Superfoods & Superspices
Superfoods are super nutritious food, packed full of nutrients, vitamins, minerals,
antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and many other health beneficial elements.
Our bodies need high level of nutrients from food. Inclusive are antioxidants,
Vitamin C, Anthocyanin, Manganese, and dietary fibres.
Add these into your eating routines, and you decide if you notice the difference
with your glowing skin, feeling more energetic , possible weight loss, better
digestion ,the feeling of general better health, and of course this should lead you
to living a generally healthier and happier lifestyle.
These foods are high in anti-oxidants that fight free radicals in the body. Free radicals
are, a natural occurrence through metabolism however extra and unnecessary free
radical load can be put in our bodies by external factors including pollution,
cigarette smoke, radiation, burnt foods, deep fried fats and cooked foods. When
enough of these free radicals invade our immune system problems occurs. This is when
you need antioxidants to build up the immune system and fight off the free radicals
in the form of superfoods or supplements.
We have separated our favourite superfoods into categories below:
Please let us know of any experiences you may have had, or any extra info on these or other superfoods, we would all love to hear
about them…
1/ FRUIT and NUTS SUPERFOODS
2/ GRAINS AND SEEDS SUPERFOODS
3/ GREENS SUPERFOODS
4/ HERBS and SPICES SUPERFOODS
5/ SEAFOODS AND SEAWEED SUPERFOODS
1/ FRUIT and NUTS SUPERFOODS
AVOCADOS
Avocados are rich in healthy Fats & anti-Oxidants. This amazing fruit is very high in
healthy oleic acid. This is a monounsaturated fat that helps increase fat
metabolism. It is also rich in the powerful carotenoid anti-oxidants lutein and
zeaxanthin as well as vitamin E .These anti-oxidants decrease oxidative stress and allow
for a healthier cellular environment.Avocados are a terrific complement to a vegetable
based meal. Most vegetables, particularly in their raw state, contain a high amount of
carotenoid based anti-oxidants. Studies have shown that these anti-oxidants are lipophilic
(fat-loving) and are absorbed best in the body when combined with a healthy fat such
as oleic acid.
RED APPLE
They are a powerful source of antioxidants including polyphenols, flavonoids, and
vitamin C, as well as good source of fibre, and potassium. One medium to large size
apple has around 100 calories and the main source of nutrients of the apple comes
from its skin. Therefore eating the skin is a good idea so you can obtain its full
benefits.
RED CAPSICUM
Red Capsicums are an excellent source of vitamin C. They also contain carotenes,
potassium and B vitamins, including folate. Red peppers have more vitamins and
nutrients and contain the antioxidant lycopene, than green or yellow peppers. The
level of carotene, another antioxidant, is nine times higher in red peppers. Red
peppers have twice the vitamin C content of green peppers. Also, one large red bell
pepper contains 209 mg of vitamin C, which is more than double the 98 mg in one
large citrus orange (fruit).
POMEGRANITES
With the frequent mention throughout the Old Testament of the Bible many believe,
that the pomegranites may have been the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. The
bible consistently uses pomegranates with their many seeds to symbolize the blessing
of fruitfulness.This Middle Eastern fruit is claimed to be effective against heart
disease, high blood pressure, inflammation and some cancers, including prostate
cancer. Pomegranates are loaded with nutrition and are particularly abundant in
vitamin C, potassium, & pantothenic acid (B5). Pomegranate is rich in anti-oxidant
phytonutrient polyphenols such as tannins & flavonoids. It is one of nature’s
richest sources of free-radical scavenging anti-oxidants. This potent defence
against oxidative stress makes pomegranite a powerful tool for preventing
degenerative and inflammatory based diseases like cancer, heart disease, &
arthritis.
This fruit has been used by Polynesian islanders as a regenerative medicine for
more than 1500 years. Research documents that the noni fruit has astounding
anti-bacterial properties, even against E-coli. It has anti-tumor activity,
anti-inflammatory properties, is effective as a pain reliever, generates cell
repair and strengthens the immune system. Noni contains a multitude of vitamins,
minerals, enzymes and phytonutrients. Many believe that the synergistic effect of
the multi-spectrum nutrients is what gives it its potency. It has been proven
beneficial for colds and flu’s, digestive disorders, skin disorders, pain relief,
headaches, infections and more. For best results look for a freeze-dried product
that uses only the whole fruit or when buying the juice look for a brand that does
not use pasteurizing.
ACAI BERRIES
Acai berries have long been a part of the staple diet of the tribes in the Amazon.
With the appearance of a purple grape and taste of a tropical berry it has been
shown to have powerful antioxidant properties thanks to a high level of
anthocyanins, pigments also found in red wine. The ORAC rating of acai is 1,027.
Make sure to look for the freeze dried acai fruit in which the nutrients are kept
intact or when buying the juice look for a brand that has not been pasteurized or
heated in any way.
GOJI BERRIES
All berries are known to have high antioxidant levels and help prevent cancer, but
this little Goji berry also known as Chinese Wolfberry or Gou Qi Zi . These
distinctively flavoured red berries are a very rich source of vitamin C, having 500
times more vitamin C per ounce than oranges and actually more than any other fruit.
They are a superb source of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and E and contain a full
complement of protein with 18 amino acids and 21 trace minerals. Most of all they
are an excellent antioxidant making it an ideal natural whole food for reversing
aging and protecting against disease.
COCONUT OIL & MILK
Young coconuts are one of the highest sources of electrolytes in nature.
Electrolytes are ionized salts in our cells, that transport energy throughout the
body. The molecular structure of coconut water is identical to human blood plasma,
which means that it is immediately recognized by the body and put to good use.
Drinking the juice from a young coconut is like giving your body an instant blood
transfusion. In fact this was common practice during World War II in the Pacific,
where both sides in the conflict regularly used coconut water, siphoned directly
from the coconut, to give emergency transfusions to wounded soldiers.
Coconut Oil- Coconut oil’s saturated fat is of the medium-chain fatty acid variety,
which are digested more easily and utilized differently by the body than other
saturated fats (such as butter, meat and eggs). Coconut oil supports healthy
metabolic function and is a revered anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal
agent. Pacific islanders deem coconut oil to be the cure-all gift from nature for
all illness.
Coconut Oil for Weight loss
Coconut oil is very useful in reducing weight. It contains short and medium-chain
fatty acids that help in taking off excessive weight. It is also easy to digest and
it helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and enzymes systems. Whereas other
saturated fats are stored in the body’s cells, the medium chain fatty acids in
coconut oil are sent directly to the liver where they are immediately converted into
energy. Further, it increases the body metabolism by removing stress on pancreases,
thereby burning out more energy and helping obese and overweight people reduce their
weight. Hence, people living in tropical coastal areas, who eat coconut oil daily as
their primary cooking oil, are normally not fat, obese or overweight.
Coconut Oil for Digestion
Internal use of coconut oil occurs primarily as cooking oil. Coconut oil helps in
improving the digestive system and thus prevents various stomach and digestion
related problems including irritable bowel syndrome. The saturated fats present in
coconut oil have anti microbial properties and help in dealing with various
bacteria, fungi, parasites, etc., that cause indigestion. Coconut oil also helps in
absorption of other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
Coconut Oil for Immune System
Coconut oil is also good for the immune system. It strengthens the immune system as
it contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid which
have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The human body converts
lauric acid into monolaurin which is claimed to help in dealing with viruses and
bacteria causing diseases such as herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV.
It helps in fighting harmful bacteria such as listeria monocytogenes and heliobacter
pylori, and harmful protozoa such as giardia lamblia.
WALNUTS
Walnuts contain more anti-oxidants than any other nut. With it’s high levels of
omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts provide benefits similar to salmon and other cold-water
fish. These fatty acids are great for heart health, lower cholesterol, support brain
health and mood, and increase circulation to the skin. What’s not to love? Walnuts
are also rich in vitamin E, zinc, and folic acid.
ALMONDS
Almonds are touted as the most diet-friendly nut because they are high in protein,
heart-friendly due to high levels of MUFAs and very filling. While they are high in
fat, they are one of the few foods that are high in the “healthy” fat or more
scientifically, monounsaturated fat. Like olive oil and avocados, almonds have been
proven to help stave off heart disease and diabetes and to help lower bad
cholesterol. They are also high in vitamin E and magnesium, which improves blood
flow and calms arteries, crucial for healthy hearts. Keep the skin on to get double
the amount of antioxidants compared to the blanched variety.
Almonds are a good source of potassium, calcium, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorous,
and iron.The Vitamin E found in almonds helps promote healthy skin and hair. In
addition, Vitamin E is important to the elasticity and strength in blood vessels,
helps prevent age spots, slows aging and contributes to athletic performance.
Almonds are also a very good source of manganese, copper, vitamin B2 and phosphorus.
2½ to 3 ounces of nuts eaten with high glycemic foods reduces the glycemic effect of
the food substantially, helping stabilize blood sugar levels. In addition,
antioxidant levels also significantly increased in one study when almonds were added
to a meal.
A quarter cup of almonds contains almost 8 gram of protein. That is more than an
egg, with 5.5 grams of protein. Almonds, as plant based foods, are easier for the
body to digest and utilize, will provide more fiber, leaving you feeling fuller, and
contain heart healthy fats with cholesterol balancing properties.
Almonds are surely a natural nutritional powerhouse food, with benefits for healthy
cholesterol levels, heart health, cancer treatment, blood sugar control and weight
loss. You should include a handful of almonds in your diet twice weekly or more.
BRAZIL NUTS
The antioxidant known as selenium is a very powerful protector against heart disease
and prostate cancer, and a destroyer of free-radicals.
Brazil nuts contain 2500 times the selenium found in any other nut in the world!
Brazil nuts are also high in protein, vitamin e, thiamin, copper, phosphorus,
calcium, magnesium and manganese. Manganese is also very good for the immune system,
so this food really packs a powerful punch.
It must be noted that although this food is referred to as a nut, It’s technically a
fruit. This explains the very high antioxidant levels of Brazil nuts.The thyroid is
also benefited a great deal by the intake of this fruit. The thyroid needs a proper
amount selenium in order to function correctly. The intake of Brazil nuts may
greatly benefit those with thyroid issues.
• Selenium reduces the risk of many cancers. It is a powerful antioxidant which
assists against the aging process,it also helps the heart, boosts the immune system,
and is found more in Brazil nuts than in possibly any other food in the world.
• Since Brazil nuts are high in fiber they protect against constipation.
• Eat a few Brazil nuts each day in order to ensure that you are getting enough
critical antioxidants in your diet.
• Our thyroid’s need selenium to function well. Brazil nuts are a great food to
maintain a properly functioning thyroid, or correct a poorly functioning one.
• Brazil nuts are native to the Amazon Rain Forest, and are actually produced more
in Bolivia.
2/ GRAINS AND SEEDS SUPERFOODS
Best way to eat them :
Just sprinkle them on your cereal,salad or add them to your stir fry at the end of
cooking.
Or put them in your juice or smoothie, everyday.
CHIA SEEDS
These seeds contain high levels of nutrients, including the well needed Omega 3.
Chia Seeds assist in the following conditions:
Weight Loss, Heart Disease, Diabetes, Bone Health, Digestive Disorders and some
Cancers.
RAW CACAO
Raw cacao beans is possibly the world’s most concentrated source of antioxidants
found in any food.Only certified organic raw cacao in a powder form ,or whole
bean form has all the heat-sensitive vitamins,minerals and antioxidants to remain
intact.Containing extremely high amounts of magnesium and contains 1/5 of your
daily recommended allowance of iron per serve. Raw cacao beans have an antioxidant
(ORAC) score that is 14 times more flavonoids (antioxidants) than red wine and 21
times more than green tea.
MACA
Maca powder is from the Maca root, a flavourful ancient superfood from Peru. Maca has
been cultivated for at least 2000 years and was consumed by Inca warriors to
increase strength and endurance. It is a highly nutritious food that has been used
traditionally to gain energy, promote sexual desire, support fertility and enhance
immune system function. It continues today to be a significant staple food and
medicinal plant for the Peruvian people and is now widely available around the world
as a whole food supplement.
FLAXEED
Although flaxseed contains all sorts of healthy components, it owes its healthy
reputation primarily to three ingredients:
• Omega-3 essential fatty acids, “good” fats that have been shown to have
heart-healthy effects. Each tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains about 1.8 grams
of plant omega-3s.
• Lignans, which have both plant estrogen and antioxidant qualities. Flaxseed
contains 75-800 times more lignans than other plant foods.
• Fibre. Flaxseed contains both the soluble and insoluble types.
QUINOA
Quinoa (pronounced “keen-wa”) is becoming an easy substitute for rice and other
carbohydrates its as easy to make as rice and is becoming a real popular super food
amongst the health conscious.
BLACK RICE
Black rice or purple rice contains high levels of antioxidants! Low in sugar, and
packed full of healthy fibres, just a spoon full of black rice contains more
nutrients than that in blueberries with less sugar more vitamin E and
antioxidants. The plant compounds in black rice are known to dampen allergic
reactions,combat cancer and chronic inflammation, such as diabetes.
Black rice is primarily grown in Asia. Black rice is potent in Minerals such as
Potassium, Iron, Antioxidants – Anthocyanins, Dietary Fibres and Omega 3, 6,
contains Vitamins B Vitamin, and Vitamin E. Black rice is gluten and wheat free, and
one serve is only 160 calories.
3/ GREENS SUPERFOODS
Time to learn to love your green superfoods. They contain the highest concentrations
of vitamins and minerals, easily digestible nutrients, fat burning compounds to
protect and heal the body. Containing a wide variety of beneficial substances
including healthy bacteria, proteins, and protective photo-chemicals , aids your
digestive system and protects your body from illness and disease.
What makes food green?
The pigment that gives plants their green color, is chlorophyll.Green superfoods are
packed full of chlorophyll. Cells need to thrive on oxygen-rich blood, hence the
molecular structure of chlorophyll is similar to human blood.
Get them in your diet today, add them to juices, or
add them to smoothies….below are the best green superfoods about…
Spirulina –
Spirulina is a cultivated micro-algae which has been consumed for thousands of
years by the indigenous peoples in Mexico and Africa. It is one of the highest
known protein sources on Earth and contains 70% complete protein, towering over
steak which consists of only 25% protein once cooked. Studies have shown that
spirulina can help control blood sugar levels and cravings thus making it a key
food for diabetics, and can be used to assist in weight loss and as a general
nutritional supplement.
Chlorella-
Chlorella is a fresh water algae and like its other algae cousins contains a
complete protein profile, all the B vitamins, vitamin C and E and many minerals. It
is amazing for the immune system and for reducing cholesterol and preventing the
hardening of the arteries, a precursor to heart attacks and strokes.
Green leafy vegetables-
Green leafy vegetables are so readily available and so highly nutritious. Fresh raw
green leafy vegetables contain high doses of chlorophyll, easily digestible
proteins, enzymes and a wide range of vitamins and minerals. The blood loves these
these particular vegetables , they act as a health tonic for the brain and immune
system and a cleanser of the kidneys. Try any of the following: rocket, spinach,
dandelion greens, kale, watercress, parsley, lettuce, endive, chicory, broccoli
sprouts and mustard sprouts. Try to eat with most meals.
Broccoli-
Broccoli has long been known as one of the healthiest veggies because of its combination of nutrients.This superfood is loaded with fiber, antioxidants to fight cancer, and vitamin C to aid in iron absorption.Also a great source of calcium to help control blood pressure and build strong bones. It can enhance detoxification,has cholesterol-lowering benefits,aids in anti-inflammation, and is loaded with anti-oxidants Cruciferous veggies like broccoli, and its cousins cauliflower and brussels sprouts contain a chemical called sulforaphane. It is this chemical that has been found to target cells that make tumors grow and has the power to stop them.Per serving,broccoli contains over fifty percent of the RDA for vitamin C and potassium (vitamin K) and from eating one cup of broccoli you get more vitamin A from broccoli than you do from drinking a cup of milk. Try eating broccoli, other cruciferous vegetables several times per week to reap the good-for-you benefits.
Wheat grass –
Wheat grass is super alkalizing and is excellent for promoting healthy blood. It
normalizes the thyroid gland to stimulate metabolism thus assisting digestion and
promoting weight loss due also to its high enzyme content and cleansing effect.It is
the sprouted grass of a wheat seed. Unlike the whole grain ,it no longer contains
gluten or other common allergic agents.
Barley grass –
Barley grass has 11 times more calcium than cows milk, 5 times more iron than
spinach and 7 times more Vitamin C and bio-flavonoids than orange juice. It contains
significant amounts of Vitamin B12 which is very important in a vegetarian diet.
Barley grass juice has anti-viral activities and neutralizes heavy metals such as
mercury in the blood.
Wild blue-green algae –
Algae is the super power of all, it was the first form of life on Earth. Wild
blue-green algae is a phyto-plankton and contains virtually every nutrient. With a
60% protein content and a more complete amino acid profile than beef or soy beans.
It contains one of the best known food sources of beta carotene, B vitamins and
chlorophyll. It has been shown to improve brain function and memory, strengthen the
immune system and help with viruses, colds and flu.
4/ HERBS and SPICES SUPERFOODS
Herbs as nourishment offer the body a whole host of nutrients it may not have
received either because of poor diet or environmental deficiencies in the soil or
air. Herbs as medicine are essentially body balancers that work with the body
functions so that it can heal and regulate itself. Herbs have been used for
centuries as part of the wisdoms of natural healing methods. Herbs are best used in
their whole form rather than isolating effective plant constituents so-called
“active ingredients”. Since all body parts and most disease symptoms are
interrelated, it is wise to use herbs which can affect each part of the problem.
Moringa Oleifera:
Moringa Oleifera is meant to fully nourish and energize your body.
Meeting all your bodies nutritional requirements will naturally curb junk food
cravings and supply you with the energy you need to maintain a healthy & active
lifestyle. Gram for gram, Moringa leaves contain four times the vitamin A available
in carrots. Seven times the vitamin C in oranges. Four times the Calcium available
in milk. Twice the protein in milk and three times the Potassium in bananas.
Aloe vera –
Aloe vera has been used since Egyptian times as a skin moisturizer, and
healer for burns, cuts, bruises, acne and eczema. This is mostly due to the high
concentration of natural sulphur (MSM) that it contains. Aloe juices alkalizes the
digestive tract preventing over-acidity, a common cause of indigestion, acid reflux,
heartburn and ulcers.Aloe vera is a perennial succulent that grows in a wild
and seems to do best in tropical and sub-tropical areas. It has been deemed a superfood
after research studies identifying its seventy-five healing compounds including
natural steroids, antibiotic agents, amino acids, minerals and enzymes.
Nettle –
Also known as the bowel mover. These plants are best known as stinging nettle plants.
However when the nettle leaves are dried and eaten the saliva neutralizes the sting.
Nettles are incredibly effective in removing unwanted pounds. A cup of nettle tea in
the morning is ideal to get things going in the bowel department. The nettle leaves
increase the thyroid function, increase metabolism and releases mucus in the colon
allowing for the flushing of excess wastes.
Echinacea –
Echinacea is known to assist in the prevention off colds and flu. This herb is used
as a natural antibiotic and immune system stimulator, helping to build up resistance.
The reason for its effectiveness is because of its ability to stimulate the lymph flow
in the body. Lymph runs parallel with our bloodstream and carries toxins out of the
body. The herb can be taken in liquid or capsule form for 2-3 week periods during
“high risk” flu seasons. The tea from this herb has also grown in popularity for
treating infections and cancers including skin cancer.
Ginseng –
Ginseng is the quintessential herb for handling stress. This ancient
healing herb has been used widely throughout Asia as an energizer tonic. This
special herb is particularly beneficial when recovering from illness or surgery for
its restorative and anti-infection properties. It promotes regeneration from stress
and fatigue.
White tea –
White tea is from the same plant (Camellia sinensis) as green tea it is
harvest in the Chinese province of Fujian, the only difference is white tea is
younger.
5/ SEAFOODS AND SEAWEED SUPERFOODS
Seaweeds are one of nature’s true wonder foods! They are one of the most
nutritionally dense plants on the planet and also the most abundant source of
minerals in the plant kingdom as they have access to all the nutrients in the ocean.
Being a superfood, and a superweed, a little goes a long way!
Benefits of Seaweeds
• Blood Purifying: The chemical composition of seaweeds is so close to human blood
plasma, that they are excellent at regulating and purifying our blood.
• High in Calcium: They can contain up to 10 times more calcium than milk and 8
times as much as beef.
• Alkalizing:They help to alkalize our blood, neutralizing the over-acidic effects
of our modern diet.
• Have Powerful Chelating Properties: They offer protection from a wide array of
environmental toxins, including heavy metals, pollutants and radiation by-products,
by converting them to harmless salts that the body can eliminate easily.
• Contain Anti-oxidants: Seaweeds contain lignans (naturally occurring chemical
compounds) which have anti cancer properties.
• Detoxifying: They are rich in chlorophyl, which is a powerful, natural detoxifier
that helps to draw out waste products.
• Boost Weight loss: Seaweeds play a role in boosting weight loss and deterring
cellulite build-up. Their naturally high concentration of iodine, helps to stimulate
the thyroid gland, which is responsible for maintaining a healthy metabolism. At the
same time, its’ minerals act like electrolytes to break the chemical bonds that seal
the fat cells, allowing trapped wastes to escape.
Different Types of Seaweeds That You Can Enjoy Everyday
Nori –
Nori is best known as the seaweed used to make sushi rolls. You can make your
own at home, but make sure you use the untoasted nori sheets for maximum nutrient
content.
Kelp –
Kelp, also known as brown algae, is the most common seaweed found along the
ocean shores. Due to its thick leaves it is perfect for a hot seaweed bath. It is
also available in supplement form.
Dulse –
Dulse is a red seaweed and can be bought either whole or as flakes. Dulse
sold as flakes does not need to be soaked and can be added straight to any meal.
Whole dulse is better soaked, drained of water, and sliced before adding to your
dish. It is great to use as seasoning on salads, vegetables and soups.
Arame –
Arame is a ‘black’ stringy looking seaweed. It needs to be soaked for a few
minutes before it is added to cooking, where it will double in size. It can be
added to any grain dishes, stir fries, soups, salads and curries.
Wakame –
A deep green seaweed, wakame is sold fresh or dehydrated. It tastes best
when hydrated in water for a few minutes before being used. Sprinkle in soups,
stocks, stews, stir fries or savory dishes.
Kombu –
Used in Japan for centuries as a mineral rich flavour enhancer. Add a strip
of kombu when cooking beans to make them more digestible and to reduce gas. Add a
strip of kombu to your sprouts when soaking them to allow them to soak up the
minerals.
When sourcing or buying seaweed, choose certified organic brands where possible.
Seaweeds will absorb the properties of the water in which they are grown, so you
want to ensure that they have been grown and harvested in unpolluted waters that are
pure, and free from harmful chemicals.
Wild Salmon
Salmon is one of my favourite super foods as it contains one of the highest,
tastiest forms of omega 3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA) which is obtained from Linolenic
Acid. If you include salmon in your diet 2-4 times a week you can reduce your
chances of diseases that have been linked with low doses of these essential fatty
acids.
They call them essential fatty acids for a reason the fact is our bodies do not
produce omega 3 naturally, therefore we have to feed our body the necessary amounts
to stay protected.
There are two different kinds of Omega 3s one derived from plant sources known as
ALA the other from sea sources known as EPA DHA, the omega 3 derived from the sea is
alot more potent than the plant form.
Omega 3 has many health benefits that stretch throughout our entire bodies some of
these benefits are, reduces high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, depression,
omega 3 also helps with brain development and function.
Researchers has found that people who do not consume enough omega 3 have a higher
risk of depression and bi-polar disorder. It has also been documented that omega 3
can help people that have already been diganosed with depression.
Salmon contains all of the necessary amino acids for cellular repair and optimal
immune function.
6/ BEES SUPERFOODS
The Egyptians wrote about it back in 5500 B.C., the Indians used it for their
religious ceremonies in 1000 B.C. and even the Babylonians have been noted to use it
in their medicinal practices. The western world actually discovered the benefits of
bee superfoods by accident during an investigation of native Russian Beekeepers who
regularly lived past 100 years of age who ate raw honey, rich in bee pollen, every
day.
Royal Jelly –
Royal Jelly is a milk like secretion from the head glands of the
worker bees. The queen bee lives almost exclusively on royal jelly and she lives
around 40 times longer than the rest of the bees. Royal Jelly is a powerhouse of
nutrients containing every nutrient necessary to support life. It is the world’s
richest source of pantothenic acid (also known as Vitamin B5), which is known to
combat stress, fatigue and insomnia and is a vital nutrient for healthy skin and
hair.
Bee Pollen –
Bee pollen is collected by bees from flowering plants and formed into
granules. Bee pollen is the most complete food found in nature and has five to seven
times more protein than beef. It is especially beneficial for the extra nutritional
and energy needs of athletes and those recovering from illness. It is a natural
antidote for fighting allergies particulary hayfever and sinusitus. Research shows
that pollen counteracts the signs of aging and increases both mental and physical
capability.
Propolis –
Propolis is the substance that bees coat the walls of their hives with
and bee hives have often been referred to as the most antiseptic places in nature.
The powerful antibiotic properties of propolis can help protect humans from bacteria
and can strengthen our immune system. Propolis works against viruses, something that
antibiotics cannot do. Research shows that taking propolis during the high risk
‘cold and flu’ season reduces colds, coughing and inflammation of the mouth, tonsils
and throat.
Manuka Honey-
Manuka honey is a monofloral honey (nectar is derived from only one species of
flower). It is produced in both New Zealand by bees that feed on the flowers of the
manuka plant, and in Australia, from the tea tree.
A study by the University of Queensland, Australia indicated the presence of
quercetin in honey derived from tea tree flowers. For hundreds of years, the tea
tree was a source of medicinal remedies for the Australian Aborigines. For instance,
they used the crushed leaves to treat cuts and skin infections. In 1923, an
Australian government scientist discovered that the tea tree oil was twelve times
stronger as an antiseptic bactericide than carbolic acid.
Tea tree oil is active against bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses. It is a
powerful immuno-stimulant that activates white blood cells and otherwise increases
the body’s ability to respond to microbial challenges. Importantly, tea tree
dissolves pus without damaging healthy tissues (when properly diluted), thus leaving
the surface of an infected wound clean and allowing the oil’s germicidal action to
proceed more effectively. Most pharmaceutical germicides destroy healthy tissue as
well as bacteria.
Manuka honey (a dark-colored honey with a flavor reminiscent of tea tree oil)
combines some of the healing actions of the tea tree with the naturally
antibacterial properties of honey. Manuka honey can be used in wound-dressings to
prevent infection. In general, honey is a natural antiseptic that speeds healing
while helping to seal a wound from exposure to new infection. Manuka honey exerts
antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifungal
properties.
Manuka honey is commonly referred to as UMF honey. Honey’s sugars give rise to the
disinfectant: hydrogen peroxide. Manuka honey additionally contains an antibacterial
component known as the “Unique Manuka Factor.” A UMF rating system has been
developed to compare each manuka honey with standard disinfectants. The Unique
Manuka Factor is unaffected by enzymes in the body that destroy hydrogen peroxide.
Manuka honey also destroys bacteria by drawing water out of bacterial cells, thus
making it impossible for them to survive.
Anti-Aging Herbs and Spices
Ginger
Gingerol is an active chemical found in ginger. It discourages the spread of colorectal cancer cells.
Cinnamon
It is one of the most important anti aging spice. It helps regulate sugar level by enhancing the insulin’s sensitivity. It also helps reduce the LDL (bad) cholesterol level, proliferation of lymphoma cancer cells and leukemia.
Cloves
Of all spices, cloves received the highest ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) Score, meaning it is the highest in antioxidants. Additionally, cloves contain eugenol, which has mild anesthetic benefits useful for toothaches, gum pain, and sore throats. Cloves also offer relief from respiratory ailments such as asthma and bronchitis, and eliminate intestinal parasites, fungi, and bacteria.
Citral is the important compound present in lemon grass. It helps relieve various health disorders due to age like spasms, cramps, rheumatism, headaches and colon cancer.
Oregano
It has large amounts of antioxidants which helps fight against damage caused by free radicals. Thus, it helps reduce the aging process.Its active agent, rosmarinic acid, clears out the free radicals that age us and contribute to disease. Additionally, oregano is also one of the strongest and most effective broad-spectrum antibiotics and antifungals out there. It can help kill Candida, or yeast infection, as well as fungal nail infections.
Garlic
This herb is also a powerful antioxidant. It reduces blood pressure and lowers cholesterol level. It also helps boost immunity and treats diabetes.
Turmeric
It is an important anti aging spice. It belongs to Zingiberaceae family. It has an activechemical compound called Curcumin. This compound is believed to be anti cancerous and can also prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Basil
Italian spice blend’s key ingredient, is loaded with antioxidants that can protect your cells from harmful free radicals – the damaging molecules that also contribute to heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease.