Cilantro

Cilantro, Coriandrum sativum,  is a green parsley like herb that is used frequently in Mexican, Latin American, Mediterranean and Asian cooking. It is also called Chinese parsley and Coriander. Coriander is mentioned in the Bible and is an herb used by ancient peoples. Beginning cooks often mistake coriander for flat leaf parsley. Cilantro works well as an accent to spicy foods.

Cilantro has many constituents that have preventive and health promoting  properties. In some ways it is similar to dill because both the leaves and seeds are used. Coriander has dark green leaves and stems that are slightly citrus in flavor.

Cilantro is low in calories and possesses antioxidants, essential oils, vitamins and fiber. The vitamins include Vitamins B, C, A and K. Cilantro has minerals like potassium, calcium, manganese, iron and magnesium.

Medicinal uses include antiseptic and carminative properties. Cilantro has phytochemicals like quercitin, and essential oils.These substances are traditionally used as analgesic, aphrodisiac, anti-spasmodic, deodorant, digestive, and stomachic remedies.

Cilantro is known for being a toxic metal cleanser. Chemical compounds in cilantro bind to toxic metals and escort them out of the body. Cilantro has been shown to improve sleep, cleanse fungal conditions, and have anti-anxiety properties.

Personally I love the smell of cilantro and use it in my Mexican food recipes.  Here is a recipe you may enjoy.

Cilantro-Lime Dressing

1 Jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 Clove garlic
3/4 t minced ginger root
1/4 c lime juice
1/3 c honey
2 t balsamic vinegar
Salt to taste
1/4 c cilantro leaves
1/2 c olive oil

Place jalapeno pepper, garlic and ginger in a blender and blend until jalapeno and garlic are finely chopped. Add lime juice, honey, vinegar and salt. Turn on the blender and drizzle olive oil into dressing. Season to taste with salt. Serve over your favorite salad.

References
http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/cilantro/index.html
http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/cilantro.html
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/health-benefits-of-cilantro/
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/167260/cilantro-lime-dressing/

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com  My new book entitled "The Sweet Side of the Stinking Rose; How to use garlic to stay healthier and live longer" will hopefully be out in  June.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
valerielull923@gmail.com

Lemons, 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 
valerielull923@gmail.com

Hibiscus Tea -- A Great Antioxidant

I must admit, the first time I tried hibiscus tea I did not like it. It was sour and had a zing to it. As I got older and more interested in herbal teas and health I learned to like it, though it still seems a bit sour. The taste can be improved with a healthful sweetener or by blending it with other herbal teas. However, I've grown to like the sour taste. Some people like it. I sip it in small sips when I drink it.

Despite all of this, hibiscus appears to have some very good properties that assist in maintaining health. Hibiscus is used for nerve problems, fluid retention, circulatory problems, a diuretic (increases flow of urine), a gentle laxative, loss of appetite, colds and heart diseases. Some scientists think hibiscus may lower mild blood pressure problems, and help relieve spasms of the stomach and uterus. It also may kill bacteria and worms. Hibiscus has nutritional value, it contains vitamins A and C, thiamin and it also contains minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

In Egypt the flower portion of the hibiscus plant is used for a common drink called Karkade. This plant has been used to make jams, spices, soups, sauces and the flowers are used in making medicine. Hibiscus can improve the flavor, odor and the appearance of tea blends Some authorities think drinking 3 cups of hibiscus tea during the day is best for mild  hypertension issues.


It is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women. Since it can work on the uterus it possibly can cause miscarriage. It may interfere with Tylenol and other over the counter pain relievers. Always consult with your health care provider before starting its use.


Many tea companies sell blends of hibiscus with other teas and herbs for both hot and cold tea Some of these are quite good .Hibiscus tea is used both hot and iced and blending it with other teas seems to improve the taste.  I have included a simple recipe for hibiscus iced tea.


Iced Hibiscus Tea

32 oz. of water
Several bags of hibiscus tea (The more you use the stronger the tea)
Sweetener of choice
Ice

Place the tea bags in a saucepan with the water. Simmer 5 minutes. Allow to cool. Add ice. Enjoy the beverage. Other things can be added to enhance the flavor, lemon, lemon grass, cinnamon. Try experimenting with some of your favorite flavors.

Would you like to comment? What is your favorite hibiscus recipe?

Valerie Lull, Author

Ten Healthy Teas
Ten Spices For Health and Longevity

valerielull923@gmail.com

Website: www.valerielull.com 

 Goldenseal Tea (Hydrastis canadensis)

Goldenseal is a common and powerful herb that
is good for assisting the immune system in warding off
colds and flu. It is a Native American plant and was widely
used by Native Americans, particularly the Iroquois and
Cherokee. Goldenseal has a reputation for being a cureall
and has been known as an effective antibiotic. It is
also useful for diarrhea and yeast infections. Goldenseal
is an endangered species, so be sure your tea comes from
a reputable source. You can find reputable companies on
the Internet. Goldenseal should not be used by pregnant
women or people with heart conditions. Some authorities
think it raises blood pressure.

Goldenseal may be used as a tonic and a detoxifier. It is
useful for respiratory infections and mucous membrane infections,
as well as for diarrhea and intestinal infections.
Goldenseal may help diabetes, yeast infections, periodontal
disease, eye disease, and liver problems in alcoholics. It is
a popular treatment for urinary tract infections. Goldenseal
has natural antibiotic properties. It helps to kill the harmful
bacteria in your system.

Here are some more uses for goldenseal tea: boost immune
system, stimulate appetite, anti-inflammatory, eye
infections, peptic ulcers, colitis, anorexia, and irritable
bowel syndrome. Use as an eyewash or as a douche for
yeast infections in women. Gargling with goldenseal heals
canker sores in the mouth and eases sore throats. Don’t use
if you’re taking blood thinning drugs like Coumadin; don’t
use if pregnant or breast-feeding.

Suggestions for use: 
Take with meals
ƒ Honey sweetens the bitter taste

One last word. Goldenseal is an endangered species. Wildcrafting goldenseal is not advised. Be sure you get your goldenseal from  a reputable source.

Goldenseal Tea from the Root

Simmer 1 teaspoon of dried root in 8 ounces of boiling
water for 10–20 minutes. Enjoy.

Goldenseal Tea

Goldenseal Tea from Tea Bags

1–2 goldenseal tea bags
Honey or another sweetener of choice
1-2 cups of boiling water
Pour boiling water over the tea bag and let steep for 5 minutes.
Add sweetener to taste.

Goldenseal Lemon Peppermint Tea

1 goldenseal tea bag
1 lemon tea bag or ½ squeezed lemon
1 peppermint tea bag (to flavor the bitter taste)
Sweetener to taste
Pour boiling water over the tea bags in a large cup or small
teapot and let steep for 5 minutes. Add sweetener to taste

Question: Have you ever used goldenseal tea? How did you like it? Your comments are welcome.

-- Valerie Lull
Author, Ten Healtlhy Teas
Web Site: www.valerielull.com

Cumin for Inflammation

Cumin is a spice that is well known for its use in Mexican, Spanish, Middle Eastern and Indian foods. It is technically classified as an herb and it has many medicinal uses. Some of the uses for cumin include reduced inflammation, increased urination, reduce gas, suppress muscle spasms, indigestion, jaundice, and diarrhea. It can be used in a poultice, a suppository and smoked in a pipe.

Cumin is native to hot countries like South Africa, Egypt, China and Morocco. It was used by the Romans and the Greeks for its health benefits. Cumin is mentioned in the Bible. Cumin is a seed and it is the seeds that are used for medicine.They can be obtained dried, or ground. Ground cumin is a brownish-green color.

Cumin has been used as a culinary spice for centuries. Besides being used as a seasoning for food, the oil is used for alcoholic beverages. Cumin is an antioxidant and is antibacterial. It can lower blood sugar and strengthen bones. Cumin has been used for boils and makes a great tonic. Cumin is good for hair and skin.

Some of the side effects of cumin include heartburn, belching, a heavy menstrual cycle, and low blood sugar. Because of the blood sugar lowering action cumin is not good for diabetics in quantities more then what is used in cooking. Some people are allergic to cumin and it can cause skin rashes.

Cumin seeds are often mistaken for caraway seeds because the seeds look similar. Cumin is also used for non food and medicine items like lotions and perfumes. Cumin seeds can be boiled and steeped for eight or nine minutes to make a tea. It is also available in capsule form from online retailers.


www.drugs.com/npc/cumin.html
http://www.seedguides.info/cumin/
www.webmd.com/.../ingredientmono-635-cumin.aspx:...cumin
http://www.stylecraze.co/articles/side-effects-of-cumin-seeds/
http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-cumin.html

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com

Rose Tea

Roses are a universal symbol of love, especially red roses. They are beautiful to look at and the scent makes you feel good. Roses are often used in  cosmetics. They are also used in essential oils and aroma therapy. The rose hips are loaded with vitamin C. Today I am going to write about the health benefits of rose tea.

Rosebud tea has been used in Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years. It is sometimes called "the lady's tea" because it has health benefits for women. Rose tea can help PMS and menstrual cramping. It also helps with emotional ups and downs.
.
Rose tea can be made from rosebuds, rose petals or rose hips. It clears toxins from the body and can relieve a sore throat or runny nose. It relieves fluid retention and also works as a laxative. Rose tea can help stress and fatigue and cleanses the liver promoting bile production. I was surprised to learn that rose tea contains about 50 mg of caffeine. It is less than a cup of coffee. The caffeine can boost energy and metabolism.

 Rose tea is sometimes used with green tea. Both green tea and rose tea have been used for centuries for therapeutic and medicinal purposes. Together this blend contains antioxidants, vitamins, bioflavonoids, and alkaloids. Together they can boost the immune system and fight infection.

Rose tea can be used hot or iced and used with other teas to make interesting tea blends and enhance health. You can grow roses in your own yard and have a source of fresh rose petals and rose hips for tea. Rose tea is a remarkable tea and useful tool to enhance health.

Sources:
www.livestrong.com/article 1165-rose-tea-health-benefits
www.vega-licious.com/therapeutic-benefits-of-roses-and-rose-teas
www.activehealth.ie/wp/index.php/the-benefits-of-rosebud-tea/
www.teamajesty.com/health-benefits-of-rose-tea/
www.livestrong.com/article 269095-what-are-the-benefits-of-green-tea-with-rose/

As always, your comments and experiences with rose tea are welcome. I am working on a new web site and hope to have it up and running soon. For information about my book Ten Healthy Teas go to Amazon. Here is the link http://www.amazon.com/Ten-Healthy-Teas-Valerie-Lull/dp/1432784935/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1431261798&sr=1-2&keywords=Ten+Healthy+Teas

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
valerielull923@gmail.com

Seven Health Benefits of Lemons

Just about everyone knows that lemons are a healthful fruit. They are used a lot in the culinary world for everything from flavoring for chicken to lemon meringue pie. They are full of vitamin C, minerals, flavonoids and many other good nutrients. They are also low in calories and useful for weight loss.

Here are some little known facts about the health benefits of lemons that I would like to share with you.

1. Lemons help balance the pH level in your body. Lemons can be quite acidic but once your body processes them they are alkaline.
2. Lemons are high in potassium. Lemons have 80 milligrams of this mineral. Potassium is important to help regulate blood pressure.
3. Lemons contain antioxidants. The vitamin C in lemons is an antioxidant. Antioxidants fight free radicals which promote inflammation and chronic disease.
4. Lemons are a mood booster. Lemons contain a high amount of negatively charged ions which help to improve mood and energy.
5. Lemons are an insect repellent. This is good if you have children or pets because it won't harm them and it will make the bugs go away.
6. Lemons have a high fiber content. Lemons have pectin which helps to keep you from getting hungry or overeating. 
7. Lemon juice helps your liver. The juice helps flush out toxins and causes the liver to produce bile.

All these things are great for maintaining good health and preventing disease. Years ago when I lived in California we had a lemon tree in our back yard. It was great to pick lemons off our own tree to make fresh lemonade. Lemons are readily available in any supermarket and not  too expensive. Many people drink warm lemon water in the morning to get their digestion going. Some folks drink lemon water throughout the day. However you like your lemons, they are a great super food.

Sources:

http://www.popsugar.com/fitness/10-Reasons-Lemon-Juice-Good-You-14860617

http://www.thealternativedaily.com/21-extraordinary-uses-lemons/

http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/lemon.html

I am working on building a new web site. It will be up and running shortly. Stay tuned. Your comments are always welcome.

Valerie Lull

Author

Ten Healthy Teas

valerielull923@gmail.com

Health Benefits of Black Pepper

Black pepper is one of the most popular of all spices. It has been used for centuries in India where it originated. Wars have been fought over pepper. Pepper grows on a vine that produces small white flowers which develop berries that are called peppercorns. These are ground up into the spice we call pepper. Peppercorns come in white, and black. They both come from the same plant; they are just harvested at different times and processed differently. Black pepper is hot and smells strong and white pepper is hot but has less smell. Pepper oil is distilled from pepper.

Most people think of pepper in terms of culinary uses, but black pepper has a number of health benefits as well. Black pepper stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach which improves digestion. It also helps prevent the formation of gas in the intestines. It has diaphoretic properties that encourage sweating and diuretic properties that promote urination. Peppercorns stimulate the breakdown of fat cells. Some people even use black pepper to help them quit smoking.

Black peppercorns have potassium, calcium zinc, manganese, iron and magnesium. They also contain B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin A. They have antioxidants such as carotenes, zeaxanathin and lycopene. Anti-oxidants work against free radicals that can cause cancer and other diseases.

Black pepper has some unique household uses that I found interesting. It can be used as a laundry booster to keep the colors of your clothes bright. Sprinkle a half teaspoon of pepper into your laundry. It will wash away and your clothes will not fade.

Pepper can be used in your garden to keep pests and insects away as well as deer and rabbits. It makes an excellent scrub for your face. You can make a formula from sugar, massage oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper. Add a few drops of orange essential oil. Massage the mixture into your face, then rinse. Black pepper is readily available in any supermarket. Organic pepper is the best.


Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-800-black%20pepper%20and%20white%20pepper.aspx?activeingredientid=800&activeingredientname=black%20pepper%20and%20white%20pepper
www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname-foodspice&dbid=74
http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/black_pepper.html
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/black-pepper-essential-oil.html
http://www.thealternativedaily/spice-up-your-health-with-black-pepper/

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com  Your comments are welcome as well as suggestions for topics for this blog. To leave a comment click on the words "no comment" below and the comment box will come up.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com

Herbal Coffee Substitutes

Many scientific studies have been done on coffee and when taken in moderation coffee is good for most people. The problem is that some people are allergic to the caffeine in the coffee, or perhaps they just don't like coffee. There are a number of commercial coffee substitutes on the market that are available in health food stores and online. If you prefer, you can make your own herbal coffee substitutes that are caffeine free and you know exactly what's in them. Below are some herbal preparations.

Chicory

Chicory is an herb that has a beautiful little blue flower. It is often mixed with real coffee or it can be used alone. Chicory has a long tap root that can be cut up and roasted. It is then ground and made into a caffeine free beverage that is a coffee substitute. It's a favorite in New Orleans.


Dandelion

Another common herb used for coffee is dandelion root. Like chicory, dandelion also has a long tap root. These roots can be harvested, dried, cut up and roasted. It can be ground in a coffee grinder and then used to brew caffeine free herbal coffee substitute. There are commercial dandelion coffees available in nutrition centers and specialty food stores.


Chickpea

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzos are a legume. The chickpeas can be spread out on a cookie sheet and baked at 300 degrees until they are brown like coffee beans. After they have cooled down you can grind them in a coffee grinder and then use the grind like you would when making coffee. Chickpea coffee can be percolated, or boiled in water. You may want to use a tea strainer when pouring the brew to avoid sediment in your cup.

Barley

Barley alone or mixed with other grains is used to make coffee substitute drinks. Spread the barley thinly on a cookie sheet and roast in the oven at 425 degrees until it is dark in color. Cool, then grind in a coffee grinder. Measure out a heaping teaspoon in a cup and add boiling water.

Does anyone remember Postum? It was a commercial product made by the C.W. Post company and sold in supermarkets for years. My parents did not drink coffee and Postum was a staple at our house. It was made from roasted wheat and molasses. Postum is making a comeback of sorts. It is available from two sources in the United States. Amazon.com and The Vermont Country Store. Be prepared for sticker shock, it is quite expensive. I have no connection with the Postum company, I just have nostalgic memories from days past.


http://coffeetea.about.com/od/typesoftea/a/Chicory.htm
http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/chickpea-coffee-substitute-recipe-zmaz77sozgoe.aspx
http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/barley-coffee-substitute-recipe-zmaz77sozgoe.aspx
http://www.vermontcountrystore.com/store/jump/productDetail/Catalog/Food_&_Candy/Breakfast/Postum/64003

Your comments are welcome. To leave a comment click on the words "1 comment" below. Be sure to check out my web site at www.valerielull.com

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
Ten healthy Teas
valerielull923@gmail.com

Turmeric and Memory

Turmeric is the golden yellow spice that is used extensively in Indian cooking. Traditionally it was called "Indian saffron". It is used as a dye for fabric and has been used in both Chinese and Indian medicine since ancient times. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory, and is used for flatulence, toothache, jaundice, arthritis, diabetes, anti-ageing and more.

Turmeric is a spice that many folks turn to for memory problems. India has the lowest rate of Alzheimer's disease in the world. Many scientists think that it is the turmeric in the Indian diet that is responsible for this. Turmeric has a constituent called curcumin. Curcumin is the major yellow pigment in turmeric.

There was a study done in 2008 that tested the effects of curcumin on Alzheimer's disease. The study showed that curcumin has a potential role in the treatment of Alzheimer's and that the overall memory of Alzheimer's patients improved.

Professor Mark Wahlqvist of Monash University tested memory in people 60 years of age and older. The subjects were given one gram of turmeric with breakfast. Memory was tested before and after a meal. The results showed that working memory improved for over six hours in older people with prediabetes.

Curcumin is available in capsule form but there seems to be some a problem with the body absorbing it. This can be remedied by taking it with black pepper. The black pepper increases the bioavailability of the turmeric, allowing it to be absorbed more easily. There are supplements on the market that have both the turmeric and black pepper mixed together. They are inexpensive and can be ordered online or from supplement catalogs.

Turmeric milk is a tasty way to take turmeric. Here is the recipe:

1 teaspoon coconut oil
1 teaspoon turmeric paste
1 cup almond milk, or milk of choice (rice, soy, dairy, etc.)
Sweetener of choice

Mix ingredients together over medium heat. Do not boil. Drink when it cools down.
How to make turmeric paste.

1/2 cup turmeric powder
1 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
5 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil

Mix together to form a paste.

The information in this blog is for educational purposes only. Be sure to check with your health care practitioner before trying any new substance like herbs or supplements.

http://draxe.com/turmeric-health-benefits/
http://alzheimer.neurology.ucla.edu/Curcumin.html
http://www.annalsofian.org/article.asp?issn=0972-2327;year=2008;volume=11;issue=1;spage=13;epage=19;aulast=Mishra
http://nutritionfacts.org/2015/02/05/why-pepper-boosts-turmeric-blood-levels/
http://monash.edu/news/show/spice-up-your-memory

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com

White Tea Has Antioxidants

There are four teas that come from the Camellia sinensis plant. They are black tea, green tea, oolong, and white tea. White tea has an exotic past. It comes from China and historically was only available to the royal court of the emperor, not the masses. There was one emperor who nearly lost his empire over white tea.

 The difference between the four teas mentioned above is that black tea is oxidized, oolong tea is less oxidized, green tea leaves are withered, and white tea leaves uncured and unfermented. The tea leaves for white tea are the very young leaves and buds. They are harvested at a much earlier stage in growth than the leaves for the other teas. The leaves have very fine silver hairs on them giving rise to the the variety of white tea variety called Silver Needle.

Because white tea is the least processed, it has the highest levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals that are generated as a result of cell metabolism. Free radicals can damage DNA and speed up the ageing process. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals.

White tea ranges from pale yellow to almost clear in the cup. The tea has a very delicate taste. People who have compromised taste buds will probably think it is water. Adding lemon to white tea causes more antioxidants to be released. The action of the antioxidants help to slow down ageing and help to prevent diseases like cancer, and heart disease. White tea appears to be good for one's skin and for oral health. People use it for weight loss.

White tea can be found blended with other things like green tea, rooibos tea, and fruits like raspberry, pomegranate, mango and pear. White tea is becoming more and more popular and so is more and more available. For people who are watching their caffeine intake white tea has less caffeine than black or green tea and a lot less than coffee. The caffeine content can also vary depending on how long it steeps and how hot the water is.


http://www.whiteteaguide.com/whiteteahistory.htm
http://www.whiteteaguide.com/whiteteahealthbenefits.htm
http://www.webmd.com/diet/tea-types-and-their-health-benefits
http://nutritionfacts.org/video/green-tea-vs-white/
http://www.caffeine-content.com/caffeine-in-tea/caffeine-in-white-tea/

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com To leave comments click on the words "1 comment"  below. Your comments are welcome. Any requests for future blogs?


Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com

Lemons Can Boost Your mood

The benefits of lemons are numerous. They are so  numerous that I have written several blogs about lemons and their benefits. One of the benefits of lemons that I really like are that they can boost your mood. There is a clean fragrance and a freshness about lemons that creates energy and enhances your feelings of well-being.

 .

The scent alone can give your mind a boost.  The scent of citrus can reduce stress. Aromatherapists use lemon essential oil for stress disorders. It can give you a positive mindset and relieve nervous tension. Lemon oil increases concentration and alertness. Lemon oil is sometimes used as a room freshener to increase the efficiency of employees in an office.

Lemons contain more negative ions than any other fruit. Negative ions are what make you feel good when you get out in the fresh air, especially around waterfalls and in the mountains. The negative ions make you feel more alert because they bring more oxygen to your brain. They also give you mental energy.
A study was done where the subjects were blindfolded and then asked to smell lavender, lemon and water. The results showed that lemon oil "reliably enhances positive mood" in comparison to lavender and water.

One of the best ways to obtain these benefits is to drink lemon water every day. You can drink lemon juice in warm water in the morning or  you can make lemon water and drink it throughout the day. You can also make lemonade with a sugar substitute like stevia, or lo han. The beauty of this remedy is that it is inexpensive and lemons are available in any supermarket.


http://www.naturalhealth365.com/lemons.html/
http://www.examiner.com/article/lemons-nature-s-fountain-of-youth
http://www.healthy-holistic-living.com/benefits-of-lemon-water.html
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-lemon-oil.html
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2278291/

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com

Licorice Tea and Heartburn

Licorice is a favorite for both children and adults. Who doesn't like to chew on a nice stick of licorice candy; but don't get the candy mixed up with the real thing. Most licorice candy is artificially flavored. Licorice is a fragrant herb that is readily available and easy to use.

Historically licorice has been used in Europe and Asia for thousands of years. Some of the conditions it was used for included digestive complaints, bronchitis, osteoarthritis, inflammation, sore throat, cough and skin conditions. It has been used  to get  rid of excess phlegm and has been used for peptic ulcers and canker sores. .

Licorice can be used in herbal form, as a supplement, a syrup, and as a tea. Usually the root is the part of the plant that is used. One very popular use for licorice is relieving heartburn. Heartburn happens when acid from the stomach comes back up in the esophagus causing a burning sensation. A nice cup of licorice tea after dinner can possibly help this condition.

Using licorice comes with some cautions. Be sure to use deglycyrrhizinated licorice. The glycyrrhizic acid may cause sodium retention, high blood pressure and potassium loss. Do not use  licorice for more than 4 weeks without taking a break. Using it longer can cause weakness, and decreased sexuality in men. It is considered unsafe for pregnant women because it can cause miscarriage. Do not take licorice if you are taking Coumadin.

Licorice tea is easy to make and can be combined with ginger, mint, vanilla, star anise, cinnamon, cloves and many other things. Get creative and try your own combinations. Licorice tea is available online in  tea bags  if you want convenience. Here is a recipe for ginger  licorice tea.tea

Ginger Licorice Tea

1 Cup of slivered licorice root
1 Finger length of Ginger
 3 Cups of water

Crush the ginger. You can use a cleaver for this.
Place everything in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes.
Drain and serve warm.

Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-881-licorice.aspx?activeingredientid=881
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/licorice
http://www.refluxmd.com/home-remedy-for-heartburn/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/110565-dgl-licorice-acid-reflux/

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com  I am working on a new book about Garlic. Stay tuned.

Valerie Lull
Author
www.valerielull.com
valerielull923@gmail.com

Spearmint Tea and Digestion

Spearmint, Mentha Spicata, is a member of the mint family. It is a separate plant from peppermint, but for most of history these two mints are often lumped together. Spearmint was the original medicinal mint and Peppermint was a hybrid that developed later.(1) Both help digestive problems. Today, I will be discussing Spearmint.

Spearmint is well known in folklore as a remedy for colds and sore throats, inflammation, hormonal, circulation problems, nausea, headaches, acne, and perhaps most popularly for digestive problems. It is also the flavor of a popular chewing gum.  Digestion problems include flatulence, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, increased bile production, and cramping .(2)

There doesn't seem to be a lot of research on Spearmint. Most web sites about spearmint cite peppermint studies. I did find a few studies on spearmint, but not about digestion. According to one study Spearmint essential oil is anti fungal.(3)  Another study investigated hirsutism  (excess hair growth) in women and found it helpful for the mild form of the disease.(4)

Peppermint tea is a delicious way to use this remedy. Some folks just chew the leaves. It is easy to grow and you can grow it indoors. You can buy spearmint tea online or at a tea specialty shop. You can grow your own if you want it fresh. Leaves fresh from the garden  have more flavor than the dried leaves. Below is a recipe.

Spearmint Tea

1 oz. dried herbs or 2oz. fresh
1 pint of boiling water

Pour the water into a saucepan. Do not use an aluminum pan. If you are using fresh leaves be sure to rinse them off well. Add the leaves to the sauce pan and simmer about 10 minutes. Strain out the leaves. Let it cool a few minutes then serve.

Spearmint tea can be bought in bags if you prefer them for convenience.

Sources:
(1) Castleman, Michael, The New Healing Herbs, 2009, Rodale, p. 368-371
(2) https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/spearmint.html
(3) http://www.ipcbee.com/vol15/10-U00041.pdf
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm..nih.gov/pubmed/1731049

Be sure to check out my web site at www.valerielull.com
Your comments are welcome. To leave a comment click on the words "no comment" below and the comment box will come up.

Valerie Lull
Author, Master  Herbalist
www.valerielull.com
valerielull923@gmail.com

Lavender Tea and Anxiety

Lavender is a fragrant plant that is referred to in the Bible as nard or spikenard. It was used for centuries for all kinds of things from recovery after childbirth, to problems with digestion. It is still a popular herb in today's world. There are different kinds of lavender. Some kinds are considered weeds.

The most commonly used kind of lavender for healing purposes is Lavandula augustifolia. There seems to be very little research on lavender in tea form. According to folklore, a tea can be brewed from lavender that can be used for anxiety and stress. Lavender tea can also help with bloating and digestive issues. Lavender tea can be applied topically  for skin issues.

The area where the most research has been done with lavender is essential oil. Several studies have shown that lavender essential oil may be beneficial for anxiety and stress. It is used by aromatherapists to bring calm from anxiety and stress. Lavender oil can be used as a massage oil which is very soothing. Lavender can be added to the bath to bring restful peace.

Lavender tea is popular and can be found in most places that sell herbal teas. It can be found online. Lavender can be mixed with other herbs and teas to make a pleasant and calming beverage. Some popular combinations are lavender and green tea, lavender and chamomile, lavender and mint and lavender and white tea.

There is an almost endless list of herbs and spices that can be added to lavender tea. Put on your creative cap and experiment. See what you can come up with. Below is a recipe.

Lavender Tea

3 T fresh lavender flowers or 1 1/2 T dried lavender flowers
2 C boiling water
Honey or sweetener of choice
Lemon if desired

Put the flowers in an infuser or a tea pot. Add the boiling water and let the flowers steep 4-5 minutes. Strain and pour into cups. Serve with sweetener and/or lemon.

Sources:
Castleman, Michael, The New Healing Herbs, Rodale, 2009, p. 202
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/lavender.html
http://medlicker.com/882-lavender-tea-benefits-side-effects
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/lavender

Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com  My book called Ten Spices for health and Longevity is now out in paperback.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com

Cinnamon Tea and Blood Sugar Control

Cinnamon is a  popular spice that is used in teas, candies, chewing gum, cooking and baking. Cinnamon has been used as a traditional medicine in China for hundreds of years. In recent times cinnamon has been the subject of numerous research studies. Scientists have come up with some interesting results. The one that interested me was that cinnamon may be useful for the control of blood sugar.

In 2012 a study was done in China to see if cinnamon extract would improve fasting blood glucose in the treatment of type 2 diabetes patients. Sixty-six patients were recruited and divided into three groups. One group received high-dose cinnamon, the second group received low-dose cinnamon and the third group received a placebo. The researchers saw hemoglobin A(1c)levels and fasting blood glucose levels in both the high-dose group and the low-dose significantly reduced. The placebo group was unchanged. The researchers concluded that cinnamon supplements could significantly improve blood glucose control in Chinese type 2 diabetes patients. (1)

There are a number of studies that seem to indicate cinnamon lowers glucose levels, but there are also studies that show the opposite. A meta-analysis was done in 2011 that compared 8 clinical studies. They concluded that cinnamon intake results in a significant lowering of fasting blood glucose. (2) The general consensus is that more studies need to be done on cinnamon and glucose levels.

My take on all this is that cinnamon is a healthful spice; even if it is controversial about lowering blood glucose, it has other potential health benefits that make it worth taking. However, don't use it for self-treatment without first discussing it with your healthcare practitioner.

Cinnamon tea is delicious and  easy to make. Simply immerse a cinnamon stick in a cup of boiling water. Cinnamon tea in teabag form is available and cinnamon is often mixed with other things like cloves and ginger. It is often included in chai teas which make a delicious drink. Some folks like to add cinnamon to their cocoa.


(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22749176
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21480806

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com  

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com

Hibiscus Tea and Blood Pressure

Hibiscus is a beautiful flower that is transformed into a bright red tea that is often called red zinger. Another name for hibiscus tea is "sour tea". The Name Hibiscus means "Rose of China", even though Hibiscus was thought to originate in India.  Hibiscus is known and used in many cultures the world over. The ancient Egyptians used it to control diabetes, and it is the national flower of Haiti.

Hibiscus is popularly known as being useful for high blood pressure. A study done in 2010 seems to support this idea.  Sixty-five adults, who were not taking blood pressure medications, took hibiscus. The results showed a change in arterial pressure as compared to a placebo. The conclusion of the study was that the daily use of hibiscus tea, in an amount easily incorporated into the diet, lowered blood pressure in prehypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults.

Another study done in 2008 compared hibiscus tea with black tea in diabetics. The subjects of the study were given black tea or hibiscus tea for 12 days. The researchers concluded that hibiscus tea had positive effects on the blood pressure of the type II diabetic patients with mild hypertension. The black tea drinkers showed a slight increase in blood pressure. Scientists theorize that the polyphenols in the hibiscus are responsible for the beneficial results.

Hibiscus tea is readily available on the market and if you like gardening you can grow your own. Hibiscus tea is also high in antioxidants, minerals and vitamin C. Brewing hibiscus tea is very easy. You can get it in tea bags, or loose. Simply boil 1 cup of water for every serving you want and add 1 teaspoon of herb. Let it steep a few minutes and cool to a drinkable temperature.

As with any herbal preparation,  be sure to consult your healthcare practitioner before using hibiscus for therapeutic purposes.

http://www.hibiscusworld.com/history.html
hhttp://www.flowertemple.com.au/viewFlowerFromLibrary.aspx?fid=29&n=Hibiscus
http://culturemedicine.com/?p=92
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20018807
http://www.nature.com/jhh/journal/v23/n1/full/jhh2008100a.html

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com. I also have a facebook page called Ten Healthy Teas.  My book Ten Spices for Health and Longevity is now out in paperback. It is available at www.amazon.com

Valerie Lull
Ten Healthy Teas
valerielull923@gmail.com

Chamomile Tea and Your Thyroid

I have written about Chamomile tea before but there are so many good things about it that I'm writing on this subject again. Chamomile tea is traditionally used for many things. One of the most popular uses for the tea is to bring peace and calm to the drinker. Chamomile tea is good for many other things that the ordinary person may not be aware of.(1)

One thing that caught my eye was a recent study done in Greece. The researchers studied the effect of Greek herbal tea consumption on thyroid cancer. There are not many studies on tea and thyroid disease, so this new study is quite interesting. They studied three teas: sage tea, mountain tea and chamomile tea.

The researchers discovered an association between the consumption of chamomile tea and thyroid disease. It seems that the longer a person has been drinking chamomile tea, the stronger the protection from thyroid problems. The researchers found that thirty years of consumption reduced the risk of thyroid cancer development by 80%. The other two teas in the study  had a much weaker effect on thyroid disease development. Adjustments for smoking, alcohol and coffee were made but did not change the results.(2)

The researchers concluded for the first time that drinking herbal tea, chamomile in particular, protects from thyroid cancer.  These findings really impressed me and I have increased my consumption of chamomile tea. The tea can be gotten in tea bags or loose. Organic is preferred and it should be brewed with the purest of water.

If you want to start using chamomile tea for prevention of thyroid problems, or if you already have a thyroid disorder, be sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider; especially if you are pregnant. Side effects include allergic reactions. (3) Chamomile tea is easy to make. Take 1 oz.of herb, 1 cup of boiling water and pour the water over the herb. Let it steep 4-5 minutes, then drink. I let mine cool a few minutes before drinking.


(1) http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/lifestyle-guide-11/supplement-guide-chamomile

(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25842380        (3) https://nccih.nih.gov/health/chamomile/ataglance.htm

Be sure and check out  my website at www.valerielull.com  My book Ten Spices for Health and Longevity is now out in paperback. It can be purchased at www.amazon.com

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
valerielull923@gmail.com

Teas for Men's Health

Tea in America is often thought of as a  women's thing, but tea for men is becoming more and more popular. Many men who drink tea are connoisseurs of tea, run tea companies or are into natural medicine. Even herbal teas are catching on with the male population. For thousands of years Japanese men have been drinking green tea, and for centuries British men have been drinking black tea. Teas like black tea and oolong definitely appeal to the masculine in a man.

Many men like to work out in the gym. Did you know that green tea can enhance the workout and increase calorie burn by as much as 4%? The antioxidants in green tea help lower cholesterol and reduce heart attack risk by 11%. Green tea can enhance performance if you are into running. It can increase exercise endurance by 24%.

If a man is looking to lose weight green tea may be useful. Drinking green tea increases the metabolic rate which causes greater oxidation of fat and helps with weight management. With green tea there appears to be some protection against cancer. For men this would include prostate cancer. This is because of catechins in the tea, the most powerful of which is epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG. In one large study it was found that men who had five or more cups of green tea a day had a reduced risk of prostate cancer when compared to men who drank less than one cup a day.

Men who are interested in ditching the coffee habit may find tea a good alternative. Black tea has less caffeine than coffee and while it is not as good as green tea, it still has some health benefits in it's own right. Many men see black tea as a more masculine tea, and others prefer oolong. Some like green tea. If drinking green green tea  is not appealing, one can always take supplements of green tea extract.

Sources:
http://www.menshealth.co.uk/food-nutrition/drink-recipes/6-reasons-to-drink-more-green-tea
http://www.menscience.com/Benefits-of-Green-Tea-to-Mens-Health_ep_155.html
Kurahashi N et al. Green tea consumption and prostate cancer risk in Japanese men: a prospective study. Am J Epidemiol 2008;167(1):71-77
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/craig-cooper/real-men-drink-green-tea_b_738955.html

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com. I am bringing out my book Ten Spices for Health and Longevity in paperback. Stay tuned!

Valerie Lull
Author/Herbalist
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com

Green Tea and Weight Loss

January is national  hot tea month. I am writing about teas and herbal teas this month. January is usually the month when everyone is trying to lose weight and live healthy after all the indulgent foods they've had over the holidays. One tea that has a reputation for being helpful with weight loss is green tea. Green tea has been hailed as being one of the healthiest beverages on the planet, and it has been used in Asian cultures for thousands of years.

There are many studies that have been done on green tea and weight loss. They seem to show that the combination of green tea, caffeine, and an antioxidant called EGCG  improve energy expenditure and weight loss in folks that are overweight and obese. Green tea can help with weight maintenance as well as with weight loss.

There is a substance in green tea called catechins. These catechins appear to help with weight loss. The most important of the catechins is EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate). It works by increasing metabolism and slowing down the development of fat cells. The effect seems to vary with individuals. Most people can lose weight but there are some individuals that it does not seem to work for.

Green tea has been  shown to help burn fat especially during exercise. While green tea by itself can enhance fat loss, it works better when combined with exercise and a healthy diet. Green tea can be taken as a tea or as an extract. The extract can come in liquid or capsule form.

Green tea can be used in tea bags, or as loose tea. Loose tea is often recommended because you don't always know what chemicals have been used in making the tea bags.Various other substances can be added to enhance the taste. Below is the formula for making green tea.

1 green tea bag,  or 1 oz. loose green tea
1 cup hot water
Pour water over tea and steep 3-5 minutes depending on how strong you like it.
Drink and enjoy!

Feel free to leave comments below. I appreciate your feedback.

Sources:
https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/green-tea
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19597519
http://authoritynutrition.com/green-tea-and-weight-loss/
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/health-benefits-of-green-tea
http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/70/6/1040.long
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/04/29/green-tea-extract-effective.aspx

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com  I'm coming out with a paperback edition of my recently published ebook, Ten Spices for Health and Longevity. Look for it in the near future.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
valerielull923@gmail.com

Teas For Women

January is National Hot Tea Month, so I am devoting the month of January to posts about tea. There are the camellia sinensis teas (black, green, white and oolong) and there are herbal teas. I'm a fan of both. This week I am writing about herbal teas for women. Women have unique needs and there are many healthful teas that can help. Teas can influence, mood, hormones, anxiety and sleep. Sometimes a few minutes for ones self with a nice cup of tea can give that boost to help a woman get through her day. Here are some suggestions.

Peppermint Tea
This one is a very popular tea and has many uses. It is often used to calm the digestive system, soothe an unsettled tummy and relieve gas. I remember my grandmother giving me peppermint tea for menstrual cramps. Some women have used it for morning sickness. Be sure to check with your doctor before self-treating with peppermint.

Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is another tea that has been used historically for menstrual cramps and morning sickness. It is popularly used for nausea and vomiting. I like it because it has a warming and calming effect on cold winter mornings. You can buy a piece of ginger root in the supermarket and prepare it by grating it and boiling it in water for 10 minutes, strain it and drink it or you can buy it in tea bags. Some folks add a little honey. The use of tea by pregnant and nursing women is controversial, so be sure to consult your healthcare provider.

Raspberry Leaf Tea
According to tradition and folklore raspberry leaf tea has been used for its benefits during pregnancy. It is good for the female reproductive system, toning the uterus and the pelvic muscles.Traditionally, midwives say it leads to shorter, easier labor. It is said to be helpful for PMS, and also during menopause. If you wish to use raspberry leaf tea during pregnancy, be sure to consult a midwife or doctor first.

Red Clover Tea
This tea is popular among women for things like menopause symptoms or breast tenderness. It is also used for PMS. There are other medicinal properties. Red Clover has been used in folk medicine for cancer prevention, high cholesterol, cough, and asthma. It is also used on the skin for sores, and burns.The role of cancer prevention with red clover tea is very controversial. Be sure to talk to a healthcare provider before use.

These teas can be bought in bulk, or in tea bags. Loose leaf teas are probably better because often it is not known what chemicals were used in making the tea bag. Organic teas are also preferable to regular teas that have been sprayed with pesticides.

Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-705-peppermint.aspx?activeingredientid=705&activeingredientname=peppermint
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/ginger-uses-and-risks
http://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/ginger-tea-side-effects
http://wellnessmama.com/5107/raspberry-leaf-herb-profile/
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-309-red%20raspberry.aspx?activeingredientid=309&activeingredientname=red%20raspberry
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-308-red%20clover.aspx?activeingredientid=308&activeingredientname=red%20clover

Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com. I wish everyone a great new year.

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com