DIABETES CARE DURING COVID-19
Take it as a tea. Place a bunch of leaves in a pot of boiling water. Allow to steep for 10 minutes then drink to relax
Every food enthusiast knows that the use of herbs and spices can bring life to any favorite dish. Past pleasing the palate, it is also gratifying to know that there are indeed helpful, natural ingredients that can improve your health.
Yes, you can bring life to your chosen meal but also possibly extend your own life as well. Here are your helpers:
Holy Basil ---- A sacred herb in India, this is a unique plant that has more health benefits than the regular basil. It has anti-bacterial/yeast/mold properties. It can improve the immune function and treat anxiety. While more studies need to be made, suffice it to say that it is widely used as an Ayurvedic therapy.
Basil ---- Regular basil is a good source of vitamin A and magnesium which promotes blood circulation and healthy eyesight. It contains eugenol from its leaves which is anti-inflammatory. Take it as a tea. Place a bunch of leaves in a pot of boiling water. Allow to steep for 10 minutes then drink to relax.
As a topical treatment, oil from crushed leaves are used to address acne and minor burns. Ginger ---- This popular spice can address nausea, morning sickness, and sea sickness. With strong antiinflammatory properties, it is used by cancer patients for pain management and osteoarthritis patients for relief from joint stiffness. Rosemary ---- This herb contains rosmarinic acid which suppresses nasal congestion and allergies. So before you rub rosemary on chicken, set aside a bunch for your tea preparation. Garlic — The allicin in garlic (responsible for its distinct fragrance) has medicinal properties. Supplementing with garlic oil capsules is well known for fighting the common cold. There is some evidence that it has beneficial effects on heart health, while addressing high cholesterol problems. The wonders of garlic are numerous. Just by adding more garlic to your regular diet and food preparation can only benefit you. Cayenne Pepper ---- Capsaicin in chili pepper is the active ingredient which can reduce appetite and increase fat-burning in the body. There are also animal studies which found that capsaicin may combat certain cancers like liver, lung and prostate (Source: www.healthline.com).
Turmeric ---- Considered a star in Ayurveda, it contains curcumin with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that it may also benefit brain function and heart disease. Turmeric is renowned for its incredible medicinal qualities.
The next time you eat curry, remember that it’s the yellow color which provides the curcumin. Thus, with every spoonful of curry sauce comes with it a boost to your good health.
Peppermint ---- Renowned in the world of aromatherapy, its oil can improve pain management and nausea. This herb is a sleeping aid. It also improves digestion and combats bad breath. Good news to weight watchers, peppermint helps in weight loss.
Plant some peppermint in your garden. Make sure you have it on hand as your health helper.
Cilantro ---- For a great salt substitute, use cilantro. Rich in vitamin A and K plus minerals like lutein, potassium, zeaxanthin, choline and beta-carotene, this herb packs a punch of goodness. Surprising health benefits include: may lower blood sugar, may boost the heart, and improve digestion. Apart from giving food a tangy, nutty flavor, cilantro can be made into an infusion, too. Cinnamon ---- This aromatic spice is used in a variety of cuisines and used in preparing breakfast, dessert, and traditional dishes. Considered as one of the spices in the world that is richest in anti-oxidants, cinnamon is something you should have readily available. It may lower blood sugar levels and improve brain and heart health.
In summary: Herbs and spices could play a vital supportive role in ensuring good health. However, if you have an existing health condition, always consult your physician before adding them to your diet.
This week’s affirmation: “I am worthy of happiness and success.” Love and light! Follow me on Instagram and Facebook and Everyday Wellness with Cory Quirino and on YouTube Wellness with Cory Quirino.