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.
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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