One More Reason to Love Chocolate (Recipe Included)

I am feeling fabulous. Lounging in a jazz bar like a sophisticated cat, I am tasting all the flavors of the finest chocolate: orange, mint, cinnamon. I wonder which one is the most delicious and will delight my senses more. Let’s see…

Mint…mmm… It awakens my senses like a fresh morning breeze, reanimates my spirit, and puts me into a dynamic mood. The Antics said it aroused lustful feelings and in combination with chocolate it’s certainly true.

Let’s go on. Orange! My favorite! It embodies the sun, it’s a condensation of energy and information, and when it gets inside us it shines and radiates all its healing power concentrated in the form of vitamin C, a wonder that makes your skin glow. So let us shine, I say!

It’s difficult to get past the luscious and vibrant sensation of orange in my mouth so I taste a little more, this time with a little cinnamon added. Exquisite flavor, especially for this time of the year. Cinnamon, the spice from which Phoenix builds its nest. It was used in many early remedies such as Royal Unguent. To the Chinese, it was a panacea. In Medieval Europe, it was considered to be an aphrodisiac. Ooh, and if you combine that with the raw feminine energy of the chocolate, you do feel like a goddess.

Of course, you already knew that the Greek name for cocoa means “food of the gods.” So the whole idea that “chocolate is bad for you” is a misconception (probably a carryover from the Middle Ages when pleasure was considered a sin). It’s healthy. It’s divine. It’s a gift from gods. It is even used by shamans for magical ceremonies. Wow !

The idea is that when you buy chocolate, please make sure that the cocoa content is as high as possible (min.75%), and that it doesn’t contain that nasty hydrogenated vegetable fat that spoils our beloved chocolate. Because chocolate can and should be healthy. It can be raw, it can be vegan, it can be a superfood.

So if you want to get all the benefits, taste the flavors I did, and feel fabulous, you have two options.

The first is to make it yourself. My favorite recipe is invented by me and it goes something like this:

Mix in a bowl…

  • 4-5 spoons of cocoa
  • 1-2 spoons of coconut oil,
  • 1 spoon of raw honey
  • one handful of crushed raw (unpasteurized) almonds, or chopped mint leaves, or orange peel with a hint of cinnamon.

Pour it into heart shaped forms and refrigerate for one hour. And here you go! Lovely, healthy chocolate for you to enjoy together with your loved ones.

Of course, if you don`t have time, the second option is to buy. The guys from Raw Chocolate Love have an amazing, healthy chocolate – all the flavors I tasted and more. Handmade, raw, dairy-free, guilt-free and made with love (vitamin L). I whole-heartedly recommend.

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Wellness by Design: How to Start Creating an Organic Way of Life

If you have decided to commit to living a more organic lifestyle (for personal health and for the preservation of the environment), the transition is one that does not happen overnight. Every step you take that transforms your daily habits to healthy ones will have an impact on your wellness.

The hard part is not deciding whether or not an organic lifestyle will benefit you and your family, but rather knowing where to begin. The conscious choice to use organic products in your home is a positive step, but finding a way to make organic living fit with your budget can be a challenge.

Organic products are harder to find and typically more expensive than mass produced products. To the average consumer, this makes buying organic “extra work” compared to shopping for other brands and products. But you will need to decide if the benefits outweigh the financial cost of living an organic lifestyle.

Organic Product and Groceries: How to Spot Fake “Organic” Labeling

If you visit your local grocery store, the first thing you will notice is that organic produce (fruits and vegetables) and dry goods tend to be higher priced. It is unfortunate that making a healthier choice costs more money, but understanding why organic products are more expensive is important to support your purchase decision.

The impulse to save money is a good one, and natural. Mass produced foods have an advantage over foods that are manufactured, grown, and harvested in a more conscientious way. Certified organic food is limited in quantity because it is produced without the use of artificial fertilizers and pesticides.

Know your labels and your suppliers. Eager to capitalize on consumers who want truly organic products that are devoid of harmful pesticides or preservatives and other chemicals, many food manufacturers like to use the term “organic” on their packaging. This makes differentiating between truly organic foods and imposter brands, which are permitted to mislead consumers with vague and inaccurate advertising.

In the United States, the problem begins with the USDA which allows manufacturers some leeway in the way they advertise and package their foods.

  • Organic can refer to products that contain at least 90% organic ingredients. These products may have pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics and other chemical agents in them that have shown to be harmful to human health. They can still be labeled ‘Organic’ according to the USDA guidelines.
  • Labels that read ‘Made from Organic Products’ are required to have 75% organic ingredients. Again, there are no guidelines about the other 25% of the ingredients, which can pose a health risk if used or consumed.
  • Some products are advertised as ‘natural’ or “grass fed” with regards to meat products. The USDA does not recognize these terms, and no guidelines are provided for manufacturers. A “natural”product can contain unlimited unnatural and harmful ingredients, and still inaccurately represent itself as a “natural” brand.

When a product is 100% Certified Organic, you can be certain that you are purchasing a quality, naturally grown, chemical free product, fruit, vegetable, or consumer good. In order for a manufacturer or producer to advertise as 100% Certified Organic, they must use organic ingredients only and follow very strict guidelines from the USDA.

Read your labels carefully and wherever possible, purchase only products that are 100% Certified Organic for peace of mind and healthy living. Other types of products which contain “mostly” organic materials or food ingredients are better than choosing brands that are not organic at all.

Ultimately, the higher the percentage of organic food and products you consume, the lower your intake and exposure to harmful carcinogens, antibiotics, hormones, and other compounds that have been clinically shown to increase rates of cancer and chronic disease in human beings. Avoid processed foods for higher quality nutrition and reduced toxins in your food.

Going Organic in Your Home

Did you know that you spend approximately 2,300 hours per year sleeping? During that time you are exposed to a variety of chemicals that are discharged from the type of bedding you choose, the detergents you use, and other elements within your bedroom that are inhaled with toxic effects.

Everyone loves a scented oil burner and they are a convenient way to add a pleasing fragrance to your bedroom. Did you know that scented burners (whether melted wax or plug-in heated oil diffusers) contribute to increased levels of VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) in your home? At night, you could be spending as much as eight hours inhaling a cocktail of chemicals that can create a significant health risk over time. The bedroom is the most hazardous place to add artificial scents simply because of the amount of time you spend there.

Scented air fresheners (including spray bottles used in bathrooms) can contain phthalates and terpene. Both compounds when combined with ozone and oxygen create formaldehyde indoors, similar to the toxicity levels of sleeping beside a photocopier or laser printer. The particles in the air (formaldehyde) are classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization. They are also reported to increase rates of respiratory disorders including the formation of asthma; some studies have linked the increased cultural acceptance of indoor air fresheners with pandemic levels of new asthma cases around the world.

There are a number of resources online that can help you make the switch and reduce the chemical load in your home by suggesting 100% Certified Organic cleaning products. Many consumers have researched homemade cleaning solutions that can be affordably made at home, which include natural antibacterial agents in lemon and oranges, and white vinegar. Your health (and home) will thank you for making the switch.

Other sources of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) include:

  • Artificial and non-organic bedding and linens.
  • Stain-resistant coatings and treatments on furnishings and carpets.
  • Commercial versus organic mattresses and bedding.
  • Scent-boosting laundry products and anti-static sheets.
  • Perfumes and scented body products.
  • Flea and tick medications (pesticides applied to pets).
  • Mold from houseplants.
  • Cat litter.
  • Carpet powders and cleaning supplies.

Conclusion

It is never too early or too late to begin making the change to organic products and groceries. To save even more money and prevent waste, shop for smaller amounts of fresh produce more regularly. Eating fruits and vegetables at their peak in freshness helps optimize the amount of nutrients you receive (and health benefits) from your produce. Support organic brands and manufacturers and feel good about a new lifestyle that protects your health and the environment.

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Foods That Contribute to Diabetes

One of the fastest-growing causes of death in the world, diabetes is especially prevalent in the United States as about 1 in every 11 people has been diagnosed with the condition. Medical costs for treating the disease are considerable, with worldwide costs reaching 548 billion dollars in 2013. The U.S. is responsible for around 35 percent of that figure, but despite that robust amount of spending, the numbers of those with diabetes are still rising. Traditional disease prevention and management strategies focus on being active, watching your weight, and eating healthy with a particular emphasis on avoiding sugar and paying attention to the glycemic index. But sugar isn’t the only villain in the diabetes narrative. Here are some of the other kinds of foods that can aggravate and contribute to your diabetes.

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners don’t provide any actual health benefit. Instead, they serve as a way for people with diabetes to get a sugar fix. There are five artificial sweeteners approved for use in the United States: saccharin, sucralose, aspartame, neotame and acesulfame K. While most of these are usually used by and marketed towards those with diabetes or people trying to avoid sugar, there is evidence to suggest that consuming artificial sweeteners, specifically saccharine, disrupts the bacteria in your gut. Gut health is especially important for people with diabetes since changes to the bacteria in the gut have been associated with a disposition towards diabetes. Artificial sweeteners frequently pass through the gastrointestinal tract without being digested, allowing the unaltered particles to wreak havoc directly on intestinal bacteria. If you have sugar cravings, do your gut bacteria a favor and check out healthy sugar alternatives before you reach for the artificial sugar packets.

Fructose & High Fructos Corn Syrup

Fructose occurs naturally in fruits, sugars, bread, and cured meat products. It has also found its way into the majority of pre-packaged foods with high fructose corn syrup and other sugars being routinely added to these products. A small amount of fructose, especially from whole food sources that provide other nutrients and enzymes, in of itself isn’t a bad thing, but problems occur with excessive fructose consumption. Fructose is only processed in the liver. Too much fructose causes insulin resistance in the fatty triglycerides in the membranes surrounding the cells of ourperipheral tissue. The more insulin resistant cells you have, the more likely it is that the levels of insulin in the bloodstream are too high since the insulin has nowhere else to go. This is one of the first steps on the way to diabetes.

Fruit is often seen as the biggest contributor to fructose issues, but fruit in moderation has a multitude of health benefits. It makes more sense to avoid manufactured fructose and eat real food, rather than packages of extra calories with potential health problems. The real problem is high fructose corn syrup. There is a direct correlation between the rise of HFCS use and type 2 diabetes.

Refined and Processed Foods

Refined and processed foods like white rice, most of the commercially available breads, and snack foods contain simple carbohydrates and they have had all of their natural nutrients stripped away. This leaves empty calories and easily digestible sugars, spiking insulin and blood sugar levels. People who consume a steady supply of these foods, rather than whole foods with their nutrients intact like brown rice or steel cut oats, are much more likely to be at risk for type 2 diabetes. Processed foods that contain chemicals to enhance their taste can also trigger inflammation, damage tissue, and cause insulin resistance.

Your Diet is Key to Avoiding and Managing Diabetes

Almost ten percent of the population in the United States has diabetes, and that number is on the rise, with even children and young adults developing the disease at alarming rates. Conventional wisdom touts the importance of diet and exercise as ways to manage the risk of diabetes, but the connection between a society facing a growing diabetes epidemic and a society that offers more packaged and fewer whole food options cannot be ignored. Eating a diet rich in fresh, raw, organic produce (mostly vegetables) and with minimal amounts of unhealthy packaged an artificial foods, can make keep you from joining the ranks of those dealing with diabetes.

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Five Awesome Organic Foods that Pack More Punch than Supplements

Without a doubt, supplements are needed in today’s society. We’re on the go. It’s difficult to get everything our bodies require in a day. Sometimes, no matter how hard we work at it, we’re still deficient in something, and not all of us can afford a personal trainer. Supplements can help provide total wellness though getting these essential nutrients from the food we’re already eating is usually best. Here’s a look at five awesome organics that are loaded with what your body craves, so you can receive the benefits as nature intended.

Kale

Along with spinach, kale often tops the list of healthy greens, though kale is lower in oxalates, so nutrients are absorbed better. For each 100-gram/ 50-calorie portion of kale consumed, you’ll receive:

  • Vitamin C (200% of the RDA)
  • Vitamin A (300% of the RDA)
  • Vitamin K1 (1000% of the RDA)
  • Calcium
  • Copper
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Potassium
  • Vitamin B6
  • Fiber (2 grams)
  • Protein (3 grams)

Try Kale: People often have an easier time incorporating kale into their diet when it’s in a smoothie. Try mixing it up in a blender with juice and berries.

Garlic

There are more than 200 varieties of garlic, and the cloves are known for containing allicin. Interestingly, it seems to work like a natural defense system for the plant, fighting off fungi. Allicin is a favorite among those who seek natural cures because it’s believed to have antimicrobial and antibiotic properties. It’s been touted as a cure for infections, an aid for acne, and some studies have suggested that it lowers blood pressure and cholesterol. On top of this, garlic contains:

  • Calcium
  • Copper
  • Manganese
  • Potassium
  • Selenium
  • Vitamin B1
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin C

Try Garlic: While garlic comes in nearly everything these days, it’s almost always cooked. Freshly chopped garlic can be added to cool pasta or spread on bread with butter, but it tends to flow better when added to fresh-made salsa or guacamole.

Blueberries

Antioxidants are high on the list as to what makes blueberries an awesome organic food. They’ve been linked to everything from cancer prevention to memory enhancement, and they’re 100% tasty. On top of this, blueberries contain all sorts of other things that lead to a healthier body, including:

  • Calcium
  • Folate
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Phosphorous
  • Potassium
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin K1
  • Zinc
  • Fiber (3.6 grams per cup)

Try Blueberries: A recipe isn’t needed for blueberries because they’re fantastic on their own. However, they can also be tossed on top of cereal or mixed into a smoothie.

Eggs

A single egg can contain more than five grams of protein, making it a staple on tables around the world. Though it was once believed that the cholesterol found in eggs led to high cholesterol in the blood, experts now say that trans fats and saturated fats, which are commonly consumed with eggs, pose a far bigger risk. Considering the whole host of beneficial vitamins and minerals that are found in eggs, they’re worth including in ones’ diet.

  • Biotin
  • Calcium
  • Cephalin
  • Folate
  • Iodine
  • Iron
  • Lecithin
  • Phosphorous
  • Selenium
  • Thiamine
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin B5
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin E
  • Zinc

Chocolate

Cocoa and dark chocolate rank high on the list of antioxidant-rich foods. One of the problems is that it’s often diluted and loaded with sugar. Milk chocolate, which is commonly consumed, isn’t as healthful as  dark chocolate with 70-85% cocoa content. In addition to the antioxidants, cocoa has:

  • Copper
  • Fiber
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese

Try Cocoa: Organic cocoa powder can be added to a smoothie to make it feel even more like a dessert. Dark chocolate squares can be eaten as-is, or melted over blueberries for a truly decadent treat.

Conclusion

Each of the foods listed here can be incorporated into a diet with ease, as there are versatile and organic varieties found in most modern markets. While their non-organic cousins contain the same nutrients, organic options don’t contain the pesticides, antibiotics, and growth hormones that a person doesn’t need. Moreover, several of the items detailed here landed on the Environmental Working Group’s list of foods that contain high amounts of pesticides when grown conventionally.

If you don’t have easy access to organic produce, you might consider purchasing yours online through a delivery services such as Organics Live. If they don’t deliver in your area, chances are, someone else does.

Our featured image comes from this Beet Pickled Eggs + Kale Salad recipe.

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Herbs That Can Help Get Us Through Winter

The cold winter months not only bring in coughs, colds, and flu, we find it harder to stay warm and our circulation tends to be less effective at throwing out toxins. Not least, we feel less energized and able to find that extra bit of energy. Here are 5 key herbs to help with all those winter aspects.

Cinnamon Stick

A fragrant winter favourite, this herb is able to bring circulation as far as cold fingers and toes. It is also a potent antiviral and antibacterial, making it a vital herb for the worst of the flu season. Not only does it fight these microbes, its constituent, cinnamaldehyde, provides welcome pain reduction and is sedative. It continues to be useful post colds and flu, during the often debilitating convalescence stage. It is also a blood sugar stabilizer useful for helping calm down any post-festive sweet tooth over-indulgence.

Ginger Root

This is ‘the’ classic for warming up circulation and helping colds and flu and it is often twinned as an herbal tea with cinnamon to warm and detoxify. However, it is most effective as an antiviral and antibacterial when freshly grated and eaten raw. (You can add a little honey if you wish or simply chew a teaspoon of it as it is.) The gingerol, zingerone, and shogael and other constituents are 6-15 times stronger in the fresh root, and if the aim is to work as an antimicrobial, do not make as a tea or cook with it. Reserve the latter for digestive assistance and circulatory help.

Siberian Ginseng Root (eleuthero)

(This adaptogen is not a ginseng and can be used as a daily food.) It is perfect for the winter months as it increases the body’s ability to resist infection, lessening the likelihood of picking up colds, and stops the “cold” wearing us down and making us more exposed to microbes. In fact, because of this, we are less likely to gravitate to eating weight-gaining carbs and other cold-weather foods. As an adrenal building herb, it enforces energy conservation generally and fortifies against “winter” stress in all its varying guises, from cold, to support while detoxing.

Elderberry

These anti-viral berries are of increasing interest as findings show they appear to “inactivate” any given flu and virus strain. It helps to shorten and reduce its symptoms and severity. Of course, it has been made and used as a home remedy as a syrup for centuries, to treat tickly coughs, colds, and fevers. If taken at the onset, nastier versions like flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia are less likely to progress. It is good taken throughout the colder winter months on a weekly basis, and daily during a cold.

Nettle Leaves

The leaves are a good winter detox choice. In winter it is harder to sweat and naturally get rid of accumulated toxins. Nettle’s high levels of flavonoids and potassium makes it excellent for moving on waste products via the increased urine production. Nettle is also a specific to help clear the skin, so it is perfect for preventing “detox skin”, where toxins can congregate. Use either as an organic powder of 1 tsp (5g) in smoothies or as an herbal leaf tea.

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Author:

Jill R. Davies, HNH, Phd, FAMH, is a qualified herbalist and naturopath of over 30 years. She is the author of 14 books on herbal medicine. Jill lectures in naturopathy and herbal medicine at CNM (College of Naturopathic Medicine).



Let Food Be Thy Medicine: Seven Healing Foods for Health

Many foods give you some health benefits, but certain foods are positively jam-packed with powerful nutrients that support optimal health. These amazing foods give you the most bang for your buck, making every bite count. Maximize nutrient density and health benefits with the following incredibly nourishing, delicious, and easy to prepare foods!

Salmon

Oily fish like salmon is rich in the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosohexanoic acid (DHA). These omega-3s play a starring role in the picture of health because they support a balanced inflammatory response in the body. This is important for both short and long-term inflammation. For example, when you get hurt, a temporary inflammatory response is needed to heal the injury. This short-term inflammation is intended to subside after the healing process is complete. However, without adequate EPA and DHA, the body is unable to return to normal and inflammation persists, leaving the entire body in a pro-inflammatory state. It is this long-term “silent” inflammation that is problematic and can take a serious toll on your health. If proper levels of EPA and DHA are not maintained, your whole body, including the liver, brain, heart and muscles, pays the price. By getting enough EPA and DHA in your diet, you can support the balanced inflammation levels that foster a healthy body and mind. If your immune system is in good shape, try salmon rare or medium rare for the best health benefits.

Berries

Vibrantly colored berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, not only pack a color punch, but pack on the health benefits, too. Full of antioxidants, these red and purple fruits support cardiovascular, visual, mental and skin health, just to name a few. The antioxidant pigments are actually what give berries their trademark colors. Red and purple berries are bursting with anthocyanins, antioxidant pigments known to be free radical fighters. Free radicals wreak havoc on the body, damage tissues, and accelerate the aging process. Eating berries every day is a tasty way to rejuvenate your skin, eye, brain, and heart health.

Ginger and Turmeric Roots

Close botanical relatives that are often found together in flavorful Indian foods, ginger and turmeric contain health-promoting compounds that have been prized for centuries. Ginger, used as a digestive tonic, contains antioxidants galore. Gingerol, the active compound in ginger, is responsible for modulating inflammation and supporting cell health. Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric. Curcumin is another nutrient that supports balanced inflammatory levels in the body, which are key for maintaining overall health.

Garlic

Another herb that has historical roots in ancient times, garlic has a reputation not only for warding off vampires, but also as valuable household remedy. Recent research provides evidence for its health-supportive properties. Allicin, garlic’s best-known active compound, has been studied for its ability to support cardiovascular, immune system, inflammatory and cellular health. It may not freshen your breath, but garlic can help to refresh your health.

Citrus Fruit

The flesh and peels of citrus fruits contain flavonoids, which are compounds plants produce for various purposes, such as protection from pests, disease, and sun damage. Flavonoids protect human health in similar ways by supporting the health of the skin, heart, bones and other cells. In addition to health-boosting flavonoids, citrus fruits are full to the brim with vitamin C.  One of the body’s most important antioxidants, vitamin C supports immune, cardiovascular, and cellular health. In fact, without vitamin C, the immune system cannot function properly. Whether you eat them whole or  juice them, citrus fruits are a sweet way to take care of your health year-round.

Nuts

Vitamin E is naturally found in high concentrations in whole nuts, with some of the best sources being almonds and hazelnuts. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant in the body, protecting against free radical damage and supporting cellular health. This vitamin supports the health of the immune and cardiovascular systems, as well as the body’s detoxification process. From the outside-in and the inside-out, eating nuts is a great way to get your vitamin E levels up. So, go nuts!

It is easy to incorporate all of these versatile and nutrient-dense foods into your diet. This recipe includes all of the power-packed foods above in one delicious meal!

Salmon Berry Salad with Almonds and Citrus Vinaigrette (serves 2)

Ingredients

  • 2, 6 oz. salmon filets
  • 1 small clamshell of organic spinach and arugula blend
  • ½ cup organic blackberries, rinsed and dried
  • ½ cup organic raspberries, rinsed and dried
  • ½ cup organic blueberries, rinsed and dried
  • 1 TBSP olive oil
  • ¼ tsp. garlic powder
  • ½ tsp. ginger powder
  • ½ tsp. turmeric powder
  • 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • Dash of salt and pepper, to taste

Dressing

  • 1 large orange, juiced
  • 3 TBSP olive oil
  • 3 TBSP balsamic vinegar
  • 1 TBSP Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds
  1. Place salmon skin-side down on foil, top with olive oil, garlic, ginger and turmeric powders, cayenne, salt and pepper.
  2. Place salmon under broiler and cook for four minutes per side. Oven broilers vary, so watch closely; salmon overcooks quickly.
  3. While salmon is in the broiler, place arugula and spinach, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries in a large bowl. Toss together lightly.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients.
  5. When salmon is done cooking, place on top of berry salad mixture, top with almonds and drizzle with dressing. 

For more recipes, check out Natural Grocers.com.

Further Reading:
Sources:
  1. Wilson, L. (2013). EPA & DHA: The Fats of Life. August-September 2013 Health Hotline.
  2. Allbritton, J. (2009). Blueberries. Natural Grocers Nutrition Education Department.
  3. Allbritton, J. (2010). Age Decelerating Antioxidant-Rich Foods. Natural Grocers Nutrition Education Department.
  4. Pratt, H. (2013). Garlic. Natural Grocers Nutrition Education Department.
  5. Briggs, S. (2008). Citrus Bioflavonoids. Natural Grocers Nutrition Education Department.
  6. Allen, J. (2004). Vitamin C. Natural Grocers Nutrition Education Department
  7. Allen, J. (2003). Vitamin E Fact Sheet. Natural Grocers Nutrition Education Department.


Herbs With Healing Properties You Can Grow at Home

Growing herbs in your home is not only easy, it is highly recommended. This is especially true if you are growing them for medicinal purposes. Although you can buy herbs, you won’t know how the plants were raised or how the herbs were stored. Nothing beats the quality of homegrown herbs.

It doesn’t really matter if you have expert gardening skills as herbs require nothing but basic knowledge and some free space. If you have a garden in your home, it is wise to reserve some of the available space there for herbal medicines, as they can truly help when you are feeling ill. The best part is that the following are all easy-to-grow and require very little in terms of care.

Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

The flavour of this plant is so unique,  that people either hate it or love it. It is used in several Thai and Mexican dishes, but most notably in Indian curry.  You can easily grow it in a moist, cool garden. Cilantro is a digestive aid and it also helps you detox heavy metals.

Callendulla or Marigold

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

The other name for Calendula is pot marigold. It is a powerful antiseptic and antifungal tool. Use the petals  for wound care and soothing the skin. Numerous cosmetic products use the plant for its properties, which is proof of its quality. This annual blooms throughout the entire season and looks charming in an outdoor garden, where it can receive plenty of sun.

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)

PeppermintYou are well-aware of the boost of freshness you get from peppermint flavoured toothpaste. Did you know that peppermint is also a very powerful ally against digestive discomfort (peppermint tea) and aching muscles (peppermint liquid/lotion)? You will do well to include this moist-loving plant in your garden. Just keep in mind that the leaves of the plant should be harvested before they flower or they will taste bitter.

 

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

RosemaryThe main benefit of rosemary is its power to bring more oxygen to your brain for better memory. According to expert gardeners, this herb is the equivalent of caffeine. The best part is that the evergreen plant is very drought tolerant and will likely survive any environment.

Lavender (Lavandula)

LavenderAccording to some studies, lavender is not only a perfume plant, it may also be used to benefit the nervous system. Adding some lavender oil to your bath will most certainly reduce tension, stress, and even insomnia. In order to grow lavender, you will need to provide a dry environment that is hot and sunny.

You can benefit a lot from each of these herbs, especially if you have invested time and effort in growing them at home. Do consider all of the benefits, and plant them today. Be sure to check out Handy Gardeners’ Blog for more articles on gardening.

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