Tag: herbs

10 facts: All about rooibos tea ☕️

by drjurisharma, posted in antioxidant, Antioxidant,anti inflammatory, immune boosting, anti cancer, Blog, Blood sugar levels, diabetes, exercise insulin levels, insulin sensitivity, body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, brain, Brain, nervous system, gastrointestinal disease, autism, cancer, cognitive health, Cortisol, stressful, stress, sleep, sleep deprivation, anxiety, depression, wakefulness, hormones, melatonin, emotional health, hair, healing, health, Heart disease, life, Nature,, Obesity, weight loss, Rooibos, herbal tea, green tea, antioxidants, caffeine free, tannin, anti inflammatory, mineral supplements, bone health, skin health, sleep, weight loss, exercise, wellness, Science, self healing, Skin, hair, wellness

1. Rooibos, a caffeine-free, colourful tea produced from Aspalathus lineriaris, originated in South Africa and has been used for centuries in both fermented and unfermented forms. In recent times, this tea has attracted ample research studies for its nutritive profile of phenylphenols, flavones, flavonoid and several minerals. Because of its rich nutrients, this tea is known for its immune-boosting properties and has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It has plenty of phytochemical, which can prove to be very beneficial for humans and prevent chronic and lifestyle diseases. Therefore, this tea has been very popular worldwide.

2. Rooibos is a caffeine-free herbal infusion tea that contains very low levels of tannins. Thanks to its flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant properties, rooibos tea helps prevent the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). By neutralizing and reducing ROS, rooibos can potentially help prevent chronic and lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. Additionally, rooibos is effective in converting harmful ROS into less damaging hydroxyl radicals. Due to these findings from animal studies, rooibos has become a popular herbal tea and dietary supplement.

3. Rooibos tea is native to South Africa, grown originally in the mountains of Cederberg. But due to its popularity, it has been successfully grown worldwide. It is made from the bush of Aspalathus lineriasis. The loose leaves of the plant have the strongest flavour and the highest health benefits.

Though there are different varieties of rooibos, as already mentioned, loose leaves are most popular. Its taste is a little similar to green tea, with a strong nutty and sweet flavour and a pleasant aroma. Since studies have shown its amazing health benefits, and being caffeine -free, it can be taken 3-4 times daily, both day and night for overall wellness.

4. It has a potent list of amazing health benefits, namely :

• It has potent antioxidant properties which prevent oxidative stress and reduce cell-damaging radicals.

• Heart-friendly, as it can lower blood pressure by blocking ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme). It also reduces cholesterol levels.

• It balances blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.

• It aids metabolism, and its anti-inflammatory effects help in reducing stomach cramps and bloating.

• It reduces skin irritation, prevent acne as rooibos contain Alpha -hydroxy acid and Zinc.

• Rooibos helps in strengthening bones as it is packed with minerals.

• It is a sleep aid due to its relaxing and soothing effects.

• It aids in weight loss.

5. Digestive health: Rooibos is rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids and minerals, because of which it strongly supports gut health. It has a calming and gentle effect on the stomach. Among the many benefits for digestion, the important effects are :

• Relieves cramps and stomach pain due to its natural anti-spasmodic effect; it acts as a relaxant to stomach muscles.

• It strengthens the gut intestinal barrier and prevents leaky gut disorder. It helps in maintaining the intestinal lining. This effect is prominent with unfermented rooibos.

• Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, it reduces gut inflammation and lowers oxidative stress.

• It is soothing to the stomach and prevents acid reflux and iron absorption blockage due to its low tannin content.

6. Skin health: Rooibos has been consumed as a herbal infusion for centuries in both fermented and raw form. Because of research studies, in recent years, it has become very popular globally.

Due to its rich nutrients of polyphenols and minerals, it is considered an important ingredient in many herbal skin care products. It is considered as a valuable component in skin care for being anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, soothing, hydrating, moisture retention, hence used in many skin care products. Some of the amazing benefits to skin health are:

• Fights ageing and reduces wrinkles as it combats oxidative stress.

• Soothing to sensitive skin as it has a calming effect and prevents irritation.

• Prevents acne, reduces pores and gives clear skin.

• Protects the skin barrier, improves hydration, and helps reduce skin dryness• Reduces hyperpigmentation, promotes skin elasticity, giving firmer skin and a youthful appearance.

• Protects the skin from pollution and environmental damage.

7. Side effects: Overconsumption of any beneficial compound can lead to side effects too. Drinking rooibos tea in moderation is safe and has no severe side effects. But long-term heavy drinking of rooibos can lead to some side effects:

•Raised liver enzymes and liver toxicity in long-term use of high amounts of rooibos.

•Due to the presence of phytoestrogen which can mimic the natural oestrogen in the body can be an issue in case of hormone sensitive individual, women with breast cancer.

•Interact with medications like blood pressure medicine and cholesterol-lowering medication (statins). Due to its oxalate content, it can be problematic for kidney patients.

8. Dosage: Due to its tremendous benefits for balancing blood sugar, sleep, skin, hair, and immune-boosting properties, many people like to drink rooibos tea infusion. It is completely safe to drink every day, provided the daily intake is 2-4 cups or within 400-1200 ml/day. Overconsumption doesn’t really help in providing the benefits. Instead daily moderate intake slowly can uncover its amazing benefits to overall wellness. Studies show that a maximum limit of 4-6 cups can be tolerated as a healthy adult. Rooibos herbal infusion without sugar is healthy but adding sugar, heavy cream can increase the calorie content. It is suitable even for children and pregnant women too, in moderation.

9. Rooibos v/s other teas : Green tea, black tea contain caffeine while rooibos is caffeine free so can be taken anytime including night time. Other teas when brewed a little longer gives a bitter taste due tannin but rooibos has very low tannin and has sweet nutty taste and great aroma. Red rooibos is fermented, intense in flavour and colourful, while green rooibos is unfermented, looks similar to green tea and has high antioxidant levels.

10. Takeaway: There is no doubt that rooibos is a very beneficial herbal tea, known for its nutritional profile. It does promote overall wellness, backed by science-based studies. In recent times, it has become very popular worldwide, and not just in its origin, South Africa, but several other countries have started growing it due to its increasing demand. It can be taken every day due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties and rich mineral profile for overall health and well-being. Plain rooibos tea is zero-calorie and is the healthiest version, without sugar, additives or whipped cream.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts : Cumin, a robust spice 🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in antioxidant, Antioxidant,anti inflammatory, immune boosting, anti cancer, Blog, Cumin seeds, spices, herbs, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, vitamins, minerals, Flavonoids, antioxidants, anti inflammatory, Food, healing, health, herb, Nature,, Science, Supplement

1. Cumin is a common spice, scientifically known as Cumin cyminum, mostly used in Indian,South Asian, and Middle Eastern cooking for a variety of dishes and also used for tempering with lentil soups and blending with other herbs. It has been used for centuries, but apart from adding aroma, taste and flavour to meals, people were not so aware of its composition and tremendous health benefits until widespread scientific research was carried out in recent years. Studies have shown that cumin is rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and iron and has a long list of health benefits. Its most important health benefit is that it improves digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes.

2. Nutritionally, cumin contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants and prevent many illnesses. The primary earthy flavour of cumin comes from a compound called cuminaldehyde. Cumin is used both as whole seeds and in powdered form. Usually, three types: white cumin, black cumin and brown variety. All the varieties are rich in vitamins B, C, A, E, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese. Cumin oil is used in cosmetics, perfumes and as an essential oil for its antibacterial activity and aroma.

3. Cumin as antioxidants: Naturally, cumin contains substances like apigenin and luteolin, which are bioactive compounds that damage free radicals and keep the healthy cells free from oxidative stress. In some studies, cumin is found to have anti-cancer properties and keeps the cancer cells from multiplying. Like curcumin, cumin has been shown to have purgative qualities which possess potential benefits from treating tumours to simple ailments like the common cold. They are found to be effective against various types of cancers, including stomach, colon and liver.

Blood sugar levels

4. Cumin and diabetes: Several studies have shown promising results that can aid in diabetes treatment. When excess blood sugar in the bloodstream leads to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), it causes harm to body cells, including damage to kidneys, eyes, nerves and small blood vessels. Cumin, on regular use, is found to lower AGEs. Routinely using cumin as a seasoning as well as a supplement has been found to lower blood sugar in diabetics.

Cholesterol levels

5. Cumin and cholesterol: Many clinical studies have shown that cumin can improve the levels of blood cholesterol in individuals who suffer from high cholesterol. Cumin contains phytosterols, which naturally inhibit cholesterol absorption in the body. It is found to increase the level of HDL, ‘good’ cholesterol, which is protective against atherosclerosis. Studies have shown regular intake of cumin lowers harmful triglycerides and total cholesterol.

Gas/ bloated

6. Cumin as a digestive aid: Cumin has been traditionally used as a digestive aid for centuries. Now, several studies have proved that cumin stimulates the digestive enzymes and facilitates digestion. It helps in the release of bile and helps in the digestion of fats. Clinical studies have shown that regular intake of cumin in concentrated form has been shown to reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Cumin is iron-dense and is a good source of iron in children and women.

7. Other potential powerful benefits of cumin include:

• Cumin helps in weight loss in obese and overweight individuals.

• Cumin acts as an anti-stress agent due to its effective antioxidant properties.

• Cumin supports the immune system because of its antioxidant properties and vitamin C.

• Cumin water intake causes detoxification, releases toxins and gives a healthier looking skin, preventing wrinkles. Due to its anti-bacterial properties, it prevents acne.

• Cumin supports respiratory health by reducing congestion and improving breath quality.

• Cumin has anti-inflammatory properties and improves several symptoms in cases of many chronic inflammatory diseases, like pain and swelling in chronic arthritis.

8. Side effects of Cumin: Cumin can be used in everyday cooking, and it is very beneficial and does not cause any harmful effects. But, a very concentrated extract in supplements or excessive consumption can cause side effects:

• Digestive discomfort such as belching, gas, bloating, and heartburn.

• Blood sugar drops, especially in diabetics using blood sugar medication.

• Slow blood clotting, bruising or bleeding risk when taken along with anti-coagulants.• Physical /mental stress: Heavy doses of cumin can cause drowsiness, mental clouding and strain to the liver and kidneys.

• Allergic reactions.

9. Dosing: Dietary cumin used in everyday cooking, around 1-2 teaspoons, is always harmless and beneficial to human health. But, if prescribed as a supplement, it should be used under a healthcare professional’s guidance. There is no guideline for recommended doses, but it can depend on the age, general health, pre-existing health conditions, and the kind of product used. Not all natural products found in supermarkets or pharmacies are necessarily good and safe.

10. Takeaway: Cumin is a warm, healthy aromatic spice, used both in whole and powdered form. It is full of essential nutrients and beneficial to health. For centuries, cumin has been used in traditional as well as modern cooking, and has always enhanced not only the taste, but also proved to be very significant to health. It improves metabolism, boosts digestion, supports the immune system, and is protective of overall health wellbeing and prevents chronic health issues.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

Liver care 🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in Food, life, nature

Hello everyone ! Have a wonderful and safe day 🙋🏻

The liver is the second largest organ in the body and has more than 400 functions. It is the primary organ of filtration, which mainly helps in the metabolism of food and absorb the necessary nutrients. It eliminates the toxins from our body daily and purifies the blood. So, it is an essential organ of detoxification for our body. Some critical functions to highlight:

1.It produces bile which helps the fat to break down during the process of digestion.
2.It helps in the production of haemoglobin from its iron storage ( liver stores iron)
3.It convert excess glucose into glycogen.
4.It cleanses the blood from toxins and poisonous substances.
5.During breakdown of protein, urea and poisonous ammonia is produced. The liver helps to eliminate them through the kidneys.

However, even if we have a powerful detoxifying organ, it gets sick and tired if we do not care enough. If we frequently consume refined, processed food, sugary items. To multiply this load, frequent intake of alcohol, smoking, drugs causes a greater danger. Also not to forget the environmental toxins, pollutants, heavy metals, pesticides from food, toxins from home cleaning products, cosmetics, perfume, the liver is unable to take the load at some points.

Signs of lousy liver functioning:


1.Tiredness
2.Collected fat around the belly.
3.Oily skin
4.Pale yellow fingernails
5.Oily skin, acne
6.Allergies
7.Digestive issues
8.Irregular bowel
9.Brain fog, headache
10 Pain on the right side of the abdomen.

Methods to detoxify the liver:
1.Eliminate the toxic sources as much as possible: We need to cut down the processed, canned, and sugary food. The refined, vegetable oil which is unhealthy fats, should be eliminated from the diet too. It is essential to minimize the use of toxic household cleaning products, cosmetics, perfumes as much as possible. As far as practically feasible, relocating from the polluted area is advisable.

2.Again it is essential to limit smoking, alcohol, drugs as much as possible.


3.Fasting: It is a crucial tool to rest the liver and minimize its load. Fasting accentuates the detoxifying process, stimulate autophagy and strengthen the immune system.


4.Focussing more on whole foods and organic vegetables, fruits given by Mother Nature than the packaged, canned food with preservatives.


5.Drinking lot of water every day will help to flush out toxins. Water added with lemon or a tinge of vinegar is beneficial.
6. Letting out toxic emotions like anger, frustration, resentment, and fear by mindful, spiritual and relaxing techniques.


7.Getting a goodnight sleep helps in the detoxification process.


8. Consuming foods which can restore the microbiome flora like fermented foods, prebiotics and probiotics. Essential foods like cruciferous vegetables, iron-rich food like spinach, beets are all useful.

 Milk thistle

9. Herbs like dandelion, milk thistle, cilantro, thyme, turmeric, garlic and green tea proves beneficial.

Thanks for reading.

Blessings and much love to all 💐

 

Sugary food cravings: Why?😇

by drjurisharma, posted in life, nature

Hello everyone ! Have a wonderful and safe day 🙋🏻

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For many of us, the sight of a freshly glazed doughnut can feel like falling in love and coming home to a pack of unopened cookies can feel like the adult version of Christmas morning. There’s something about sugar that hooks us and keeps reeling us in again and again. Whether we like it or not sugar has a major hold on us.

If you’re reading this it’s very likely for you to understand, and have firsthand experience, of this allure. Sugar isn’t just confectionary, but it’s a compulsion; there is no such thing as stopping after “just one.” I mean, if one is good, more is better. At least that’s what it feels like with the sweet stuff.

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We are given many reasons for our sugar cravings: pleasure-seeking brain circuits, intestinal parasites, mineral deficiencies, malnutrition, habitual behaviour, unbalanced diets, too much salt, buried emotional issues, lack of sleep, stress…. and my favourite, lack of discipline. We are not at a loss for reasons for our addiction to sugar, yet knowing isn’t enough to change us or our behaviour. If knowing was enough we would all be winning gold medals and gold stars in every area of our life. If anything, knowing just makes it feel worse… we know better so why aren’t we doing better? Knowing becomes just another reason for us to feel bad about ourselves.

The next step to knowing is to try and do something about it. We take matters into our own hands and attempt to turn our sugar-loving switch from on to off. This is not a painless process, and just when we feel we’re making ground something happens to throw us off and we’re on a mission to hunt down any sugar we can find and back at the start.

When we decide to target our sugar dependency, we attack the sugar itself, we clear the pantry, empty the house of all products and declare sugar the enemy. And this is fine… except it doesn’t work. When we create an action plan like this, we’re a few steps too far ahead and facing the wrong direction. We don’t address what’s really happening.

junkfood on plate

The key: target the true problem, not the side-effect of the problem. And sugar cravings are the side-effect, they’re the symptom of the real problem, and treating symptoms never makes the problem to be resolved. The only way to create true, long-standing change is to address the root cause…. otherwise you’re just wasting your time and prepping yourself for another future sugar-binge.

What is the root cause? Leptin resistance. There are natural sources of food which can promote Leptin levels. Like protein-rich food of eggs, pulses, dairy products, fatty fishes and zinc-rich foods and leafy vegetables.

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In some individuals, the cravings can be strong and unavoidable. In this case, one way to target leptin resistance is with a product called leptitox, a blend of 22 all natural ingredients which work with your body to reverse leptin resistance and its effects. When leptin resistance occurs in our body we have a malfunctioning system. This malfunction will produce troublesome symptoms. Not only does leptin resistance increase hunger but it creates cravings! That’s a recipe for disaster! Not only will you be hungry but you’ll be hankering after the worst foods imaginable…

We may have blamed everything else under the sun for our inability to stop reaching for the next cookie… everything but leptin resistance. If you want to see real movement and change you’ll need to target leptin resistance and do something to “fix” it.

Leptitox is just the way to address the growing problem of leptin resistance, since it has been created to target and address it. Leptitox is a blend of 22 carefully selected herbs, amino acids and vitamins with the ability to help your body address the real cause of leptin resistance. It will change everything you thought you knew about weight loss.

Here is the link, you can check out, https://239b15ynyqt517h5ioycxg-r5k.hop.clickbank.net/

Thanks for reading.

Blessings and much love 💐