COCONUT; THE TREE OF LIFE

COCONUT TREE WITH FRUITS

                The coconut tree has been called the "Tree of Life" for its uncanny (nearly miraculous) healing properties and usefulness. A study of the coconut tree reveals an almost supernatural evolution to become one of the most useful species of plant life known to man. The scientific name for coconut is Cocos nucifera. Early Spanish explorers called it coco, which means "monkey face" because the three indentations (eyes) on the hairy nut resembles the head and face of a monkey. Nucifera means "nut-bearing."

COCONUT FRUIT

             Naturally, the taste and flavour of coconut water will vary according to saline content in the soil, distance from the seashore, mainland, among other factors. Coconut water is rich in vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, enzymes, amino acids and cytokine. This water is now popular all over the world for its refreshing nutty taste as well as its health benefits. The coconut provides a nutritious source of meat, juice, milk, and oil that has fed and nourished populations around the world for generations.

       Coconut oil is of special interest because its healing properties far beyond that of any other dietary oil and is extensively used in traditional medicine among Asian and Pacific populations. they consider the oil to be the cure for all illness.Coconut oil has been described as "the healthiest oil on earth." the fat in coconut oil is a unique and different from most all other fats and possesses many health giving properties. It is now gaining long overdue recognition as a nutritious health food. Surprisingly, coconut water is more nutritious than whole milk. It is crammed with natural sugars, salts, and vitamins to block out fatigue. Drinking coconut water straight from a green tender coconut in the summer heat is simply divine. Not only is it refreshing, it also has a number of health benefits. Most importantly, coconut water contains less sodium than any other energy drink.

         Modern medical science is now confirming the use of coconut in treating many of the above conditions. Published studies in medical journals show that coconut, in one form or another, may provide a wide range of health benefits. Some of these are summarized below.

• Kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other illnesses.





COCONUT TRESS

• Kills fungi and yeasts that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete's foot, thrush, diaper rash, and other infections. 
• Expels or kills tapeworms, lice, giardia, and other parasites. 
• Provides a nutritional source of quick energy. 
• Boosts energy and endurance, enhancing physical and athletic performance. 
• Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. 
• Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose. 
• Relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body. 
• Reduces symptoms associated with pancreatitis. 
• Helps relieve symptoms and reduce health risks associated with diabetes. 
• Reduces problems associated with malabsorption syndrome and cystic fibrosis. 
• Improves calcium and magnesium absorption and supports the development of strong bones and teeth. 
• Helps protect against osteoporosis. 
• Helps relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder disease. 
• Relieves symptoms associated with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers. 
• Improves digestion and bowel function. 
• Relieves pain and irritation caused by hemorrhoids. 
• Reduces inflammation. 
• Supports tissue healing and repair. 
• Supports and aids immune system function. 
• Helps protect the body from breast, colon, and other cancers. 
• Is heart healthy; improves cholesterol ratio reducing risk of heart disease. 
• Protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis and thus protects against heart disease. 
• Helps prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay. 
• Functions as a protective antioxidant. 
• Helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease. 
• Does not deplete the body's antioxidant reserves like other oils do. 
• Improves utilization of essential fatty acids and protects them from oxidation. 
• Helps relieve symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. 
• Relieves symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement). 
• Reduces epileptic seizures. 
• Helps protect against kidney disease and bladder infections. 
• Dissolves kidney stones. 
• Helps prevent liver disease. 
• Is lower in calories than all other fats. 
• Supports thyroid function. 
• Promotes loss of excess weight by increasing metabolic rate. 
• Is utilized by the body to produce energy in preference to being stored as body fat like other dietary fats. 
• Helps prevent obesity and overweight problems. 
• Applied topically helps to form a chemical barrier on the skin to ward of infection
• Reduces symptoms associated the psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. 
• Supports the natural chemical balance of the skin. 
• Softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking. 
• Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots. 
• Promotes healthy looking hair and complexion. 
• Provides protection from damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. 
• Helps control dandruff. 
• Does not form harmful by-products when heated to normal cooking temperature like other vegetable oils do. 
• Has no harmful or discomforting side effects. 
• Is completely non-toxic to humans. 

            Coconut milk obtained from the meat should not be confused with coconut water. Coconut milk is obtained by grating and grinding this 'meat' and passing it through a sieve. It is very high in fat content - a cup of coconut milk has 550 calories, whereas coconut water has only 50 calories a cup.

ENJOYING THE DRINK ON A SUNNY DAY.

resources
https://www.coconutsecret.com/coconuthealthsecrets2.html

http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/.

http://authoritynutrition.com/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coconut-oil/

Natural Healing with Herbs for a Healthier You

MORINGA (OLEIFERA ) - THE MIRACLE TREE.

moringa tree - picture by elisheba

               Moringa also known as the Miracle Tree is a multipurpose plant, as the leaves, pods, fruits, flowers, roots and bark of the tree can be utilized.
What is particularly unique about Moringa is the fact that every part of the plant, including its bark, leaves, flowers, and roots serves a unique purpose in promoting human health.There are about 13 species of moringa trees in the
family Moringaceae. They are native to India, the
Red Sea area and parts of Africa.

            While it’s one of the newer discoveries to modern science, Moringa has been making strides in various societies for thousands of years. Moringa continues to amaze the scientific world with its amazing balance of antioxidants, minerals and amino acids.
Plants are continually being subjected to intensive research and development programs because the various constituents of the Moringa are known to have, among other properties, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, anti-tumor, and anti-aging activities.Ancient Indian writings, dating as far back as 150 B.C., refer to the Moringa plant and its uses. Early Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians prized Moringa for its therapeutic properties and also used it to protect skin, make perfume, and purify water for drinking.

brief diagram

Extensive nutrient concentrations

Moringa leaves contain different types of nutrients, including four times more calcium than milk, four times more potassium than bananas, four times more vitamin A than carrots, 50 times more vitamin B3 than peanuts, 36 times more magnesium than eggs, and 25 times more iron than spinach. It also includes high amounts of additional nutrients such as dietary fiber, iodine, lutein, zinc, selenium, zeatin and beta-carotene.


Here are  some of the benefits of moringa;

1. 
   
2. Promotes metabolism with bio-available ingredients 
3. Moringa leaf boosts your energy in a natural manner; This energy promotion does not happen because of sugar, so it is lasts for a long time. 
4. Increases the Natural Defenses of the body 
5. Provides nourishment to the eyes and the brain 
6. Nourishes the skin - Due to their trace mineral content, dried and powdered moringa leaves are great for nourishing the skin. 
7. Promotes the Cell structure of the body 
8. Lowers the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines 
9. Promotes healthy circulatory system
10. Individuals ingesting it say that their ulcers are healed, tumors restricted, there are reduction in the arthritis pains and inflammations, controlled blood pressure, the skin problems are restored, and finally they have stronger defenses against diseases. 
11. Supports the normal sugar levels of the body.

Another property of the Moringa leaf is its soothing ability, because of which it can lower the blood pressure and promotes good sleep. It can also purify water since it has a detoxifying effect. Also a coagulant agent, Moringa can attach itself to hazardous bacteria and other materials, a process that is surmised to occur in the body too. The happy outcome is more sustained energy without any over-activity, balanced hormone and gland system, controlled blood pressure, and a rested nervous system.

The flowers can be eaten or used to make a tea. In Haiti, tea from the flowers is
drunk for colds. The flowers provide good amounts of calcium and potassium.
Moringa is an extremely fast-growing tree. It can reach up to 4 m (15 ft) in a year, reaching an eventual
height of 6-15 m (20-50 ft).
The moringa tree prefers well-drained sandy or loam soil. It will tolerate a clay soil but not water
logging areas.
Learnmore:http://www.naturalnews.com/042435_moringa_oleifera_health_benefits_herbal_medicine.html##ixzz2kTZtT0kN

Natural Healing with Herbs for a Healthier You

AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF GARLIC

              Garlic (Allium sativum), is an herb used widely as a flavouring in cooking, has also been used as a medicine throughout ancient and modern history to prevent and treat a wide range of conditions and diseases.
Garlic belongs to the onion genus Allium, and is closely related to the onion, chive, leek, and shallot. It has been used by humans for thousands of years and was used in Ancient Egypt for both culinary purposes and its therapeutic benefits.

               This information article provides a brief history of garlic being used in food and medicine and also highlights its potential therapeutic properties.
Garlic has been used all over the world for thousands of years. Records indicate that garlic was in use when the Giza pyramids were built, about five thousand years ago.
Richard S. Rivlin wrote in the Journal of Nutrition that the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates  (circa. 460-370 BC), known today as "the father of Western medicine", prescribed garlic for a wide range of conditions and illnesses. Hippocrates promoted the use of garlic for treating respiratory problems, parasites, poor digestion and fatigue.


The original Olympic athletes in Ancient Greece were given garlic - possibly the earliest example of "performance enhancing" agents used in sports.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF DANDELION

                     Dandelions have a very long history of use by humans, far back into prehistory. Traditionally they have been used by many cultures throughout Europe, North America, Asia, North Africa and West Africa. It is scientifically known as Taraxacum officinal, meaning “the official remedy for disorders”

dandelions can grow up to 45 cms in height

 It is a very hardy plant, it grows vigorously everywhere in the fields, lawns and meadows. It features long stout taproots from which long-jagged dark-green leaves rise directly from the ground surface in radiating fashion. The fully-grown plant reaches about 45 cms in height. Fresh dandelion greens have a mild, pleasant, slightly bitter flavor.

                     Revered since earlier times, Dandelion herb is one of the most sought-after herbs to enliven our daily meals. Almost all the parts of the plant, leaves, flower tops, and root, are being used either for culinary purpose or as a curative remedy for certain medical conditions. Dandelion, which literally translates into “lion’s tooth” in French, is rich in vitamin-A, C, iron and calcium and detoxifiers which explains its common inclusion in medicines. The health benefits of dandelion includes relief from liver disorders, diabetes, urinary disorders, acne, jaundice, cancer and anemia. It also helps in maintaining bone health, skin care and is a benefit to weight loss programs. These and other health benefits are currently being studied for complete validation by a number of international institutions.

Below, we will discuss the different things that dandelion can do for us, besides decorating our gardens.

                      Fresh dandelion greens, flower tops, and roots contain valuable constituents that are known to have anti-oxidant, disease preventing, and health promoting properties.

the leaves of dandelion

•  Bone Health: Dandelions are rich in calcium which is essential for the growth and strength of bones, and they are rich in antioxidants like vitamin-C and Luteolin, which protect bones from age-related damage. 
•  Liver Disorders: Dandelions aid in maintaining the proper flow of bile, while also stimulating the liver and promoting digestion. Proper digestion can reduce the chances of constipation, which in turn reduces the risk of more serious gastrointestinal issues.
•  Diabetes: Dandelion juice can help diabetic patients by stimulating the production of insulin from the pancreas, thereby keeping the blood sugar level low. Since dandelions are diuretic in nature, they increase urination in diabetic patients, which helps remove the excess sugar from the body. 
•  Acne: Dandelion juice is a good detoxifier, diuretic, stimulant and antioxidant. These four properties make it a great treatment for acne.
• Cancer: Dandelions are high in antioxidants, such as vitamin-C and Luteolin, which reduce the free radicals (major cancer-causing agents) in the body, thereby reducing the risk of cancer. It also detoxifies the body, which further helps protect from the development of tumors and various cancers.
•  Cleanse your system, dissolve kidney stones, and otherwise improve gastro-intestinal health
• Lowers your serum cholesterol by as much as half.
• Improves your bowel function, working equally well to relieve both constipation and diarrhoea   
• Other Benefits: Dandelions can also be used as a vegetable and is a good source of fiber. It promotes digestion, and in the past, it was used to treat scurvy, because of its high levels of vitamin-C. It also has healing effects on dyspepsia, infections in the stomach, intestines and urinary system.
  
                    Dandelions can grow almost everywhere. All it needs is a good soil with plenty of sunlight  each day and water during the dry and winter seasons. The saying "fresh is always best" is true hence, having your own dandelion garden is one of the best decisions to make.
  
  
  
  sources;http://www.leaflady.org/health_benefits_of_dandelions.htm

  learn more; http://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/d/dandel08.html

  
  
  

        
  
  
  Natural Healing with Herbs for a Healthier You
  
  

                    

ALOE VERA: THE PLANT WITH MIRACULOUS HEALING POWERS

                Aloe Vera is described as a wonder plant by many because it has been used as a healing agent for centuries. As far back as the days of ancient Egypt, aloe vera was prescribed as "the plant of immortality" and has been used to heal a variety of skin conditions, to heal wounds, and as a laxative when consumed
internally. Even the FDA approves Aloe Vera as a food additive.

aloe vera plant

               Here is a brief introduction of the aloe vera plant. Aloe vera is a very succulent plant species that is stemless or has a very short stem plant growing to about 60–100 cm (24–39 in) tall, spreading by offsets. These lush plants are called succulents because their thick, juicy flesh holds so much water. The leaves are thick and fleshy green to grey-green, with some varieties showing white flecks on their upper and lower stem surfaces. The bulk of the Aloe vera leaf is filled with a clear gel-like substance, which is approximately 99% water, and that is what gives it its healing powers. Aloe vera contains over 200 active components including vitamins like A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C and E, Folic Acid and Niacin., it has minerals like copper, iron, sodium, calcium, zinc, potassium, chromium, magnesium, manganese. as well as amino acids, enzymes, polysaccharides, and fatty acids- no wonder it’s used for such a wide range of remedies.

                  All these nutrients have tremendous health benefits when used externally and internally. One of the best kept secrets in the nutritional field is the aloe vera. It is commonly recognized for soothing ulcers, hemorrhoids, sunburns, wounds and many other skin ailments. Many don't know the power pure raw aloe vera juice has for improving and even reversing serious diseases that baffle mainstream medicine. Serious diseases like cancers, AIDS, heart attack, diabetics, Asthma, kidney stones and others can be greatly reversed using the juice from the aloe vera. the juice can be used to battle weight issues as well as been used as tooth paste, and it works better than most of the commercial tooth paste. The juice is also known for slowing down the aging process.

•  FOR HEART ATTACKS- you must start eating Aloe Vera. Regular consumption of Aloe Vera stops blood cells from clumping together, which is one of the main reasons behind strokes. When the flow of blood is proper, oxygen and nutrients can reach every last organ and cell in your body. Good amount of oxygen reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure.
• FOR USE AS SKIN CARE- By applying fresh Aloe Vera gel on your face you can enjoy well moisturized, glowing and flawless skin. it soothes, hydrates, nourishes and accelerates the regeneration of new skin tissue.
• FOR ACNE- The anti-inflammatory properties present in aloe vera help to get rid of acne and pimples when the gel is applied on the affected skin are twice daily
• FOR WEIGHT CONTROL-  Drinking aloe vera juice naturally allows the body to cleanse the digestive system. When consumed regularly, aloe vera juice also allows energy levels to increase and helps in maintaining a healthy body weight. 
• FOR MOUTH AND GUM DISEASES-  Aloe vera is extremely helpful for your mouth and gums due to its natural anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. just put some juice on your toothbrush, brush teeth with it and within few minutes you will feel much better. Regular consumption of Aloe Vera juice also helps in  promoting strong and healthy teeth.
• FOR DIABETES- Aloe vera juice can lower blood sugar levels in people by stabilizing blood sugar level and reducing triglycerides. For better result those who are diabetic must take Aloe Vera juice regularly for three months in order to experience a significant drop in fasting blood sugar levels.
• FOR STRENGTHENING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM - the regular use of the Aloe Vera juice has an extraordinary effect on strengthening of the immune system and also, it improves the general psycho-physical state of the body.
• FOR OTHER INTERNAL USES- drink the juice of aloe vera regularly to help indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux, bloating, flatulence, peptic ulcers and constipation.
• FOR EXTERNAL USES- rub the juice to relieve itching from allergies and rashes; soothe burns, poisoning, and blisters. 
  
           Many people are trying to sell aloe vera juice products but "fresh is always best". Aloe vera plants can grow anywhere, because it is easy to take care of. All it requires is plenty of sunlight each day, along with a little water during the dry and winter seasons.
  Enjoy the many benefits that Aloe Vera has to offer.
  
  
  Learn more at;  http://www.aloeveraplant.org/uses-aloevera-plants.php
  Sources; http://sacredsourcenutrition.com/top-12-benefits-of-aloe-vera
  
  

Natural Healing with Herbs for a Healthier You

These lush plants are called "succulents" because their thick, juicy flesh holds so much sap. Most aloe speci
Read more at http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/plants/news-aloe-vera-international-plant-healing#WXclo660It3K76FE.99

These lush plants are called "succulents" because their thick, juicy flesh holds so much sap.
Read more at http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/plants/news-aloe-vera-international-plant-healing#WXclo660It3K76FE.99

These lush plants are called "succulents" because their thick, juicy flesh holds so much sap.
Read more at http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/plants/news-aloe-vera-international-plant-healing#WXclo660It3K76FE.99

              Change of diet in our modern world has brought us lots of harm than good. In recent years, our eating habits has caused a lot of health problems. In ages past, men lived longer and healthier solely on organic or natural foods. As the ages went by, urbanization caused men to invent other means of obtaining food to satisfy the growing population, hence a lot of chemical and inorganic ways of growing food.

vegetables on display

           

                 Of late, people all over the world are seeking ways to healthier, longer lives hence their mind reversed to the ages past, how men managed to live that long, and the solution found was on their diet which comprise of natural foods and plants. Thus the term natural foods is being advocated everywhere.
The term 'natural' is thrown around these days. From food labels on drinks to cereals have all been labelled as natural, but legally food labelled as natural does not contain any artificial ingredients, coloring ingredients or chemicals, preservatives, and in some case of meat and poultry, is minimally processed. 

Simply, we can say that natural foods is food that is free of additives, chemicals or genetic manipulation.

                 From this definition we can conclude that most of our foods that have been labelled natural, are far from it. They have some forms of chemicals which when taken into the body over time, gradually deteriorates man's health and shorten man's life.

fruits on display- sheba

            We have all heard about the phrase 'beauty inside and out' and our nutrition is the greatest contributing factor. Poor nutrition can lead to everything from weight struggles, diseases, premature ageing, and depression. Our regular choice of diet reflects on our body image and stature, hence the phrase 'we are what we eat'.

Many solutions to our ill health, dull wrinkled skin, premature ageing and others can be greatly reversed with better choice of food and nutrition.

                  My interest for this topic is to bring to light many natural and organic foods that can improve our health. It is also to enlighten and educate individuals and families on the powerful healing properties of some of these foods and plants. Foods and plants like Aloe Vera, Dandelion, Moringa, Garlic, Lemon, Avocado Pear, Potato, Coconut and others will be explored on my next post, so stay tuned in.

Natural Healing with Herbs for a Healthier You