Benefits of Fennel Seeds

Health Benefits of Fennel Seeds

Fennel is a herb which is grown in several parts of the world including China, South Asia and North America. All parts of the plant are edible. The seeds of the plant have been used in the preparation of medicines to treat a variety of ailments for a long time. It is sweet to taste. 

Fennel Seeds

Source: Jonathunder: Wikimedia Commons

Fennel Nutrition Facts

Fennel plant and seeds are rich in minerals like manganese, calcium, potassium and magnesium. It is also rich in dietary fiber. Dietary fiber helps to reduce the chances of intestinal cancer and expels toxins from the body. It can also help to reduce the cholesterol levels. It contains vitamin C which helps to improve the immune system.

Fennel Tea Recipe

Add one tbsp of powdered fennel seeds to two cups of water and boil it for 2-3 minutes and let it simmer for a while. Then filter it and add a tbsp of lemon juice and honey to taste.

Digestion

Fennel seeds are a very good remedy for upset stomach and irritable bowel syndrome. Fennel tea can help to improve digestion and relieve stomach cramps. It is also a very good remedy for constipation. Drinking fennel tea after food helps to promote digestion by breaking down proteins. It also expels gas and relieves flatulence. Powdered fennel seeds can be used as laxative. It can also get rid of gas and cure heartburn. It increases the rate of metabolism and aids weight loss.

Fennel Tea for Colds and Cough

Fennel tea helps to treat colds, cough and respiratory tract infections. It can be used as a gargle to relieve sore throat. Cardamom and coriander seeds can be added in the preparation of fennel tea adding to its flavor.

Anemia

Fennel tea contains iron, which is an important constituent of hemoglobin. It also contains histidine which stimulates the production of hemoglobin. It can cure anemia.

Eyes

Drinking fennel tea can help to protect eyes from inflammation. Fennel is an antioxidant as it contains vitamin C and amino acids. It can also protect eyes from age related problems like macular degeneration.

Diuretic

Fennel is a diuretic. According to a study in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology”, fennel tea can help to increase the rate of urination because of its diuretic properties. It also helps to increase the amount of urination.

High Blood Pressure

Potassium counteracts the effects of sodium on the body and reduces blood pressure. Vitamin C which is present in fennel also helps to reduce blood pressure. According to “The Science Daily” taking large amounts of vitamin C can reduce the blood pressure levels moderately.

Baby Colic

Fennel tea can help to relieve baby colic according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It helps to improve digestion and can be used as a food supplement by lactating mothers. It can also be fed to the baby.

These are some of the health benefits of fennel tea.

Ginger Lemon Tea Benefits

Ginger lemon tea provides several health benefits. It can be prepared by boiling ginger in hot water and adding lemon juice. Both ginger and lemon have been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years. Both of them help to strengthen the immune system. Ginger lemon tea is used in India and China as a health drink.

Ginger

Wikimedia Commons: Tahir mq

Preparation of Ginger Lemon Tea

Even though ginger lemon tea bags are available, fresh ginger lemon tea would be tastier and healthy

Ingredients 

25 grams of grated ginger (peel the ginger skin)

2 cups of water 

Juice from one lemon

2 tbsp honey

Add grated ginger to water and boil it for about 15 minutes. Let it cool for a while and strain it. Add lemon juice and honey. This would give a very tasty and healthy ginger lemon tea

Weight Loss

Ginger lemon tea aids digestion. It can help to reduce LDL levels and get rid of belly fat. It would also help to speed up metabolism. 

Cough

Ginger lemon tea is a very good remedy for cough. It acts as an expectorant and help to relieve cough, chest congestion and inflammation of the throat. 

Colds

Ginger, lemon and honey tea is a very good remedy for colds. For better results add a clove of garlic and tsp of powdered black pepper. The tea can help to reduce the symptoms in about 15-20 minutes.

For Constipation

You should have at least 3 bowel movements a week. Anything less than this is considered as constipation and can be extremely uncomfortable. Some of the reasons for constipation are low intake of water and low fiber diet. Lack of exercise can also result in constipation. Ginger lemon tea thrice a day can help to get rid of constipation.

Lemon

Wikimedia Commons: Alan Levine

For Nausea

Ginger lemon tea can help to get rid of nausea. Honey helps to make the tea sweet. It you are experiencing nausea due to any reason, drink ginger lemon tea thrice a day. 

Acid Reflux

Ginger lemon tea is an excellent remedy for acid reflux. Acid reflux is the result of the content of the stomach flowing back to the esophagus and causing irritation to the delicate tissue lining. Drinking a cup of tea once every two hours helps to get rid of the problem.

Digestion

Ginger lemon tea aids digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices in the stomach. It can also help speed up the metabolism and blood circulation. 

The tea can reduce migraine headaches by reducing the inflammation of the blood vessels in the brain. 

These are some of the benefits of ginger lemon tea. 

Black Pepper Health Benefits

There are several health benefits of black pepper, which is known as the"king of spices". It has been used for culinary purposes for thousands of years. It adds flavor and taste to your food  Black pepper also provides relief for colds, cough, respiratory disorders, digestion, constipation and heart disease. It is grown in Southern India, especially in the state of Kerala and is available right through the year.

Black Pepper

Wikimedia Commons: Minasari66

Health Benefits of Black Pepper

Is an antioxidant

Has anti-bacterial properties

Promotes urination and sweating

Is rich in dietary fibers

Aids Weight loss

Black Pepper for Weight loss

Black pepper contains an ingredient called piperine which prevents the growth of fat cells. It is useful in the treatment diarrhea and gastrointestinal disorders. Black pepper stimulates gastric secretions and increases the metabolic rate. Research has shown that it increases the metabolic rate by about 8% and promotes weight loss.

Black Pepper for Blood Pressure

Black pepper contains vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and iron which can help to lower blood pressure. Even though it contains very low levels of potassium it neutralizes the effects of sodium to reduce blood pressure.

Anti-depression

Black pepper contains piperine which has anti-depression properties. It stimulates the nervous system and the brain function.

For Colds

Black pepper contains vitamin C which helps to clear the nasal passages and clear congestion.

Improve Digestion

Black pepper helps to increase the secretion of gastric juice and improves digestion. As it is rich in dietary fiber, it helps to regulate and cleanse bowel movements. If it is included in your diet you can prevent problems like gas and diarrhea. To improve digestion mix powdered black pepper and ginger. Take it 3-4 times a day.

Black Pepper for Skin

Piperine contained by black pepper can treat skin ailments like vitiligo. Its antioxidant properties can neutralize the effects of sun’s rays on the skin. It also has anti-cancerous properties.

Add a tsp of ground black pepper to clarified butter. Use it as a topical application for eczema, skin allergies and scabies

Dental Care

Black pepper is a very good remedy for toothache. Mix 3 tsp of ground black pepper and ½ tsp of salt. Add some water and make a paste. Apply this paste to gums or cavity. It will help to relieve toothache.

Black Pepper and Honey

Add a tsp of ground black pepper to a tbsp of honey and 2 tsp of lemon juice. Take it twice daily. It helps to get rid of colds, cough and also to reduce weight

Black Pepper Tea

Add a tsp of powdered black pepper to 2 cups of water and boil it. Add a tsp of honey and a tsp of lemon juice to it. Drink this tea piping hot to relieve all the symptoms of cold and cough.

Black Pepper Milk

Add a tsp of black pepper and a pinch of turmeric powder to milk and boil it. Drink it to get rid of colds and cough.

These are some of the health benefits of black pepper. 

What are Good Fruits to Eat?

What are Good Fruits to Eat


It can be said that most of the fruits available are good to eat and promote health. Eating fruits daily helps to improve digestion and promote weight loss. Fruits help to reduce blood cholesterol levels and chances of heart attack. Some of the fruits provide instant energy. Certain fruits have anti-oxidant properties, reduce skin wrinkles and are good for skincare. Apple, banana and papaya are among the best fruits to eat.

Fruits
Wikimedia Commons: Gkyciak

Apple


Apple is rich in dietary fiber and helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels. It contains beta carotenes and vitamin C. Vitamin C is a very good anti-oxidant and has anti-aging properties. It helps to reduce skin wrinkles and under the eye dark circles. As apple is rich in potassium, it helps to reduce arthritis and rheumatism pain. Apple helps to reduce the chances of Alzheimer’s disease.


Apple skin contains phenol (anti-oxidant) which protects your skin from the UV rays of the sun. It is one of the healthiest foods available and helps to reduce the chances of developing asthma. It reduces skin inflammation and is a good cure for acne. Apple can keep Alzheimer’s at bay as it can fight the effects of aging on the brain. It also provides a certain amount of protection against Parkinson’s disease. As it is rich in natural fiber it can prevent diarrhea and constipation. It can also mitigate the effects of irritable bowel syndrome.

Banana

Banana is sweet and tasty. It is a high energy food, which is cheap. It contains far more vitamins and nutrients than any other fruit. It is rich in carbohydrates, vitamin A and iron. It is also rich in potassium. Banana can provide instant energy. Sports persons eat the fruit for instant energy boost. Banana promotes digestion. It is an excellent remedy for constipation, diarrhea and dysentery. Banana contains an enzyme which helps to reduce hypertension. It also contains a substance that can help your mind to relax.  It can be said that banana is a mood lifter. The potassium content of banana helps to boost brain power and the ability to concentrate. For persons who are trying to give up smoking banana can help to reduce the nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It can reduce the acidity levels in the stomach and prevent ulcers. Fully ripe banana can provide remedy for heartburn.

Papaya

Papaya has abundance of natural fibers and helps lower blood cholesterol levels reducing the chances of a heart attack. It is an anti-oxidant and has anti-aging properties.


Papaya promotes digestion and prevents constipation. It has a digestive enzyme called papain which promotes digestion and weight loss.


It has anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce pain due to arthritis and osteoporosis.


Papaya is rich in vitamin C and vitamin A. It helps to boost the immune system. It is especially good for people suffering from colds, cough and flu.


It helps to clean up the stomach, intestines and acts as a stomach tonic.


Papaya juice is a very good remedy for dengue and helps to reduce fever and the ill effects of dengue.


Most of fruits are very good for health. But only the health benefits of banana, apple and papaya are discussed here.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon and Honey: Weight Loss: Diabetes

Cinnamon is obtained from the bark of a small tree which grows mostly in Sri Lanka. This is used as a spice in Indian cuisine. An aromatic essential oil can be obtained from this bark. It has excellent anti-microbial properties. Honey also has similar anti-microbial properties. There are several heath benefits of  cinnamon and honey. It also aids weight loss. 

Wikimedia Commons :Robert

Heart Ailments

Plaque buildup along the artery walls makes them inflexible and narrow. This will hamper the smooth flow of blood. Plaque buildup is the result of high levels of cholesterol in blood. Make a paste by mixing a tbsp of honey and a tsp of cinnamon.  You can use this as bread spread instead of jam and butter. It will help to reduce the LDL levels and arterial plaque.  It will also help to make the blood vessels more flexible, improve heartbeat and reduce the chances of heart attack.

Arthritis

Honey and cinnamon paste is a very good remedy for arthritis. Alternately make honey cinnamon tea by adding a tbsp of honey and a tsp of powdered cinnamon to a glass of warm water. Drink it twice daily. It will help to reduce arthritic pain.

Skin Remedies

Honey cinnamon paste can be used as a topical application for a variety of skin problems as it has antibacterial and antiviral properties. It provides relief from eczema and ringworm infections. It is also a very good remedy for acne. Apply the paste on the affected area before bedtime and wash it off next morning. It will help to reduce the inflammation and itching.  

Weight Loss

Drink honey cinnamon tea every day before breakfast on an empty stomach. Honey is a rich source of carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Even though honey is a kind of sugar, it does not hinder the metabolism of fats and cholesterol. Cinnamon helps to regulate blood sugar levels and fights against insulin resistance. It also helps to fight against obesity. Intake of cinnamon and honey over a period of time helps to bring down your weight substantially.

You can also add lemon to this honey cinnamon concoction. Addition of lemon accelerates weight loss.

For Diabetics

Honey and cinnamon tea helps to bring down blood glucose levels. Diabetics are prone to high LDL because of the increased blood glucose. Cinnamon and honey brings down the high cholesterol levels reducing the chances of heart attack.

Sore Throat

If you have a sore throat drink warm honey- cinnamon tea several times a day. It can also be used as a throat gargle. Gargle this liquid once every two hours. It provides relief from sore throat and opens up the blocked sinuses.

These are some of the health benefits of cinnamon and honey

Is Coffee Good for Health?

Coffee is surprisingly good for health in certain respects. Most of us cannot do without that invigorating cup of coffee early in the morning. Coffee was considered to be not good for health. But research has some surprising results.

Coffee Seeds 

Source: Aaron Logan: Wikimedia Commons

Coffee Good for Skin

Coffee is good for the health of the skin. It can help you to get rid of under eye circles. Application of coffee decoction to the skin under the eyes helps to reduce the puffiness. Application of moist tea bags can also help to reduce the puffiness as tea contains caffeine. They help to improve the blood circulation which reduces the dark circles under the eyes.

Coffee for Shiny Hair

Make a strong coffee decoction. Let it cool for some time till it attains room temperature. Shampoo your hair and dry it. Apply the decoction to your hair. Shampoo your hair after 20 minutes. Your hair will be darker, soft, smooth and shiny.

Coffee Face Mask

Take 100ml of milk cream in a bowl.  Add 3-4 tsp of finely ground coffee and make a paste. Apply it to your face and with a gentle massage. It can act an exfoliator. Wash it off after 30 minutes. Coffee face mask will remove all the dead skin cells but will also make your skin soft, supple and smooth.

Coffee for Cellulite

Take two tbsp of olive oil in a bowl. Add one tbsp of finely ground coffee. Mix it well and make a fine paste. Apply it on the affected area with a gentle massage. Wash it off after 30 minutes. This will help to reduce cellulite. 

Black Coffee for Weight loss

Caffeine is used in energy drinks. According some experts black coffee without milk and sugar helps to increase the metabolic rate and aids weight loss. As coffee is a stimulant it increases mental alertness and reduces fatigue.

Coffee as Diuretic

It also has mild diuretic properties which will help you to lose water through urine. This will result in a temporary weight loss. 

Antioxidant Coffee

It is a very good antioxidant. Antioxidants have a number of health benefits. They have anti aging properties. They provide protection against heart disease and cancer.

Other health benefits of coffee are

- People who drink more coffee can stave off depression.

- People who drink 4-5 cups of coffee every day are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease in their old age. 

- It reduces the risk of developing certain types of prostate cancer

- It also helps to reduce the risk of basal cell carcinoma which is one of the most common types of cancer

- It lowers the chances of type 2 diabetes  

How many cups a day

Drinking  in moderation is very good for health. It is not advisable to drink more then 3-4 cups every day.

These are some of the health benefits of coffee. 

What are the Health Benefits of Ginger Root?

Ginger root has a wide range of health Benefits.  It is a very good remedy for digestion and nausea.  

Ginger is a perennial plant which grows in tropical climates. Ginger has been grown for thousands of years across the world and is used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Ginger root is used in alternative medicines like ayurveda, aromatherapy and herbal therapy to treat a variety of diseases. It is also used to flavor food in several cuisines. It is been wide use alternative medicine for its health benefits for a long time

Ginger

Wikimedia Common: Thamizhpparithi Maari

Ginger for Vomiting and Nausea

Ginger can be eaten powdered or raw to get rid of nausea and vomiting. It can get rid of nausea and vomiting which occurs during the 15-18 months of pregnancy. Clinical trials have shown that ginger is also effective in controlling nausea and vomiting in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy

Ginger for Digestion

Ginger stimulates digestion and is a very good remedy for digestion problems. It also prevents E.coli from causing diarrhea. Ginger is soothing on the stomach and aids digestion. It can also contribute to weight loss. According to researchers from Maastricht university of Netherlands, it has fat burning properties and boosts metabolism.

Ginger for Cough and Cold 

Ginger is a very good remedy for cold and cough. It can even provide relief for laryngitis. Ginger tea can be prepared with the addition of lemon and honey. Take it several times a day to get rid of colds and cough

Cholesterol and Hypertension

Ginger will help to reduce the LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in the blood. Higher levels of LDL can contribute to the formation of plaque on the walls of the arteries and narrow them down. This will increase the blood pressure levels. The plaque can also lead to the reduction of elasticity of blood vessels. The reduction of blood pressure will reduce the chances of the formation of blood clots. This will also help to prevent heart attack and strokes.

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea has several health benefits. Peel ginger and get rid of its skin. Cut it into thin slices. Boil water in a sauce pan. Add the slices to it and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Strain the tea. Add lemon and honey to it. Drink a cup the tea 2-3 times a day. This will help you to get all the health benefits of ginger.

Other Methods of Using Ginger

- Fresh ginger can be grated or ground and added to your food

- Crystallized ginger candies which can be purchased, can be used like lozenges

-  The commonly available beverage, ginger ale is quite tasty and healthy.

These area some of the important heath benefits of ginger.

Health Benefits of Grapefruit: Weight Loss: Diabetes

Grapefruit may not be liked by everyone because of its bitter sour taste. But it is highly nutritious and has a variety of health benefits. Grapefruit contains very low amounts of fat, cholesterol and sodium. Grapefruit juice is very good for the heart. It helps to keep the skin healthy and lowers the cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It also aids weight loss. It is highly beneficial to drink a glass of grapefruit juice twice a day along with breakfast and dinner.

Grape Fruit

Source: Wikimedia Commons: Aleph

Grapefruit Nutrition Facts

Health benefits of grapefruit include its very high nutritional value. It contains

- Vitamin A, C and B5

- Folate

- Calcium

- Dietary fiber

- Antioxidants like lycopene

- Phytochemicals

Grapefruit for Weight loss

Grapefruit has a fat burning enzyme which helps to promote weight loss. It helps to reduce the starch and fat content in the body. It is very low in calories. It is a very good source of vitamin C and potassium. It is said to be a high volume food as it has high fiber and water content. As a high volume, low calorie food, it will lessen your appetite without adding too many calories. It helps to increase insulin resistance. Higher levels of insulin make the body to store excess glucose as fat. Grapefruit helps to keep the blood sugar levels stable and reduce levels of the release of insulin. This helps you to lose weight.

Grape Fruit for Diabetes

Grapefruit helps to flush out excess sugar and starch from the body. It contains certain enzymes that reduce the levels of sugar in the blood. It also has abundance of dietary fiber and low content of carbohydrates. For people with a family history of diabetes, it helps to prevent or at least postpone the advent of the disease.

Immune System

Grapefruit helps to strengthen the immune system. Regular intake of grapefruit juice help to fight a variety of infections. It is very effective against cold and fever. Drinking grapefruit juice helps you to get rid of cough and throat infection

For Digestion

Grapefruit helps to strengthen the digestive system. Its fibre content helps to prevent constipation and improve bowel movement. Grapefruit juice has alkaline properties. It is an excellent remedy for acidity.

 For Fatigue

A glass of grapefruit juice helps to get rid of fatigue. It also helps to rid insomnia. Grapefruit juice before going to bed helps you to sleep better and overcomes insomnia.

 For Atherosclerosis

Grape fruit contains pectin fiber which will help to prevent or slow down atherosclerosis. It helps to lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol). It will also lower the levels of triglycerides which is a fat, linked to heart disease. It has very high antioxidant content.

Other Health Benefits

- It is an effective drug poison eliminator

- Offers protection against cancer

- Fights against urinary problems and acidity

- Acts as a natural antiseptic for external wounds

- Aids bowel action

- It contains natural quinine which helps to treat malaria.

These are some of the health benefits of grapefruit.