by improving the activity of liver insulin receptors. 

 

 

7. They fight against cholesterol

Olive leaves are also known for their ability to stop the formation of LDL ("bad cholesterol") by preventing oxidation.

8. They reinforce the immune system

The phytochemicals found in olive leaves support the activity of Vitamin C, which is essential to our immune system. 

 

 

9. They cure infections

As part of its antiviral activity, olive leaf extract can also cure viral infections such as herpes and influenza. 

 

10. And the list goes on and on...

Since olive leaves have antiviral, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, they can also help in cases of malaria, allergies, psoriasis, CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome) and more.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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Hawthorn Berry: Nature's Health Powerhouse

Mother Nature's treasure trove is filled with incredible ingredients, each offering unique benefits for our well-being. Have you ever heard of the tiny hawthorn berry? Don't be fooled by its size! This tart, red fruit has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. This small, red berry has a rich history of use, particularly for its benefits related to heart health.

Beyond its ancient applications, modern science is uncovering the wide-ranging health advantages of the hawthorn berry. Recent studies have highlighted its ability to bolster cardiovascular well-being, improve digestion, and provide potent antioxidant support. 

 

Today, let's explore how this unassuming berry can play a pivotal role in enhancing overall well-being and why it is a valuable addition to your health regimen.

1. They're great for your heart

Hawthorn berries are well-known for their ability to promote heart health. They can help control blood pressure, which often increases during times of stress, sickness, or when the heart is under pressure. This connection to heart health may also be due to hawthorn's ability to enhance heart muscle contractions and possibly lower cholesterol and the buildup of plaque in arteries (although more research is required in this field). 

 

However, the impressive benefits of hawthorn berries go beyond just the heart. A study even showed that patients with stage II heart failure who consumed a standardized extract of fresh berries for two months experienced better ability to exercise and lower blood pressure. 

 

Additionally, hawthorn acts as a calming nervine, similar to rose, and can support the heart, especially during periods of stress and grief. There are also documented cases that suggest hawthorn may help the nervous system in people dealing with anxiety, stress, ADHD, and irritability. 

 

2. They are full of antioxidants

Hawthorn berries are antioxidant powerhouses! These deep red delights are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, which are antioxidants that combat free radical damage, the main cause of cellular deterioration resulting from pollution, stress, drugs, and sickness.

Hearts are among the hardest-working organs, so they are subjected to a great deal of stress and free radical damage. This perpetual activity puts it at risk of free radical harm. That's where hawthorn berries can be of great help. Their high antioxidant levels can help in healing injured tissues and keeping arteries in good shape, both crucial for peak health. 

 

3. They have anti-inflammatory properties 

Hawthorn berry might be a secret weapon in the fight against inflammation. Chronic inflammation, as research suggests, is linked to a variety of health concerns, including type 2 diabetes, asthma, and even some cancers. 

 

Interestingly, studies in mice have shown promise. One such study observed that hawthorn berry extract significantly reduced inflammatory compounds in mice with liver disease, leading to less inflammation and injury. 

 

Another study on mice with respiratory problems treated them with vitexin, a compound found in hawthorn leaves. This treatment lowered the production of molecules that trigger inflammation and also lessened the response of white blood cells to it. While these animal and test-tube studies offer exciting possibilities, more research is needed to confirm if hawthorn berry provides similar anti-inflammatory benefits in humans.

4. Can reduce blood cholesterol levels

Hawthorn extract might be a natural ally in your fight for healthy cholesterol levels. Studies suggest it contains flavonoids and pectin, which seem to play a role in how your body handles cholesterol. 

 

Pectin, a type of fiber, is particularly interesting for its involvement in cholesterol metabolism. This is important because imbalanced cholesterol, especially high triglycerides and low "good" HDL cholesterol, can contribute to a buildup of plaque in your arteries (atherosclerosis). If left unchecked, this plaque can harden and block blood flow, potentially leading to a heart attack or stroke. 

 

Animal studies offer promising results. Mice given hawthorn extract showed a decrease in total and "bad" LDL cholesterol, alongside significant reductions in liver triglycerides. Similarly, rats fed hawthorn supplements experienced lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. 

 

In a human study, participants with atherosclerosis who took hawthorn extract saw a notable decrease in the thickness of harmful plaque buildup in a key artery. These findings suggest hawthorn's potential for promoting healthy cholesterol levels. 

 

 

5. Can prevent premature skin aging

Hawthorn berries have been investigated for their potential role in preventing premature skin aging. An important cause of this is collagen degradation, a process accelerated by excessive exposure to ultraviolet light. 

 

Some initial research suggests that hawthorn berries may offer benefits in this area due to their antioxidant content. A test-tube study even showed that a combination of hawthorn and ginseng extract might inhibit wrinkle formation and increase skin moisture. However, it is important to note that this research is limited, and further studies, particularly involving human subjects, are necessary to confirm these findings. 

 

6. Can help treat indigestion and stomach pain

Hawthorn berries and extract have a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for treating digestive issues such as indigestion and stomach pain. This potential benefit may be attributed to the fiber content of the berries. 

 

Dietary fiber has been shown to assist digestion by promoting regularity and acting as a prebiotic. Prebiotics are non-digestible food components that nourish and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which play a crucial role in maintaining overall digestive health. An observational study observed a correlation between increased dietary fiber intake and decreased bowel transit time in individuals with slow digestion.

 

In simpler terms, consuming more fiber results in more frequent bowel movements. 

 

Moreover, studies on animals have shown that hawthorn extract can significantly decrease the time it takes for food to move through the digestive system. This shorter transit time could help with heartburn by making food move more quickly through the digestive tract. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo studies on rodents suggest that certain compounds within hawthorn berries may enhance the production and activity of digestive enzymes, specifically those responsible for the digestion of fatty and protein-rich foods  

 

 How to add hawthorn berries to your diet

Integrating hawthorn berries into your diet can be a simple and beneficial choice. One effective method is to enjoy them as tea. Simply steep one to two teaspoons of dried hawthorn berries in hot water for 10-15 minutes. This tea can be a delightful daily addition to your routine. 

 

 Alternatively, hawthorn berry supplements, available in capsule or tincture form, provide a convenient option. Make sure you adhere to the dosage recommendations on the product label or consult a healthcare professional for guidance. 

 

 

Hawthorn berries can also elevate your meals. Add them to smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt for a nutritious boost. Their tangy flavor and added health benefits make them a wonderful inclusion in baking, such as in muffins or bread. For a delightful treat, consider making hawthorn berry jam or jelly to savor on toast or with desserts.

 

No matter what method you choose, you should introduce hawthorn berries gradually into your diet and monitor your body's response. Always seek advice from a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications. This ensures that you can safely enjoy the benefits of hawthorn berries.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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HEALTH BENEFITS AND ALTERNATIVE USES OF YOGHURT

Yogurt can be used as an excellent skin and hair care product, primarily due to its mild astringent qualities and its high quantities of zinc and lactic acid - making it a great, natural, hydration treatment. Best of all, it's cheap!

 1. Use yogurt to lower your cholesterol
 People with borderline to moderate-high cholesterol levels, may benefit from eating yogurt with probiotic Lactobacillus Acidophilus, alongside a combination of the bacterium Enterococcus Faecium and Streptococcus Thermophilus. This type of yogurt is thought to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. However, it does not raise HDL (good) cholesterol.
2. Use yogurt to enhance your immune system
Yogurt contains active cultures that enhance the body's immune system. It increases the production of gamma interferons, which play a key role in fighting allergies and viral infections. Studies conducted on yogurt also found that it can help prevent gastrointestinal infections.
3. Use yogurt to naturally whiten your teeth
 Teeth whitening treatments are rather expensive, but why spend money when you can prepare a natural remedy with yogurt at home? Just rub some yogurt onto your teeth daily for a couple of weeks for sparkly white teeth. Yogurt is believed to work because of the phosphorus and calcium it contains.
4. Use yogurt to relieve sunburn
Yogurt is a fantastic source of zinc, which helps sooth the burning and itchiness of sunburn. To relieve the symptoms, apply a thick layer of plain, cool yogurt directly to your burn and rinse off with cold water after 20 minutes.
5. Use yogurt to relieve symptoms associated with diarrhea
 Yogurt helps restore bacteria in the intestine, and can be used after taking antibiotics or to treat antibiotic-related diarrhea and acute diarrhea in children. In fact, a yogurt formula may be given as a replacement for milk formula in infants and young children to relieve persistent diarrhea.

6. Use yogurt as a replacement for cheese
The consistency of yogurt cheese is similar to cream cheese, but is lower in fat and contains healthy bacteria. Yogurt cheese can be used as a spread on bagels, toast and crackers and may be used as an alternative to cream cheese in cheesecake recipes.

Preparing yogurt cheese is pretty simple. Empty a pint of yogurt into a large, fine-meshed strainer to catch the liquid that drains from the yogurt. The texture will vary depending on how long it drains. Then cover and refrigerate for eight to 24 hours. This will make about one cup of yogurt cheese.
7. Use yogurt as a natural body scrub
 Yogurt can be used as a scrub for your hands, feet or the whole body. Simply mix with oats or dried citrus peel. Massage the blend into your skin gently in a circular motion and rinse off with lukewarm water. Your skin should feel smooth and hydrated.
8. Use yogurt as a hair conditioner The properties found in yogurt make it an ideal remedy for smoothing the skin, but it's also great for your scalp and hair. Yogurt helps bring out your hair's natural shine making it soft and silky. It can be used as a hair mask instead of your conditioner. Just take some plain yogurt and rub it all over your hair, then rinse with lukewarm water. Yogurt will also help soothe an inflamed scalp, reduce hair loss and will help banish split ends.

 9. Use yogurt to relieve canker sores
 Canker sores, white and yellow sores which usually form on your gums, inside your mouth and on your lips can be very painful to bear. Using yogurt will help reduce the pain and heal the sores. You may choose to include it in your diet or apply it directly to the affected area.
10. Use yogurt to fight acne and prevent premature aging The natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties found in yogurt can be used to get rid of pimples. Apply the yogurt to acne prone areas and let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash off with lukewarm water. The lactic acid found in yogurt helps dissolve dead skin and can be used to prevent wrinkles and fine lines as we age.

 this is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

Why sleep is important

We all know how important getting enough sleep is & how vital it is to stay active. Here is another reason why- you can't get one without the other.

Exercise helps you sleep better. But that fact just got highlights in neon pink, thanks to very specific data-

if you get more than 20 minutes of exercise a day (go for 30), you won't just sleep better. You'll sleep much better, getting 65% more restorative REM sleep.

you'll also have energy to burn & be more alert.

and if you're prone to leg cramps at night, you can kiss those goodbye.

Other bigger benefits-

you can stop fantasizing about naps ( you won't need them).

you'll look much better.  "Beauty sleep", is for real. When you're sleep-deprived, not only do you ooze fatigue, but you actually look less attractive.

you'll be younger & healthier. Averaging less than 8 hours makes you prone to high C-reactive protein, a marker of aging & inflammation that threatens your heart, brain & arteries & invites cancer, arthritis & diabetes.

you'll be slimmer. sleep shortages stimulates your appetite, so you risk becoming tired & flabby.

Vitamin E oil helps to cure burns

Vitamin E oil helps to cure burns
An antioxidant, vitamin E oil is a good skin lubricant and prevents the aging caused by sunburns and harsh soaps.

to use it: Vitamin E oil is fairly thick, so suggested for using it more for smaller burns, such as from cooking.

Beware: Read labels and choose a product without fragrance or other additives.