Most people have experienced their body becoming bloated, burnt out, and exhausted with the demands and circumstances of daily life. Watching this happen to your body creates a vicious cycle of more stress leading to more weight gain, water retention, and anxiety.
There are now encouraging findings that show how certain foods and herbs can help the body process stress, burn fat, and decrease bloating so you can look and feel your best despite your circumstances. The most powerful and effective herbs like dandelion root and holy basil may not have the most pleasant taste so by adding them to your morning smoothie; you can make this ancient medicine palatable, enjoyable, and easily assimilated by the body.
Benefits of Dandelion Root
Dandelion root has been shown to improve liver function by removing toxins and reestablishing hydration and electrolyte balance (1).
It also aids the digestive system by maintaining the proper flow of bile. The vitamins and minerals in dandelion root help with mineral absorption and reduce inflammation (2).
This powerful herb also has a natural diuretic and anti-bloat effect, allowing your liver to more quickly eliminate toxins.
Dandelion acts as a mild laxative that promotes digestion and balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines. It can increase the release of stomach acid and bile to aid digestion, especially of fats leading to increased energy and weight loss.
Benefits of Holy Basil
Holy basil is an herb that is commonly used in Ayurvedic holistic medicine and is one of the most sacred plants in India. It is classified as an adaptogenic herb, which means it helps restore our bodies to a more balanced state, especially during times of stress.
Adaptogens are crucial for improving the adrenal system, which is responsible for the body’s hormonal reaction to stress.
Holy basil is able to enhance the body’s natural response to any type of stress, decreasing the stress hormone levels that are pumped through our bodies (4).
Although holy basil is a powerful antioxidant with demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, perhaps the most compelling data suggests that holy basil possesses its greatest potential in the areas of stress relief and relaxation.
Multiple scientific studies examining this property of holy basil have found that supplementation with various extracts decreases stress hormone levels, cortisol in particular (3).
Dandelion root + Holy Basil Smoothie Recipe
Dandelion root and holy basil come in many forms- but perhaps the most efficient and easy way to consume these herbs is in a dried powder which can be purchased online or at a health food store. Ensure the powders are organic with no added fillers or chemical extraction methods.
This smoothie recipe is the perfect way to start your day to boost metabolism, increase energy, and balance your system to handle daily stressors.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon roasted dandelion root powder
- 1 teaspoon Holy Basil or Tulsi powder
- 2 cups coconut milk (or any nut milk)
- 1 banana
- 1 tablespoon cacao powder
- 1 tablespoon hemp seeds or almond butter
- Scoop of protein powder or collagen (optional, for extra protein and to make a balanced & filling breakfast)
Handful of ice cubes
Directions:
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend into a smooth consistency.
- Choi U, Lee O, Yim J et al. Hypolipidemic and Antioxidant Effects of Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Root and Leaf on Cholesterol-Fed Rabbits. 2017.
- Davaatseren M e. Dandelion leaf extract protects against liver injury induced by methionine- and choline-deficient diet in mice. – PubMed – NCBI. Ncbinlmnihgov. 2017. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23256442. Accessed March 28, 2017.
- Bhattacharya A, Muruganandam AV, Kumar V, Bhattacharya SK. Effect of poly herbal formulation, EuMil, on neurochemical perturbations induced by chronic
stress. Indian J Exp Biol. 2002 Oct;40(10):1161-3. - Gupta SK, Prakash J, Srivastava S. Validation of traditional claim of Tulsi, Ocimum sanctum Linn. as a medicinal plant. Indian J Exp Biol. 2002
Jul;40(7):765-73.
Leave your comments below.
Click Here For More Articles
No comments:
Post a Comment