Health benefits of Arugula

Health benefits of Arugula

Arugula is a leaf vegetable. Also called rocket, roquette, and rucola, arugula is peppery and aromatic.  The leaves are longer and more open than lettuce. It has a rich, peppery taste, and an exceptionally strong flavor for a leafy green. You can grow arugula from seeds that you plant in your garden or even in a pot on your porch. It has been grown in the Mediterranean area since Roman times. belonging to the same family as cress, radish and mustard. Arugula's strong flavor is reminiscent of cress. In Roman times arugula was grown for both its leaves and the seed. The seed was used for flavoring oils. Like other greens, arugula is most nutritious when eaten raw and should be juiced or well-blended for optimal nutrient digestion and assimilation.  Add it to a salad for a spicy kick. 

1. As in other greens, arugula is one of very low calorie vegetable. 100 g of fresh leaves provides just 25 calories. Nonetheless, it has many vital phytochemicals, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can immensely benefit health.

2. Rocket salad is rich source of certain phytochemicals such as indoles, thiocyanates, sulforaphane and iso-thiocyanates. Together they have been found to counter carcinogenic effects of estrogen and thus help benefit against prostate, breast, cervical, colon, ovarian cancers by virtue of their cancer cell growth inhibition, cytotoxic effects on cancer cells.

3. In addition, di-indolyl-methane (DIM), a lipid soluble metabolite of indole hasimmune modulator, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties ( by potentiating Interferon-Gamma receptors and production). DIM has currently been found application in the treatment of recurring respiratory papillomatosis caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and is in Phase III clinical trials for cervical dysplasia.

4. Rocket is very good source of folates. 100 g of fresh greens contain 97 mcg or 24% of folic acid. When given around conception period it helps prevent neural tube defects in the newborns.

5. Like kale, salad rocket is an excellent source of vitamin A. 100 g fresh leaves contain 1424 mcg of beta carotene and 2373 IU of vitamin A. Beta carotenes converts into vitamin A in the body. Studies found that vitamin A and flavonoid compounds in in green leafy vegetables help protect from skin, lung and oral cavity cancers.

6. This vegetable also rich in B-complex group of vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine), and pantothenic acid those are essential for optimum cellular enzymatic and metabolic functions.

7. Fresh rocket leaves contain good levels of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful, natural anti-oxidant. Foods rich in vitamin C helps body protect from scurvy disease; develop resistance against infectious agents (boosts immunity) and scavenge harmful, pro inflammatory free radicals from the body.

8. Salad rocket is one of the excellent vegetable sources for vitamin-K; 100 g provides about 90% of recommended intake. Vitamin K has potential role bone health by promoting osteotrophic (bone formation and strengthening) activity. Adequate vitamin-K levels in the diet helps limiting neuronal damage in the brain; thus, has established role in the treatment of patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease.

9. Arugula is good in minerals especially copper and iron. In addition, it has small amounts of some other essential minerals and electrolytes such as calcium, iron, potassium, manganese, and phosphorus.

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Top 10 Health Tips for Men

Top 10 Health Tips for Men

When it comes to health care, we men are like ostriches. We bury our heads in the sand. We are much less likely than women to visit our doctors regularly, take symptoms seriously and live a healthful lifestyle. Maybe that’s one reason why women have a seven-year average survival advantage on us!  Yet it’s obviously important that men of all ages become more proactive about their health. And an easy way to start is to follow these 10 basic steps to maintaining health and vitality.

1. Eliminate "White Foods" from Your Diet.
White flour, white sugar and other processed foods are not only devoid of vitamins and minerals, but they’ve also been stripped of their natural fibre. As a result, they rapidly drive up blood sugar levels, which contributes to weight gain, diabetes and a host of other health problems. Avoid breads and baked goods made with white flour, sugar-laden sodas and snack foods. Instead, focus on eating fibre-rich fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.

2. Stay Away from Dangerous Trans Fats.
While it’s important to reduce your overall fat intake, it’s even more important to watch the types of fat you eat. Deep-fried foods and anything made with hydrogenated oils (margarine, peanut butter, shortening, store-bought pastries and cookies) contain trans fats that raise your risk of heart disease. Eat only healthful fats, such as olive oil and the omega-3 oils found in salmon and other cold-water fish, which actually protect against heart disease.

3. Take a Potent Daily Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement.
Although there is no substitute for a good diet, I am convinced that for optimal nutrition, you need to take a high-potency multivitamin and mineral supplement. Even if you are eating right, it’s unlikely that your food contains all the nutrients you need. Poor soil quality, storage, processing and cooking deplete our food of vitamins and minerals. Taking a high quality daily supplement is "health insurance" against possible deficiencies.

4. Include Weight Training in Your Exercise Routine.
Aerobic exercise is great for cardiovascular conditioning, but it’s vastly inferior to weight training in attacking the "flab factor." Recent research has shown that as little as once-weekly resistance exercise can improve muscle strength. Even the busiest or laziest among us can find the time and energy for that. Join a gym, consult a personal trainer or ask an experienced friend to show you the ropes.

5. Maintain Your Optimal Weight.
Current statistics suggest that half of us are losing the battle of the bulge, but maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for yourself. You’ll look better, feel better and reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and other major killers. I know this is easier said than done, but if you just follow the four steps above, you’ll be well on your way.

6. Drink Alcohol Only in Moderation. 
You’ve probably heard of the "French Paradox," and that drinking wine protects against heart disease. Repeated studies have shown that drinking moderate amounts of alcohol (all kinds) protects not only against heart disease, but also lowers risk of death from all causes. Remember that moderation is key. While one to two drinks a day are protective, excess alcohol consumption is devastating to health. And for some, one drink is too many.

7. Protect Your Prostate.
Around the age of 40, the prostate gland begins a growth spurt that results in symptoms such as frequent nighttime urination. The good news is that this condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, can be prevented or reversed by taking extracts of two herbs: saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) and pygeum (Pygeum africanum). Dozens of studies have shown that these herbs work in improving urinary flow without adverse side-effects. Suggested doses are 160 to 320 milligrams of saw palmetto and 40 to 80 mg of pygeum daily.

8. Reduce .
Your Risk of Prostate Cancer. Experts estimate that 80 per cent of all cancers can be prevented by making healthy lifestyle choices. Avoid saturated and trans fats, which may fuel prostate cancer growth, and incorporate protective foods, such as soy, green tea and tomatoes, into your diet. Soy contains isoflavones with specific anti-cancer activity. Green tea is rich in polyphenols that inhibit the formation of cancer-causing compounds and block the growth of prostate cancer cells. And tomatoes, particularly cooked tomato products, are an excellent source of lycopene, which is linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer. In addition, make sure your daily nutritional supplement contains high doses of the antioxidant selenium (200 micrograms) and vitamin E (800 IU), which have been shown to dramatically lower the risk of prostate cancer.

9. Maintain Vigorous Sexual Function.
Most cases of erectile dysfunction (impotence) have a physical cause: You’re just not getting enough blood to the area in question. To improve overall circulation, follow the diet, exercise and supplement recommendations above. If you’re taking drugs, review them with your doctor, as many can worsen erectile function and impair libido. Smoking also significantly impairs erectile function. Several herbs have been shown to improve sexual function. Ginkgo biloba increases blood flow to the penis, and Panax ginseng, oats, horny goat weed, maca and seroctin improve libido.

10. Maintain Close Relationships.
Another thing women seem to do better than men is maintain close relationships. Make a point to strengthen ties with your family and friends. Volunteer work, religious ties, even pets–anything that keeps you involved with others–reduces stress and enhances health.

Take charge of your health by incorporating these 10 steps into your life. The rewards of optimal health and well-being will be well worth your efforts.

Men’s Longevity "To Do" List

1.  Eliminate "white foods" from your diet.
2.  Stay away from dangerous trans fats.
3.  Take a daily vitamin-mineral supplement.
4.  Incorporate weight training in your exercise routine.
5.  Maintain your optimal weight.
6.  Drink alcohol only in moderation.
7.  Protect your prostate.
8.  Reduce your risk of prostate cancer.
9.  Maintain vigorous sexual function.
10. Maintain close relationships.

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CALM BREATHING - HEALTH BENEFITS

CALM BREATHING - HEALTH BENEFITS

What is “calm breathing”? 

Calm breathing (sometimes called “diaphragmatic breathing”) is a technique that helps you slow down your breathing when feeling stressed or anxious.  Newborn babies naturally breathe this way, and singers, wind instrument players, and yoga practitioners use this type of breathing.


Why is calm breathing important?  

Our breathing changes when we are feeling anxious. We tend to take short, quick, shallow breaths, or even hyperventilate; this is called “overbreathing”.

It is a good idea to learn techniques for managing “overbreathing”, because this type of breathing can actually make you feel even more anxious (e.g., due to a racing heart, dizziness, or headaches)!  

Calm breathing is a great portable tool that you can use whenever you are feeling anxious.

However, it does require some practice. 

Key point: Like other anxiety-management skills, the purpose of calm breathing is not to avoid anxiety at all costs, but just to take the edge off or help you “ride out” the feelings.

How to Do It  

Calm breathing involves taking smooth, slow, and regular breaths. Sitting upright is usually better than lying down or slouching, because it can increase the capacity of your lungs to fill with air. It is best to 'take the weight' off your shoulders by supporting your arms on the side-arms of a chair, or on your lap.

1.  Take a slow breath in through the nose, breathing into your lower belly (for about 4 seconds)
2.  Hold your breath for 1 or 2 seconds
3.  Exhale slowly through the mouth (for about 4 seconds)
4.  Wait a few seconds before taking another breath

About 6-8 breathing cycles per minute is often helpful to decrease anxiety, but find your own comfortable breathing rhythm. These cycles regulate the amount of oxygen you take in so that you do not experience the fainting, tingling, and giddy sensations that are sometimes associated with overbreathing.

Helpful Hints:

1. Make sure that you aren’t hyperventitating; it is important to pause for a few seconds after each breath.

2.  Try to breathe from your diaphragm or abdomen. Your shoulders and chest area should be fairly relaxed and still. If this is challenging at first, it can be helpful to first try this exercise by lying down on the floor with one hand on your heart, the other hand on your abdomen.  Watch the hand on your abdomen rise as you fill your lungs with air, expanding your chest. (The hand over your heart should barely move, if at all.)

Rules of practice: 

Try calm breathing for at least five minutes twice a day.

You do not need to be feeling anxious to practice - in fact, at first you should practice while feeling relatively calm. You need to be comfortable breathing this way when feeling calm, before you can feel comfortable doing it when anxious.  You’ll gradually master this skill and feel the benefits!

Once you are comfortable with this technique, you can start using it in situations that cause anxiety.

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Water for Health

Water for Health

http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:W.J.Pilsak

People are always being told to drink more water but a lot of us struggle to get through a set amount every day. Almost two thirds of our body is made up of water, so it is not surprising that when we don't drink enough are health and well being start to suffer. Government guidelines recommend that we should try and drink at least eight glasses a day and some nutritionists claim that a staggering 80% of us are walking around dehydrated! This lack of fluid could affect your health, your weight and even your job. 

Find out what the main benefits of water really are:

1. It helps with weight loss
Great news for anyone trying to lose a few pounds - water naturally reduces your appetite. A lot of people confuse feeling thirsty with feeling hungry so they eat when their body wants them to drink something. When you're dehydrated, fat cells become harder to break down and so anyone actually trying to diet will find it a lot harder if they don't drink very much.

2. It supports your heart
The hardest working muscle of all needs a lot of water to keep it going at full speed.  When you get dehydrated your blood gets thicker so the heart has to work even harder; if your heart is weak, this can lead to more serious heart problems later in life. A study by Eden found that drinking more than five glasses of water a day could cut your chances of having a heart attack by 41%, compared with people who drank less than two glasses a day.

3. It keeps you regular
If you suffer from constipation or piles you might have been told to increase how much fibre you eat. This is definitely one way of getting rid of the problem but you'll need to drink more water for the fibre to work properly. Otherwise it could have the opposite effect and make you worse.

4. It boosts your energy
In the same way that not drinking enough water makes your brain slow down it has the same effect on your body. For example, your muscles are around 75% water, your bones are about 22% and your blood is around 83%. If you are dehydrated, these body parts don't work as well as they should meaning you lack energy and feel tired or lazy.

5. It improves concentration
Because your brain is made of around 85% water if you get dehydrated it can affect your concentration and even your short-term memory. It has a particularly strong effect on your maths skills and it's all because lack of water causes your brain's energy levels to decrease.

6. It stops headaches and dizziness
Don't reach for the pills straight away; your headache could be a symptom of being dehydrated so drinking water could make it go away.  Even tension headaches and dizziness, which can be brought on by fatigue can be cured or eased by drinking water - this is because fatigue is also a sign of dehydration.

7. It fights infections
Drinking water can help fight infections all over your body, not only because it flushes out toxins but because when you're dehydrated you're more likely to catch a bug. It's especially good for getting rid of and preventing urine infections and kidney stones. Being well hydrated is also great for allergies and colds because it clears the airways.

8. It clears your skin
Most people know that drinking more water can be good for clear skin and it can also help the symptoms of acne. If you've got dry skin, drinking water will give it more moisture but that's not all. Water flushes toxins out of your body and anything else that shouldn't be there so it clears your skin of any dirt and bacteria.

9. It makes you exercise better
It's common sense to replace the fluids you lose when you sweat with water, but what might not be obvious is that your body works better and harder during your workout if you drink water.

10. Healthy individuals need approximately 10 to 15 cups of water each day. Water makes up a large percentage of the body’s systems and organs including the blood, muscles, brain, and bones. It is needed to regulate body temperature, to transport nutrients and oxygen to cells, to maintain proper lung function, to protect organs and joints, and to remove waste from the body. It is important to drink the recommended amount of water to keep the body healthy.

11. Help our eye health: Our cornea  is 80% water. Working long hours on the computer makes the eyes dry.

12. To prevent and treat Hypertension: hydration is crucial in treating it without using diuretics or medication.

13. To prevent and treat Depression: hydration helps the body naturally replenish its supply of the neurotransmitter serotonin.

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Exercise in Health and Disease

Exercise in Health and Disease

A world famous physical educationist, Eugene Sandow, has very aptly said, " Life is movement, stagnation is death. " Physical exercise is essential for the maintenance of normal condition of life. Lack of natural exercise is one of the chief causes of weakness and ill-health.

In recent years, the need for exercise has been recognised even in sickness. Physio and occupational therapy are now standard procedures in medicine to restore the use of muscles and nerves that have been injured by disease or by accident. Patients with organic ailments are now advised to stay in bed for the minimum period considered necessary.

Exercise and Activity
For corrective living, it is essential to differentiate between exercise and activity. While both are important as they are involved in vital physical movement, they vary in degree and benefits. Both employ the body in voluntary movement. Activity uses the body to a limited degree and generally to achieve a specific purpose. Exercise employs the body over the widest possible range of movement for the particular purpose of maintaining or acquiring muscle tone and control with maximum joint flexibility.

Activity requires less physical effort and often less conscious effort once the routine has been established. Exercise demands considerable physical effort and is more beneficial as mental concentration is simultaneously employed.

Benefits
Systematic physical exercise has many benefits. The more important benefits are mentioned below :
Regular exercise taken properly can achieve the increased use of food by the body, which contributes to health and fitness. The basal metabolic rate and habitual body temperature will slowly rise during several weeks of physical exercise, if the programme is not too hard. The healthy person usually has abundant body heat and a warm radiant glow.
i.  Regular progressive physical exercise can bring about the balance of automatic, or involuntary , nervous system. The tone of the vagus nerve, one of the nerves that control sensation and motion, is strengthened. This accounts for stronger pulse waves, higher metabolism and better circulation.
ii.  Exercise can prevent or reduce gravitational ptosis or sag, as it is commonly called. Ptosis results from uneven flow of blood in the feet, legs and lower abdomen.
iii. Improved capillary action in the working of muscular and brain tissue results from exercise carried to the point of real endurance. This permits greater blood flow and gives the muscles, including the heart, more resistance to fatigue. Massage, heat and moderate exercise are relatively ineffective in producing additional capillary action as compared with vigorous exercise.
iv.  The full use of the lungs in vigorous exercise can reduce or prevent lung congestion due to lymph accumulation.
v.  Gas and intra-intestinal accumulations can be reduced by exercise that acts to knead and squeeze or vibrate the intraintestinal mass.
vi.  Better respiratory reserve is developed by persistent exercise. This ensures better breath holding, especially after a standard exercise. With greater respiratory reserves, exercise become easier.
vii.  Improvement in tone and function of veins can be accomplished by repetitiously squeezing and draining the blood out of them and then allowing them to fill.Sweating in exercise aids kidneys by helping to eliminate the waste matter from the body.
ix.  Consistent exercise leads to improvement in quality of blood. Studies have shown improved haemoglobin levels, relatively greater alkalinity, improved total protein content and a grater red cell count.
x.  Systemic exercise promotes physical strength and mental vigour and strengthens will power and self control leading to harmonious development of the whole system.

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Top 10 Health Tips for Men

Top 10 Health Tips for Men

When it comes to health care, we men are like ostriches. We bury our heads in the sand. We are much less likely than women to visit our doctors regularly, take symptoms seriously and live a healthful lifestyle. Maybe that’s one reason why women have a seven-year average survival advantage on us!
Yet it’s obviously important that men of all ages become more proactive about their health. And an easy way to start is to follow these 10 basic steps to maintaining health and vitality.

1. Eliminate "White Foods" from Your Diet. White flour, white sugar and other processed foods are not only devoid of vitamins and minerals, but they’ve also been stripped of their natural fibre. As a result, they rapidly drive up blood sugar levels, which contributes to weight gain, diabetes and a host of other health problems. Avoid breads and baked goods made with white flour, sugar-laden sodas and snack foods. Instead, focus on eating fibre-rich fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.

2. Stay Away from Dangerous Trans Fats. While it’s important to reduce your overall fat intake, it’s even more important to watch the types of fat you eat. Deep-fried foods and anything made with hydrogenated oils (margarine, peanut butter, shortening, store-bought pastries and cookies) contain trans fats that raise your risk of heart disease. Eat only healthful fats, such as olive oil and the omega-3 oils found in salmon and other cold-water fish, which actually protect against heart disease.

3. Take a Potent Daily Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement. Although there is no substitute for a good diet, I am convinced that for optimal nutrition, you need to take a high-potency multivitamin and mineral supplement. Even if you are eating right, it’s unlikely that your food contains all the nutrients you need. Poor soil quality, storage, processing and cooking deplete our food of vitamins and minerals. Taking a high quality daily supplement is "health insurance" against possible deficiencies.

4. Include Weight Training in Your Exercise Routine. Aerobic exercise is great for cardiovascular conditioning, but it’s vastly inferior to weight training in attacking the "flab factor." Recent research has shown that as little as once-weekly resistance exercise can improve muscle strength. Even the busiest or laziest among us can find the time and energy for that. Join a gym, consult a personal trainer or ask an experienced friend to show you the ropes.

5. Maintain Your Optimal Weight. Current statistics suggest that half of us are losing the battle of the bulge, but maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for yourself. You’ll look better, feel better and reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and other major killers. I know this is easier said than done, but if you just follow the four steps above, you’ll be well on your way.

6. Drink Alcohol Only in Moderation. You’ve probably heard of the "French Paradox," and that drinking wine protects against heart disease. Repeated studies have shown that drinking moderate amounts of alcohol (all kinds) protects not only against heart disease, but also lowers risk of death from all causes. Remember that moderation is key. While one to two drinks a day are protective, excess alcohol consumption is devastating to health. And for some, one drink is too many.

7. Protect Your Prostate. Around the age of 40, the prostate gland begins a growth spurt that results in symptoms such as frequent nighttime urination. The good news is that this condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, can be prevented or reversed by taking extracts of two herbs: saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) and pygeum (Pygeum africanum). Dozens of studies have shown that these herbs work in improving urinary flow without adverse side-effects. Suggested doses are 160 to 320 milligrams of saw palmetto and 40 to 80 mg of pygeum daily.

8. Reduce .Your Risk of Prostate Cancer. Experts estimate that 80 per cent of all cancers can be prevented by making healthy lifestyle choices. Avoid saturated and trans fats, which may fuel prostate cancer growth, and incorporate protective foods, such as soy, green tea and tomatoes, into your diet. Soy contains isoflavones with specific anti-cancer activity. Green tea is rich in polyphenols that inhibit the formation of cancer-causing compounds and block the growth of prostate cancer cells. And tomatoes, particularly cooked tomato products, are an excellent source of lycopene, which is linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer. In addition, make sure your daily nutritional supplement contains high doses of the antioxidant selenium (200 micrograms) and vitamin E (800 IU), which have been shown to dramatically lower the risk of prostate cancer.

9. Maintain Vigorous Sexual Function. Most cases of erectile dysfunction (impotence) have a physical cause: You’re just not getting enough blood to the area in question. To improve overall circulation, follow the diet, exercise and supplement recommendations above. If you’re taking drugs, review them with your doctor, as many can worsen erectile function and impair libido. Smoking also significantly impairs erectile function. Several herbs have been shown to improve sexual function. Ginkgo biloba increases blood flow to the penis, and Panax ginseng, oats, horny goat weed, maca and seroctin improve libido.

10. Maintain Close Relationships. Another thing women seem to do better than men is maintain close relationships. Make a point to strengthen ties with your family and friends. Volunteer work, religious ties, even pets–anything that keeps you involved with others–reduces stress and enhances health.

Take charge of your health by incorporating these 10 steps into your life. The rewards of optimal health and well-being will be well worth your efforts.

Men’s Longevity "To Do" List

1.  Eliminate "white foods" from your diet.
2.  Stay away from dangerous trans fats.
3.  Take a daily vitamin-mineral supplement.
4.  Incorporate weight training in your exercise routine.
5.  Maintain your optimal weight.
6.  Drink alcohol only in moderation.
7.  Protect your prostate.
8.  Reduce your risk of prostate cancer.
9.  Maintain vigorous sexual function.
10. Maintain close relationships.

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Health benefits of Tulsi (Holy Basil)

Health benefits of Tulsi (Holy Basil)

Ocimum sanctum (Holy basil), called Tulsi in India, is ubiquitous in Hindu tradition. Perhaps its role as a healing herb was instrumental in its "sacred" implication.Ocimum sanctum(Tulsi) is perhaps the most common and most revered of all household plants in India.Tulsi is an erect sweet -scented pubescent herb, 30-100cm in height, growing in abundance near cultivated field gardens and waste lands. Its leaves, seeds ands whole plant is useful.

Krishna Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)
Rama Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum),
Vana Tulsi (Ocimum gratissimum) 
The two main morphotypes cultivated in India and Nepal are green-leaved (Sri or Lakshmi tulsi) and purple-leaved (Krishna tulsi).

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), known as”Queen of Herbs” is the most sacred herb of India. It has been revered in India for over 5000years, as a healing balm for body, mind and spirit, and is known to bestow an amazing number of health benefits. Commonly called sacred or holy basil, Tulsi is a principal herb of Ayurveda, the ancient traditional holistic health system of India. Although it is also known as Holy Basil, Tulsi is a different plant from the pesto variety of Basil (Ocimum basilicum).

Tulsi in Ayurveda
Ayurveda, in Sanskrit , means “knowledge of life”.Ayurveda specializes in natural herbal remedies designed to correct the imbalances in the body. Herbs lie at the very heart of Ayurvedic practice. Ayurvedic knowledge was born from the wisdom of the ancient rishis (sages and healers) and yogis (ascetics practicing yoga) of India, and was first passed on from healer to healer for untold generations before the earliest known texts were written around 5000 BC.

In the ancient ayurvedic texts, Tulsi holds the supreme place among the various medicinal herbs. Ayurveda went through a period of decline in India when the Western medical education became dominant during the era of the British rule. However, Ayurveda was recognised as an official form of medicine after India gained its independence in 1947. Today, Ayurveda has gained worldwide recognition.

Health benefits of Tulsi
Tulsi is renowned for its restorative powers and has several benefits:

Rich in antioxidants
Relieves stress
Bolsters immunity
Promotes a healthy metabolism and
Helps fight cough and colds

The unique chemistry of Tulsi is highly complex. Tulsi contains hundreds of beneficial compounds known as phytochemicals. Phyto-chemicals possess strong antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, adaptogenic and immune-enhancing properties that promote general health and support the body’s natural defence against stress and diseases.

Adaptogens
Adaptogens help the body adapt more efficiently to stress. Tulsi is one of the most effective adaptogens known to us,Tulsi can reduce the intensity and negative impact of the stress caused by mental tension, emotional difficulties, poor lifestyle habits, disease and infection, pollution and other factors.

Antioxidants
Antioxidants slow down the process of excess oxidation and protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. The cellular damage caused by free radicals can be responsible for causing and/or accelerating many diseases. Tulsi is rich in antioxidants and recommended for protection against excess oxidation.

Consumption of Tulsi
Tulsi can be consumed for good health either in the form of a capsule or as a herbal tea. Tulsi Tea can be prepared from fresh or dried leaves and served hot or cold. The three principal varieties of Tulsi, Rama, Krishna & Vana Tulsi have notably different aromas and flavours that may include hints of lemon, clove, anise and peppermint.

Tulsi can be prepared singly, as a blend of Tulsi varieties, or in combination with other herbs, spices, sweeteners, lemon or milk, for varying tastes and/or medicinal benefits. Naturalsweeteners may contribute to desirable effects of their own, unlike refined white sugar, which should be avoided.

International Recognition of Tulsi

“When I was first introduced to the sacred Tulsi, my first reaction, as a Western scientist, was disbelief. This herb sounds too good to be true. There seemed to be far more wide-ranging health benefits attributed to this plant than could be possible for a single agent. Yet, I realized that there must be a compelling reason why Tulsi has, for thousands of years, remained one of the most cherished of India’s sacred healing plants. Research offers impressive evidence that Tulsi’s vitality-enhancing properties, which support and enhance the body’s natural capacity to maintain a state of well-being, likely account for much of the impressively wide range of Tulsi’s traditional health-promoting uses.The industrialized West has, until very recently, tended to discard traditional nature-based, dietary and lifestyle approaches in favour of reliance on isolated compounds or synthetic drugs. However, the Western medical system has not been able to cope with the growing array of chronic, degenerative, environmental, lifestyle and stress-related physical and mental disorders that plague modern society. Tulsi is certain to emerge in the near future as a forerunner in the prevention and treatment of these pervasive modern illnesses.” – Dr. Ralph D. Miller, Former Director of Research, Canadian NationalDepartment of Health and Welfare.

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Health Benefits of Coconut

Health Benefits of Coconut

Coconut is a tropical fruit that is rich in protein. The meat of the coconut is very good in destroying intestinal parasites, that we get from eating infected food. Coconut water is good for kidney and urinary bladder problems.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm. 

• Vitamin A :  
• Vitamin B : Thiamine .10 mg.;  
• Riboflavin :  
• Niacin :  
• Vitamin C : 2 mg.  
• Calcium : 21 mg.  
• Iron : 2.0 mg.  
• Phosphorus : 98 mg.  
• Fat : 34.7 gm.  
• Carbohydrates : 14 gm.  
• Protein : 3.4 gm.  
• Calories : 359 

Health Benefits of Coconut
1. Prevents simple goiter (enlarged non-toxic thyroid) because of its organic iodine content.
2. Good body builder, so it is a food recommended for building up the body muscles of thin and emaciated individuals.
3. Constipation and for any build-up of gas in the stomach and intestinal tract.
4. Coconut milk has been found to help cases of sore throat as well as relieving stomach ulcers.
5. Coconut oil has been found to heal cuts, scratches, burns and sunburns.
6. The oil has also been recommended for facial massage and is reported to be good as a wrinkle remover.
7. Coconut oil is also good for the scalp and hair and makes hair dressing unnecessary.
8. Intake of at least 2 Tbsp. of Virgin coconut oil per day can lessen your Vitamin E requirement.
9. Coconut water is good for kidney and urinary bladder problems.

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Health Benefits of Cabbage

Health Benefits of Cabbage

Cabbage belongs to the Cruciferae family along with kale, broccoli, collards and Brussels sprouts.  It is thought that a group of Celtic wanderers brought the original wild cabbage to Europe in 600 B.C.  Ancient Romans and Greeks believed it could cure a wide variety of ailments.   Cabbage structurally consists of clusters of stiff leaves superimposed one over the other in compact layers, giving it a round or globular shape. Several varieties are cultivated worldwide including green, purple, red, and savoy (loose-wrinkled leaves). 

Nutritive Values of Cabbage : Per 100 gm. 
Vitamin A : 80 I.U. 
Vitamin c : 50 mg. 
Calcium : 46 mg. 
Phosphorus : 31 mg. 
Potassium : 140 mg. 
Carbohydrates : 5.3 gm. 
Protein : 1.4 gm. 
Calories : 24 

Health Benefits of Cabbage : 
1. Cabbage contain phytonutrients, works to protect the body from free radicals that can damage the cell membranes. Phytonutrients also signal our genes to increase its production of enzymes involved in detoxification.
2. Cabbage may lower the incidence of cancer, especially in the lung, stomach and colon prostate.
3. Cabbage is a muscle builder, blood cleanser and eye strengthener.
4. The juice of fresh raw cabbage has been proven to heal stomach ulcer.
5. Cabbage is rich in iron and sulfur.
6. Juice of fresh cabbage is effective in treating fungus infection(due to it sulfur content).
7. Cabbage can lower serum cholesterol.
8. Cabbage contain Sulforaphane, a substance that can increase the production of antioxidant and detoxification enzymes. Sulforaphane works by stimulating the production of glutathione, the body's most important internally produced antioxidant which plays a role in liver detoxification.
9. Red Cabbage has more phytonutrients than the green cabbage. The vitamin C content of red cabbage is 6-8 times higher than that of the green cabbage.
10. Red cabbage contain anthocyanin (red pigment/color) is an antioxidant that can help protect brain cells, thus can help prevent Alzheimer's disease.
11. An excellent source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K.
A good source of Vitamin A (includes red, purple and savoy varieties).
A good source of folate (includes savoy and Chinese varieties).

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Health Benefits of Soybean

Health Benefits of Soybean

Soybeans contains carbohydrate, fat, protein, vitamins, minerals like calcium, folic acid and iron. The protein in soybean has all the essential amino acids that is adequate for human health.

Nutritive Value of Soybean : Per 100 gm. 

• Vitamin A : 110 I.U.  
• Vitamin B : Thiamine 1.07 mg.;  
• Niacin : 2.3 mg.  
• Vitamin C : Trace  
• Calcium : Trace  
• Iron : 8.0 mg.  
• Phosphorus : 586 mg.  
• Potassium : 540 mg.  
• Fat : 18.1 gm.  
• Carbohydrates : 34.8 gm.  
• Protein : 34.0 gm.  
• Calories : 331 

Health Benefits of Soybean 
1. Soybean is an excellent food for diabetes.

2. It is easily digested and is one of the most nourishing and body building foods in the world.

3. It is especially good for growing children to aid growth and development.

4. Soybean has high lecithin content and is therefore excellent for mental fatigue and for protection against cholesterol deposits.

5. It has been claimed that lecithin lowers blood cholesterol thru emulsification of fats and is valuable against the development and hardening of the arteries and all the complications of the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes that follow.

6. Lecithin is a brain food, a tonic and energizer.

7. It has been reported that diabetic patients were successfully treated with lecithin.

8. It has also been reported that lecithin is effective in treating psoriasis.

9. Prevents gall stones, when adequate lecithin is included in the diet.

10. Liquid lecithin application helps heal bed sores and persistent diaper rash.It is also reported to prevent pellagra, the disease marked by disturbances of the stomach and intestines, skin eruptions and many nervous symptoms such as melancholia.

11. Because of the high content of linoleic and linolenic acids (unsaturated fatty acids), this food is conducive to a healthy skin and corrects many cases of eczema.

12. The pure pressed oil is used for skin conditions, as it contain the natural and lecithin. Soybeans have about twenty times more alkali than milk.

13. Lecithin has the ability to increase the gamma globulin content of the blood . The gamma globulins are known to be associated with the natures protective force against the attack of various infections in the body, thus increasing immunity.

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BASIL- Health Benefits

BASIL- Health Benefits

Basil, or Sweet Basil, is a common name for the culinary herb Ocimum basilicum , of the family Lamiaceae (mints), sometimes known as Saint Joseph's Wort in some English-speaking countries. The herb Basil is used in cooking universally, and also for medicinal purposes. It’s a great herb and everyone should consider using it in their diet. 

Jews believe (an enduring belief) that eating basil provides  strength when fasting. It is used as tonic for the skin, a treatment for all kinds of colds, bronchitis, and coughs. It is used to treat gas attacks, flu, gout, muscle aches, rheumatism, insect bites, and sinusitis. An infusion of the green herb in boiling water is good for all obstructions of the internal organs, arrests vomiting and nausea. It is often used as an insect repellent. 

In West Africa it is used to reduce fevers and the Japanese use it as a cold remedy. As basil is both aromatic and carminative, it is used for mild nervous disorders and even for the alleviation of fibromyalgia(wandering body pains). It is said, the dried leaves used as a snuff, can cure nervous headaches. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, a variety of Indian basil has been used to treat many common ailments, and naturopathic physicians may prescribe it in the treatment of diabetes, respiratory disorders, impotence, allergies and infertility. 

Basil is also known to have extremely powerful antioxidant properties, especially when it is used in the  form of an extract or oil. The natural antioxidants found in basil can protect the body against damage from free radicals, thereby preventing cellular ageing, common skin ailments, and even most forms of cancer. Antioxidants are an important part of maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, and basil may be a safe and effective source of these potent, life-giving compounds. 

Basil is not only a herb that does you good, it also tastes good, so make sure you get plenty in your diet.

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Health, Beauty, & First Aid Tips

Health, Beauty, & First Aid Tips

1. Use coffee filters to clean eyeglasses. They will not scratch.
2. To keep eyeglasses from slipping, dab a little deodorant on the bridge of your nose.
3. Make your own antacid with 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in a glass of water.
4. To make rough skin soft, use the white of an egg. Just rub a little into the skin at bedtime and wash off in the morning.
5. Make your skin silky soft by adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bath water.
6. Make your own facial with equal amounts of milk and honey, along with enough cornstarch to make a paste. Apply to your face for 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
7. Highlight brown or red hair by rinsing with coffee.
8. Prevent split ends by treating hair with 1 tablespoon of honey and 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Warm the mixture and rub into hair. Soak a towel in hot water, wring it out and wrap hair for 20 minutes. Shampoo and rinse.
9. Remove paint from your hair with a small amount of baby oil, then wash as usual.
10.Make your own bubble bath with 2 cups of corn oil, 3 tablespoons of shampoo and a small amount of perfume. Mix in a blender at high speed.
11. Soothe those tired, aching feet with a foot soak made from 3 tablespoons of baking soda in a basin of warm water.
12. Use vegetable oil to soften skin before removing a splinter.
13. Use corn oil to remove oil-based paint from your skin.
14. Apply a small amount of white glue over a splinter wound. Let it dry, then remove it. The splinter should stick to the glue.
15. Ease the pain of a grease burn with vanilla extract.
16. To ease the pain of a burn, apply the white of an egg to the affected area. The egg white acts as a cooling gel and will "set" over the burn, until you can get medical attention.
17. Use a small amount of toothpaste to relieve the itch of a mosquito bite.
18. Use toothpaste to remove stubborn smells like onion or fish from your hands.
19. Joggers can prevent chafing of the inner thighs and upper arms by slathering them in petroleum jelly.
20. To stop the pain of a bee sting, cover the sting with a paste made from 1/4 teaspoon meat tenderizer and enough water (1 - 2 teaspoons) to make a paste.
21. Relieve the itch of insect bites with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Apply to the affected area and let dry.
22. To ease the pain of a sunburn, make a paste with cornstarch and water and apply to the affected area.
23. To ease the removal of an adhesive bandage, use a hair dryer on a low to medium setting to soften the adhesive.
24. Add 1/8 teaspoon of dried ginger to a cup of hot water for a soothing drink to settle an upset stomach.
25. To ease the discomfort of a cough due to a cold, dissolve 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a 6-8 ounce glass of warm water and sip.
26. For a quick and effective heat or ice pack, fill an old sock with uncooked rice. Secure the end and place the sock in the freezer or microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. If you heat it be sure to allow it to cool before applying to the skin.

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