Want More Energy? Eat this Raw Superfood Breakfast!

by Rachelle Girardin

Buckwheat has a rich supply of flavonoids, like rutin. Flavonoids are phytonutrients that protect against disease by extending the action of vitamin C and acting as antioxidants. Buckwheat is also high in protein, fibre, gluten-free, alkalizing for the body, and high in calcium.

I’ve been making this recipe for 6 years and it is still one of my favourites because it is so versatile. If you have a dehydrator you can also dehydrate this granola for a crunchy version!

Energize with this Raw Superfood Breakfast Recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Raw Hulled Buckwheat (soaked overnight, strained and rinsed in the morning)
• 1 cup Dried Coconut Flakes (unsweetened)
• 1 cup Seeds/Chopped Nuts: mix any Hemp, Sunflower, Pumpkin, Jungle Peanuts, Pecans, Walnuts, Almonds, Brazil Nuts
•  1/2 cup Dried Fruit (Goji Berries, Currants, Raisins – all unsulphured and without hydrogenated oils)
• 1–2 tbsp Raw Honey or Maple Syrup

Optional:

• 2 tbsp. Coconut Oil (to lower glycemic index and stabilize blood sugars)
• 1 tsp. Spirulina
• 1–2 tbsp. Raw Cacao Powder
• 1–2 scoops Protein Powder
• 1–2 tbsp. Maca Powder
•  Orange or Lemon zest

Directions:
1. Take 1 cup raw buckwheat (also called groats) and rinse under cold water. Place in large glass bowl and cover with 6 cups of water. Leave on counter overnight or for at least 6 hours, to begin the germination process.

2. In the morning, or 6 hours later, strain buckwheat with fine strainer and rinse well.

Note: Buckwheat will appear slightly slimy.

3. Ensure buckwheat is well rinsed and patted dry with paper bowl. Leave in fine strainer or sprouting tray (can be purchased online or in health food stores) with a bowl underneath for 24 hours to sprout or proceed to step 4 immediately.

4. In a large bowl, mix soaked/sprouted buckwheat with 1 cup of coconut flakes, 1 cup of nuts or seeds, 1/2 cup dried fruit, and 1-2 tablespoons sweetener plus any other additional toppings.

5. Enjoy with your favourite homemade dairy-free milks, yogurts or creams and fresh fruit! Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

http://www.youngandraw.com/raw-superfood-breakfast/

Turmeric Smoothie Recipe Makes A Delicious & Powerful Antioxidant

by Joe Martino
 

 

How would you like to start your day with an awesome antioxidant packed smoothie that has a ton of medicinal properties as well? This turmeric smoothie recipe is perfect for that.

The Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family. The average person may best recognize turmeric as a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. The active compound curcumin is known to have a wide range of medicinal benefits including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumour, antibacterial, and antiviral activities. In India, turmeric has been used for thousands of years as a remedy for stomach and liver ailments. Turmeric can also be used topically to heal sores due to its antimicrobial properties.

Turmeric is also the liver’s favorite spice and helps boost liver detox. It does this by assisting enzymes that actively flush out dietary carcinogens. Be sure to check how powerful turmeric can be in treating depression as well.

Turmeric Smoothie Recipe Ingredients:

For these ingredients, try and use organic as much as possible. Also try not to substitute actual milk for hemp or coconut milk. If you need, you can try almond milk as well.

• 1 cup hemp or coconut milk
• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple or mango chunks
• 1 fresh banana
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (can be increased to 1 tsp)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon maca (optional)

Add all ingredients into a blender and process until smooth. Try to drink this smoothie in the morning before you have anything to eat. It’s a solid way to start your day and pack your body full of antioxidants.
http://www.collective-evolution.com/2014/08/04/turmeric-smoothie-recipe-makes-a-delicious-powerful-antioxidant/

This Superfood Could Replace Caffeine & Viagra: Meet The Maca Root

by Jeff Roberts



Most of us are constantly looking for a potent source of energy to get us through our hectic week. For many, this comes in the form of caffeine from coffee or energy drinks. This type of fuel has its downfalls however, sometimes in the form of a “crash” mid afternoon, a headache from dehydration, or nausea if the stomach is empty. Beyond all of this, caffeine has a high instance of addiction, whether it be a physical or a habitual dependency. As a replacement for energy enhancers such as caffeine, Maca root has been gaining attention from health conscious consumers not only for its nutritional density, but also for its remarkable ability to replace some of today’s most common pharmaceuticals, including Viagra and Progesterone.



Maca root grows in the mountains of Peru at high altitudes of 7,000 to 11,000 feet, making it the highest altitude growing plant in the world. Maca is a radish-like root vegetable that is related to the potato family, and is tuberous and spherical in form. The root itself is about three to six centimeters across and 4.7 centimeters in length. There are four recognized types of Maca Root based on the color of the root, which varies from creamy yellow or light pink to dark purple or black.

Maca is a nutritionally dense super-food that contains high amounts of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and all of the essential amino acids. It is rich in B-vitamins, the energy vitamins, which makes the plant a great supplement for vegans and vegetarians. To boot, Maca has high levels of bio-available calcium and magnesium and is great for remineralization.

As a nutritional supplement, Peruvian Maca has generalized tonic effects on the biochemical functioning of the human body. Chief among these effects is the enhancement of endocrine function. The endocrine system includes all of the glands, and the hormones they secrete that exist in the body and that control such conditions as fertility, sexual function, digestion, brain and nervous system physiology, as well as energy levels. Hormonal regulation is responsible for all of the physiological attributes that enable us to enjoy the myriad sensations of being vibrantly alive, including those related to sexual arousal, physical activity and mental-emotional states of being. Maca root has also been called an adaptogen, which means that it increases the body’s ability to defend itself against both physical and mental weakening, hence potential illness. It is believed it achieves this by supporting adrenal and pituitary gland health, both of which underlie proper endocrine function.

It has been used by native Indians in Peru as a vital ingredient to health for thousands of years, dating back to around 3800 B.C. when Peruvian Indians cultivated and ate it for both its nutritional and medicinal value. Centuries later in 1549 A.D., records indicate that during his time in Peru, the Spanish explorer Captain de Soto received Maca from the Indians as a gift in return for his help in improving methods of animal husbandry in the Peruvian Castile region. By 1572, as Maca’s health-giving properties gained notoriety, the Chinchayochas Indians had begun using Maca root for barter. It was not until 1843 that this plant was studied by scientists and given the botanical name of Lepidium meyenii  after German Botanist Gerhard Walpers.

How Can Maca Benefit You?:



*(Side note: I purchased Maca root powder in capsule form before I knew about its hormonal benefits. What I found after taking the supplement for about a few weeks was that my libido had noticeably increased.)

Male:

Increases energy (Chronic Fatigue)
Treat sexual dysfunction (Loss of Libido)
Increases stamina & athletic performance
Nourishes glandular system
Fertility enhancement
Improves physical and emotional well being
Promotes mental clarity
Balance hormones
Female:

Treat PMS (Mood Swings)
Menopause symptom relief (Hot Flashes)
Sexual stimulation
Nourishes glandular system
HRT alternative(Hormone Replacement Therapy)
Increases stamina & athletic performance
Increases energy (Chronic Fatigue)
Balance hormones
Menopause?

Menopause is a natural progression in a woman’s life – it is the cessation of menses generally accompanied by symptoms. This transition is unique for every woman yet there are ways to prevent and diminish the symptoms that typically accompany menopause.

Symptoms:

Diminished libido
Insomnia
Mood swing (blues & depression)
Migraines, memory problems
Lower energy levels
Palpitations
Acceleration of the aging process
Joint aches and pains
Bone pain
Vaginal dryness
Benefits of Maca Power: Energy – Balance – Vitality!
Increases libido
Deeper sleep
Balances moods
Enhances memory and brain function
Increases energy levels
Helps adapt to stress
Slows the aging process
Lessens aches and pain, more endurance and stamina
Prevents osteoporosis, high calcium and vegetable protein
Reverses vaginal dryness


How Does Maca Aid In Treating Menopause?

First and foremost it balances the hormonal system. It works on the pituitary gland – the master gland – which regulates all hormone production in the body. Hot flashes are diminished; sleep is normalized while stress levels are reduced when incorporating Maca Power into a daily wellness routine. Peruvian Maca root encourages the body to produce its own hormones to restore balance, instead of introducing hormones to the body. It’s the simple, natural approach that brings a world of difference to women suffering from the sometimes debilitating symptoms.

Although the evidence may be lacking, personal accounts of people’s positive experiences with Maca root are undeniable. Psychiatrist and functional medicine physician Hyla Cass, MD, says Maca works. “In my practice, I have seen Maca restore hormonal imbalance and related sexual desire and fertility in both men and women.”

Sources:

1.)   http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/guide/the-truth-about-maca?page=2

2.)   http://realrawfood.com/maca-history-info

3.)   http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18801111

4.)   http://www.naturalnews.com/027797_maca_root_hormone_balance.html##ixzz2pe6WLnzY

5.)   http://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/264618

http://www.collective-evolution.com/2014/01/06/this-superfood-could-replace-caffeine-viagra-meet-the-maca-root/

The Need for Magnesium — with Supplemental Food List

16 Signs That Say You May Be Magnesium Deficient & What To Do About It

by Mark DeNicola

Yesterday marked the third time in the last month that I had overheard someone being diagnosed with a magnesium deficiency. The interesting thing is that in all three scenarios (my own included) the symptoms that each individual was exhibiting to prove the deficiency were completely different from one another. Needless to say, this made me curious and led me down a bit of a rabbit hole in further understanding what exactly magnesium is and how it plays a role in our overall health.

What Is Magnesium?

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential to the body for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function. It is involved in over 300 metabolic processes in your body and plays a key role in keeping a healthy immune system, maintaining heart rhythm and building strong bones.(2) Naturally magnesium can be found in a number of seeds (i.e., pumpkin and sunflower), nuts (i.e., almonds and cashews), and even in spinach which packs an average of 79 mg of magnesium per 100 gram serving.

The daily recommended intake of magnesium ranges from 400 to 420 mg in men, 310 to 360 mg in women and 80 to 240 mg in children all depending on age. It is also suggested that when pregnant, women increase their magnesium intake to between 350 and 400 mg depending on the age at which they are pregnant.(1)

Signs That You May Be Deficient

In my case, a magnesium deficiency was identified through the panic and anxiety that I was working through earlier this year. The most prominent time that I would find myself struggling with panic and/or anxiety was at night, the magnesium helped my body to regulate and distribute melatonin more effectively allowing me to get a better night’s sleep. (You can read about some of the other things that have helped me overcome this by clicking HERE)

Here are 16 magnesium deficiency symptoms that Natural Society comprised in an article released in April of last year:

• Calcium deficiency
• Poor heart health
• Weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Tremors
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• High blood pressure
• Type II diabetes
• Respiratory illness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Potassium deficiency
• Difficulty swallowing
• Poor memory
• Confusion

Sources Of Magnesium

In addition to the seeds, nuts and spinach that I mentioned above, magnesium can also be found in potatoes, tempeh, quinoa and most beans -including black, lima and navy.(4) Like all essential vitamins and minerals, getting an adequate amount of magnesium daily may sound tedious or difficult to incorporate, but it is only as difficult as we choose to make it. The more we hold on to a particular lifestyle or way of eating the more we limit ourselves to habits that feel comfortable on the surface but may be taking a toll on our body. Look out for any of the symptoms listed above and even explore the world of supplements if that is easier for you to incorporate. Based on a recommendation, I incorporated magnesium into my life by taking Ankh Rah's high quality moringa leaf powder.

SOURCES:
(1) http://naturalsociety.com/16-magnesium-deficiency-symptoms-signs-low-levels/
(2) http://www.collective-evolution.com/2012/10/30/11-ways-magnesium-helps-your-mind-body/(3) http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/lifestyle-guide-11/supplement-guide-magnesium(4) http://www.dietitians.ca/Nutrition-Resources-A-Z/Factsheets/Minerals/Food-Sources-of-Magnesium.aspx 

The news has been abuzz with magnesium lately, and for good reason. According to recent research, magnesium is an essential mineral which plays several key roles in our bodies.

• Several of our organs, especially our heart, muscles, and kidneys, require magnesium to function.
• Magnesium regulates muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, blood pressure, and calcium levels.
• It decreases the risk of developing diabetes, the symptoms of PMS, and the symptoms of migraines.
• Magnesium helps with depression and anxiety, muscle cramps, constipation, kidney stones, osteoporosis, insomnia, fibromyalgia, and asthma.
• It is also vitally important for energy production, nerve impulse conduction, muscle contraction, normal heart rhythm, the makeup of teeth and bones, enzyme systems and functions, and the utilization of fats and carbohydrates

In the words of Dr. Norman Shealy,

“Every known illness is associated with a magnesium deficiency… magnesium is the most critical mineral required for electrical stability of every cell in the body. A magnesium deficiency may be responsible for more diseases than any other nutrient.”

Study after study after study shows that your health relies significantly on the presence of magnesium in your body. Magnesium aids in the prevention of the development of type 2 diabetes, the rapid recovery from depression, the risk of cardiovascular diseases… the list goes on.

Magnesium Deficiency

Every system and function in our body depends on magnesium, but many things can deplete our magnesium levels — from something as simple as vomiting or diarrhea to more serious medical conditions like diabetes, pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, and kidney disease.

Even beverages such as too much coffee, soda, or alcohol can trigger the downward spiral. If you lose too many bodily fluids during a heavy menstrual period or through excessive sweating, your magnesium levels are a bit lower than preferable.

Stress is another big way to deplete your magnesium stores. According to Dr. Carolyn Dean, author of The Magnesium Miracle:

The scenario that I like to talk about is very basic. You’re under massive stress. Massive stress means you’re losing magnesium. You’re burning magnesium out of your body, because it helps support your adrenal glands. It helps keep you away from anxiety and depression. It helps relax your muscles.

If you’re all tight and stressed, your magnesium is being lost, [which makes] the muscles of your blood vessels tighten. That tightness is going to cause increased blood pressure…

Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency

We haven’t gotten to the big question yet, though — how do you know you suffer from a magnesium deficiency? All of the symptoms below can be attributed to low stores of magnesium in your body:

• muscle twitches, muscle spasm and weakness, restless leg syndrome (RLS)
• tension in upper back, neck pain
• headaches, tension headaches, blurred vision
• sleep disorders, insomnia
• agitation, anxiety, irritability, depression
• jitteriness, hyperactivity, panic attacks, hyperventilation
• sensitivity to noise
• loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting
• abnormal heart rhythms, heart palpitations, feeling that you can’t take a deep breath, coronary spasms, low blood pressure
• craving for salt, carbohydrates, chocolate
• drinking a lot of water but still feeling thirsty
• confusion, disorientation,
• poor nail growth
• numbness, tingling, seizures
• constipation, urinary spasms, menstrual cramps

So how can you restore your magnesium levels? Start by healing any possible gut issues (your gut health affects the absorption of minerals, including magnesium). You can also eat magnesium-rich supplemental foods that boost other health benefits related to magnesium deficiency. Let me introduce you to…

• Maca is rich in magnesium and incredibly essential for your hormonal balance.
• Cacao is the highest source of magnesium found in any food. Booyah! 
• Schisandra is a great source of magnesium, in addition to boosting mental clarity.
• Chia contains 15% more magnesium than broccoli and regulates insulin levels.
• Acerola cherry has twice as much magnesium than oranges, enhances memory, and regulates blood sugar.
• Goji berry is loaded with magnesium. It also normalizes blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
• Barley grass contains four times more magnesium than spinach, and caused significant improvements in those suffering from ulcerative colitis.
• Moringa is great for low energy and contains large amounts of magnesium.
• Spirulina is another food rich in magnesium and also reduces blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Tulsi (also known as holy basil) is abundant in magnesium and especially effective in supporting the heart.

These supplemental foods are some of the highest sources of magnesium. You can take them separately, or buy them already combined in one of my favorite nutritional drinks. But any way you do it, increasing your magnesium is essential for your health.

Also, magnesium can be absorbed through the skin — here’s a recipe for homemade magnesium lotion.

Are you magnesium deficient? What are your favorite food sources of magnesium?

http://gnowfglins.com/2014/05/20/the-need-for-magnesium/

15 Plants & Herbs That Can Boost Lung Health

15 Plants & Herbs That Can Boost Lung Health, Heal Respiratory Infections & Repair Pulmonary Damage

by Joe Martino

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 When it comes to taking herbs as a form of treatment for illness, it seems the mainstream belief is that they are not as effective and not worth taking. While effectiveness of each herb and their use has not been studied deeply to determine how effective it can be across the population, the same could be said for most pharmaceutical drugs. Much of the time, pharmaceutical drugs attempt to mimic a compound that occurs naturally in nature (herbs) but often bring the risk of side effects.

Safety is one of the most critical areas of review amongst herbs and drugs. So far, zero deaths have been reported due to the use and consumption of herbs. However, pharmaceutical drugs and physician prescribed medications kill approximately one million Americans each year. While it is important to note that herbal medicines can be lethal in extreme doses, it appears their safety is much greater than that of pharmaceutical drugs. 

Interestingly, pharmaceutical drugs are actually adding to the world-wide issue of declining health due to their side effects and encouragement of viral resistance. Antibiotics in particular are adding to the wave of increased viral strength when it comes to certain infections. [3] Herbs on the other hand can be a useful tool in fighting infections that have turned into super bugs due to the overuse of antibiotics.

It is always useful to perform as much research as possible, or as you see fit, when it comes to both pharmaceutical drugs and herbs prior to taking them. Just as we would be so skeptical about herbs, we should be just as skeptical about pharmaceutical drugs. Contrary to popular belief, the un-popularity of herbs in western culture is due to scrutinization that comes from pharmaceutical companies and those to can benefit from the sale of pharmaceutical drugs. Herbs cannot be patented and owned, only synthetic drugs can which is why many pharma companies operate the way they do. Seek out the assistance of a Naturopathic doctor before you use herbs.

Below is a list of herbs that can not only boost lung and respiratory health but can also repair it.

Herb information is courtesy of John Summerly who is nutritionist, herbologist, and homeopathic practitioner.

1. Licorice Root

Licorice is one of the more widely consumed herbs in the world. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it occurs in more formulas than any other single herb because it is thought to harmonize the action of all other herbs. Licorice is very soothing and softens the mucous membranes of the throat and especially the lungs and stomach and at the same time cleanses any inflamed mucous membrane that needs immune system support . It reduces the irritation in the throat and yet has an expectorant action. It is the saponins (detergent-like action) that loosen the phlegm in the respiratory tract so that the body can expel the mucus. Compounds within this root help relieve bronchial spasms and block the free radical cells that produce the inflammation and tightening of the air ways. The compounds also have antibacterial and antiviral effects to them as well which helps fight off viral and bacterial strains in the body that can cause lung infections. Glycrrhizins and flavonoids can even help prevent lung cancer cells from forming which means they can even prevent lung cancer.

2. Coltsfoot

Coltsfoot has been traditionally used by Native Americans for thousands of years to strengthen the lungs. It clears out excess mucus from the lungs and bronchial tubes. It soothes the mucus membranes in the lungs, and has been shown in research to assist with asthma, coughs, bronchitis, and other lung ailments. Coltsfoot is available in dried form for tea or as an alcohol extract known as a tincture.

3. Cannabis

The toxic breakdown of therapeutic compounds in cannabis from burning the plant are totally avoided with vaporization. Extraction and inhaling cannabinoid essential oils of the unprocessed plant affords significant mitigation of irritation to the oral cavity that comes from smoking. Cannabis is perhaps one of the most effective anti-cancer plants in the world shown in study after study to stimulate cannabinoid receptor activation in specific genes and mediate the anti-invasive effect of cannabinoids. Vaporizing cannabis allows the active ingredients to stimulate the body’s natural immune response and significantly reduces the ability of infections to spread. Vaporizing cannabis (especially with very high amounts of cannabinoids) opens up airways and sinuses, acting as a bronchodilator. It is even a proven method to treat and reverse asthma.

4. Osha Root

Osha is a herb native to the Rocky Mountain area and has historically been used by the Native Americans for respiratory support. The roots of the plant contain camphor and other compounds which make it one of the best lung-support herbs in America. One of the main benefits of osha root is that it helps increase circulation to the lungs, which makes it easier to take deep breaths. Also, when seasonal sensitivities flare up your sinuses, osha rootm, which is not an actual antihistamine, does produce a similar effect and may be help calm respiratory irritation.

5. Thyme

Thyme is very powerful in the fight against chest congestion. It produces powerful antiseptic essential oils which are classified as naturally antibiotic and anti-fungal. Thyme is well known to zap acne more so than expensive prescription creams, gels and lotions. Thyme tea has the power to chase away and eliminate bacteria and viruses so whether your infection is based on either, it will work. Thyme has been used as a lung remedy consumed since antiquity and is used extensively today to prevent and treat respiratory tract infections and bacterial infection pneumonia.

6. Oregano

Although oregano contains the vitamins and nutrients required by the immune system, its primary benefits are owed to its carvacrol and rosmarinic acid content. Both compounds are natural decongestants and histamine reducers that have direct, positive benefits on the respiratory tract and nasal passage airflow. Oil of oregano fights off the dangerous bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, better than the most common antibiotic treatments. Oregano has so many health benefits that a bottle of organic oregano oil should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet.

7. Lobelia

Did you know that horses given lobelia are able to breathe more deeply? Its benefits are not limited to equestrians. It has been used as “asthmador” in Appalachian folk medicine. Lobelia, by some accounts, is thought to be one of the most valuable herbal remedies in existence. Extracts of Lobelia inflata contain lobeline, which showed positive effects in the treatment of multidrug-resistant tumor cells. Lobelia contains an alkaloid known as lobeline, which thins mucus, breaks up congestion. Additionally, lobelia stimulates the adrenal glands to release epinephrine, in effect, this relaxes the airways and allows for easier breathing. Also, because lobelia helps to relax smooth muscles, it is included in many cough and cold remedies. Lobelia should be part of everyone’s respiratory support protocol!

8. Elecampane

Elecampane has been used by Native Americans for many years to clear out excess mucus that impairs lung function. It is known as a natural antibacterial agent for the lungs, helping to lessen infection particularly for people who are prone to lung infections like bronchitis. Herbal practitioners often recommend one teaspoon of the herb per cup of boiling water, drunk three times daily for two to three weeks. Elecampane is also available in tincture format for ease.

9. Eucalyptus

Native to Australia, eucalyptus isn’t just for Koala bears! Aborigines, Germans, and Americans have all used the refreshing aroma of eucalyptus to promote respiratory health and soothe throat irritation. Eucalyptus is a common ingredient in cough lozenges and syrups and its effectiveness is due to a compound called cineole. Cineole has numerous benefits — it’s an expectorant, can ease a cough, fights congestion, and soothes irritated sinus passages. As an added bonus, because eucalyptus contains antioxidants, it supports the immune system during a cold or other illness.

10. Mullein

Both the flowers and the leaves of the mullein plant are used to make an herbal extract that helps strengthen the lungs. Mullein is used by herbal practitioners to clear excess mucus from the lungs, cleanse the bronchial tubes, and reduce inflammation that is present in the respiratory tract. A tea can be made from one teaspoon of the dried herb to one cup of boiled water. Alternatively, you can take a tincture form of this herb.

11. Lungwort

Lungwort is a tree-growing lichen that actually resembles lung tissue in appearance. However, this natural remedy doesn’t just look the part. As early as the 1600′s, lungwort has been used to promote lung and respiratory health and clear congestion. Pulmonaria selections come in all kinds so seek a herbologist for direction. Lungwort also contains compounds that are powerfully effective against harmful organisms that affect respiratory health.

12. Chaparral

Chaparral, a plant native to the Southwest, has been appreciated by the Native Americans for lung detoxification and respiratory support. Chaparral contains powerful antioxidants that resist irritation and NDGA which is known to fight histamine response. NDGA inhibits aerobic and anaerobic glycolysis (the energy-producing ability) of cancer cells. Chaparral is also a herb that fights harmful organisms. The benefits of chaparral are mostly available in a tincture extraction but chaparral tea may support respiratory problems by encouraging an expectorant action to clear airways of mucus.

13. Sage

Sage’s textured leaves give off a heady aroma, which arises from sage’s essential oils. These oils are the source of the many benefits of sage tea for lung problems and common respiratory ailments. Sage tea is a traditional treatment for sore throats and coughs. The rich aromatic properties arising from sage’s volatile oils of thujone, camphor, terpene and salvene can be put to use by inhaling sage tea’s vapors to dispel lung disorders and sinusitis. Alternatively, brew a strong pot of sage tea and place it into a bowl or a vaporizer.

14. Peppermint

Peppermint, and peppermint oil, contains menthol — a soothing ingredient known to relax the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract and promote free breathing. Dried peppermint typically contains menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate, menthofuran and cineol. Peppermint oil also contains small amounts of many additional compounds including limonene, pulegone, caryophyllene and pinene. Paired with the antihistamine effect of peppermint, menthol is a fantastic decongestant. Many people use therapeutic chest balms and other inhalants that contain menthol to help break up congestion. Additionally, peppermint is an antioxidant and fights harmful organisms.

15. Plantain Leaf

With fruit that is similar in appearance to a banana, plantain leaf has been used for hundreds of years to ease cough and soothe irritated mucous membranes. Many of its active constituents show antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, as well as being anti-inflammatory and antitoxic. Clinical trials have found it favorable against cough, cold, and lung irritation. Plantain leaf has an added bonus in that it may help relieve a dry cough by spawning mucus production in the lungs.

http://www.collective-evolution.com/2014/02/20/15-plants-herbs-that-can-boost-lung-health-heal-respiratory-infections-repair-pulmonary-damage/

Top 8 superfoods that can heal your entire body

The grocery aisles have displayed foods for decades that are nutritionally deficient. Poor soil conditions combined with seed engineering and processing have left people with poor choices. Consider these eight superfoods to get the required nutrients for optimal body function.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera has 20 minerals, 12 vitamins, 18 amino acids, 200 active plant compounds (phytonutrients), and strong antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.

Aloe vera benefits include:

• Eases inflammation and arthritic pain
• Heals ulcers and a wide variety of digestive disorders and complications
• Treats candida and parasites
• Reduces heart attacks and strokes
• Helps halt growth of cancer tumors

Bee pollen

Bee pollen is a rich source of carotenoids, 22 amino acids, and enzymes. It is a also good source of B-vitamins, vitamin C and E, and over 68 minerals.

Bee pollen benefits include:

• Combats cancer, diabetes, arthritis and depression
• Promotes increased strength, stamina, endurance and energy levels
• Increases concentration and memory
• Improves fertility and enhances sexual activity
• Increases resistance to infections

Maca

Maca is a very nutrient-dense superfood and a complete source of amino acids. It also is rich in B-vitamins, vitamins C and E, and is a good source of copper, iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc.

Maca benefits include:

• Improves anaemia
• Reduces chronic fatigue
• Relieves stress and depression
• Improves libido and fertility
• Improves adrenal function
• Strengthens memory

Reishi

Reishi is a rich source of antioxidants. It is also a good source of B-vitamins, as well as potassium, niacin, magnesium, selenium, copper and phosphorus.

Reishi benefits include:

• Combats immune-related disorders like allergies, arthritis and cancer
• Reduces physical and mental stress
• Reduces inflammation
• Protects the liver
• Helps correct digestive disorders

Goji berries

Goji berries contain 18 amino acids, 21 trace minerals, vitamin A, B-complex, C and E, and is a superior form of antioxidants.

Goji berries benefits include:

• Significantly improves immune function
• Protects DNA
• Protects the eyes and liver
• Reduces inflammation
• Protects the heart
• Improves mood and libido

Chlorella

Chlorella is a rich source of complete protein, a potent source of chlorophyll, and rich in the entire vitamin complex. It is also an exceptional source of iron and zinc, as well as magnesium, phosphorus, calcium and potassium.

Chlorella benefits include:

• Helps detoxify biotoxins, xenobiotics and heavy metals
• Helps kill candida and yeast overgrowth
• Known cancer fighter
• Prevents and improves diabetes and insulin resistance
• Reduces pain associated with arthritis and fibromyalgia
• Helps heal and repair tissue growth
• Reduces and eliminates digestive issues

Hemp

Hemp contains 20 amino acids and is a complete source of plant protein. It is also nature's most abundant source of essential fatty acids and has a perfect 3 to 1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3.

Hemp benefits include:

• Fortifies immune system
• Reduces inflammation
• Improves memory and prevents brain-related diseases
• Clears up skin disorders
• Helps keep digestive tract healthy and clean
• Helps prevent cancer
• Helps reduce risk of diabetes

Coconut

Coconut is an excellent source of fatty acids, including lauric and caprylic acid, which destroy bacteria, viruses and fungi. It's also a good source of B-vitamins and a great source of copper, calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium and zinc.

Coconut benefits include:

• Improves immune system function
• Helps protect against brain-related disorders
• Lowers risk of diabetes
• Reduces joint and muscle inflammation
• Strengthens liver
• Kills bacteria and parasites
• Protects against cancer and other immune-related diseases
• Eases acid reflux and promotes proper digestive function

About the author:
Derek Henry, B.Kin, is a highly revered holistic health coach and world renowned natural health blogger who created Healing the Body to help people understand the fundamental principles to exceptional health so they can overcome their own health challenges. 


http://www.naturalnews.com/045331_superfoods_healing_disease_prevention.html