Catnip

Scientific name: Nepeta cataria

Common names: catswort, catmint and field balm

Description: It is native to Central Europe, though now naturalized throughout the northeastern US and Canada.

Catnip is a strong-smelling herb that belongs to the mint family and grows to approximately 1 meter. This flowering perennial has oval-toothed, dark green leaves and white flowering tops.

This herb is commonly used to help calm cats down and reduce the effects of stress and anxiety because of its sedative effect. The chemical compound present in Catnip that attracts and affects cats is called nepetalactone. Thus, it is recommended for use in cat shelters to help make cats more relaxed in an unfamiliar setting.  Take note though that when a cat eats catnip, it acts as a sedative, but when it is just smelled, it causes the cat to go hyperactive.

Catnip also holds amazing benefits for human beings and is a very potent mosquito repellent.

The shoots/leaves have been used as a flavoring in sauces, soups, and stews, as  as well as in fruit table wines and liquors.

The fresh young shoots with its aromatic mint-like flavor are good in salads too.


Parts used: Leaves, flowers and stem


Medicinal properties and Health Benefits: 

Catnip has long been thought to have medicinal properties.

The leaves and flowering tops are sedative, antispasmodic, antitussive,  diaphoretic, astringent, carminative, slightly emmenagogue, refrigerant, slightly stimulant and tonic. Its plant constituents include Nepetalactone, Nepetalic acid, Alpha- & beta- Citral, Geraniol, Dipentene,Limonene, Citronella, Nerol, a terpene, Valeric acid,  Acetic acid, Butyric acid, and Tannin.

The catnip's dried leaves and flowers are made into herbal teas to treat intestinal cramps, indigestion, diarrhea, headache and common colds as well as to cause sweating, to induce menstruation, as a sedative, and to increase appetite.

The dried leaves have been smoked to relieve respiratory ailments, and has been used externally as a poultice to reduce swelling.

Traditional doses for sedation require 4 grams of dried herb that is made into tea.


How to make Catnip tea:

Mix 2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves or flowers with 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Add lemon juice and honey.

Some people prefer drinking the tea when the lemon has been immersed for a longer time for the natural minty, citrusy flavor to come out.


Sleep Aid
Catnip has been used by people with insomnia. Its sedative effect helps slow down the body’s natural cycles and induce a calm, relaxed state.

Stress Relief
Catnip reduces stress and chronic anxiety as well as strengthens the immune system.

Speeds up Healing (Flu and colds)
Catnip induces sweating and gets the toxins flushed from the system.

Increased Sweating And Weight Loss
Catnip has diaphoretic property that makes one sweat more. Thus, it removes all harmful toxins from the body and improves metabolism. With improved metabolism, the body will burn fats much more quickly.

Headache/Migraine 
Drinking catnip tea or rubbing Catnip essential oil or leaf salve on the temples can offer quick relief.

Heals Digestive Problems
The organic compounds in catnip has relaxing, anti-inflammatory effects to  relieve tightness and discomfort of the gastrointestinal system.

Menstrual cramps/Irregular periods 
Catnip tea is a natural remedy to quickly relieve cramps and stresses in the body. Its sedative and calming effects can also soothe mood swings, depression and other symptoms of menstruation.

Treats Skin Conditions
Aside from Catnip's natural repellent quality, it also has organic compounds to soothe bug bits, relieve skin of irritation and reduce inflammation quickly.

Beneficial For Kidneys
Catnip is a diuretic meaning it promotes urination and quickly eliminating wastes from the body.

Anti-dandruff
Catnip has antiseptic properties that is good for irritated scalp and those with dandruff. The catnip tea can also be used as a conditioner.

Side effects/Precaution:
It's recommended to drink catnip tea at night as this will make one drowsy.

However, since it's also a diuretic it would cause frequent urination and  frequent trips to the bathroom/interrupted sleep.

You should not drink catnip tea if you’re pregnant, as it can cause uterine contractions that may result in premature labor.

Stop drinking catnip tea for several weeks before surgery, so that it doesn’t interfere with or intensify anesthesia and the central nervous system.

Always consult your doctor prior to taking any medications and avoid self-medication.

Argan Tree (Argan Oil)

Scientific name: Argania spinosa

Description: Argania or Argan Tree belongs to the Sapotaceae family of trees that only grows in the calcareous semidesert Sous valley of southwestern Morocco. The thorny trees can grow up to 26–33 ft high and live from 150 to 200 years in a harsh environment and poor soil. The leaves are small, oval with a rounded apex while the flowers are small with five pale yellow-green petals. The fruit is green, oval-shaped and a little bigger than an olive with a thick, bitter peel surrounding a pulpy pericarp (that's sweet-smelling but has an unpleasant flavor). Its middle layer has the very hard nut that protects the last inner layer that contains up to 3 almond-shaped Argania Spinosa kernels which are oil-rich seeds. Argan oil are produced from the kernels found inside the Argan fruit.

Argan Oil:

The production of Argan oil is a long and tedious manual process. First, the ripe fruits of the argan tree are dried in the open air and manually crushed to separate pulp and pits (In some practices, they let the goats eat the fruits and the kernels are later retrieved from the goat droppings). Then the pits are broken into two to reveal an almond or what is known as the Argania Spinosa kernels. The freshly harvested kernels of the Argan fruit are hand-ground in a stone grinder, hand-kneaded for hours and filtered through an organic cotton sieve (first cold pressed) to extract the aromatic oil.

Argan oil has a nutty flavor and is used for seasoning and as a salad dressing, to dip bread in at breakfast or to drizzle on couscous or pasta. Since Argan oil is easily absorbed by the skin and brings a lot of nutrients, it’s also commonly mixed into a number of cosmetic products like shampoos, soaps, facial cream and conditioners. And, even if it's an oil, Argan oil doesn't clog pores - it's non-comedogenic.


Health Benefits of Argan Oil:

Argan oil is known to be a beauty elixir that you can use from head to toe. It has twice as much vitamin E than olive oil and it is rich in unsaturated fatty acids (consisting of 80%) such as oleic, palmitic, stearic and linoleic acids. This magnificent oil also has phenols (caffeic acid, oleuropein, vanillic acid, tyrosol, catechol, resorcinol, (-)-epicatechin and (+)-catechin), carotene (Vitamin A) as well as squalene. Argan's superb anti-ageing properties are due to high levels of vitamin E and saponins which soften the skin). Not to mention its abundant anti-oxidants and free radical scavenger effects. Depending on the extraction method, argan oil may be more resistant to oxidation than olive oil.

Medicinal Properties of Argan Oil:

1. Treats acne
Aside from being rich in Vitamins A, E, saponins and antioxidants. Argan oil also has anti-sebum effects which can effectively regulate amounts of sebum on the skin and reduce oiliness. Its high in oleic (omega 9 monounsaturated nonessential) and linoleic (omega 6 unsaturated) fatty acids content aid acne-prone skin.

2. Fast Wound healing and heals skin infections
Argan oil has both antibacterial and fungicidal properties. It is also has a strong combination of antioxidants and all the vitamins needed to heal wounds and infections.

3. Soothes atopic dermatitis
Vitamin E and the natural inflammatory properties found in argan oil can have soothing effects on atopic dermatitis and relieving the itchy, red skin.

4. Has anti-aging effects
Argan oil has long been used as an anti-aging treatment because it significantly increases the elasticity of the skin. The linoleic acid increases skin moisturization levels while the oleic acid improves the skin’s permeability and assist other ingredients to penetrate the skin more easily.

After cleansing morning and/or night, massage a few drops of pure argan oil directly onto your face and neck. It being a dry oil, it absorbs quickly and is not greasy. Argan oil can also be used as a serum by applying a night cream after the Argan oil absorbs into the skin.

When applied externally, tocopherol from the vitamin E helps boost cell production while promoting healthy skin and hair.

5. Prevents and reduces stretch marks
Argan oil improves skin elasticity which help prevent and treat stretch marks.

6. Alleviates Symptoms of Rosacea and Psoriasis

Argan oil contains a large number of healing properties, including antioxidant, unsaturated fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties. These soothes the skin and alleviates psoriasis and rosacea. It also give rash relief.

7. Hair treatment

Massage a generous amount of argan oil into your hair and scalp. The effect is better if you leave it overnight by wrapping your hair and leave it on while you sleep.
If you have dandruff or dry scalp, do an overnight treatment twice a week until the dandruff is gone. Continue with weekly treatments or as needed.

8 . Foot Treatment
If you have dry, cracking skin on your feet or heels, rub 2 drops into your feet.
Cover with socks to give the oil a chance to soak in and leave it for at least 20 minutes, and preferably overnight. You may use a warm washcloth to clean feet afterwards.

9 . Protects from sun damage

Argan oil is traditionally been used to protect skin from sun damage. The antioxidant activity in argan oil helped protect the skin against free radical damage caused by the sun. It prevents sun burns, hyperpigmentation and against the development of skin cancer like melanoma.


How to make a rejuvenating Argan face mask:

1 Tbsp lemon juice
3 Tbsp Greek-style yogurt
1 Tbsp honey
3 drops of Argan oil

Clean and dry face. Apply face mask and leave for 10 minutes.
Rinse off with warm water.

Side effects and risks:

Argan oil is generally considered safe for most people to use. However, some may experience minor side effects as a result of its use. So best to test argan oil on a small, hidden patch of skin to make sure that it won’t cause allergy or irritate your skin.

Side effects related to oral usage are uncertain as few human studies have been conducted.

When ingested orally, argan oil may cause digestive upset, loss of appetite or bloating, and some people may experience skin reactions like rashes or acne breakouts. If you experience anything not normal, stop taking argan oil immediately.

Sea buckthorn (Sea Buckthorn Oil)

Scientific name: Hippophae Ramnoides

Common names: Sandthorn, Sallowthorn or Seaberry

Description:   Sea Buckthorn  are thorny deciduous flowering shrub that can grow between 7 and 13 ft in height and is native to the cold-temperate regions of Europe and Asia. The rough bark is brown or blackish and sea buckthorn has a thick grayish-green crown. This spiny berry-filled bush has pale yellow to dark orange fruits which are oval or lightly roundish and are clustered together. The leaves are lanceolate and has silvery-green upper side.

Sea Buckthorn is used in traditional medicine using its leaves, flowers, seeds and fruits.

In foods, sea buckthorn berries are used to make jams, jellies, juices, purees, and sauces for its sweet flavor.

It is also use is in cosmetics and anti-aging products.


Parts used: leaves, flowers, seeds, and fruits are used to make medicine.

Medicinal properties and Health Benefits:

Sea buckthorn oil has been shown to be an amazing healing oil and has been used in traditional medicine for many centuries. Just make sure that you’re aware of the sourcing and that you use pure sea buckthorn oil.

Sea buckthorn oil is more nutrient dense than in any other forms like tea. The oil is extracted from the yellow-orange berries and seeds of the sea buckthorn plant.  There are two types: the seed oil is colored yellow or pale orange and comes from the seeds while the fruit oil comes from fleshy pulp of the berries which is a dark red or reddish orange in color and thicker.

Sea buckthorn is a powerhouse of nutrients as it over 60 nutrients, amino acids, minerals (potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus) and Vitamins A, E, C, K, B1, and B2. It has a high amount of folic acid, antioxidants, xanthophylls, carotenoids, beta-carotene, flavonoids, and phenolics. It also contains all four omegas: omega-3, omega-6, omega-7 and omega-9.

Flavonoids have a high level of free radical scavenging activity that's why sea buckthorn is good for the protection against oxidative stress, inflammation, tumor growth, ulcers, and stress-induced conditions.

Linoleic acid and other fatty acids found in sea buckthorn oil secrete chemicals, such as carotenoids and tocopherols, that are good to ease dry eyes and help ease inflammation.


Sea Buckthorn Oil Benefits:

1.  Prevents Cancer and helps Combat Cancer

Sea buckthorn oil contains powerful phytonutrients, anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and anti-cancerous compounds that limits the toxicity of chemical cancer treatment (chemotherapy). It also has a liver-cleansing effect and it good to fight against cancer of the liver.

2. Anti-aging and help reduce skin problems.

Sea buckthorn oil slows the aging process and helps reduce many issues with skin like acne, dermatitis, dry skin eczema, stretch marks and skin ulcers.  It is also effective in preventing sunburn,sunburn relief, healing wounds like bedsores and cuts.

3. Fights Diabetes

Sea buckthorn has palmitoleic acid, that helps maintain normal blood sugar levels.

4. Prevents Infections and Boosts the Immune System

Since it is rich in antioxidants, it fights free radical and prevents infections. The pure extracted oil contains 2.4x more carotenoids than other oils.

5. Treats Cardiovascular Disease

The fatty acid known as palmitoleic acid, may be useful in providing heart disease-fighting benefits. It also reduces blood cholesterol levels and provides heart-protective effects against free radical damaging cells to prevent cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension and even heart attacks.

6. Treats Respiratory problems

Sea buckthorn oil is used as an expectorant for loosening phlegm and for treating asthma.

7. Sea Buckthorn Helps Treat Dry Eye Issues

The fatty acids in sea buckthorn increases tear secretion and moisturises the eyes.

Precaution:

Always best to be careful when taking any new substance and consult a doctor prior to using any supplements or medications.

Sea Buckthorn slows blood clotting so it shouldn't be taken by those with bleeding disorders. It is also contraindicated for those with already low blood pressure since sea buckthorn is known to lower blood pressure. A it may cause extra bleeding during surgery, it’s best to stop using for 2 weeks prior to any scheduled surgery.

Chronic use of sea buckthorn may cause yellow staining of the skin.

St. John’s wort

Scientific name: Hypericum perforatum

Description:

A perennial herb with five-petaled yellow flowers that is named after St. John the Baptist, since it's usually in full bloom by the saint's feast day on June 24.

The elongated yellow petals have black spots on edges while its pale green leaves (when held up to the light) has tiny dots that appears to be perforations, hence the species name “perforatum”.  The round numerous small black seeds are stored inside a three-celled capsule and have a resinous smell.

St. John's wort grows as high as 3 feet, shrubby and primarily found in Europe, but has since spread to the Americas, Russia, Middle East and Asia.

When the yellow flowers are crushed it releases a reddish purple oil and when made into an infused oil or tincture, it turns into red.

The best preparations of St. John’s wort are made from the fresh plant and are superior to anything you can find isolated or dried at the store. The fresh St. John's Wort tea is also delicious with a delightful lemony taste.

This plant blends well with a myriad of herbs (e.g. Chamomile, garlic, lemon, passionflower and valerian) to create tinctures, teas and oils.



Recipes:

St. John's Wort Oil: 


Allow the moisture of the plant to dry off for a day.
Place in a jar and add enough olive oil to cover the flowers. Make sure it is completely covered with oil to avoid molds from setting in.
Leave in a warm place for 4 weeks.
Strain the flowers out and store the oil in a cool dark place.

To use: Apply topically to skin.

St. John's Wort Tincture: 

Cover fresh flowers with 95 proof vodka, using 1:2 fresh herb ratio.
Shake every day.
After 4 weeks, strain out the flowers and cap tightly.

To use: Take 15 - 20 drops 3 times daily.

St. John's Wort Tea: 

Steep 2 - 3 teaspoons of fresh flowers in hot water for 4 minutes, and then strain the flowers out.

If with the dried herb, tea can be made by steeping 2 to 3 teaspoons of herb per cup of water in a covered vessel for 30 minutes.

Strain and drink up to 2 cups/day


Parts used: Leaves and Flowers

Medicinal Properties:

St John's wort is known among herbalists as a wonderful herb for its many traditional uses and benefits. It is a
nervine that acts as a tonic and was traditionally used to deeply balance, nourish and restore the nervous system. It also has antiviral, antibacterial, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, astringency and antimicrobial properties.  In addition, it has diuretic action that helps to promote waste and fluid removal.

It will help improve the overall condition of the whole body as it works to tone the vital organs. St John's wort is know to support the liver as a tonic and by helping to stimulate bile flow aiding in the digestion and assimilation of nutrients.

The leaves of St John's wort contain antidepressant compounds that regulate levels of dopamine, melatonin, and serotonin.  Thus, it is used by herbalists to help ease anxiety, tension, neuralgias, as well as mild to moderate depression.

The flowers (oil, tincture) are used for the treatment of wounds, external ulcers, and bruises. Flower tea is used to relieve of bladder problems, worms, dysentery, and diarrhea.

Pain Reliever = relieves the pain of sore muscles caused by neuralgias, sciatica/  It is also proven effective in pinched nerves,  Bell’s palsy as well as in head and spine trauma or anything that involves the nerve endings.

As an antispasmodic, St. John’s wort helps to relax muscles spasms including spasms in the internal organs.

Wound repair = it helps heal wounds quickly by stimulating granulation and capillary regeneration.

Common cold
Flu
PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome), painful menstruation
Incontinence - it has a tonic effect on the urinary system easing incontinence


Precaution/Disclaimer:

St. John’s wort may cause photosensitivity and should not be used during pregnancy. It may also interact with other drugs and is not proven effective treatment for severe depression.

Best to consult your doctor before use. This blog is intended to give general information only and is not intended to cure or act as a physician.

Neem

Scientific name: Azadirachta indica

Other Names: Arishta, Arishtha,  Bead Tree, Holy Tree, Huile de Neem, Indian Lilac, Indian Neem

Description:

Neem belongs to the Mahogany family or Meliaceae. It is a fast growing evergreen tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height and is found in abundance in tropical and semi-tropical regions like India, Burma, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

This tree is drought resistant and is highly resistant to pests and diseases. The branches are long and form a broad crown while the flowers are small yellowish-white in color and has the shape of a star with a pleasant smell.

The bark is gray and rough and the leaves are pinnate with saw-toothed edges.

The fruit is hard, round, yellow and contains one single seed.

The leaves and bark have a bitter taste and are mostly used in tea and is often combined with other herbs such as spearmint and cinnamon.

The oil extracted from the seeds is known as margosa oil.

Neem helps to kill bacteria and fungi, it is often used as an ingredient in toothpaste, soaps and skin care products and it can also be used as an insecticide.

The flowers produce a nectar that can be used as a sweetener.

Parts used: Every part of this tree has medicinal value. Commonly used are bark, leaves, and seeds although the root, flower, and fruit are also used but less frequently.

Medicinal uses and properties:

For centuries, the neem tree has played a big part in Ayurvedic medicine, Unani, Homoeopathic medicine and Indian folk medicine and it is still one of the most commonly used medicinal plant in India owing to its wide range of medicinal properties.

More than 140 compounds have been isolated from different parts of neem. The healing properties of neem are mainly due to some bitter substances, known as triterpenes (limonoids) and azadirachtin. It also contains beta-sitosterol, tannins, polysaccharides, flavonoids and essential oil.

The antifungal, antioxidant content and antibacterial properties of neem make it a popular ingredient in shampoos and scalp cleansers as it hydrates the scalp, eliminate dandruff and strengthens the hair.

Neem is known to have antipyretic properties and it has been used traditionally to lower high fever.

The leaf of neem is known to demonstrate these properties: immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycaemic, antiulcer, antibacterial, antiviral, antimalarial, antifungal, antioxidant, antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties. Thus the Neem leaf is used for leprosy, ntestinal worms, stomach upset, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and blood vessels. fever, diabetes, gum disease/gingivitis, and liver problems.

The twigs are chewed to maintain the alkaline levels in the saliva, fight germs, treats swollen gums and claims to give whiter teeth. It is also used for cough, asthma, hemorrhoids, and diabetes.

The bark extract has been used as a treatment for asthma, sore throat, jaundice, tuberculosis, eczema, stomach ulcers, diabetes, arthritis, and rheumatism.

The flower is used for reducing bile, controlling phlegm, and treating intestinal worms.

The fruit is used for hemorrhoids, intestinal worms, urinary tract disorders, phlegm, diabetes, and skin wounds.

The seed and and its oil are used for leprosy and intestinal worms. IT is also used for birth control and can cause abortion.

Neem can be directly applied to the skin to treat head lice, wounds, skin ulcers.

It can also smoothen the skin and can be used as a mosquito repellent.




Herbal tea recipe: One tablespoon of the dried leaves in half a liter of boiling water and steep for 5-10 minutes before straining. Recommended dosage: two to three cups daily.


Potential Side Effects of Neem:

The herb is considered unsuitable for young children, infants, the elderly or people suffering from debilitating diseases or conditions. Ayurvedic doctors do not advise the use of neem if the person suffers from fatigue .

Don't use Neem in large doses as it can cause breathing problems, seizures, and lethargy (drowsiness).

It is advised to consult your physician before taking any medicinal plants or medication. The blog is for information purposes only.

Red Raspberry

Scientific name: Rubus idaeus

Description: Raspberry is a perennial plant in the rose family (Rosaceae) that is commonly found wild in Europe and Asia.  It is an erect plant that grows to about 1 to 2 meters in height. The leaves are green on top and silvery white on the underside. The flowers bloom in late spring and are white, erect with small petals and numerous stamens and pistils. The fruit, a collection of many small berries, is red or sometimes yellow. Raspberry has been cultivated for a long time not only for its culinary uses but also for its medicinal properties. In herbal medicine, it is primarily the leaves that are utilized and the berries are mostly used for culinary purposes.

Parts used: fruits and leaves

Therapeutic Uses and Benefits:

For centuries, red raspberry fruit and leaf have been used as medicine. The berries contain strong antioxidants such as Vitamin C, quercetin and gallic acid which fight against cancer, heart and circulatory diseases. It is also high in polyphenolic compounds known for their anti-cancer properties and high in ellagic acid known as a chemopreventative and has anti-inflammatory properties.  The berries also has 1.5-2% organic acids, fructose, pectin, gum, anthocyanins and iron.

Red raspberry ketones are used as a weight loss supplement in Japan. The red raspberry seed oil is rich in Vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acid and thus being used in cosmeceutical industry.

The leaves contain tannins, flavone glycosides, organic acids and vitamin C. Both the dried and fresh leaves contain tannin that is known to have astringent properties and makes it soothing both internally and externally. A tincture or tea made of raspberry leaves will sooth sunburn, eczema, and skin rashes when applied externally. Swishing with a tincture or infusion of Raspberry Leaf can help treat gingivitis or gum disease.Extracts from the leaves have been used externally for inflammation of the mouth and throat, tonsillitis, sore throat, ulceration, burns and slow healing wounds.

The leaves have been used as a tea to treat diarrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding and vaginal discharge.  Being naturally high in magnesium, potassium, iron and B-vitamins makes it helpful for nausea, leg cramps, improves sleep during pregnancy and strengthens the uterus and pelvic muscles for shorter and easier labors. It also help ease the symptoms of PMS, endometriosis, morning sickness associated with pregnancy and in preventing miscarriage.

A filtered & cooled decoction of raspberry leaves has been used as eye drops for the treatment of conjunctivitis.

How to make Raspberry Leaf Tea:
Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over 1 teaspoon-1 tablespoon of Raspberry Leaf. Steep, covered, for at least 5 minutes and drink as regular tea. I often keep a gallon of cold raspberry leaf tea in the fridge so that I don’t have to brew by the cup. To make a gallon, just 3/4 to

Boil 1 cup of Raspberry Leaves in a gallon of water. Steep and covered for at least 5 minutes and drink as a regular tea. You may leave overnight before straining for a stronger tea. For smaller amount, you may simmer half liter of water for a few minutes and add in a handful of fresh or dried raspberry leaves.

A cup of this tea can be taken two or three times daily.

Side Effects/Precaution:

Always consult your doctor before taking anything during pregnancy. Since red raspberry has been traditionally used as uterine tonic that helps pregnant women in labor and delivery caution should be made as this might cause miscarriage.

Oregano

Scientific name: Origanum vulgare

Description: Oregano is an aromatic herb in the mint family sometimes referred to as "wild marjoram" in Europe and is closely related to the herb sweet marjoram. It can be use as fresh, dried or as an oil and is considered a staple herb in many cuisines around the world. The leaves of oregano are oval and are covered with glandular trichomes (plant hairs). The aroma and flavor of the leaves are far greater when the herb is dried than when the leaves are fresh.

Health Benefits:
Oregano contains chemical compounds such as carvacrol, thymol, limonene, pinene, ocimene, and caryophyllene which has antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogues, diaphoretic, expectorant, stimulant, and mildly tonic properties. Its decoction is used for the treatment of colds, influenza, mild fevers, indigestion, stomach upsets, dysmenorrhea and are known to have disease preventing and health promoting properties.  It is high in carvacrol and thymol considered antioxidants that can help prevent damage to cells caused by free radicals and have remarkable bacteria-fighting power. Oregano is a natural form of omega-3 fatty acids which help in preventing atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. It is also have high content of manganese, calcium, iron, vitamin K and fiber.

Medicinal properties and benefits:

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Oregano contains beta-caryophyllin (E-BCP), a substance that inhibits inflammation and may also be beneficial for conditions including osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis.

2. Antifungal, Antibacterial and antiviral.

Oregano oil can effectively protect the body against many of these fungal, bacterial and viral infections. Carvacol and thymol are powerful antimicrobials. Oregano contains carvacrol, thymol, cymene, caryophyllene, pinene, bisabolene, linalool, borneol, geranyl acetate, linalyl acetate, and terpinene.

3. Rich in Antioxidants

One active agent in oregano is rosmarinic acid, which is a strong antioxidant that supports immune system health.

4. Colds/Cough

The  carvacrol content induces sweat production as a mode of detox as well as get rid of unwanted phlegm in your lungs.

5. Osteoporosis/Good for the bones

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin, so your body stores it in fat tissue and the liver. It is important for bone growth, maintaining bone density, and the production of blood clotting proteins while calcium is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth.

Zucchini (aka Courgette)

Scientific name: Cucurbita pepo

Description: Zucchini is mainly used as a vegetable and is closely related to squashes & pumpkin. It has a long, cylindrical body with thin, soft skin and soft edible seeds. The color is usually dark or light green while the related hybrid has the golden, deep yellow or orange color.

Health benefits:

Zucchini has high water content and low in calories, carbs and sugars. It is, however, high in essential nutrients like potassium, manganese, folate, copper, phosphorus, calcium, , zinc, niacin, and protein. It also has antioxidants like vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSHpx) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) as well as other vitamins like vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin B2.  Zucchini contains about 1.16% of proteins and provides up to 29% of the recommended daily intake in a 100 gram serving.

Traditionally, the seeds from zucchini were believed to be antimicrobial and offer antiparasitic properties.



Medicinal properties:

1. Good for the heart

Since zucchini contains a good amount of potassium & magnesium that help in keeping blood pressure at a normal rate. It also has folate that breaks down amino acids like homocysteine that cause heart attacks and strokes. Zucchini also includes a good amount fiber called pectin, which is linked to improved cardiovascular health and has the ability to lower cholesterol naturally.

2. Helps lose Weight

Zucchini has a low calorie count and helps to fill you up. One of the best things about zucchini is that they are very high in water - with 95 percent water content. The high fibre content also helps in burning the fat in the body.

3. Helps Maintain Eye Health
Zucchini has phytonutrients like vitamin C, manganese, beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin that protect the eyes and defend the eyes from age-related diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma.

4. Can Help Control Diabetes

Zucchini are low in carbs and sugar but rich in pectin which have special benefits for blood sugar regulation and helps prevent insulin spikes and dips.

5.  Balance Thyroid and Adrenal Function
The high amount of polyphenols and ascorbic acid in the peel of zucchini can have beneficial effects to thyroid, adrenal and insulin regulation.

Chinese Star Anise

Scientific name: Illicium verum

Description: Star anise is frequently used as an exotic spice in Indian, Vietnamese and in Chinese cuisines because of its strong, delightful fragrance and flavor. It is one of the spices that combine to make Chinese five spice powder. It is a dark brown pods with eight segments, each containing a pea-sized seed. This star-shaped pericarp is a fruit of Illicium verum which is a medium-sized evergreen tree native to northeast Vietnam and southwest China.  Star anise are harvested just before it ripens and the oil is a highly fragrant oil used not only in cooking but also in soaps, perfumery, toothpastes, mouthwashes and skin creams. The extract of star anise called shikimic acid is used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of oseltamivir (Tamiflu).

Note: Don't confuse star anise/Chinese star anise with Japanese star anise, which is poisonous and should not be taken.

Medicinal properties and health benefits:

Chinese traditional medicine uses star anise as a stimulant and expectorant, to relieve flatulence, improve digestion, alleviate cramps, cure rheumatism.... and increase libido.


ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES
Star anise is an excellent source of antioxidants because of the presence of linalool, vitamin A and C which help fight free radicals and protect from cellular damage.

COUGHS & FLU
It is commonly employed in treating cough and flu because the oil produced from star anise contains thymol, terpineol and anethole. The shikimic acid as well as the plant antioxidant called quercetin enhances the immune system function and helps protect the body against viral diseases.

BOOST LACTATION
Chinese star anise consists of diantheole and photoantheole that has estrogenic effects to improve lactation and produce milk.

INSOMNIA
Star Anise has mild sedative properties that could aid in calming nerves and help induce sleep.

IMPROVED DIGESTION
Star anise is said to possess carminative, stimulant, stomachic and diuretic properties. It is used to deal with a variety of digestive complaints such as gas, abdominal cramps, indigestion, bloating and constipation.

PRECAUTION: Don't confuse Chinese star anise from Japanese star anise which is not edible.
The FDA recently issued a warning regarding the consumption of star anise teas which is contaminated with Japanese star anise. Japanese star anise contains a toxic compound called sikimitoxin which can cause nausea, vomiting, seizures, restless jitters and rapid eye movement. Always consult your doctor and never self-medicate.

Plum

Scientific name: Prunus

Description: Plums can be yellow, green, red or even white but the most popular varieties are colored deep purple or reddish purple. They are small deciduous trees which can grow to a height of 10-15 m and bear smooth fruits/drupes or stone fruits. The flesh is sweet, very juicy and has a big seed in the center. They exist in diverse colors and shapes with over 2000 different varieties.  Here are some of the cultivars of plum:

Damson (purple or black skin, green flesh)
Greengage (firm, green flesh and skin)
Mirabelle plum (dark yellow)
Satsuma plum (firm, red flesh and skin)
Victoria plum (yellow flesh with red or mottled skin)
Yellowgage or golden plum (yellow flesh and skin)

 Plums can be used to make jams, pickles or wine, canned or dried which are then referred to as prunes.

Medicinal Properties:

Plums are an excellent source of vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C (help increase the absorption of iron into the body), folate, and vitamin K (phylloquinone).  They are also a good source of vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B-6, and vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol). Aside from vitamin C, the other antioxidants plums contain are zea-xanthin, lutein, cryptoxanthin which are health promoting compounds.  It also contains pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, phosphorous, potassium, copper, magnesium,  selenium and zinc. They also supply dietary fiber and are low in calories, low in fat, low in carbohydrate, low in glycemic rating.

Health benefits:

1. Protect your heart
The potassium in plums helps manage high blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.

2. Anti-cancer
The reddish-blue pigment in some plums called anthocyanins can help protect against cancer by getting rid of harmful free radicals. Plums are known to destroy breast cancer cells.

3. Improves bone health.
Plums contain calcium, phosphorous and other minerals that is good for the bones.

4. Improves brain memory.
Plums are full of antioxidants that have been shown to slow the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other diseases related to memory loss. It also contain anthocyanin and quercetin, beneficial for preventing brain cell breakdown.

5.Keep your bowels regular
The dried plums also known as prunes contains lots of fiber that help you move your bowels regularly.

Contraindication: Plums are rich in Oxalates, oxalic acid which are not good to those with kidney stones.