Category Archives: Healthy Food

Chrysanthemum Tea

The Benefits of Chrysanthemum Tea

After my discussion with friends regarding Chrysanthemum Flower Tea, I became curious about the properties found in this tea. My curiosity led me to trawl on the internet to read up information about this tea. Here is what I have found about the Chrysanthemum Tea through my reading. This article on The Benefits of Chinese Chrysanthemum Flower Tea intended solely for general discussion and it is not to be used for treatment or an alternative to your doctor’s advice. If you’re pregnant or nursing, ask your doctor before drinking chrysanthemum tea.

The ancient Chinese medical science have used the tea for hundreds of years. They believed Chrysanthemum Tea contains many health benefits and helped to treat respiratory problems, high blood pressure, and hyperthyroidism. Scientists have now started to research the medicinal benefits of chrysanthemums because of their popularity in alternative practices which have been used by the Chinese for many centuries. Chrysanthemum is naturally caffeine free and free from the side effects found in many caffeinated beverages. Therefore, it is believed that the tea helps to calm and soothe the nerves.

The chrysanthemum flowers have been cultivated in China since around 1500 B.C. The flower was first introduced and became popular as a tea during the Song Dynasty (A.D. 960–1279). It is most popular beverage in East Asia, especially China. There are nearly 40 species of chrysanthemums.  Out of those, only two types, the Chrysanthemum morifolium and Chrysanthemum indicum are used for tea today.

Chrysanthemum Tea contains high nutritional amounts of Vitamin A, B and C. The Vitamin B is a good source of choline, folacin, niacin as well as riboflavin. The carotene in B is converted to Vitamin A in the liver. This kind of Vitamin A is helpful in treating skin problems and increasing the immunity in the body.

Chrysanthemum tea is also rich in Vitamin C and believed to help ease heaviness in the head during cold and, provide relief in sinusitis discomfort. The heaviness in the head could be caused by bacterial pathogenic reaction.  Chrysanthemum tea is anti spirochetal in nature thus contain antiviral properties which help to relieve congestion in the head which may be caused by viral infection. Vitamin C in Chrysanthemum Tea helps to reduce the risks of scurvy and protects the eyes. The Chinese believed that it can prolonging life and age related blindness.

Chrysanthemum tea also has minerals like calcium which is important for the teeth and bones, iron which helps in the transportation of oxygen through the blood, magnesium which is required by more than three hundred kinds of bodily functions as well as potassium which is needed for proper cardiovascular functioning and stabilizing the blood pressure. It also has adenine, amino acids and glycosides.

Here are some of the health benefits of Chrysanthemum Flower Tea:

1. Chrysanthemum tea is a natural coolant and helps in lowering the temperature of the body when suffering from fever or even heat stroke. This herbal tea is also helpful in treating pimples and acne. It can also treat discomfort of high temperature such as headache, slight toothache and throbbing nerves in the gums.

2. It is good for the detoxification of the liver and for lowering cholesterol levels.

3. This tea helps in the treatment of coronary artery disease, blocked arteries and even varicose veins.

4. It has stimulating property and helps in alerting the senses and rejuvenating the brain. It stimulates all your senses very quickly and also calms down the nerves.

5. It helps in easing giddiness. In Asia, chrysanthemum tea is used for treating the symptoms associated with the changes in blood pressure; these include tinnitus, headaches and dizziness.

6. Drinking Chrysanthemum tea helps in providing relief in sore throat, redness in the eyes, itchiness in the eyes, dryness in the eyes and dark sport in the eye area. I think enough sleep also helps to prevent those dark spots in the eye area!

7. It makes the lungs strong and helps in providing relief in respiratory problems such as shortness of breath.

8. Chrysanthemum tea when taken with lunch or dinner especially with oily foods helps ease digestion. Maybe, this is one of the secret how the Chinese women keep themselves slim and trim! Can I have a cuppa now please?

I personally believe that the purity and concentration of the preparation is a contributing factor to the effectiveness of the tea. It needs to be taken for a long period of time and the right body constitution to reap the benefits. That’s my final thought!

Homemade Supplement Recipes

These recipes are for people who are not eating enough for dietary intake. They should be made in a clean kitchen and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The recipes are for one serving unless indicate otherwise. They are best taken between meals.

Milkshake

Ingredients:

5 fl oz or 140 ml whole milk
3 heaped dessert spoons or 36 g skimmed milk powder
4 teaspoons or 20 g milkshake powder
Natural extracts essence for flavouring

Method:

Pour whole milk into a jug. Slowly add the milkshake powder and skimmed milk powder into the jug. Whisk it with a manual hand-held or electric blender.

Add your own flavouring using different milkshake powder. Use only milk shake powder that is enriched with minerals and vitamins.

The quantity makes 200 ml, 7 fl oz or 1/3 pint of milkshake.

Mini Milshake

Ingredients:

6 fl oz or 180 ml evaporated milk
11/2 heaped dessert spoons or 20 g skimmed milk powder
5 teaspoons or 25 g milkshake powder or drinking chocolate
31/2 dessert spoons or 35 g double cream

Method:

Mixed skimmed milk powder and drinking chocolate powder in a jug. Add 30 ml evaporated milk to the mixture to make a paste. Add the rest of the evaporated milk with double cream with hand-held or electric blender. Whisk the mixture well.

This delicious shake is best served chilled.

The ABC of Healthy Foods (W, X, Y, Z)

W

Walnuts -These nuts are rich in immune-boosting omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help reduce cholesterol, of all nuts. In animal studies published in the journal Nutrition and Cancer, the human equivalent of just two handfuls of walnuts a day reduce breast cancer risk in half and slowed tumor growth by 50 percent. They may protect against sun damage, too (but don’t skip the SPF!). Walnuts is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

Y

Yam - Yams are a bit like potatoes. Its flesh can be white, yellow or even purple. They are grown in hot countries like the Caribbeans,  Africa and South East Asia.

The ABC of Healthy Foods (S, T, U, V)

S

Sage – The herb is a known memory enhancer and has been shown in some lab studies to protect the brain against certain processes that lead to Alzheimer’s disease. In at least one human study, a sage-oil concoction improved the mood of participants, increasing their alertness, calmness, and contentedness. In a British study, healthy young adults performed better on word recall tests after taking sage-oil capsules. Like so many other herbs and spices, sage has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as well as anticancer actions. Today sage shows potential as a diabetes treatment. It appears to boost the action of insulin and reduce blood sugar. As a result, sage is sometimes called nature’s metformin since it performs like the common antidiabetes drug. Some researchers have already suggested that sage supplements may help prevent type 2 diabetes. (Source from Rider’s Digest)

Salmon –  A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of depression, heart disease, and cancer. A 3-ounce serving contains almost 50 percent of your daily dose of niacin, which may protect against Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss. Salmon is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

Spinach – Spinach contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two immune-boosting antioxidants important for eye health. Recent research found that among cancer-fighting fruits and veggies, spinach is one of the most effective. Spinach is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

T

Tumeric – The spice that gives curry powder its yellow hue, is used in Indian medicine to stimulate the appetite and as a digestive aid. It’s also known as holy powder in India – used on burns, as a sun cream, beauty treatments and treatments of echini. Lab studies show turmeric helps stop the growth and spread of cancer cells that do form. Research suggests that it may protect against colon cancer as well as melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Researchers at Rutgers University in New Jersey are investigating a combination of curcumin and phenethyl isothiocyanate (the anticancer compound in cruciferous vegetables) as a possible treatment for prostate cancer. Studies have also linked turmeric to reduced inflammation in a number of conditions, including psoriasis. In animal studies, curcumin decreased the formation of amyloid, the stuff that makes up the brain deposits characteristic in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Thyme  – Thyme is known for its culinary benefits, but it has been recognized as a medicine since the Middle Ages. In the ancient Egypt, Thyme was used for embalming. Thyme contains thymol, one of the important essential oils. Thymol has been found scientifically to have antiseptic, and anti-fungal characteristics. The other volatile oils in thyme include carvacolo, borneol, and geraniol. Rich in Vitamin A that is a fat-soluble vitamin and an antioxidant essential for healthy mucus membranes and skin, thyme promotes healthy vision. Thyme contains antiseptic and antibiotic properties that make it a great remedy when you have a cold, cough or sore throat. According to a study, the herb is known to treat bronchitis and coughs. A cup of thyme tea is recommended for those with cold. Thyme is also known to cure acne, prevents hair loss, controls blood pressure levels, Improves bone health and aids digestion.

U

Ugli Fruit – Sometimes called uniq or unique fruit. It is a hybrid citrus fruit, combining the healthy antioxidant benefits of grapefruit, Seville orange and tangerine. Ugli fruit is also high in fiber and vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and prevent cancer. It contains similar nutrients to other citrus fruits with one important difference: Furanocoumarins. Furanocoumarins are generally found in grapefruit (and which many doctors believe may interfere with some medications). They do not appear in the ugli fruit, thereby providing the benefits of citrus while avoiding potential drug interactive properties known to occur with grapefruit.

The ABC of Healthy Foods (P, Q, R)

P

Parsley - Parsley is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, beta-carotene and quercetin, but also contains less well known flavonoids like apigenin, luteolin and chrysoeroil. Apigenin, abundant in parsley, has been shown to interfere with cancer cell proliferation, exhibiting strong anti-tumor properties.  It has been associated with a decreased risk of pancreatic cancer, leukemia, cervical and ovarian cancer.  The flavonoid luteolin in parsley has a chemopreventive (anti-cancer) action by reducing the effects of carcinogenic compounds called heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in foods like cooked meat.  Research has also shown luteolin to have an anti-proliferative effect against hormonal cancers such as prostate, thyroid and breast cancer. Another flavonoid, chrysoeroil, has likewise been studied for its potential for preventing breast cancer.

Potato – One sweet potato has almost eight times the amount of cancer-fighting and immune-boosting vitamin A you need daily. Potato is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

R

Red Pepper – Red pepper in its various forms enhance metabolism, increase satiety and potentially stimulate fat burning.

Rosemary – Tea made from a thumb-sized piece has been known to lift spirits in people suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and hangovers. Infuse warm red wine with rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves to soothe winter colds.

The ABC of Healthy Foods (M, N, O)

M

Mango - Mango fruit been found to prevent or stop certain colon and breast cancer cells in the lab, according to studies by Texas AgriLife Research food scientists, Dr. Susanne and Dr. Steve Talcott. Mango showed some impact on lung, leukemia and prostate cancers but was most effective on the most common breast and colon cancer cell lines, which underwent apoptosis, or programmed cell death. The key bioactive compounds in mangoes appear to be the polyphenolics, which exert an anti-inflammatory response.

Mangosteen – Mangosteen fruit is a rich source of xanthones, biologically active polyphenolic compounds similar to bioflavonoids. Of the more than 200 naturally occurring xanthones that have been identified so far, approximately 40 of those are found in the mangosteen. Xanthones possess numerous anti-cancer properties such as anti-inflammatory and antitumor activity.

Millet – Millet is a whole grain that is rich in protein, fiber and phytonutrients. Some researchers believe that it is the combination of phytonutrients and fiber that is helpful in bowel cleansing and reduced risk for colon cancer. Millet is an alkaline-forming grain, making it a good choice in an anti-cancer diet. Populations where millet is a staple have a lower risk of developing esophageal cancer than other populations.

Mung Beans – Mung, are rich in protease inhibitors. Protease inhibitors are known to block and prevent formation of tumor cells and slow the replication of certain cancer cells, including those present in breast cancer. Mung beans also contain isoflavones, a type of phytoestrogen which helps to regulate hormonal activity in hormone-dependent cancers.

Mustard – Mustard is made from the seeds of a plant in the cabbage family, a strongly anticancer group of plants. It contains compounds that studies suggest may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Mustard also packs enough heat to break up congestion, the reason it was traditionally used in chest plasters. Like cayenne pepper, it has the ability to deplete nerve cells of substance P, a chemical that transmits pain signals to the brain, when used externally. A mustard compress also brings more blood to the fingers of people with Raynaud’s phenomenon, a circulatory problem that causes frigid fingers. Mustard is also said to stimulate appetite by increasing the flow of saliva and digestive juices. A bit of mustard powder added to a footbath helps kill athlete’s foot fungus. Don’t eat too many mustard seeds or more than a teaspoon of mustard powder; the former has a strong laxative effect, while the latter can induce vomiting.

M

Mango - Mango fruit been found to prevent or stop certain colon and breast cancer cells in the lab, according to studies by Texas AgriLife Research food scientists, Dr. Susanne and Dr. Steve Talcott. Mango showed some impact on lung, leukemia and prostate cancers but was most effective on the most common breast and colon cancer cell lines, which underwent apoptosis, or programmed cell death. The key bioactive compounds in mangoes appear to be the polyphenolics, which exert an anti-inflammatory response.

Mangosteen – Mangosteen fruit is a rich source of xanthones, biologically active polyphenolic compounds similar to bioflavonoids. Of the more than 200 naturally occurring xanthones that have been identified so far, approximately 40 of those are found in the mangosteen. Xanthones possess numerous anti-cancer properties such as anti-inflammatory and antitumor activity.

Millet – Millet is a whole grain that is rich in protein, fiber and phytonutrients. Some researchers believe that it is the combination of phytonutrients and fiber that is helpful in bowel cleansing and reduced risk for colon cancer. Millet is an alkaline-forming grain, making it a good choice in an anti-cancer diet. Populations where millet is a staple have a lower risk of developing esophageal cancer than other populations.

Mung Beans – Mung, are rich in protease inhibitors. Protease inhibitors are known to block and prevent formation of tumor cells and slow the replication of certain cancer cells, including those present in breast cancer. Mung beans also contain isoflavones, a type of phytoestrogen which helps to regulate hormonal activity in hormone-dependent cancers.

Mustard – Mustard is made from the seeds of a plant in the cabbage family, a strongly anticancer group of plants. It contains compounds that studies suggest may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Mustard also packs enough heat to break up congestion, the reason it was traditionally used in chest plasters. Like cayenne pepper, it has the ability to deplete nerve cells of substance P, a chemical that transmits pain signals to the brain, when used externally. A mustard compress also brings more blood to the fingers of people with Raynaud’s phenomenon, a circulatory problem that causes frigid fingers. Mustard is also said to stimulate appetite by increasing the flow of saliva and digestive juices. A bit of mustard powder added to a footbath helps kill athlete’s foot fungus. Don’t eat too many mustard seeds or more than a teaspoon of mustard powder; the former has a strong laxative effect, while the latter can induce vomiting.

N

Nutmeg – Like cloves, nutmeg contains eugenol, a compound that may benefit the heart. Some historians link its popularity in the spice trade to the hallucinatory effects that result from ingesting large amounts. The euphoria, which is due to nutmeg’s active ingredient, myristicin, is described as similar to that caused by the drug ecstasy. But it also packs some nasty side effects, and nutmeg poisoning is a very real risk. Medically, nutmeg (the seed of an evergreen tree) and mace (the covering of the seed) have strong antibacterial properties. It’s been found to kill a number of bacteria in the mouth that contribute to cavities. Myristicin has also been shown to inhibit an enzyme in the brain that contributes to Alzheimer’s disease and to improve memory in mice, and researchers are currently studying its potential as an antidepressant. (Source: Rider’s Digest)

O

Oats – Oats contain a higher level of antioxidants than most other grains. International research has shown that women with a higher intake of dietary fiber have lower circulating estrogen levels, a factor associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. Premenopausal women on diets rich in fiber from whole grains like oats reduce their risk by up to 41 percent, suggests a study in the International Journal of Epidemiology.

Okra – High in antioxidants and vitamin C, okra is a good immune booster capable of fighting several different types of cancer. Laboratory researchers have observed that it potently inhibits highly metastatic mouse melanoma cells and kills human breast cancer cells outright. Another component of okra, okra pectin, found just under the skin of the pods, also has demonstrated anti-cancer properties.  Okra pectin has been shown to inhibit highly metastatic melanoma cells in vitro.

Oregano – Oregano is among the highest in antioxidants of the dried herbs. One teaspoon has as much antioxidant power as three cups of chopped broccoli.

Onions – Onions boost immunity and combat inflammation. Eating onions, especially red onions, has been shown to reduce the risk of many types of cancer, including ovarian cancer. Onions are packed with apigenin, antho-cyanin, myricetin and quercetin. Red onions are about 60 percent more  potent than yellow or white onions, in terms of the amounts of cancer fighters. But don’t boil onions; boiling them reduces their cancer-fighting properties by about 30 percent. The best way to eat them is raw or sautéed with a little oil in a pan.

Oregano – Oregano has one of the highest antioxidant activity ratings, with 42 times the antioxidant punch of apples. A phytochemical in oregano, carnosol, has been evaluated for anti-cancer property in prostate, breast, skin, leukemia, and colon cancer with promising results.

The ABC of Healthy Foods (J, K, L)

J

Jerusalem Artichokes – Also known as Sunchokes, Jerusalem Artichokes are one of the finest sources of dietary fiber. They are especially high in oligo-fructose inulin, these tubers support the regulation of glucose and insulin levels, both of which, when high, have been shown to increase risk for cancer.

K

Kale

Kale – Sientists have known that the nutrients in cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, and kale offer unique protection against the type of DNA damage that often results in malignancy.  Kale, however, stands out in that its total phenolic content is higher than in any other cruciferous vegetable. Kale provides a superior level of sulforaphane, which boosts detoxification and antioxidant activity. Kale is particularly high in glucosinolates which are converted by the body into cancer-preventive compounds called isothiocyanates, powerful inhibitors of carcinogenesis and inducers of cancer-destroying enzymes.

Kidney beans – Red kidney beans, are outstanding sources of antioxidants.  Red kidney beans provide more antioxidant activity than any other vegetable and are exceptionally rich in flavonoids.

Kiwis – Kiwis are rich in vitamin C, glutathione, flavonoids, carotenoids and other antioxidants. Kiwi has been shown to contain an anti-mutagenic component, helping to prevent the mutations of genes that may initiate the cancer process.

Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi – Kohlrabi (German turnip or turnip cabbage) is a member of the Brassica family.  It contains health-promoting phytochemicals such as sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol that are helpful in protecting against breast, prostate and colon cancers. Kohlrabi also provides phytochemicals called isothiocyanates, which may have protective benefits against certain kinds of cancer, according to researchers at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Kumquats – Kumquats, are a good source of vitamin C and d-limonene. This compound has been researched for its cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties and is more concentrated in citrus peels.

The ABC of Healthy Foods (G, H, I)

G

Garlic – Garlic is a powerful disease fighter that can inhibit the growth of bacteria, including E. coli. High blood pressure, headache prevention, cold and flu and powerful antibiotic. Cardiovascular benefits, anti-cancer treatments. It acts as a powerful antibiotic, including salmonella and staphylococcus. Garlic also destroys viral infections such as chicken pox, measles, mumps, scarlet fever, and is a good aphrodisiac. When eaten daily, garlic can help lower heart disease risk by as much as 76 percent: it moderately reduces cholesterol levels (between 5 and 10 percent in some studies), thins the blood and thereby staves off dangerous clots, and acts as an antioxidant. Garlic’s sulfur compounds also appear to ward off cancer, especially stomach and colorectal cancer. Garlic is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

Ginger – Ginger is well known for its ability to quell a quesy stomach, especially from motion sickness or morning sickness. It also cure stomach ache, colic, spasms, diarrhoea, flatulence and other stomach and bowel related problems. It is used in hair loss and in controlling dandruff. Several studies have found that ginger (and turmeric) reduces pain and swelling in people with arthritis. And because it reduces inflammation, it may also play a role in preventing and slowing the growth of cancer.

Goji berries – Goji berries have the highest concentration of protein of any fruit, containing 19 amino acids, including all eight essential amino acids.

Grapefruit – Especially the red grapefruit, is a good source of vitamin C. It also has important phytochemicals like naringenin and other flavonoids, limonin and other limonoids, beta-carotene, lycopene and other carotenoids, all of which may have health-protective effects.

Green Tea – Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) which is the main polyphenol found in green tea can help to prevent cancer. EGCG inhibits faulty  methylation and reactivates cancer-fighting genes.

H

Halibut – Halibut is one of the best sources of selenium, a powerful cancer-fighting anti-oxidant. More than 90 percent of the daily quota of this immune-boosting mineral is provided in just four ounces of halibut.

Hazelnuts – Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, may help fight cancer. They have high amounts of powerful antioxidant known as proantho-cyanidin. Studies have also found that the alpha-tocopherol type of vitamin E plentiful in hazelnuts may cut the risk of bladder cancer in half. Additionally, the manganese so abundant in hazelnuts is a constituent of an antioxidant enzyme produced in cell mitochondria to protect the body from cancer. Portland University researchers found that the nuts contain the chemical paclitaxel, which is the active ingredient in Taxol, a drug used to treat ovarian, breast, and non-small cell lung cancer and Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Holy Basil – A member of the mint family. It is also known as hot basil, pepper basil, or tulsi. They are not to be confused with sweet or Mediterranean basil, although they are closely related culinary herbs. Holy basil, used in Asia as part of the Ayurvedic healing tradition, is a medically proven antioxidant which fights against cancer.

Horseradish – Horseradish contains significant amounts of cancer-fighting   glucosinolates, which increase the liver’s ability to detoxify carcinogens and may suppress the growth of tumors. Although other cruciferous vegetables also contain these compounds, horseradish has up to 10 times more glucosinolates than broccoli.

I

Inca berries – Inca berries, also known as Incan berries, Aztec berries, Cape goose-berries, Golden berries, and Ground cherries, are another superfood native to South America. Inca berries are packed with vitamins C and A, iron, niacin, and phosphorous. They’re also high in protein and fiber.  Their insoluble fiber content supports healthy bowel function, thereby helping to prevent colon cancer. Inca berries are a good source of antioxidants, surpassing many well known superfoods such as pomegranates, green tea, goji and cranberries

The ABC of Healthy Foods (D, E, F)

F

Fennel – Fennel is both an herb and a spice that gives licorice and anise their distinctive taste. Fennel seeds contain phytochemicals, including phytoestrogen – like compounds that may help reduce menstrual cramps in women. It may even help calm colic babies.

Fenugreek – Fenugreek seed and leaves are good for increasing breast milk in lactating women. It is helpful for treating diabetes and lowering cholesterol and it helps in reducing blood sugar levels and constipation. It purifies blood and helps flush out the harmful toxins.

The ABC of Healthy Foods (A, B, C)

A

Acai Berries – The berry has been in use as a traditional staple food of Amazon river basin tribes for centuries. Acai berries contain a large number of antioxidants that help scavenge cell-damaging and cancer-causing free radicals. Acai berries possessed the highest antioxidant activity against certain types of free radicals. Acai berry extracts can kill leukemia cells when applied directly to them over a 24-hour period according to a study at University of Florida. The berries contains high concentrations of anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid that gives the fruits their distinctive, black-purple colour.

Apple – The scientific name Malus domestica. It contains good amounts of vitamin-C and beta-carotene. Vitamin C is a powerful natural antioxidant. Consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals from the body. It is a good source of B-complex vitamins such as riboflavin, thiamin, and pyridoxine (vitamin B-6). Together, these vitamins help as co-factors for enzymes in metabolism as well as in various synthetic functions inside the body.

Almonds - Almonds has the most alkaline of all nuts and a great source of protein as well as monounsaturated fatty acids. Monounsaturated fat is a heart-healthy fat that increases HDL, or good, cholesterol. They are healthiest of tree nuts. Almonds rank highest in protein, calcium, fiber, riboflavin, vitamin Eand niacin content by weight.

Apricot – Apricots are an excellent source of cancer-protective vitamin A and carotenes. Consumption of fruits rich in carotenes helps protect the body from lung and oral cancers.

Arugula – Arugula also known as roquette (rocket) is a rich source of phytochemicals such as indoles, thiocyanates, sulforaphane, and isothiocyanates. These nutrients have been found to counter the carcinogenic effects of estrogen and thus help protect against prostate, ovarian and breast cancer.

Avocado – Rich in healthy, satisfying fats proven in one study to lower cholesterol by about 22 percent. One has more than half the fiber and 40 percent of the folate you need daily, which may reduce your risk of heart disease. Avocado is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

B

Banana – The high content of iron in bananas increases the production of hemoglobin in the blood. Therefore they are very good for anemia. Bananas are exceedingly good for students as the rich source of potassium can make a person very alert; the fruit is often called a brain tonic. When you suffer from a hangover – a banana milkshake with honey can give you immense relief. Cold milk soothes the stomach lining and bananas with honey build up depleted blood sugar levels.

Bananas work well as a snack for people who have high blood pressure as they are wholesome with low salt levels. For those suffering from depression, bananas are good as they contain a protein called serotonin – which is also called the ‘happy hormone’ as it makes one feel happy and relaxed. They can be eaten frequently to treat ulcers as they neutralize acidity in the stomach. This soft and smooth fruit cannot irritate the stomach walls. For pregnant women suffering from morning sickness, eating bananas in between meals helps immensely in settling the queasiness in the stomach.

Eating bananas helps people give up smoking as this fruit is rich in vitamin C, A, B6 and B12. Bananas contain potassium and magnesium as well, which help the body recover from nicotine withdrawal. Bananas have an antacid effect, so people who experience heartburn find relief on eating a banana. Potassium is a vital mineral which normalizes heartbeat while regulating the body’s water balance. As banana is a rich source of potassium, it re-balances disturbances of fluids in the body.

For weight watchers, banana is an excellent snack in place of crisps and chocolates. Research found that food craving during high pressure work could be assuaged safely and in a healthy manner by eating a banana every 2-3 hourly as it is a high carbohydrate food that controls blood sugar levels. Topically, the peel of a banana – with the yellow side on top can be taped to a warts. It will shrivel and fall off. The peel of a banana fruit can be rubbed on a mosquito bite with good effect, the stinging sensation stops and the swelling also reduces. A ripe banana mashed and applied on the face is great at moisturizing and nourishing tired and dry skin.

Basil – Basil provides Vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, manganese, magnesium, and potassium. Loaded with flavonoids, basil helps prevent cell damage from radiation and oxygen.

Beans – Eating a serving of legumes (beans, peas, and lentils) four times a week can lower your risk of heart disease by 22 percent. Beans is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

Beet Roots – Beet Root is one of my favourite vegetable. I have them almost everyday in my smoothie. They add colour to my smoothie beside the delicious sweet and earthy flavour. Yummy.

In ancient, prehistoric time beet roots were grown naturally along coastlines in North Africa, Asia, and Europe. It was the beet greens that were consumed those days. The sweet red beet root wasn’t cultivated until the era of ancient Rome.

Beets are high in betalain, an antioxidant that gives this vegetable its deep crimson hue. Beets contain folic acid. Another anti-tumor effect of beet root is its ability to regenerate red blood corpuscles, improving anemia and oxygenating the blood. Beets are also considered to be among the best cleansing foods, helping to detoxify the kidneys, liver and lymph system.

Black Pepper – Pepper is usually dried (known as peppercorn when dried) and used as a spice and seasoning. Black pepper is useful in relieving flatulence. Pepper has a stimulating effect on the digestive organs and produces an increased flow of saliva and gastric juices. Powdered black pepper, thoroughly mixed with malted jaggery (gur), may be taken in the treatment of such conditions. Alternatively, a quarter teaspoon of pepper powder mixed in thin buttermilk can be taken during indigestion.

Broccoli – One medium stalk of broccoli contains more than 100 percent of your daily vitamin K requirement and almost 200 percent of your recommended daily dose of vitamin C — two essential bone-building nutrient. Broccoli is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

Foods High in Folic Acid

C

Cabbage – Cabbage is rich in anti-oxidant vitamins and a compound called indole-3-carbinol, which is thought to both inhibit and cleanse carcinogens, thus making cabbage a potent detoxification food. Low in calories and high in dietary fiber, cabbage is also an excellent healthy choice for those on a diet to lose or maintain weight.

Cayenne – Capsaicin, the oily compound in cayenne and its peppery cousins, is the active ingredient in many prescription and over-the-counter creams, ointments, and patches for arthritis and muscle pain. It’s also used for treating shingles pain and diabetes-related nerve pain. Cayenne is thought to act as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It’s also a metabolism booster, speeding up your calorie-burning furnace for a couple of hours after eating. Studies find that it also has some anticancer properties, and researchers are exploring its potential as a cancer treatment. In at least one study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers found that people with diabetes who ate a meal containing liberal amounts of chile pepper required less post-meal insulin to reduce their blood sugar, suggesting the spice may have anti-diabetes benefits.

Cinamon – Cinnamon is one of the most powerful healing spices, and has become most famous for its ability to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. As little as 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon a day could cut triglycerides and total cholesterol levels by 12 to 30 percent. Cinnamon can even help prevent blood clots, making it especially heart smart. Like many other spices, cinnamon has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon is also rich in natural compounds called polyphenols. Research suggests that these compounds may act like insulin in our body to help regulate blood sugar levels. It’s been shown to conquer E. coli, among other types of bacteria. Researchers have even discovered recently that it’s rich in antioxidants called polyphenols—another reason it’s good for your heart. It’s also high in fiber and can reduce heartburn in some people.

Cocoa – Cocoa powder is rich in flavonoids, antioxidants shown to reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol and increase “good” HDL levels. Cocoa is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

Coriander – Coriander seeds yield cilantro, also known as Chinese parsley, a staple herb in Mexican, Thai, Vietnamese, and Indian cooking. The herb can be helpful for some people with digestive disorders, such as indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, as it calms intestinal spasms that can lead to diarrhea. Traditionally the Indians used it to cure nausea and typhoid fever. It is a good diuretic and stimulates the kidney. It can be prepared by boiling dry seeds of coriander and drinking of its juices.
Its essential oil appears to fight bacteria, including E. coli and salmonella. It’s also being studied for its potential cholesterol-reducing benefits and has been shown to lower cholesterol in animals. Like many other herbs, this one acts as an antioxidant. According to one study, cilantro leaves provide the most antioxidant punch.

Chillies – Helps in losing weight, good for heart, improved circulation, anti-cancer, improved digestion, arthritis, cold and flu, improved sleep pattern, mood lifter and improves breathing.

Cloves – Cloves contain an anti-inflammatory chemical called eugenol. In recent studies, this chemical inhibited COX-2, a protein that spurs inflammation (the same protein that so-called COX-2 inhibitor drugs such as Celebrex quash). Cloves also ranked very high in antioxidant properties in one study. The combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties spells heaps of health benefits, from boosting protection from heart disease to helping stave off cancer, as well as slowing the cartilage and bone damage caused by arthritis. Compounds in cloves, like those found in cinnamon, also appear to improve insulin function.
It is also know for curing toothache. Put a couple of whole cloves in your mouth. Let them soften a bit, then bite on them gently with good molars to release their oil. Then move them next to the painful tooth and keep them there for up to half an hour. Clove oil has a numbing effect in addition to bacteria-fighting powers. In test tubes, cloves also killed certain bacteria that were resistant to antibiotics.

Cumin – Cumin and Carom seeds are both used for cooking and also possess many medicinal properties. They are a good source of iron and keeps immune system healthy. Water boiled with cumin seeds is good for coping with dysentery. Cumin (also known as Caraway) oil is specially used to remove flatulence.