Jasmine Tea

Since January is National Hot Tea Month I will be devoting my next few blogs to the subject of tea. Tea is a popular beverage, second only to water and has many medicinal  advantages as well as being a tasty beverage to drink. There are endless combinations of tea and various flavorings and herbs and there are hundreds of variations on  herbal teas (also called tesanes). People have been fascinated with tea for thousands of years and it appears that they still are. Tea and Tesanes have become quite popular in the United States in recent years and the wave of popularity does not seem to be letting up anytime soon.

This week I thought I would talk about Jasmine Tea.The use of jasmine with tea in China and is mentioned in the official records of the Song Dynasty of the 13th century. It was mainly used by the royalty. Jasmine tea may have originated in Persia or India and came to China when the Buddhist religion was brought there.

 Jasmine tea is not considered an herbal tea because it is made with a base of green or black tea along with the jasmine leaves. The jasmine lends a touch of the exotic to the tea which scents the tea leaves and makes the drink highly enjoyable for some while others find the scent jasmine to be an acquired taste.

 Health benefits derived from the jasmine content of the tea include strengthening the immune system, preventing diabetes and reducing the risk of having a heart attack. Jasmine tea also helps to prevent cancer, reduce stress, help with digestion and lower cholesterol. It appears to destroy harmful bacteria and relieve inflammation. Jasmine promotes relaxation and helps reduce stress and anxiety and depression.

Jasmine tea has a high level of antioxidants. It is said to prevent cancer, heart disease, and useful for those with diabetes and is considered a use preventive for those who are pre-diabetic. Jasmine tea is good for gastrointestinal problems, joint pain, and weight loss

There are some things to keep in mind. Jasmine is not recommended for those that are pregnant, and in some people consuming it on an empty stomach may cause discomfort. Jasmine tea is a source of caffeine but there are many caffeine free versions available. While Jasmine tea is considered generally safe for culinary uses, you might want to consult your health professional before using it.

To learn more about teas and their health properties, check out my blog at www.valerielull.com. I wish everyone the best in this new year and hope you  have many pleasant tea drinking experiences.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
www.lullval@clearwire.net

Holly

Ilex Aquifolium

Holly is a plant we use for decorative purposes of at Christmas time. The Romans used it in their feast to Saturn, and the druids considered it one of their sacred trees. They would wear sprigs of holly on their heads when they went into the forest. It is a plant that has many varieties; English holly, American holly, and Oregon holly are a fewof them. There are various medicinal uses for several varieties of holly.

The American Indians used holly to cause vomiting, and Yaupon tea, (several varieties of holly mixed together), was used in South America for ceremonial purposes as a "cleanser". They also used it for cardiac diseases. Holly was used in Europe to drive away evil spirits.

 Medicinal uses include coughs, edema, jaundice, digestive problems, joint pain, chest congestion, cleansing the bowels, stimulating the heart and increasing the flow of urine. Some species are used for heart disease, dizziness and high blood pressure.the leaves have also been used as a diaphoretic (makes you sweat) and catarrh, smallpox, pleurisy,

The leaves have been made into a tea, and the historic herbalist Culpepper suggests their use as a fomentation for broken bones. He also advocated their use for colic. Holly has also been used as a liquid extract. Holly contains caffeine. The caffeine content in the berries is higher than in the leaves.

Holly berries are considered unsafe to consume and can cause death, especially in children. They cause violent vomiting and diarrhea and this dehydrates the system and depletes the electrolytes. The spines on the holly leaves can puncture the mouth and digestive tract. For women who are pregnant or breast feeding, holly is not recommended.

If you want to use holly for medicinal purposes be sure to consult an herbalist or professional health care person and do not try to use it on your own.

Be sure to visit my website at www.valerielull.com. Have a great holiday!

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net

Ivy

Hedera helix

At this season of the year people hear the old song "The Holly and the Ivy...". This comes from the old Druid belief that the holly represented male and the ivy female.  Yet few people know that ivy has medicinal values. There are several kinds of ivy, English ivy, Ground ivy, American ivy, to name a few. Ivy is a climbing vine and attaches itself to fences, walls, buildings, and trees. The ivy plant can live to be 100 years or more. It is often depicted as a crown on the head of the Greek god Bacchus, god of wine, because of it's traditional properties in treating drunkenness. Ivy is also in the same family as ginseng. 

English ivy is an herb and it has medicinal properties. It is used for problems like muscle spasm, gout, joint pain from arthritis, chronic bronchitis, gallbladder and tuberculosis. Its main use is for the reduction of swollen membranes of the nasal passages as an expectorant, which means that it breaks up chest congestion. It is also used on the skin for burns, cellulitis, infectous parasites, and phlebitis.

English ivy is also used for itching and sunburn and recent research seems to show antifungal properties. It can be used as a external wash for sores, cuts, burns and dandruff. For bee and wasp stings the fresh leaves can be crushed and rubbed into the area. There have been some animal studies suggesting that English ivy may have anticancer and antioxidant properties. Commission E, a German agency that is the equivalent of our FDA, approved ivy leaf extract for treating bronchitis and congestion of the respiratory system.

There are several studies showing that English ivy contains flavonoids that act as anti-inflammatories. They can reduce histamine which is a chemical in the body that causes inflammation. The flavonoids in ivy are rutin, kaempferol and quercetin.  

This herb is used mainly as an extract, though some sources describe a tea that can be made from it. It also can be used as a compress with salt water or as a tincture. Some authorities say English ivy should only be used as an extract, and others suggest using it as a tea. Either way I'd advise extreme caution because most experts regard English ivy as a poison when taken in large quantities and should not be used without the guidance of an expert professional. Not much is known about using English ivy for pregnant and nursing moms, so for them it is best to avoid using it.

My book Ten Healthy Teas makes an excellent gift item for the holidays. Go to my website at www.valerielull.com.  Your comments on this blog are welcome. Have a happy holiday season.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.com  
===

Mistletoe

Viscum Album

During this season of the year mistletoe brings up pictures of happy couples kissing underneath it. This custom came from the Celts who had priests called Druids. They put mistletoe over the doors of their houses because it was considered sacred and fighting was not permitted under it.

 Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that grows in trees. It is also considered an herb and has been used in Europe for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. The berries, leaves and stems are the parts of the plants that are used. Some of the conditions it has been used for are epilepsy, hypertension, infertility and arthritis.

 

Mistletoe, for medicinal uses, is probably best known for its use with cancer. There is not much scientific evidence for this, though there is anecdotal evidence. The use of mistletoe in the United States was brought to public attention by the celebrity Susanne Somers who took it to treat her breast cancer. 

In folk medicine, European mistletoe was used for cardiovascular disease. It is also reportedly an antispasmodic, and good for asthma, the immune system, epilepsy, hiccups, hemorrhoids, headaches and menopause. It has also been used to help ease the effects of chemo and radiation treatments in cancer patients. A tea can be made from it for treating hypertension.

Mistletoe has side effects and is not generally recommended in this country for cancer treatment because there is very little scientific evidence that it works. It seems to kill cancer cells in the lab but not in people in real life. It is definitely contraindicated if a woman is pregnant or nursing. 

Mistletoe is considered toxic, especially the berries. Used in small amounts it is possibly safe, but side effects are vomiting, cramping and diarrhea. Because of the lack of good evidence it is extremely important that you work with a health care professional if you desire to try it. It is not recommended for auto-immune diseases like multiple sclerosis, lupis and rheumatoid arthritis. Do not take mistletoe if you are taking blood pressure medicine.

My book Ten Healthy Teas makes a great, inexpensive gift item for the holidays. Go to my website at www.valerielull.com for more information.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net

Herb Safety

People have been using herbal preparations ever since the dawn of history. Herbal medicine is the oldest form of medicine around and has been used for millennium's. It appears to have passed the test of time because 80% of the world's population still use herbs as their main source of medicinals.

Safety Issues

Just like pharmaceuticals and prescription drugs, herbs can also have side effects. However, they have a far better safety record. When herbal medicines are properly researched and the directions are followed faithfully, the herbs are a much safer option and seem to agree better with the body. 

There are some basic precautions that should be taken when using herbs. Unless you are a trained herbalist or naturopath, seek the advice of a professional that is knowledgeable about  herbs. Follow the instructions you are given. Be extra careful if you are pregnant as most herbs have not been studied in regards to pregnant and nursing moms. There are a few herbs that can be taken by pregnant and nursing women, but in the best interest of the baby to be born always consult a professional. 

There are a few herbs that are definitely poisons, like belladonna and hemlock. If you are picking your herbs out in the wild, be awfully sure you know what you are harvesting, perhaps take an expert along with you. Many plants look alike and it is easy to mistake the herb for a good one when it is not. I seldom wild craft my herbs, I get mine from reputable dealers who know their stuff. 

Here is the link to a website that is an excellent source of information about herbal safety. Go to   http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/dietary-supplements/herbal-information .There are a number of books on the market about herbs that are quite easy for the layperson to read. I like James Duke's book The Green Pharmacy. It is up to date, comprehensive and easy to understand. Many of the remedies are readily available in your kitchen, or garden.

Both my book Ten Healthy Teas and Dr. Duke's book The Green Pharmacy are available at www.amazon.com   Check out my website at www.valerielull.com  My book Ten Healthy Teas makes a great gift item for the holidays. Use all the herbs and spices that go along with the holiday season, and use them safely. Your comments and questions are welcome. 

Valerie Lull

Author

Ten Healthy Teas

Lullval@clearwire.net

Cranberries

This is the season of the year when people turn to fall foods like pumpkins, squash, turkey, dressing, yams and of course the cranberry sauce. Cranberry sauce is an important part of most Thanksgiving meals. Cranberries are found in many holiday dishes like dressing and holiday breads and muffins.They are also rich in nutrients and very useful for medicinal purposes.

Perhaps the most common use of cranberries is for urinary tract infections. There is little evidence that cranberries can cure a UTI, but there is evidence that cranberry may be able to prevent them. The current thinking is that the unsweetened cranberry juice keeps the bacteria from sticking to the inside of the bladder wall and the urethra which keeps the infection from forming.

One must be careful with cranberry products as most of them contain sugar which causes them to be absolutely useless for prevention of UTI's. This is why many people take a supplement instead of drinking the juice. The juice of raw cranberries, without sugar is very very tart and hard for most folks to drink. Personally I take a cranberry supplement every day as a preventative measure. I have never had a UTI and I hope I never do.

Cranberries contain vitamin A, vitamin C, beta carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, folate, potassium, manganese. proanthocyanidins, flavonoids and antioxidants.  They are second highest among berries in antioxidant strength with blueberries coming up first.

Drinking cranberry juice in excess can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea.Cranberries have salicilic acid in them which is an ingredient in aspirin. If you are allergic to aspirin you should avoid cranberry in large amounts. If you are prone to kidney stones you may want to avoid large quantities of cranberry because cranberries have oxalates in them which contribute to the formation of kidney stones.

Cranberry beverages can be taken both hot and cold. There are several cranberry teas on the market. A good punch can be made by adding a little carbonated water to the cranberry juice.

I want to take this opportunity to wish all my readers a Happy Thanksgiving. As we continue in the holiday season you can find many good cranberry recipes on the internet. Check out my website at www.valerielull.com I welcome your questions and comments. My e-mail address is below.


Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net

Manuka Honey and Lemon

Manuka honey comes from New Zealand and is the product of bees ingesting pollen from the manuka flower, which grows on the manuka tree. It is known as being used for burns, cuts, abrasions and diabetic ulcers. There is an anecdote about a woman who had three months of conventional treatment for a diabetic ulcer. She was told that the doctors would have to amputate her leg. She used manuka honey on the ulcer and it cleared up so she did not have to have the amputation.

Manuka honey is antibacterial, antiviral and is an antioxidant. Manuka honey can be used for everything from cracked heals to bedsores. It is said to be effective with scars and rashes. It has been used by the ancients for numerous ailments. Researchers discovered that the honey relieves inflammation and reduces pain. One recent study shows that manuka honey may prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease.

When manuka honey is teamed up with lemon, it has powerful effects. It is great for coughs, colds and sore throats. A tonic can be made with warm water, manuka honey, and fresh lemon juice which may help folks with obesity problems  The combination is also good for digestion problems. Lemon juice and honey are good for insect bites and can help respiratory problems that come with winter colds and coughs. Cosmetically it can be used to make a skin mask made up of half honey and half lemon . There are a number of lemon teas available that can be taken with a teaspoon of manuka honey in them.

There are several side effects to watch out for. These include allergy in people who are allergic to bees. It raises blood sugar, and interacts with chemotherapy drugs. Manuka honey should not be given to babies under 1 year of age because it may have botulism spores in it that will harm the baby.

Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net 

Simple Ways to Stay Healthy: Green Tea and Cancer

Simple Ways to Stay Healthy: Green Tea and Cancer: Green Tea is probably one of the most studied of all herbs. Many people consider green tea as a tea rather than an herb. However, I've r...

Green Tea and Cancer

Green Tea is probably one of the most studied of all herbs. Many people consider green tea as a tea rather than an herb. However, I've run across several herbals that include it and it has a lot of health benefits. One area where green tea has a significant benefit is in the prevention of cancer.

In China and Japan the rates of cancer are much lower than the rates in the United States. Scientists think that their high consumption of green tea may be responsible for this. Green tea  has a polyphenol called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) which scientists have linked with having cancer prevention properties. One study found that the extract of green tea slowed the growth of breast cancer cells, and decreased it's spread to other parts of the body in mouse studies. These polyphenols are thought to help create T cells in the body which enhances the immune system that inhibits the growth of tumors.

In one recent study it appears that EGCG changed pancreatic cancer cells so that they suppressed an enzyme associated with this type of cancer. This substance also appeared to inhibit breast cancer, human cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer.

Green tea also has properties that protect against other health problems, like heart disease, inflammation, high blood pressure, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and weight loss. Besides this, green tea is a very pleasant beverage to drink if it is prepared properly. Most people make their water much too hot for the tea to steep in. The ideal temperature for steeping green tea is 165-175 degrees. The ideal steeping time is 1 to 2 minutes. The decaffeinated version seems to be more effective for disease prevention than the decaffeinated though decaf is better than nothing at all.

You can experiment with green tea and try adding lemon, or pomegranate or mint for flavor. Some people have it iced, though I personally prefer it hot. Japan has the highest rate of longevity in the world. Perhaps green tea contributes to that too.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com. Also, on Facebook under the heading Book, Ten Healthy Teas.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net 

Cloves

Clove, Syzugium Aromaticum, is a spice and an herb that historically grew on trees in the Spice Islands near Indonesia. Cloves are now grown all over the world.  The clove comes from the dried flower bud of the clove tree. Cloves are used extensively in cooking and are also used for medicinal remedies. The name clove came from the French word clov, which means nail. This is because a clove resembles a nail.

Cloves used for medicinal purposes are perhaps best known for relieving the pain of a toothache if you are unable to get to a dentist right away. Cloves can be used for acne and other skin conditions. Clove tea is used for bloating and gas as well as nausea and diarrhea. They relax the muscle lining of the stomach bringing relief to acid reflux.

Cloves can help relieve colds by assisting in sweating for folks with fevers, sore throats and flu. They are also used for whooping cough. Cloves are good for mouth ulcers and sore gums. A gargle made from cloves can be used for a sore throat. They relieve nausea, vomiting and flatulence. Clove oil can be applied to the skin for cuts and scrapes.

There are some things to watch out for. Children should not take clove oil as it can cause serious health problems like seizures and liver damage. Inhaling the smoke from clove cigarettes is not safe and can cause breathing problems and lung infections. It is unsafe to inject clove oil into the veins and pregnant and nursing women should not use cloves as a medicine, though normal amounts in foods are fine. Don't take cloves if you are on blood thinners, or for 2 weeks before surgery. Some people are allergic to cloves. Talk it over with your doctor and be careful about giving small children a clove to suck on. It can be a choking hazard.

Clove tea is as simple as 1 teaspoon of crushed cloves in a tea bag or infuser and 1 cup of boiling water. Put the infuser or tea bag in a cup and add the water. Let it steep covered for 8 to 10 minutes. You can use milk and sweetener as desired. Cloves are often used in Chai teas.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net

Pumpkin

Pumpkin, Cucurbita pepo, is popular in the fall. For me it brings up memories of my dad carving a pumpkin for me every Halloween. There were some restrictions. The Jack O` Lantern had to have a happy face and could not be scary or grotesque.

Both the flesh and the seeds of this member of the squash family have  health benefits. Pumpkins come in all sizes and are usually orange or yellow, though some are green, white, red or gray. There are field pumpkins for carving and feeding animals and there are the smaller pie pumpkins that are best for cooking and baking purposes.

Pumpkin is a member of the vegetable kingdom and is low in calories; just 27 calories for 100 g of fruit. The fruit has no cholesterol and lots of  fiber. It contains vitamins A, C, and E as well as the B vitamins. Pumpkin is rich in minerals such as calcium, copper, potassium, magnesium, manganese and phosphorus. Pumpkin has flavonoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and carotenes. The nutrients in pumpkin may reduce the risk of certain kinds of cancer, protect against asthma, heart disease, high blood pressure, and support eye health and immunity. .

Pumpkin seeds are a great source of fiber and contain mono-unsaturated acids. They also contain protein and minerals like iron, selenium, zinc and tryptophan. They are recommended for men with prostate problems. You can buy the seeds already hulled and salted at the farmers market. They  make a great snack.

There are very few side effects with pumpkin, but it does interact with Lithium. If you are taking lithium, consult with your doctor about using pumpkin.

Pumpkin is very versatile for cooking. One can make bread, cookies, pies, cakes, and soups with them. At this time of year pumpkin recipes abound. Just check the internet for pumpkin recipes and you will find hundreds of ways to fix pumpkin. Below is one of my favorites for pumpkin bread.

Pumpkin Bread

1 cup canned pumpkin (You can cook your own, but I find organic canned easier and quicker.)
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup olive oil
2 eggs beaten
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1$ teaspoon cinnamon
1//4 teaspoon allspice
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup cranberries

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sift flour, salt, sugar and baking soda together. Mix the pumpkin, oil, eggs 1/4 cup of water and spices together, then combine with the dry ingredients, but do not mix too thoroughly. Stir in the nuts and cranberries. Pour into mini-loaf pans that have been greased.I spray them with cooking spray.  Bake 35-40 minutes or until toothpick poked in center of loaf comes out clean. Turn out of pans and cool on cooling rack.

Have a great time this fall and be sure to check out my web page at www.valerielull.com

Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net 

Lemon, Honey and Cinnamon

Some herbalists like to use just one single herb at a time for a particular problem. Others believe that herbs in formulas and combinations work better. I feel you can do either one depending on what one's problem is. Lemon is a powerful substance. So is cinnamon. When they are  mixed with raw honey they are even more powerful. Organic honey is good and locally produced raw honey is good too. Especially good is Manukah honey which comes from Australia and New Zealand.

When honey and lemon are teamed up together they help a number of things. One thing that this combination helps is weight loss. Many people consider it a tonic. It is also good for digestion and it helps your liver. The honey is good for the friendly bacteria in your colon and the lemon is packed with vitamin C. This combination also helps heartburn and bloating.  Honey and lemon is good for insect bites, it soothes respiratory problems and it is good for your skin.

Another winning mixture  is raw honey and cinnamon.This combination has been around for centuries. It was used by the ancients in China and India.  It helps prevent heart disease, it clears one's sinuses, it helps maintain a healthy weight, it helps with arthritis and it boosts the immune system. In addition to that honey and cinnamon can help you get through cold and flu season, help your digestion by stopping the growth of bacteria and fungi, and help you recover from bladder infections.

Take 2 tablespoons of lemon and one teaspoon of honey. Take it with warm water. I do it first thing in the morning, but it can be taken at any time of day. For cinnamon and honey use 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and dissolve in a cup of boiling water. If you really want a winner mix all three, lemon, cinnamon and honey.

As always, be sure to discuss the use of these remedies with your health care provider. Herbs do interact with medicines. Be sure to refrain from giving children honey under the age of two.

Check out my website and learn more about healing teas. Go to www.valerielull.com

Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas 
Lullval!@clearwire.net

Celery the Vegetable Herb

Celery, Apium graviolens, is an herb, a vegetable and if you count the seeds that are used in cooking it is a spice. This lowly  vegetable is a powerhouse of nutrition, more than most people realize. It is great for those wanting to lose weight and it is well known for helping with blood pressure. Below are some of the things celery is good for.

Celery is a very low calorie food containing about ten calories per stalk. It aids in digestion because it contains lots of fiber. Celery helps to reduce inflammation, and the magnesium can soothe the nervous system when one is stressed. It is good for those with sleep problems. Eating some about a half hour before bed will help you sleep better. It helps the body maintain a healthy pH balance, and has nutrients that can protect your eyes. Celery helps with reducing bad cholesterol. A some studies show that celery may be an aid in fighting cancer. Celery is also used for gout and pain relief in folks that have inflammation in their joints.

On the nutritional level, celery contains antioxidants vitamin K,  folate, vitamin A, potassium, and vitamin C. also, the antioxidants known as phytonutrients, flavonols, flavones and phytosterols. Celery is mainly water, but it also provides dietary fiber. Celery has a salty taste because it contains sodium, but don't confuse this with table salt, the salts in celery are good salts and quite different from table salts.

Be careful if you have an allergy to celery, it can cause anaphylactic shock in a very few folks that are allergic to this. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing, though the amounts used in food are safe to use. Celery may increase bleeding. Do not take it in medicinal amounts for two weeks before or after surgery. Don't use celery in medicinal amounts if you have kidney or low blood pressure problems . Always consult your health care practitioner if you wish to use celery for medicinal purposes.

Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com . Learn about healthful teas and how they can  help you.



Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a popular herb as well as a culinary item. It is also called red pepper or chili pepper. Cayenne has many health properties and can be used as medicine and as food. Cayenne peppers can be dried, powdered and made into tinctures, pills or capsules  which can be used for various health problems..

Cayenne is good for digestion, stimulating the circulation all over the body. It helps other herbs to be absorbed and and circulated throughout ones system. It can clear out sinuses and causes one to sweat which releases toxins. Cayenne can relieve congestion and reduce fevers. It is good for people with cold hands and feet because it gets the blood flowing in the small capillaries in distant parts of the body.

Cayenne is a pain reliever and is often formulated into a lotion or liniment to be applied to areas that are painful, It is especially good for arthritic conditions. Cayenne is good for intestinal gas, diarrhea , cramps, heart conditions, poor circulation, high cholesterol and preventing heart disease. Additional uses are relief from a toothache, seasickness, muscle spasms, as a gargle for laryngitis, and for sinus infections.

Cayenne can cause intense pain if it gets into ones eyes and it is not too good on the face either, though it is sometimes used in pepper sprays. .Don't use cayenne orally if you are pregnant or nursing, Using capsaicin on the skin of children under 2 is not a good idea. Don't use on damaged or broken skin. Don't use cayenne if you are having surgery. Cayenne does not mix with cocaine, and cayenne should not be used with ACE inhibitors which are for high blood pressure. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking cayenne orally, especially if you are taking other medications. Don't use cayenne if you are taking a blood thinning medications, cayenne can slightly thin the blood and does not mix well with these drugs. Always consult your health practitioner.

I'm adding my favorite recipe for taking cayenne below. It is great for getting the blood circulating, and for clearing out the sinuses.

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (Use more or less depending on your tolerance for the heat.)
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
1 cup hot water

Put cayenne and bouillon in a mug. Add the hot water. Stir. You may want to wait for the hot water to cool a bit.

Check out my web page at www.valerielull.com   It has been updated

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
lullval@clearwire.net

cayenne pepper (capsicum) Uses & Effectiveness

Likely Effective for:

• Pain from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis, psoriasis, shingles and nerve pain due to diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), when applied to the skin in the affected area. The active ingredient in topical preparations of capsicum, capsaicin, is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for these uses.

Possibly Effective for:

• Back pain, when applied to the skin.
• Reducing painful tender points in people with fibromyalgia, when applied to the skin.
• Relieving symptoms of prurigo nodularis, a skin disease, when applied to the skin. It may take 22 weeks to 33 months of treatment to see a benefit. Symptoms may return after stopping use of capsicum.
• Cluster headache, when used in the nose. Capsicum seems to reduce the number and severity of cluster headaches. It’s best to apply capsicum to the nostril that is on the same side of the head as the headache.
• Relieving symptoms of perennial rhinitis, a runny nose not associated with allergies or infection, when used in the nose. Sometimes the benefit can last for 6-9 months.

Possibly Ineffective for:

• Nerve pain related to HIV or AIDS, when applied to the skin.

Insufficient Evidence for:

• Stomach ulcers. There is evidence that suggests people who eat capsicum fruit (chili) an average of 24 times per month appear to be less likely to have an ulcer than people who eat chili an average of 8 times per month. This applies to chili in the form of chili powder, chili sauce, curry powder, and other chili-containing foods.
• Heartburn. Beginning research suggests that red pepper powder (containing capsicum) in capsules taken 3 times daily before meals reduces symptoms of heartburn. But in some people, symptoms get worse before they get better.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Early evidence suggests that capsicum fruit taken by mouth doesn’t help symptoms of IBS.
• Hay fever. There is conflicting evidence so far about the effectiveness of capsicum for reducing hay fever symptoms.
• Polyps in the nose. Putting capsicum in the nose seems to improve symptoms and airflow.
• Swallowing difficulties. Some people, especially elderly people or those who have suffered a stroke, are more likely than other people to develop “aspiration pneumonia.” This is a kind of pneumonia that develops after food or saliva is sucked into the airways because the person couldn’t swallow properly. There is some evidence that dissolving a capsaicin-containing lozenge in the mouth of elderly people with swallowing problems before each meal can improve their ability to swallow.
• Colic.
• Cramps.
• Toothache.
• Blood clots.
• Fever.
• Nausea.
• High cholesterol.
• Heart disease.
• Migraine headache.
• Muscle spasms.
• Laryngitis.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of capsicum for these uses.

cayenne pepper (capsicum) Side Effects & Safety

Medicinal lotions and creams that contain capsicum extract are LIKELY SAFE for most adults when applied to the skin. The active chemical in capsicum, capsaicin, is approved by the FDA as an over-the-counter product. That is, it can be sold without a prescription.

Side effects can include skin irritation, burning, and itching. Capsicum can also be extremely irritating to the eyes, nose, and throat. Don't use capsicum on sensitive skin or around the eyes.

Capsicum extract is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth, short-term and in amounts typically found in food. Side effects can include stomach irritation and upset, sweating, flushing, and runny nose. It is POSSIBLY UNSAFE to take capsicum by mouth in large doses or for long periods of time. In rare cases, this can lead to more serious side effects like liver or kidney damage.

Capsicum extract is POSSIBLY SAFE when used in the nose. No serious side effects have been reported, but application in the nose can be very painful. Nasal application can cause burning pain, sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose. These side effects tend to decrease and go away after 5 or more days of repeated use.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Capsicum is LIKELY SAFE when applied to the skin during pregnancy. But not enough is known about its safety when taken by mouth. Stay on the safe side and don’t use capsicum if you are pregnant.

If you are breast-feeding, using capsicum on your skin is LIKELY SAFE. But it is POSSIBLY UNSAFE for your baby if you take capsicum by mouth. Skin problems (dermatitis) have been reported in breast-fed infants when mothers eat foods heavily spiced with capsicum peppers.

Children: Applying capsicum to the skin of children under two years of age is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Not enough is known about the safety of giving capsicum to children by mouth. Don’t do it.

Damaged or broken skin: Don’t use capsicum on damaged or broken skin.

Surgery: Capsicum might increase bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using capsicum at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

cayenne pepper (capsicum) Interactions 

Moderate Interaction Be cautious with this combination

• Cocaine interacts with CAPSICUM
  Cocaine has many dangerous side effects. Using capsicum along with cocaine might increase the side effects of cocaine including heart attack and death.
• Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with CAPSICUM
  Capsicum might slow blood clotting. Taking capsicum along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
  
  Some medications that slow blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), and others.
• Theophylline interacts with CAPSICUM
  Capsicum can increase how much theophylline the body can absorb. Taking capsicum along with theophylline might increase the effects and side effects of theophylline.

Minor Interaction Be watchful with this combination

• Medications for high blood pressure (ACE inhibitors) interacts with CAPSICUM
  Some medications for high blood pressure might cause a cough. There is one report of someone whose cough worsened when using a cream with capsicum along with these medications for high blood pressure. But is it not clear if this interaction is a big concern.
  
  Some medications for high blood pressure include captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), ramipril (Altace), and others.

cayenne pepper (capsicum) Dosing

The following doses have been studied in scientific research:

APPLIED TO THE SKIN:

• For pain, including arthritis, neuropathy, and fibromyalgia: Creams contain the active capsicum constituent capsaicin and are typically applied 3-4 times daily. It can take up to 14 days for maximum pain relief. Most creams contain 0.025% to 0.075% capsaicin concentrations. Higher power preparations may be used for diabetic neuropathy.
• For back pain: Capsicum-containing plasters providing 11 mg capsaicin/plaster or 22 mcg/cm2 of plaster applied have been used. The plaster is applied once daily in the morning and left in place for 4-8 hours.
• For prurigo nodularis: 0.025% to 0.3% of the active capsicum constituent capsaicin 4-6 times daily has been used.

Be sure to wash your hands after applying capsaicin cream. A diluted vinegar solution works well. You won’t be able to get the capsaicin off with just water. Don’t use capsicum preparations near the eyes or on sensitive skin. It could cause burning.

INSIDE THE NOSE:

• For cluster headache, 0.1 mL of a 10 mM capsaicin suspension, providing 300 mcg/day of capsaicin, applied to the nostril on the painful side of the head. Apply the suspension once daily until the burning sensation disappears. A capsaicin 0.025% cream (Zostrix, Rodlen Laboratories) applied daily for 7 days has been used to treat acute cluster headache attacks.

Putting capsaicin in the nose can be very painful, so a local painkilling medicine such as lidocaine is often put into the nose first.

Chicory

Chicory, also known as Cichorium intybus, is a plant that is grown for salad leaves, or for the roots. The roots are baked and ground and used as a coffee substitute and food additive. It is also grown for feeding livestock.

Chicory root extract is a dietary supplement and chicory is added to food. The root of the chicory plant has oils that are used to help the body get rid of intestinal worms and parasites. Chicory is used a lot in German folk medicine for gallstones, sinus problems and as a tonic.It contains inulin which helps with weight loss and the functioning of the bowels, in particular for constipation.

The use of chicory goes back to the ancient Egyptians and Romans. Medieval monks raised it and the Dutch added it to coffee. In the American civil war chicory was used by the Confederate troops and became a tradition in New Orleans. It was used a lot in the southwestern part of the United States. It has been used as a coffee substitute in American prisons.

In the culinary world the leaves are used for salads and the roots for a coffee substitute. Chicory greens can be boiled or sauteed and eaten for greens. A search of the internet will bring up dozens of recipes that use chicory. As for nutrition, the leaves contain more  nutrients than the roots, and they both contain inulin, vitamin A, vitamin C and calcium.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com  Also, check out my facebook page under the heading Ten Healthy Teas.


Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire,net

Valerian

valerian Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for:

• Inability to sleep (insomnia). Some research suggests that valerian does not relieve insomnia as fast as “sleeping pills.” Continuous use for several days, even up to four weeks, may be needed before an effect is noticeable. Valerian seems to improve the sleep quality of people who are withdrawing from the use of sleeping pills. Not all evidence is positive, however. Some studies have found that valerian doesn’t improve insomnia any better than a “sugar pill” (placebo).

Insufficient Evidence for:

• Anxiety. There is contradictory evidence about the effectiveness of valerian for anxiety. Some people have reported that it seems to reduce stress in social situations. Yet, other studies have shown no effect.
• Depression. Some early research suggests that taking valerian plus St. John’s wort improves symptoms of depression. Taking higher doses of valerian with St. John’s wort improves depression symptoms faster than low doses.
• Restlessness. A specific combination product, providing valerian root extract 160 mg and lemon balm leaf extract 80 mg (Euvegal forte, Schwabe Pharmaceuticals), has been tried to reduce symptoms of serious restlessness (dyssomnia) in children under the age of 12. Early results show it might be effective, but more research is needed.
• Menstrual disorders (dysmenorrhea). Early research suggests that taking valerian three times daily for two menstrual cycles reduces pain and the need for other pain relievers during menstruation.
• Stress. Early research suggests that taking 600 mg of valerian for 7 days reduces blood pressure, heart rate and feelings of pressure when under stress. Other research found that taking 100 mg before speaking in front of an audience reduces feelings of anxiety. Another study found that taking a combination product containing valerian and lemon balm night lower anxiety caused by stress at low doses but increase anxiety when taken in larger doses.
• Convulsions.
• Mild tremors.
• Epilepsy.
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
• Muscle and joint pain.
• Headache.
• Stomach upset.
• Menopausal symptoms including hot flashes and anxiety.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of valerian for these uses.

valerian Side Effects & Safety

Valerian is LIKELY SAFE for most people when used in medicinal amounts short-term. Clinical studies have reported safe use of valerian for medicinal purposes in over 12,000 people in trials lasting up to 28 days. The safety of long-term use is unknown. Some information suggests that valerian might also be safe when taken by children for 4-8 weeks.

Valerian can cause some side effects such as headache, excitability, uneasiness, and even insomnia in some people. A few people feel sluggish in the morning after taking valerian, especially at higher doses. It’s best not to drive or operate dangerous machinery after taking valerian. The long-term safety of valerian is unknown. To avoid possible side effects when discontinuing valerian after long-term use, it's best to reduce the dose slowly over a week or two before stopping completely.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy or breast-feeding: There isn’t enough information about the safety of valerian during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Surgery: Valerian slows down the central nervous system. Anesthesia and other medications used during surgery also affect the central nervous system. The combined effects might be harmful. Stop taking valerian at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

valerian Interactions 

Major Interaction Do not take this combination

• Alcohol interacts with VALERIAN
  Alcohol can cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Valerian might also cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Taking large amounts of valerian along with alcohol might cause too much sleepiness.
• Alprazolam (Xanax) interacts with VALERIAN
  Valerian can decrease how quickly the liver breaks down alprazolam. Taking valerian with alprazolam might increase the effects and side effects of alprazolam such as drowsiness.
• Sedative medications (Benzodiazepines) interacts with VALERIAN
  Valerian might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Drugs that cause sleepiness and drowsiness are called sedatives. Taking valerian along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness.
  Some of these sedative medications include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), midazolam (Versed), temazepam (Restoril), triazolam (Halcion), and others.
• Sedative medications (CNS depressants) interacts with VALERIAN
  Valerian might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Medications that cause sleepiness are called sedatives. Taking valerian along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness. Taking valerian along with sedative medications used in surgery might cause prolonged sedation.
  Some sedative medications include pentobarbital (Nembutal), phenobarbital (Luminal), secobarbital (Seconal), thiopental (Pentothal), fentanyl (Duragesic, Sublimaze), morphine, propofol (Diprivan), and others.

Moderate Interaction Be cautious with this combination

• Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) substrates) interacts with VALERIAN
  Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver.
  Valerian might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down some medications. Taking valerian along with some medications that are broken down by the liver can increase the effects and side effects of some medications. Before taking valerian, talk to your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications that are changed by the liver.
  Some medications changed by the liver include lovastatin (Mevacor), ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), fexofenadine (Allegra), triazolam (Halcion), and many others.

valerian Dosing

The following doses have been studied in scientific research:

BY MOUTH:

• For inability to sleep (insomnia):
• 400-900 mg valerian extract up to 2 hours before bedtime for as long as 28 days, or
• Valerian extract 120 mg, with lemon balm extract 80 mg 3 times daily for up to 30 days, or
• A combination product containing valerian extract 187 mg plus hops extract 41.9 mg per tablet, 2 tablets at bedtime for 28 days.

Take valerian 30 minutes to 2 hours before bedtime.

There are many people who have problems with insomnia. They try all kinds of things to get to sleep. Valerian also known in Latin as Valeriana officinalis is an herb that is known for helping folks with sleep  problems. Often valerian is combined with other herbs like lemon balm or hops which also cause drowsiness. Valerian has been used to help people withdraw from overuse of sleeping pills. The root of this herb is the portion of the plant that is used.

Additional uses for valerian are helping to relieve relieve anxiety and stress, headaches, stomach upsets, depression, ADHD and chronic fatigue. Sometimes it is used for pain in the joints, and women use it for menstrual cramps and menopause symptoms. 

Valerian is a well-known herb and the medicine comes from the root of the plant. It is a native plant of Europe and Asia and was introduced to North America. The smell is not so pleasant. It resembles wet socks or aged cheese. Valerian can be used in ones bath water to combat restlessness and make one drowsy. There are ongoing studies of the use of valerian root for things like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis ADHD and neuralgia. It works like a natural tranquilizer and it is not addictive. Valerian can be taken as a tea, or if the taste and smell is too overwhelming it can be taken in tablet or capsule form. 

Valerian does have some side effects. Some people experience headache, uneasiness and in a rare few situations, insomnia. One might feel sluggish in the morning after taking valerian and I would recommend staying away from driving or operating dangerous machinery. It is not for pregnant or nursing mothers and should be discontinued two weeks before scheduled surgery as it can interfere with the anesthetic.

Read more about healthy teas on my website at www.valerielull.com 

Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
www.lullval@clearwire.net

Peppers Part II

Last week I discussed sweet peppers, and this week I will talk about hot peppers. Hot peppers are peppers like jalapeno peppers, cayenne peppers, serrano peppers and habanero peppers. There are other peppers that are hotter than these, but they are not used in cooking.

The substance in the peppers that make them hot is called capsaicin. The amount of heat is measured in Scoville units. A habanero pepper has 150,000 to 350,000 Scoville units, while a jalapeno has only 5,000.The part of the pepper that is hot are the seeds inside and the white membrane. When cooking jalapenos if you want to cut the heat, you cut out all of that.

In addition to culinary uses the hot peppers have medicinal uses as well. The substance capsaicin is a well-known pain reliever. It works by causing the sensation of heat to be registered in the brain as pain. The brain then releases endorphins. The endorphins cause a temporary elation, a sort of "high". This is good for a number of things. One of those things is relief of pain. There are a number of preparations in the forms of creams and ointments that can be applied topically to relieve arthritis pain and pain in the joints. These are available at your local drugstore.

Hot peppers are known for other things. The capsaicin is said to reduce the itching and inflammation that are caused by psoriasis.They are loaded with vitamin C, they have been touted as an aphrodisiac, they increase blood flow in the body, and speed up the metabolism. Peppers have carotenoids and flavonoids which work as antioxidants fighting free radicals. Men who use chili peppers regularly in their diet appear to have less occurrence of prostate cancer.

A word of caution. When handling hot peppers, be sure to wash your hands afterwards and keep your hands away from your eyes. You do not want the capsaicin in your eyes. Peppers are a good choice, both for eating and for health.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com . Also my facebook page which is listed under the heading Ten Healthy Teas.

Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net

 

Peppers known in Latin as Capsicum annuum are members of the Solanaceae family. Other members of this family are tomatoes, potatoes and eggplant. They come in green, red, yellow, orange and purple. They are very popular for cooking and also have many health benefits. Peppers come as hot, and as sweet. Since there is so much information on peppers, I am making this a 2 part series. This week I'll discuss sweet peppers and next week hot peppers.

Peppers including bell peppers originated in Central and South America.They were given the name pepper by the Spanish explorers. In modern times they are also grown in China, Asia and North America and have been incorporated into cuisines all over the world. 

Although peppers are known for their culinary uses, they are also have many health promoting properties. They are rich in vitamins C, B6, and E,  an abundance of carotenoids, and folic acid. They contain fiber which is good for digestion.. They have flavonoids like luteolin, quercetin and zeaxanthin. Peppers have minerals like iron, copper, zinc, manganese, selenium, magnesium and manganese. The sulphur and lycopene in them have the potential to prevent cancer. Peppers also help prevent type 2 diabetes. They are good for your eyes with lutein and zeaxanthin and protect against macular degeneration.

Bell peppers are high in nutrition and low in calories, which makes them an excellent food choice for folks who are watching their weight. They can be served cut up with ranch dressing, hummus or your favorite dip. They have a crunchiness to them that is better than chips and they are healthier. Sweet peppers are an all round good choice when it comes to food. 

Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com  My book  Ten healthy teas, is available at a discount from www.outskirtspress.com/bookstore Go to the link and check it out.

Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
lullval@clearwire.net

Raw Honey

Raw Honey comes straight from the honeycomb, unheated, unpasteurized, and unprocessed. It is still sugar, but with a few vitamins, enzymes, phytonutrients and nutritional properties in it. Honey comes from the bees that pollinate just about everything. Raw honey has something about it that is very healing. First of all it is natural, it has health properties and it tastes good. Raw honey has been used by humans for as far back in history as we can go. It also plays a part in cultural traditions and religious ceremonies.

You can buy raw honey still on the comb, or as a liquid or solid. My dad used to eat it straight off the comb, but he also got a mouthful of bees wax which I didn't like. I preferred my honey to be in it's liquid golden form. The color of honey can vary from  clear, to milky and it all depends on what flowers the bees got it from.

Honey has health properties.

To get the best benefits from honey, it is better to use locally produced raw honey. It is very helpful for seasonal allergies like hay fever. There is something about the way the bees make it, that when you take the honey it brings relief from the allergies. It is also good for your immune system.

Bees also produce a substance called propolis. Propolis contains vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Good raw honey has both pollen and propolis. Propolis is antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and contains antioxidants. Some of the nutrients of raw honey have tumor and cancer prevention properties. It is also good for a cough suppressant, reducing allergy symptoms, regulating blood sugar and and cholesterol, healing ulcers and bacterial infections.

Applying raw honey to infected wounds reduces the redness and swelling. It has been compared to antibiotics. Honey can also be used to treat small burns and can be safely used externally by diabetics. However, I would suggest anyone who is watching their blood sugar to be cautious about internal use.

Honey makes a good addition to a cup of tea. You can get honey sticks to put in your tea. It is also good on biscuits with butter. Honey is a sugar so I recommend that you use moderation when using it internally.

Caution:

One should be cautious about using honey, be sure to consult your health care provider. It is dangerous to give honey to children under 1 year of age. It sometimes contains botulism spores that that can be life threatening to the infant. For diabetics internal use of honey should be discussed with your health care provider.

Check out my web page at www.valerielull.com  Also look for my page on facebook. Look under the heading Ten Healthy Teas.

Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
lullval@clearwire.net

Blackberries

Most of us think of those annoying blackberries that invade your lawns and gardens and have to be taken out. While it is true that blackberries can be a nuisance, they are loaded with health properties. The fruit is delicious and is full of vitamin C and relieves constipation, and the leaves and roots are good for diarrhea. I think of of culinary goodies like blackberry jam and blackberry smoothies and blackberry pies. My dad used to go out into the country and pick wild blackberries and bring them home for us to eat.

Blackberries have endless herbal qualities. Blackberries help people sleep, they cool and cleanse the blood and they tone the arteries and veins. For bleeding gums you can chew the leaves because they are an astringent and full of vitamin C. An infusion can be made that can be used for a mouthwash.There is fiber in blackberries that helps digestion and may lower cholesterol levels.

Blackberries have a lot of fiber. Vitamin A helps keep the mucous membranes healthy. Blackberries have vitamin K and manganese which helps your bones. Their deep purple color is because they contain anthocyanins which have cancer fighting benefits. The berries have natural sun protection which protects skin cells from the harmful rays of the sun. They have antioxidants that fight mutations which cause DNA damage.

Blackberries can help with eye health and reduce the chances of developing macular degeneration. The plant estrogens in blackberries can help relieve PMS symptoms and bloating, as well as menopause symptoms like hot flashes.

Blackberries can be eaten with yogurt, breakfast cereal, and in muffins. A tea can be made from the berries and they can be made into blackberry wine. An infusion can be made from the leaves and it can be taken as a tonic. There seems to be no end to the benefits of blackberries. They don't cost much and often you can go out in the wild and pick them for free.

I'm going to give you my favorite blackberry smoothie recipe. It is great as a snack or a dessert.

Blackberry Smoothie

In a blender combine 1 C of blackberries, 1 C of almond milk, or whatever kind of milk you choose to use, and 1 or 2 packs of Stevia, depending on how sweet you like it. You can also substitute whatever sweetener you choose if you don't want to use Stevia. Add ice, this is optional. If you berries are frozen you might want to skip the ice. Blend for 2-3 minutes. Pour into a glass and enjoy. This is one of my favorites.

To read about healthy teas go to  my website at www.valerielull.com .

Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net

Dark Chocolate Has Health Benefits

One of my favorite indulgences is chocolate. However, if you want to receive the health benefits you have to be careful what kind of chocolate you eat and how much. Emerging research seems to indicate that chocolate has a number of healing properties and may actually be good for you when taken in the right form and in moderation. Chocolate is chucked full of good things like flavonoids that reduce inflammation, phytosterols that help cholesterol levels, and antioxidants that reduce free radicals.  There are so many things that are good about chocolate I could write several blogs on the subject. Today I will hit the highlights.

Antioxidant - Antioxidants are substances that fight free radicals. Free radicals are atoms that have an electron missing and can damage your cells DNA. The antioxidants provide the missing electron and stabilizes the molecule. The damage free radicals can do can be the start of processes that lead to cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Cardiovascular Problems - According to recent research chocolate can help coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, high cholesterol, plaque deposits on artery walls and obesity.

Natural Stimulant - Eating chocolate can produce a boost of energy both physically and mentally. This is partly due to the caffeine content and partly due to theobromine. Theobromine is an alkaloid in cacao that also can provide a boost of energy.

Cognitive Function - Cocoa is good for your mind. The flavonols in chocolate may help with cognitive decline.Flavonols can reverse age-related cognitive decline by increasing the strength of the connections of the neurons in your brain that aid in maintaining memory.

Mood Booster - There is a chemical reaction with chocolate called anandamide that blocks feelings of pain and depression temporarily. Some researchers call it bliss. Some evidence seems to show that it also sweetens up your love life.

Gut Bacteria - The good bacteria in your gut love to feast on chocolate. They turn it into anti-inflammatory compounds that fight inflammation, another underlying cause of chronic diseases like heart trouble, cancer and Alzheimer's.

Some guidelines - Don't use this information as a reason to run down to your market and chow down on candy bars. There's way too much sugar in them. If you want to eat good chocolate choose the dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao. It has less sugar and the higher the cacao content, the more health benefits you will reap. Eat only 1-2 squares a day. As the old saying goes, "all things in moderation". If you are still worried about sugar content you can get cacao in capsule form and take a few each day. Cacao in capsule form can be purchased on the internet, your local health food store, or by mail order.You can also get benefits from hot coco, or from cacao beans that have been dipped in chocolate

To learn another Way to stay healthy go now to my web site  www.valerielull.com  It is OK to have a chocolate treat if it is done with thought, care and moderation.

Valerie Lull,  MH,
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
www.Lullval@clearwire.net

The Taste of Green Tea

Green tea is probably one of the most studied beverages around. Just about every day you see something in the media about the health benefits of green tea. However, for many people green tea has a drawback, the taste. They want the benefits of green tea but the taste is a barrier. Here are a few tips about how you can make the taste of green tea more palatable.


Brewing it - There is an art and a particular trick to brewing your green tea that makes a big difference in taste. You have to heat the water to the right temperature. If the temperature is too high it will be bitter, if it is too low the full flavor will not be extracted. If it is brewed at a lower than boiling temperature your tea will be sweeter and the taste greatly improved.

 The guidelines for the temperature of green tea are between 140 degrees Fahrenheit and 185 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees centigrade to 90 degrees centigrade). You can get special tea kettles that you can program for the various temperatures you want for your varied teas, or you can do what I do and take the kettle off the heat just before it comes to a boil. Or you could heat the water in a cooking pot with a thermometer to get it just right.

 Adding an herb to it to make it more tasty - There are an infinite number of combinations you can use to flavor up green tea. Many are available at your supermarket or tea merchant. There's Ginger, pomegranate, raspberry and lemon. Experiment and find one you like.

Sweetener - I like to add a sweetener to my green tea. There is honey if you are not diabetic or watching your blood sugar. For those who are watching blood sugar there is Stevia, Agave Syrup, Xylitol, coconut crystals, or even coconut milk. Stevia is now processed so that it does not have the aftertaste it used to have. This also varies with the brand of Stevia you use.  I am a little hesitant about chemically prepared artificial sweeteners. I would say to beware when using them, some have unwanted side effects.

The unthinkable - Most people do not add milk or cream to green tea. I am the oddball. I like to add a little soy creamer to mine. It makes it a little more mellow and it slides down my throat easier. Some authorities say the milk destroys the health giving properties of the tea, others say it does not. The jury is still out on that. Of course it could depend on what kind of milk you add, dairy vs. soy or almond or coconut milk, or one of the other myriad types of milk that is out there.

Go check out my website for more information on the health benefits tea. Here is the link www.valerielull.com  Have a great day.


Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net