REMOVING GALLSTONES NATURALLY...

By: Dr.Lai Chiu NanIt has worked for many. If it works for you please pass on the good news. Chiu Nan is not charging for it, so we should make it free for everyone. Your reward is when someone, through your word of mouth, benefits from the regime. Gallstones may not be everyone's concern. But they should be because we all have them. Moreover, gallstones may

lead to cancer. "Cancer is never the first illness," Chiu Nan points out. "Usually, there are a lot of other problems leading to cancer. In my research in China , I came across some materials which say that people with cancer usually have stones. We all have gallstones. It's a matter of big or small, many or few. 

One of the symptom s of gallstones is a feeling of bloatedness after a heavy meal. You feel like you can't digest the food. If it gets more serious, you feel pain in the liver area." So if you think you have gallstones, Chiu Nan offers the following method to remove them naturally. 

The treatment is also good for those with a weak liver, because the liver and gallbladder are closely linked. REGIMEN: For the first five days, take four glasses of apple juice every day. Or eat four or five apples, whichever you prefer. Apple juice softens the gallstones. During the five days, eat normally. On the sixth day, take no dinner. At 6 PM, take a teaspoon of Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate) with a glass of warm water.At 8 PM, repeat the same. Magnesium sulphate opens the gallbladder ducts. At 10 PM, take half cup olive oil (or sesame oil) with half cup fresh lemon juice. Mix it well and drink it. The oil lubricates the stones to ease their passage. PS. 1cup=250ml, ? cup lemon juice=3 lemons (aprox.) 

The next morning, you will find green stones in your stools. "Usually they float," Chiu Nan notes. "You might want to count them. I have had people who passes 40, 50 or up to 100 stones. Very many." 

"Even if you don't have any symptom s of gallstones, you still might have some. It's always good to give your gall bladder a clean-up now and then.

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MIRACLE DRINK : CARROT, BEET ROOT AND APPLE 

This MIRACLE DRINK has been circulating for a long time long ago. It is worth your while to take note. There is a celebrity Mr. Seto who swears by it. He wants to make it public to draw the attention of people who have cancers. This is a drink that can protect bad cells forming in your body or it will restrain its growth! Mr. Seto had lung cancer. He was recommended to take this drink by a famous

Herbalist from China. He has taken this drink diligently for 3 months and now his health is restored, and he is ready to take a pleasure trip. Thanks to this drink! It does not hurt for you to try.It is like a Miracle Drink! It is simpleYou need one beet root, one carrot and one apple that combine together to make the JUICE !Wash the above, cut with the skin on into pieces and put them into the juicer and immediately you drink the juice. You can add some lime or lemon for more refreshing taste.

This Miracle Drink will be effective for the following ailments:

1. Prevent cancer cells to develop. It will restrain cancer cells to grow.2. Prevent liver, kidney, pancreas disease and it can cure ulcer as well.3. Strengthen the lung, prevent heart attack and high blood pressure.4. Strengthen the immune system5. Good for the eyesight, eliminate red and tired eyes or dry eyes6. Help to eliminate pain from physical training, muscle ache7. Detoxify, assist bowel movement, eliminate constipation. Therefore it will make skin healthy & LOOK more radiant. It is God sent for acne problem.8. Improve bad breath due to indigestion, throat infection,9. Lessen menstrual pain10. Assist Hay Fever Sufferer from Hay Fever attack.

There is absolutely no side effect. Highly nutritious and easily absorbs! Very effective if you need to loose weight. You will notice your immune system will be improved after 2 week routine. Please make sure to drink immediately from the juicer for best effect.

WHEN TO DRINK IT:

DRINK IT FIRST THING IN THE MORNING WITH THE EMPTY STOMACH! AFTER ONE HOUR YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST. FOR FAST RESULTS DRINK 2

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TIMES A DAY, IN THE MORNING AND BEFORE 5 P.M.

TALONG or EGGPLANTHealth Benefits While many fruits and vegetables are important for good health, eggplant appears to play a special role in the treatment and prevention of a number of very serious conditions. This article describes 3 ways in which eggplant can be used to improve both the length and quality of your life.

1. Reduced Risk of CancerWhen used properly, eggplant can provide many health benefits, including being important in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Eggplant has been found to be especially useful in the treatment of colon cancer due to the high amount of fiber found within eggplant. Fiber is important in the treatment of colon cancer because it is a relatively porous nutrient, and because of this, as it moves through the digestive tract, it has the tendency to absorb toxins and chemicals that can lead to the development of colon cancer. For best results, individuals who are interested in reducing their risk for the development of color cancer should be sure to include the skin of the eggplant during consumption. Research has found that the skin of eggplant may contain more fiber that the actual eggplant itself.

2. Weight LossAs stated above, eggplant contains high amounts of fiber, making it a great food in the fight against cancer. But, the fiber found in eggplant has other uses–namely, its ability to be a useful tool for people who are trying to lose weight. Fiber is a relatively “bulky” food, meaning that is takes up a lot of room in the stomach. Therefore, by eating eggplant in a salad or appetizer before a meal, dieters are likely to have a greater feeling of satiety, and generally eat fewer calories (thereby achieving a substantial weight loss with time). In addition, fiber is slow digesting, and takes a long time to move from the stomach to the digestive tract. Because of this, the eggplant keeps dieters feeling full for a longer period of time–and therefore, they won’t be as tempted to snack between meals, which will again aid in weight loss.

3. Better Skin ToneFinally, eggplant contains a high amount of water–and similarly, aside from fat and bone, our bodies are composed of almost primarily water. Water has important roles in a variety of pathways through the body, but has been found to be especially important in the maintenance of healthy skin and hair. Individuals who are dehydrated are more likely to exhibit hair that is thin, dry and has split ends, along with skin that appears to be flaky, dry, with a greater number of lines and wrinkles. Consuming adequate amount of water through either water itself or through food

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items such as eggplant can not only improve the quality of your hair and skin, but also the general performance of your body. For best results, eat the eggplant raw–research has found that cooking it removes some of the water that is so beneficial.

Home Beauty Remedies Using EggplantEggplant is well recognized as a low-cal, nutritious vegetable but you may be surprised to know that eggplant carries at least four beauty benefits too. Whether eaten or used externally on your body, eggplant is a universal application for beauty and well as health. Everywhere that the eggplant has gone, from early beginnings in Asia to the Middle East and Turkey to Europe, Russia, and Australia and the United States, this vegetable has served as a natural remedy used by health practitioners as well as by our ancestors.

Some food historians say the eggplant originated in India and others say it was first cultivated in China. Based on fifth-century scrolls in China, ladies in the higher echelons of society used the dark purple dye from eggplant skins to brush their teeth until they were shiny gray. Other stories abound, but here are at least four eggplant-based beauty recipes that have stood the test of time.

BEAUTY BENEFIT #1 – SEE FRECKLES FADENatural-beauty followers think that the eggplant can work wonders on freckles. The eggplant will not make freckles go away, but the observation has been made that, by applying eggplant to your skin, you will see your freckles fade.

You should look for results to show up in about 10 days, if you do the following:

Wash your eggplant and then cut it up into pieces. Rub the pieces directly, and gently, in circular movements, on the face for 10 to 15 minutes.

BEAUTY BENEFIT #2 – SAY GOODBYE TO WARTSApplying fresh eggplants to warts is an old home remedy that takes two ingredients: a thin piece of fresh eggplant big enough to cover the size of the wart and a bandage. Each night before you go to bed, take the piece of eggplant, cover the wart, and secure the eggplant covering with a bandage. Eventually, you may see that the wart peels off quite easily. If you apply the piece of eggplant over the wart every night, taking care to use a fresh piece of eggplant each time, expect to see results within two weeks.

Beauty Benefit #3- Regulate and Pamper SkinEggplant masks are regimens that beauty practitioners say are helpful especially to women with oily skin conditions. Make sure that you try this when you are not in too much of a hurry because, like most mask treatments, it is only effective if you leave it on your skin for about 20 minutes. Here is what you do:

Blend a large slice of eggplant (roughly, one-quarter of a small-sized

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eggplant) with its skin still on plus one cup of plain, unflavored yogurt in a blender. Spread it over your face. After 20 minutes, rinse with warm water.

Eggplant is also used to lighten age-spots, whether your skin is oily, average, or dry. Apply mashed eggplant pulp on your face and rinse with warm, not hot, water. Do this daily until you see some results.

BEAUTY BENEFIT #4 – GENTLY TREAT YOUR HAIREnzymes in the eggplant may help to stimulate hair follicles to more vibrant health. Eggplant may also help improve hair that has greasy buildup. Apply a chunk of fresh eggplant to your scalp and rub gently.

EGGPLANT WATER CAN HELP WEIGHT LOSSIf you are bothered by a recent gain of some unwanted pounds, did you know that eggplant water can help weight loss? Shedding a few pounds is easier than you think. It’s a goal that can be met by shedding excess fluid retention, which also relieves that uncomfortable feeling of tummy bloat. Vegetables in general are known as nature’s “diuretics.” You may recognize that term because you have seen it used to describe “water pills, ” sold in drugstores, which are designed to flush out the body’s excess fluids. Drinking vegetable water can accomplish the same goal, naturally.

Natural foods are beneficial in removing retained fluid. For years, those wanting to just flush out toxins from their bodies for general well-being have tried drinking the excess fluid from greens, beets, carrots or cabbage. Drinking eggplant water is also attracting attention, since it not only works as a diuretic, but is so low-cal and nutritious.

BOIL AND SAVEEggplant is a popular vegetable with cooks worldwide (known in France and elsewhere as the aubergine). Chinese, French, Italian, Greek and Turkish are just a few of the cuisines that make generous use of this beautiful, tasty vegetable that is easily prepared when roasted, broiled or baked.

What exactly is eggplant water? The water is simply the byproduct of boiling the eggplant. Think of the process as playing opposites. Most of the time you boil your veggies and throw the water away. This time, you are removing the veggie and saving the water.

Here is what to do: wash the eggplant, cut it into small pieces, and boil for about five minutes. When that’s done, let it all cool off. Then, strain all the water out and keep the water. (Rather

than discarding the eggplant, though, remember that it’s rich

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in fiber, folate, niacin and low in calories (only 33 calories for a full cup of diced eggplant).

Place the water in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

RECOMMENDATIONSHow many cups should you drink? An 8-ounce glass of eggplant water daily is often recommended; some eggplant-water enthusiasts claim they thrive on seven to eight glasses a day. The best course of action may be for you to do with what your body feels comfortable. Try a glass a day for starters and adjust upwards as you see fit.

Just remember: by drinking eggplant water as a diet aid, you are not losing fat, even if the scale shows that you are a few pounds lighter. You have just lost fluid, not the fat, and the loss is only temporary. Finally, it is always best to ask your doctor if you have any concerns or questions before beginning any new regimen to lose weight.

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NATURAL REMEDIES USING BAKING SODA

Baking soda can help soothe an upset stomach, relieve itching and freshen bad breath. Learn other medicinal uses of baking soda and know how to use it to treat these health problems.

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is an all-natural product with multiple purposes. It can be used to absorb strong odors in

refrigerators, freezers, closets, garbage cans, diaper pails and litter boxes. You can use it to scrub stubborn oil and grease stains from your hands and garage floor. It can be used to wipe marks off the wall and clean pots, kitchen appliances and BBQ grills. It is also effective in rinsing impurities from fruits and vegetables and putting out grease and electrical fires.

These are just some of the many benefits of baking soda for the home but did you know it also makes a great addition to your medicine cabinet? Below we will discuss different ways to how you can use it medicinally for internal and external problems.

MEDICINAL USES

HEARTBURN & UPSET STOMACHAdd 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to 4 ounces of water, stir thoroughly until the powder is completely dissolved and drink the entire amount. Take every two hours as needed or as directed by your doctor.

Note: Baking soda is high in sodium (1/2 teaspoon contains 616 milligrams) so you should avoid this remedy if you are on a low-sodium diet. Do not give to children under age 5. If taking prescription medications, consult with your health care provider before taking. Do not exceed seven 1/2 teaspoons in 24 hours. Individuals over 60 years should not exceed three 1/2 teaspoons in 24 hours. Do not use maximum doses for more than 2 weeks

BAD BREATHTo freshen bad breath, add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to 1 cup of warm water, mix well, swish a gulp of the mixture in your mouth, spit it out and repeat until you finish the whole cup. This will neutralize the odor and not just cover up the smell.

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YELLOW TEETHMix equal parts of baking soda and sea salt then add lemon juice to form a paste. Brush your teeth using gentle downward strokes, avoiding the gums. Do this once a day.

INSECT STINGSAfter removing the stinger, mix a little water with baking soda to form a paste and apply over the affected area. This will help relieve pain and itching as well as decrease redness and swelling.

ITCHINGThe following remedies can help relieve itching from a number of problems, including dry skin, sunburn, hives, poison ivy, chickenpox, impetigo, psoriasis, shingles and rectal itching:

• Add 1 cup of baking soda to lukewarm bath water, stir and soak for 20 minutes.• Dissolve 1/3 cup of baking soda in 1 gallon of water, soak a washcloth in it, wring it out and apply over the affected area.• Form a paste by adding a little water and apply.

CORNS AND CALLUSESAdd 1 tablespoon of baking soda to a basin of lukewarm water and soak your foot for 15 minutes. Afterwards, file the corn or callus with a pumice stone.

ATHLETE'S FOOT AND FOOT ODORBesides soaking your foot in a basin (see corns and calluses), you can also sprinkle baking soda in your socks and shoes. This will help eliminate foot odor and, if you have athlete's foot, prevent the fungus from spreading.

CONCLUSIONThe medicinal uses of baking soda are plenty and most people can benefit from it by keeping a fresh box in their medicine cabinet. If it is not needed for a health problem, you can always find a need for it around the house. This wonderful product has been around for more than 150 years. It is safe when used correctly, environmentally friendly and economical.

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VITAMIN D

Depression and fatigue - according to the scientists, relate the lack of vitamin D experiencing depression for allegedly lacking the body of 25 (OH) level in the body that causes depression.

Notice said that during the winter or winter abroad are missing so much sun exposure is experiencing seasonal affective disorder or depression.

Obesity - is also linked vitamin D deficiency with super human obesity, for allegedly lacking vitamin D is also difficult body to

produce a hormone called leptin which is refreshing to regulate body fat.

Because of missing also noted that vitamin D is more appetizer for all individual to eat even if you do not have to eat the body.

LOW VITAMIN D SYMPTOMSIf wanting the body to vitamin D, some of the symptoms of sore bones and muscles, having a fracture or strain, having dental problems such as an increase of cavities and other dental issues, headaches, asthma trigger the in children, hypertension, diabetes and even cancer.

If wanting to alleged exposure to the sun and less than foods rich in vitamin D such as not eating fish, meat and dairy products is certainly alleged that at least the Vitamin D and experience of such symptoms.

15 MINUTESAdvice of experts, practice day stay even 15 minutes every day because it said enough to qualify for the body must absorb vitamin D, along with a balanced diet and exercise is definitely said to have healthy body .Some foods rich in vitamin D are liver, fish especially salmon and tuna, oyster, sardine, soymilk, broccoli, chicken, orange juice, the cereals and oats.

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APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (ACV) HOME REMEDIES

Many of the home remedies for common ailments listed below, call for a tonic of apple cider vinegar (ACV) made by mixing 2 or 3 teaspoons of ACV in an 8 ounce glass of water and drinking this before or during each meal.

By taking this nutritious tonic you will, at the very least, be helping to reduce the nutrient deficiencies that result from a typical western diet containing

many processed, refined foods. 

Natural healing Apple cider vinegar kills germs and nourishes the body at the same time, so have a look at some of the many different ways people have been benefiting from the external and internal application of this folk medicine.

Note: If you take ACV between meals or before going to bed, always rinse your mouth to avoid any prolonged vinegar contact with the enamel on your teeth.Any acid food or drink however, such as citrus fruit, soda pop, and apple cider vinegar can erode tooth enamel if it is allowed to stay in contact with the teeth for long periods of time.

ACNE BLEMISHESApply a solution of apple cider vinegar and water (2 tablespoons to 1 eight ounce glass of water) with a cotton ball several times a day. This will help reduce infection and dry out inflammation.

Another natural healing home remedy calls for the daily application of apple cider vinegar which has been infused with horseradish

Prepare the solution by adding two cups of ACV to one pound of grated horseradish. Let it sit for two weeks, then strain.

AGE SPOTS

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Apply daily, to these darkened areas of the skin, a solution containing 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of onion juice. According to this home remedy, the spots should begin to fade within 2 weeks.

ARTHRITIS HELPMessage the sore joints with a liniment made up of 2 egg whites, ½ cup (125 ml) apple cider vinegar, and ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil. Also, simply taking the apple cider vinegar tonic (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) before each meal has been an effective natural healing home remedy for many people.

ASTHMASome people have found relief from mild asthma by taking the apple cider vinegar tonic along with applying a vinegar-soaked compress to the inside of the wrists.

ATHLETE'S FOOTAthlete's foot is a fungal infection which is quite difficult to get rid of. One of the best home remedies involves soaking the feet twice a day in a 50/50 mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. Or, you can apply pure apple cider vinegar to the affected areas several times a day and before bedtime.

BLEEDING NOSESoak a cotton ball in pure apple cider vinegar, have the person lay his head back and then place it in the bleeding nostril. This home remedy will help stop the bleeding quicker.

BLOOD PRESSURETake 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of honey in a glass of water twice a day to help lower blood pressure. The high potassium values in both natural healing substances helps to balance out sodium levels in the body, which aids in maintaining blood pressure within healthy limits. Apple cider vinegar and honey also contain magnesium, a mineral that works to relax blood vessel walls and thus lower high blood pressure. To maximize the benefit of this and other home remedies, take the holistic approach, and couple this with dietary modifications such as a reduced fat and salt intake, increased fiber intake, moderate coffee and alcohol, no smoking, and daily exercise.

BODY ODORUse apple cider vinegar as a natural body deodorant and eliminate the bacteria causing offensive body odor. For example, check out these two related home remedies:Underarms can be kept free of odor causing bacteria by wiping them once a day with undiluted apple cider vinegar whereas foot odor can be greatly minimized by soaking the feet two or three times weekly in a pan of warm water mixed with 1/3 cup (75 ml) of ACV.

BONE HEALTH

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Due to its mineral content, Apple cider vinegar helps to sustain bone mass and fight against osteoporosis. The important minerals involved include manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and silicon.

Take the general apple cider vinegar tonic (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) to boost the body's supply of these minerals.

BRUISESDissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in ½ cup (125 ml) of warm apple cider vinegar and apply it to the bruise as a compress.

BURNSApply pure apple cider vinegar to the burn, whether it's from the sun or a hot surface, to reduce the pain, to disinfect, and to supply nutrient required for healing.

CANCER PREVENTIONApples and apple cider vinegar contain numerous substances that protect against many types of cancer. They contain beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant, and phytochemicals such as flavonoids and polyphenols that are also protective against cancer formation.

Plus they both contain pectin, a soluble fiber , which binds certain cancer causing compounds in the colon and speeds up their elimination from the body.So eat an apple a day and take the general apple cider vinegar tonic home remedy (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) to maximize these benefits.

CHOLESTEROL REDUCTIONIt is thought that the water soluble fiber pectin, found in apple cider vinegar, absorbs fats and cholesterol and eliminates them from the body. And at the same time, the amino acids present in apple cider vinegar neutralize some of the harmful oxidized LDL cholesterol.

Recently, researchers from Mizkan, a japanese food manufacturer, reported that regular vinegar intake of 3 teaspoons (15 ml) or more per day can significantly lower the level of cholesterol in a persons blood. They found that acetic acid, the major ingredient in vinegar, is responsible for this effect.

The results were presented at the 59th Annual Meeting for the JapaneseSociety of Nutrition and Food Science in May 2005.

Maximize this benefit by taking the apple cider vinegar tonic home remedy (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) and increasing the amount of fiber rich food in your diet (more fruits and vegetables) while reducing the amount of saturated and unsaturated fat.

COLDSAt the first sign of a cold, take 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in half a

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cup of water several times a day. The body becomes more alkaline during a cold and the vinegar will help to rebalance the body's acid level. If you have a chest cold, a long-standing home remedy calls for soaking a piece of brown paper in vinegar then sprinkling one side of it with black pepper. Place the peppered side of the paper on the chest, cover with a towel, and relax for 20 minutes.

CONSTIPATIONA low fiber diet and the reduction in digestive acids and enzymes as we age, can lead to constipation. More fruits and vegetables and a daily tonic of apple cider vinegar (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) is a natural healing home remedy to combat constipation.

CORN AND CALLUS TREATMENTSoak your feet for half an hour in a warm bath containing half a cup of apple cider vinegar. Use a clean pumice stone to rub the affected areas then apply pure apple cider vinegar and cover with a bandage. Reapply vinegar and bandage the following morning.

COUGHSA home remedy to sooth a night time cough is to sprinkle apple cider vinegar on a cloth placed on a pillow.

CRAMPSMuscle cramps can be caused by a calcium and magnesium imbalance in the body and by a lack of vitamin E. To help prevent the recurrence of cramps, take a regular tonic of apple cider vinegar (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) along with 1 teaspoon of honey.

DANDRUFFApply pure apple cider vinegar to the scalp and work it into the roots of the hair; allow the vinegar to stand for a half hour or a full hour before washing your hair. This will help to destroy the bacteria and fungus that cause dandruff and itchy scalp.

DIABETESA daily tonic of apple cider vinegar (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) supplies dietary fiber and other ingredients, which are beneficial in controlling blood glucose levels. As well, the acids and enzymes promote better digestion and nutrient absorption, which is impaired in many diabetes sufferers.This home remedy has been the subject of new research that shows that apple cider vinegar can help lower blood sugar levels. 

DIAPER RASHUse a 50/50 mixture of apple cider vinegar and water to eliminate the bacteria and fungus that cause diaper rash.

DIARRHEAPectin, the water soluble fiber in apple cider vinegar, will help to absorb water in the intestines and provide more bulk for the stool. Also, intestinal

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bacteria transforms pectin into a protective coating which sooths the irritated lining. The well known over the counter diarrhea preparation, Kaopectate contains pectin. So take the natural healing apple cider vinegar tonic (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) to help eliminate diarrhea.

DIGESTIONAs we age, it is common for people to produce less stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) which can lead to digestive problems. Taking the apple cider vinegar tonic home remedy (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) before a meal will enhance the action of your stomach's acid and digestive enzymes.

EAR INFECTIONSUse an ear syringe (found at drug stores) to squirt a vinegar solution into the ear and let it sit for a minute or so, then turn your head and let the liquid drain out.

The vinegar solution can be a 50/50 mixture of ACV and pure water, a 50/50 mixture of ACV and rubbing alcohol or a solution consisting of one-third vinegar, one-third pure water, and one-third rubbing alcohol.

If the ear problem persists, see a health professional.

ECZEMATo help relieve the itching and dryness of eczema, apply a 50/50 mixture of apple cider vinegar and water to the affected areas.

FATIGUEIt is thought that the potassium and enzymes obtained through regular use of a vinegar tonic can help beat fatigue. Some experts believe that the addition of 1 or 2 teaspoons of raw honey to the ACV tonic will also help.

FLATULENCEMany people avoid eating certain foods such as beans due to the gas they produce in the body. This gas is a result of incomplete digestion and can be minimized by soaking the beans in apple cider vinegar prior to cooking them.

FOOT CARETry this home remedy for sore and tired feet which sometimes ache at the end of a long day: Add a cup of apple cider vinegar to a basin of warm water and allow your feet to soak for 15 minutes.

GOUTAlthough not yet backed up by scientific testing, many people have found that gout home remedies using apple cider vinegar are very effective.The procedure involves either ingesting an apple cider vinegar tonic or applying ACV to the affected area.

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HEADACHESResearch has shown that people have slightly more alkaline urine when they have a headache. An apple cider vinegar tonic will help restore your body's acid/alkaline balance. 

According to one home remedy, inhaling the vapors from a small bottle of apple cider vinegar can also help or if you have a vaporizer, add about 2 tablespoons cider vinegar to the water and inhale the vapors for five minutes.

HEARTBURN (ACID REFLUX)Heartburn or acid reflux is a condition in which some of the acid content of the stomach periodically backs up into the esophagus.

Even though testimonials abound throughout the net on the effectiveness of using apple cider vinegar to relieve heartburn, no scientific studies have been done to substantiate this.

A recent survey, however, conducted at the Earth Clinic web site found that vinegar was the best of all the home remedies suggested to relieve heartburn or acid reflux.

So to relieve occasional heartburn, try drinking the general apple cider vinegar tonic (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) before each meal.

HEMORRHOIDSFor mild cases:Apply the natural healing abilities of pure apple cider vinegar directly to hemorrhoids to help reduce stinging and promote shrinking. Use a cotton ball to apply the vinegar every few hours until symptoms are relieved.

HICCUPSTo stop hiccups, try sipping a glass of warm water in which one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar has been mixed in. This is a lot simpler than many other home remedies for hiccups.

INSECT BITES AND STINGSBee and wasp stings, as well as itchy mosquito bites can be soothed by applying undiluted apple cider vinegar to the affected area.

INSOMNIADr Jarvis in his book "Folk Medicine" recommends the use of honey and apple cider vinegar for those who have a hard time falling asleep at night. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in one cup of honey and take two teaspoons of this mixture just before going to bed. Repeat after an hour if required. (You can sleep on that one!)

Some people find that simply taking one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in 8 ounces of water just before bedtime, helps them to get to sleep quicker and sleep much longer.

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JELLYFISH STINGS (Chironex Fleckeri and Chiropsalmus Quadrigatus)The sting of the large box jellyfish, found along the northern tropical coastline of Australia, can be deadly. The venom injected by these animals is capable of killing humans within minutes.

When a sting occurs, pieces of tentacle may be left in the victims skin which can continue to release venom. However, by dousing the sting area with regular vinegar (5% acetic acid content), the further release of poison will be rapidly and completely stopped.

That's why Australian lifeguards always keep vinegar on hand and it's their initial first aid treatment of choice.

Reference:Australian Resuscitation Council Guideline 8.9.6 

LEG CRAMPSTake the apple cider vinegar tonic regularly (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) to help the body's absorption of calcium and magnesium and thus protect against painful leg cramps.

MENSTRUAL PROBLEMS

A glass of apple cider tonic (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water) in the morning has been reported to help reduce the flow of a heavy period.

MORNING SICKNESS

Many women experience nausea and vomiting, often in the morning, during the first three months of pregnancy. A home remedy reported to help keep morning sickness at bay involves simply drinking, as soon as you get up, a glass of water containing a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.

MUSCLE SORENESS

Apply a cloth dampened with apple cider vinegar and a dash of cayenne pepper directly to the sore muscle for 5 minutes and reapply as needed.

For sore muscles all-over, try soaking in a warm water bath into which you have added 2 to 3 cups of apple cider vinegar.

NAIL FUNGUSNail and toenail fungus infections are very difficult to cure even with modern drugs which many people prefer not to use due to reported side effects and poor effectiveness.

Fortunately there are many vinegar home remedies used to cure this condition some which use only vinegar and others involve combinations of vinegar with hydrogen peroxide, tea tree oil, olive oil, etc.

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In all cases the treatment lasts for months and is usually applied to the affected area twice a day.

NIGHT SWEATS & HOT FLASHES

Apple cider vinegar has helped reduce hot flashes and night sweats for some menopausal women who for various reasons can't take hormones. Use the apple cider vinegar tonic regularly (2 or 3 teaspoons to 8 ounces of water).

POISON IVY & POISON OAKThe health and fitness expert Patricia Bragg recommends spraying a solution of equal parts apple cider vinegar and distilled water on to the affected areas to stop the pain, itching and ease the swelling. Cooling the spray in the refrigerator will provide even more relief. 

SINUSITISTo help relieve the pain of sinusitis, both Patrick Quillin PhD, in his book Amazing Honey Garlic and Vinegar, and Cynthia Holzapfel, in her book Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss and Good Health, suggest drinking a glass of water with 1 or 2 teaspoons of ACV added, every hour for 6 to 8 hours.For sinus headache, Marie Nadine Antol, in her book The Incredible Secrets of Vinegar, recommends adding an eight of a cup of ACV to a cool-air vaporizer and inhaling the infused-air directly for 5 minutes. 

After that lie down for 20 minutes and wait for your respiratory passages to clear.

For excess mucus in the nose, throat, or sinus cavities (post nasal drip), try a solution of warm water and 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Place a small amount in the palm of your hand, block one nostril, then place the other nostril into the vinegar solution and sniff hard. You'll experience the disinfecting and mucus-cutting benefits of apple cider vinegar deep into your sinus cavities. Let the solution run down the back of your throat then spit it out. After that, repeat with the other nostril.

SORE THROATOne of many natural healing home remedies for a sore throat involves gargling with a mixture of 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to half a cup of water, using 3 mouthfuls of mixture each hour. 

As P. Bragg warns in her book "Apple Cider Vinegar-Miracle Health System", don't swallow the gargled mixture, because ACV acts like a sponge drawing out throat and mouth germs and toxins

SUN BURNSIf the sunburn is localized, apply full strength apple cider vinegar on the affected skin to obtain relief. Do this by soaking a thin towel in apple cider vinegar and placing it over the burn. Leave it on to help prevent peeling and itching.If the sunburn covers a large part of the body then try this home remedy

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recommended by Patricia Bragg in her book called Apple Cider Vinegar-Miracle

HEALTH SYSTEM:

Take a cool bath in which one cup of ACV has been added. After soaking in the bath, gently dry the body and pat ACV directly onto the needed areas. Wait 5 minutes, then pat on aloe vera gel.

ULCERSA preliminary study in Japan showed that taking a weak vinegar solution can give over 95% protection from alcohol-induced ulcers.

URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

Drink a daily tonic of apple cider vinegar to help you keep the right pH balance in the urinary tract since the proper acidity creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria and yeasts that cause these infections. 

Cranberry juice is also a well known home remedy for urinary tract infections. It prevents bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract.For a tasty drink, try adding 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to an eight ounce glass of cranberry juice and benefit from both home remedies at the same time.

VARICOSE VEINS

Dr Jarvis notes that the following folk remedy is used not only in Vermont but also in Scotland, England and Germany.

Apply undiluted apple cider vinegar to the varicose veins at night and in the morning, and take two teaspoons of ACV in a glass of water twice a day. Shrinking of the veins will be noticed after one month.

WARTSPatricia Bragg cautions: do not rub warts since this could spread them. Apply an ACV soaked gauze bandage to the wart overnight and in the morning replace it with a castor oil soaked gauze bandage. At night alternate the ACV with crushed fresh garlic and vitamin E (prick open capsule).

WEIGHT LOSS

The use of apple cider vinegar as a home remedy for weight loss is centuries old. Dr Jarvis maintained that an overweight person could lose weight gradually by taking 2 teaspoons of ACV in a glass of water at each meal. No change in the daily food intake is required except to avoid high fat containing foods.

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YEAST INFECTIONAccording to one home remedy, relief can be obtained by the use of a vinegar douche, consisting of 2 tablespoons of ACV mixed in one quart of warm water, applied twice a day until the burning and itching symptoms of the infection have stopped.

Frequent douching however is no longer recommended, since recent studies have shown that this can cause more harm than good. A vinegar bath, prepared by adding one cup of ACV to the bath water, can help provide external relief.

If you tend to get frequent yeast infections, try to find the cause (such as antibiotic use or a diet too high in refined sugars) and reduce or eliminate it.Many have found that a daily intake of yogurt helps to get rid of this problem.

This is by no means a complete list of natural healing home remedies that use apple cider vinegar. Many more can be found in an excellent book titled: Dr Earl Mindell's Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar.

CucumberNUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

We used to think that cucumber is too "cooling" for rheumatism. On the contrary, cucumber really helps counter inflammation in jointsby removing the uric acid crystallization.

The cucumber is a type of melon and comes from the same family as watermelon, zucchini and other squash. It is cylindrical in shape with lengths of approximately 6 to 9 inches. Its skin is very similar to watermelon, ranges from green to white. Inside, the flesh is pale green and very juicy. 

The cucumber is a tropical plant but is also easily available in most part of the world. However, in some cultures, cucumber is more often used to make pickles, of which most of its nutrients would have been lost.

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Nutritional BenefitsCucumber has an impressive amount of water (about 96%) that is naturally distilled, which makes it superior to ordinary water. Its skin contains a high percentage of vitamin A, so should not be peeled off.

The cucumber contains alkaline-forming minerals and is an excellent source of vitamin C and A (anti-oxidants), folate, manganese, molybdenum, potassium, silica, sulfur, and lesser amounts of vitamin B complex, sodium, calcium, phosphorus and chlorine.

You have seen beauty practitioners use slices of cucumber on their eyes. It is found that the caffeic acid in this vegetable helps to prevent water retention and when applied topically, helps reduce puffy and swollen eyes.

Health BenefitsMany people are ignorant of the immense health benefits of cucumber and would avoid eating cucumber where possible. Fresh cucumber may taste "bland" to some but its thirst-quenching and cooling properties are refreshing. It acts as an anti-oxidant when taken together with fried and barbequed foods. 

I like to mix cucumber juice with carrot or orange juices. Here's a list of health benefits of cool cucumber:

ACIDITY: The alkalinity of the minerals in cucumber juice effectively helps in regulating the body's blood pH, neutralizing acidity. The juice is also soothing for the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers.

BLOOD PRESSURE: 

Like celery, this colorless drink can help regulate blood pressure because of its minerals and traces of sodium.

CONNECTIVE TISSUES, BUILDING: 

The excellent source of silica contributes to the proper construction of connective tissues in our body as in the bones, muscles, cartilage, ligaments and tendons.

COOLING: During dry and hot weather, drink a glass of cucumber + celery juice. It wonderfully helps to normalize body temperature.

DIURETIC: Cucumber juice is diuretic, encouraging waste removal through urination. This also helps in the dissolution of kidney stones.

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FEVER: The temperature regulating properties in cucumber juice makes it a suitable drink when you have a fever. 

INFLAMMATION: The Chinese think that cucumbers are too "cooling" and not suitable for people with rheumatism. But we know now that cucumber can help counter uric acids that are causing inflammation in joints. When cucumber is taken it does its cleaning work at the joints, thus stirring up pain as it eliminates the uric acid. This means it also help other inflamed conditions like arthritis, asthma, and gout.

HAIR GROWTH: The silicon and sulfur content in cucumber juice makes it especially helpful in promoting hair growth. Drink it mixed with carrot, lettuce or spinach juice.

PUFFY EYES: 

Some people wake up in the morning with puffy eyes, probably due to too much water retention in the body (or having cried to sleep). To reduce the puffiness, lie down and put two slices of cucumber on the eyes for a good ten minutes.

SKIN CONDITIONS: 

The high amount of vitamin C and anti-oxidants in cucumber makes it an important ingredient in many beauty creams for treating eczema, psoriasis, acne, etc.

SUNBURN: When there is a sunburn, make cucumber juice and rub it on the affected area for a cooling and healing effect.

WATER RETENTION: 

It supplies the necessary electrolytes and restores hydration of the body cells, thus reducing water retention.

CONSUMPTION TIPS

Choose cucumbers that are dark green in color and firm to the touch. Avoid those that are yellowish or are wrinkled at either ends. Thinner cucumbers have fewer seeds than those that are thicker.

Store cucumbers in the fridge to retain its freshness. Cut cucumbers should be kept wrapped up or in an air-tight container and kept in the

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fridge. Consume within a day or two.

CAUTIONWhere possible, buy organic as cucumbers may be waxed or have pesticides. If non-organic, wash cucumber under cold running water and scrub gently with a vegetable brush. It might help also to soak it for 5-10 minutes with 1-2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.

Parsley

Health Benefits Though traditionally overlooked as just a garnish, parsley is a giant amongst other herbs in terms of health benefits, and in such small amounts too. Here are six reasons why a sprinkle of parsley can not only make your meals tastier, but also your body healthier.

Parsley is also rich in vitamins A and C. Vitamin C is an anti-oxidant as well as an anti-inflammatory substance. It is necessary for a healthy immune system and can help prevent colds and ear infections. Vitamin A is well-known for its effects on vision, plus can mitigate risks of

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atherosclerosis and diabetes. Parsley is also a source of folic acid, another vitamin that helps reduce cancer risk and atherosclerosis.

ANTI-CANCER

Studies show that myristicin, an organic compound found in the essential oil of parsley, not only inhibits tumor formation (especially in the lungs), but also activates the enzyme glutathione-S-transferase, which helps the molecule glutathione attach to, and fight against, oxidized molecules. Myristicin can also neutralize carcinogens like benzopyrene in cigarette smoke that can pass through the body, consequently fighting against colon and prostate cancer.

ANTIOXIDANTS

Parsley is rich with an antioxidant arsenal that includes luteolin, a flavonoid that searches out and eradicates free radicals in the body that cause oxidative stress in cells. Luteolin also promotes carbohydrate metabolism and serves the body as an anti-inflammatory agent. Furthermore, two tablespoons of parsley contain 16% of the RDA of vitamin C and over 12% of the RDA of vitamin A - two powerful antioxidants.

ANTI-INflAMMATORY

Along with luteolin, the vitamin C found in parsley serves as an effective anti-inflammatory agent within the body. When consumed regularly, they combat the onset of inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis (the degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone) and rheumatoid arthritis (a disease causing inflammation in the joints).

HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEMThe vitamin C and vitamin A found in parsley serve to strengthen the body's immune system, though in different ways. Vitamin C is necessary for collagen, the main structural protein found in connective tissue. This essential nutrient will not only accelerate the body's ability to repair wounds, but also maintain healthy bones and teeth. 

Vitamin A, on the other hand, fortifies the entry points into the human body, such as mucous membranes, the lining of the eyes, and respiratory, urinary and intestinal tracts. Moreover, lymphocytes, or white blood cells, rely on vitamin A to fight infection in the body.

A Healthy Heart Homocysteine, an amino acid that occurs in the body, threatens the body's blood vessels when its levels become too high. Luckily, the folate (or vitamin B9) found in parsley helps convert homocysteine into harmless molecules. A regular garnish of parsley can help ward off cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis.

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VITAMIN KTwo tablespoons of parsley have a whopping 153% of the RDA of vitamin K, which is necessary for the synthesis of osteocalcin, a protein that strengthens the composition of our bones. Vitamin K also prevents calcium build-up in our tissue that can lead to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and stroke.

 Vitamin K, which gives blood the ability to clot is also found in parsley. Small amounts of iron are also in the make-up of parsley.

Parsley (especially an oil extracted from its seed, called Apiol) has been used in medicines that treat a variety of illnesses including, ague, malaria, and jaundice. A poultice made from the leaves was for a time used in France to reduce the effects of poisonous insect bites.

Oxalic acid is found in parsley. Oxalic acid prevents calcium absorption and may also contribute to gallstones and kidney stones. For the average person that eats a balanced diet, the small amounts of oxalic acid will not be a health factor. However, those with low calcium health concerns will not want to eat excessive amounts of parsley.

Finally, the vitamin K found in parsley is essential for synthesizing sphingolipid, the fat needed to maintain the myelin sheath around our nerves, and therefore our nervous system as a whole.

PARSLEY JUICE FOR WEIGHT LOSSParsley is one of the top weight loss spices available. First let’s take a look at parsley health benefits and, in particular, parsley juice health benefits as we think this is the best way to get more parsley into your diet. However, you can also use fresh parsley to garnish loads of dishes, including sandwiches or salads. Parsley juice can be drunk fresh, right after squeezing, or warm, combined with tea, under the form of an infusion.

Parsley has many, many health benefits, including reducing effects of diarrhoea, improve digestion, reduces fatigue, helps with the menstrual cycle, and even provides some properties that reduce the chance of cancers, especially in the lungs. But, as the herb is a diuretic, it also has important weight loss benefits. A diuretic increases the rate of urination, which means that more matter is expelled from the body, including more calories and thus reducing weight loss. The diuretic aspect of parsley juice also means that it detoxifies the body faster than other drinks, and acts as an appetite suppressant making you feel fuller than you are.

Drinking parsley juice will also aid your digestive system, resulting in a more efficient processing system and faster metabolism. You will get more nutrients from the food you are eating, and therefore won’t have to eat as much food, resulting in weight loss. One more great health benefit provided by parsley which is especially welcomed by overweight people is that, this vegetable dissolves cholesterol within the veins. As you know a high bad cholesterol level is the negative side-effect of poor eating habits!

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The parsley weight loss tip that we recommend to you is having a cup of warm parsley juice 15 minutes before you eat a main meal. You should be warned however that the effects of concentrated parsley juice are very strong, and you should therefore never have any more than one ounce of parsley in eight ounces of tea. Drinking more than the recommended amount can have a toxic result on your body.

There are loads of recipes available for parsley juice, but the most popular seem to include diluting the flavour of the parsley down with lemon or carrot. You can even include parsley in your regular main meal dishes, especially where fish is involved as you can have parsley sauce on it. You must be careful not to consume too much parsley however as it can result in some quite serious side-effects; it is a powerful herb! You should particularly not use it during pregnancy.

NUTRITION FACTS OF PARSLEY:Parsley is a nutrient rich herb which contains high levels of folate, chlorophyll, calcium, beta carotene, vitamin B12, more vitamin C than citrus fruits, and also other known nutrients. Parsley roots are good source of calcium, B-complex vitamins and iron which helps to promote the glands and normalize the uptake of calcium. Parsley has pungent or slightly bitter taste with salty flavor. It is moistening, nourishing, restoring, and ‘warming’ food. It stimulates and increases the energy of organs and thus enhances the ability to digest and utilize nutrients.

FULL OF VITAMINS:Parsley, a tiny green herb contains so many vitamins and minerals. It is rich source of vitamin a, several b vitamins and vitamin k. Also, it is a good source of vitamin C that most citrus fruits. It improves the immunity of the body which helps to prevent many infections, colds and other diseases. Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant property. So, parsley is a very useful herb to prevent and ease conditions for example rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers.

•Folic Acid: It is one of the most important B vitamins which is essential for proper cell division and is therefore vitally essential for cancer-prevention in two areas of the body that contain rapidly dividing cells i.e. the colon, and in women, the cervix.•Vitamin B12: Parsley contains traces of B12 producing compounds which are required for the formation of red blood cells and normal cell growth, important for fertility, pregnancy, immunity and the prevention of degenerative illness.•Vitamin K: It can drastically cut risk of hip fracture and is essential for bones to get the minerals they need to form properly.•Vitamin C: Parsley contains three times more vitamin C than oranges which help to maintain blood cell membranes and act as an antioxidant helper.

MINERALS:

Parsley is rich in minerals like iron, calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, manganese, sulphur and iodine.

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•Fluorine: An important nutritional component, fluorine is abundantly found in parsley. It protects the body from infectious invasion, germs and viruses.•Iron: A half-cup of fresh parsley or one tablespoon dried contains about 10 percent of your iron daily requirements.

Other important nutrients:•Chlorophyll: Parsley is rich in chlorophyll which inhibits the spread of bacteria, fungi and other organisms. It has slight anti-bacterial and anti-fungal property and so helps to boost immune response and to relieve mucus congestion, sinusitis and other ‘damp’ conditions. It also helps the lungs to release residues from environmental pollution.•Beta carotene: In the body, it is converted to vitamin A which helps to build strong immune system. It also benefits the liver and protects the lungs and colon.•Essential Fatty Acids: An important essential fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid is also obtained from parsley.

EASY PARSLEY JUICE RECIPEIngredients: a handful of parsley, some carrots, cucumbers, some celery and a lemon.

Method: Peel the lemon and add all ingredients in a mixer. Blend and serve one glass of the beverage together with a few cups of ice.

How to Make Parsley Juice?

•It is very easy to prepare parsley juice and only thing you require is a juicer. Parsley has a strong taste so it is very important to add other veggies with it. Use milder vegetables with it.

•Limit the consumption of parsley juice to about one cup a day as it is toxic in nature. Use only 1 ounce to a glass of another liquid if you want to take it straight.

•The easiest and most nutritious parsley juice recipe includes one handful of parsley, a couple stalks of celery, a few cukes, carrots, and a peeled lemon. Combine it all together in the mixer and serve over ice.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PARSLEY JUICE:Diuretic & Laxative:Parsley is beneficial to the kidneys as it has diuretic property. Additionally, its laxative efficacy helps the body to eliminate toxins from the body. People who are on diuretic medication should be cautious while taking parsley juice to the diet as it has additional diuretic effect.

Breathe Freshener:Parsley acts as natural breath freshener so drinking its juice after consuming strong-smelling foods, for example garlic or onions, will clear

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the heavy odor from the breath. For freshening of your breath, try nibbling it at the end of the meal.

Anemia Treatment:As parsley is a good source of iron, it is also used in treatment of anemia. Anemic people who have difficulty in taking iron supplements may want to consider drinking parsley juice in its place. For specific dosages, consult your health care provider.

Immune Booster:Parsley acts an extraordinary immunity enhancing food as it is high in vitamin C, beta carotene, B12, chlorophyll and essential fatty acid. It is one of the most important herbs to supply vitamins to the body. Its nutrients help to build up of strong immune system. You can also add a handful of fresh parsley to the vegetables for juicing purpose as it will raise the benefit to the immune system.

Digestion:

Parsley has excellent digestive property. It enhances the digestion of proteins and fats so promotes intestinal absorption, liver assimilation and storage. The digestive activity of parsley is due to its high enzyme content.

Hormonal support:Parsley enhances estrogen and nourishes and restores the blood of the uterus in women. Delayed menstruation, PMS, and the menopause like conditions can often improve with parsley.

Insect Bite Treatment:Massage the parsley or parsley juice directly onto the insect bites for relief. It helps to decrease the swelling and itch of insect bites.Other health benefits of parsley:

•It maintains elasticity of blood vessels, and helps to repair bruises.•Apply scrubbed parsley onto their scalps to cure baldness.•It acts as blood purifier.•It dissolves cholesterol within the veins.•Diarrhea is greatly helped by drinking parsley juice.•Parsley is a good source of iron and so it helps to repair and provides components for better blood cells.•It relieves edema and acts as blood vessel strengthener.•Treats deafness and ear infections•It helps to dissolve gallstones.•It inhibits tumor formation, particularly in the lungs.•It enriches the liver and nourishes the blood. Parsley helps to decrease liver congestion, clearing toxins and aiding rejuvenation.•Parsley juice contains apiol, a constituent of the female sex hormone estrogen which helps to make the cycles regular.•Parsley juice has weight loss benefits from being a diuretic.•It is effective for nearly all kidney and urinary complaints as it enhances kidney activity and can help to eliminate wastes from the blood and tissues of the kidneys.•It helps to improve edema and general water retention, fatigue and

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scanty or painful urination.•Women and cardiac patients can benefit from parsleys actions as it carries unwanted and unnecessary fluids out of the body.

TANGLAD OR LEMON GRASS (CITRONELLA GRASS)

HEALTH BENEFITSLemon grass abundantly grown in the Philippines it is widely used as spice in Philippine cooking. Lemon grass is locally known to us Filipinos as tanglad (Citronella Grass). The

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Lemon grass is the number one additive to chicken tinola a famous recipe in cooking chicken. Most of us did not know the health benefits of Lemon grass in this article we discuss some health benefits that we must know. 

Lemon grass is beneficial in many ways; continue to know more about the health benefits provided by lemon grass. Lemon grass has antibacterial and antifungal properties which help to deal with lot of health problems. It is the herb which is used in many homes to cope mainly with cough, cold and fever. However, lots of people are unaware that this wonderful herb can provide lots of health benefits.

Health Benefits of Lemon Grass:• It contains an antibacterial and antifungal properties • It helps to detoxify the liver, pancreas, kidney, bladder and the digestive tract. • Helps boost the immune system • Helps reduce uric acid, cholesterol, excess fats • It helps alleviates indigestion and gastroenteritis.• Helps improve the skin by reducing acne and pimples • It helps tone the muscle and tissues.• Helps to cope with fever • Helps battle with cough and cold • Helps battle with stress • Makes battle with high blood pressure easier • It help lowers the cholesterol level • Will helps to cleanse the body by eliminating toxic substances • Cleanses other organs of our body including kidney, pancreas, liver, bladder etc. • Helps to improve the digestive system • Helps to improve blood circulation • Helps to cope with excessive fats in body • Helps to deal with menstrual problems • Proves beneficial to cope with acne and pimples 

HOW TO USE LEMON GRASS

Lemon grass can be boiled and consumed in tea form it can also included in diet in many forms. Some people make use of lemon grass oil to add its flavour to food. Lemon grass is best when added in flavour along with ginger. 

You can also prepare an extraordinary and medicinal drink with lemon grass. Just take few fresh strands of lemon grass, two to three cloves, a small piece of cinnamon stick, and turmeric powder and boil it with milk. After this mixture is properly boiled, drain it and drink it when it cools down to get relief from cough and cold. 

This plant can be easily grown in backyard and resistant to different weather condition.

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ASPARAGUS 

HEALTH BENEFITS

Anti-Inflammatory

Asparagus not only tastes delicious, but is also a wonderful source of nutrients for a healthy body and mind. Asparagus

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contains many anti-inflammatory nutrients, such as asparagus saponins and the flavonoids quercetin, rutin, laempferol and isorhamnetin, which all help to combat arthritis, asthma, and autoimmune diseases.Here are nine reasons to steam a cup of asparagus with your chicken.

ANTIOXIDANTS 

Glutathione, found in asparagus, contains three amino acids (glumatic acid, glycine and cysteine) that combine into one molecule that serves as a powerful oxidation-reduction agent in our bodies.Along with the antioxidants vitamin C, vitamin A (beta-carotene), zinc, manganese and selenium, the glutathione in asparagus fights against free radicals that cause aging and "cellular rust."

CANCERIt is well-known that chronic inflammation and oxidation of the body's cells can lead to a variety of different cancers. With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, asparagus is a robust fighter against bladder, breast, colon, lung, prostate, ovarian and other cancers.

HEART HEALTHFolate, a B complex vitamin, is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system and is found in abundance in asparagus (one cup contains 66% of the RDA of folate). Firstly, it is involved in a biochemical event called the methylation cycle, which allows for the proper transcription of DNA, the transformation of norepinephrine to adrenalin and the transformation of serotonin to melatonin. Secondly, folate regulates the amino acid homocysteine, which in high levels can be a strong risk factor in heart disease. And finally, B vitamins such as choline, biotin, and pantothenic acid manage our blood sugar levels by effectively metabolizing sugars and starches.

BIRTH DEFECTSFolate is also essential for proper cellular division. Healthy servings of asparagus can prevent a folate-deficiency, which has been linked to birth defects such as spina bifida (a congenital defect in which the spinal cord is exposed through a gap in the backbone).

DIURETICThe amino acid asparagine, found in asparagus, is an effective diuretic and has been historically used to treat swelling, arthritis, rheumatism, and PMS-related water retention.

Diet and Digestion Inulin, a carbohydrate in asparagus, encourages the growth of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, two bacteria that boost nutrient absorption, lower the risk of allergy and colon cancer, and help prevent unfriendly bacteria from taking hold in our intestinal tract. Furthermore, one cup of asparagus contains over 11% of the RDA of dietary fiber and almost 10% of the RDA of protein. The healthy fiber and protein content of asparagus stabilizes our digestion, curbs overeating, maintains a low blood sugar and prevents constipation. And finally, one cup of asparagus also contains only 43 calories.

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VITAMIN KAsparagus is an excellent source of vitamin K (providing 114% of the RDA in one cup), which is necessary for the synthesis of osteocalcin, a protein that strengthens the composition of our bones. Furthermore, vitamin K prevents calcium build-up in our tissue that can lead to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and stroke.

VITAMIN CAs mentioned above, asparagus contains a healthy dose of the strong antioxidant vitamin C (over 30% of the RDA). Other health benefits associated with vitamin C are a lower blood pressure, healthy immune system, and resistance to age-related ocular diseases, such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

BROCCOLI

NUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

Add broccoli to your juice menu for its superb nutrition that protects from many forms of cancer.

Broccoli is known as the "king"

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of the cruciferous family (cabbage, cauliflower, etc.). It has a large stalk branching out to smaller stems with heads of florets, looking like a miniature tree close-up.

Other related vegetables are broccolini (cross between broccoli and kale) and broccoflower (cross between broccoli and cauliflower).

Different variety of broccoli tastes different, ranging from soft to fibrous and crunchy. Even the color ranges from deep sage to dark green to purplish green.

This vegetable is packed with nutrients, phytonutrients and anti-oxidants. It is also highly valued for its abundance of anti-viral, anti-ulcer and anti-cancer ativities.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

Broccoli is packed with spectacular and unique disease fighters. It is abundant in a variety of very strong anti-oxidants like quercetin, glutathione, beta carotene, indoles, vitamin C, lutein, glucarate and sulphoraphane. This synergy of anti-oxidants make broccoli a very good food for anti-cancer activities, particularly against cancers of the breast, cervical, prostate, colon and lung.

Low in calories, broccoli is especially rich vitamins A, C, K, B6 and E, calcium, folic acid, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium.

HEALTH BENEFITS

The phytonutrients and anti-oxidants in broccoli help boost our defense mechanisms and stimulates production of antibodies to fight cancer.

BONE-BUILDING: A cup of broccoli juice a day goes a long way to provide calcium for strong bones building. Far better than cow's milk that contains saturated fats and has no other healing virtues as broccoli does.

Birth defect, prevent: 

The rich anti-oxidant compounds protect sperms and prevents them from genetic damage and possible birth defects.

BREAST CANCER: 

Broccoli has an anti-estrogenic compound known as glucosinolates that are especially helpful to excrete excess estrogen that are linked to breast cancer.

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DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: 

Like all cruciferous vegetables, broccoli promotes good colon health, protecting against constipation and colon cancer.

EYE DISORDERS: 

The high anti-oxidant level in broccoli promotes overall good health and is the best defenses against eye diseases. Lutein in broccoli is especially protective for age-related macular degeneration.

IMMUNE SYSTEM: 

Just half a cup of broccoli juice a day will provide more than your daily required vitamin C that helps boost immunity and fight many diseases.

PROSTATE CANCER: Indole-3-carbinol in broccoli is a remarkable cancer-fighting compound which not only fight breast cancer, it has also been shown to be helpful in fighting prostate cancer.

SKIN: 

The high concentration of sulforaphane in broccoli helps to boost liver and skin's detoxification abilities, helping the skin to repair damages done from over-exposure to the sun's UV harm.

STOMACH DISORDERS: 

The high content of sulforaphane in broccoli may help to rid the body of the Helicobacter pylori which is responsible for most peptic ulcers. It also helps other stomach disorders like gastritis, esophagitis and acid indigestion.

TUMORS: Sulforaphane is found in extremely high concentration in broccoli sprouts, that help stimulate the body's production of detoxification enzymes which may help reduce the size of tumors. 

CONSUMPTION TIPS

When buying broccoli, choose those with deep green color, and stalks and stems that are firm. Store dry in an open plastic bag in the refrigerator up to about four days.

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A centrifugal juicer can extract only very little juice out of broccoli but a gear juicer does the job perfectly. You can mix broccoli juice with carrot and green apple juice to make it palatable. Drinking broccoli juice raw is best to obtain the most nutrition out of it. 

To eat it, lightly steam or quick stir-fry are recommended to preserve as much of its anti-oxidant compounds as possible.

CABBAGE

NUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

Each layer of the cabbage is packed with an abundance of natural anti-oxidant properties that help you fight cancer. 

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Members of the cruciferous family seems to be rich in anti-oxidants and are in the first line of defense against cancer. Cabbage is one of the vegetables that are highly promoted for prevention of cancer.

There are three major varieties of cabbagegreen, red and Savoy. The red variety has more nutrients because of its red-to-purple pigmentation. Both the red and green cabbages have smooth-textured leaves, whereas the Savoy is more ruffled and yellowish green in color.Nutritional BenefitsThis parcel of vegetable is nutrient-packed and low in calorie. It is impressive with its high content levels of calcium, iron, iodine, potassium, sulfur, and phosphorus. In the vitamins department, it is loaded with vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K and folic acid.

This humble vegetable is a rich source of a number of phytonutrients which help boost our defense mechanisms, blocks the reaction of cancer-causing substances, detoxifies and eliminates harmful toxins and hormones, and stimulates production of antibodies to fight cancer.

HEALTH BENEFITSThe anti-cancer properties in cabbage makes it a powerfully healing food in combating the much feared disease, cancer. Studies after studies have shown that fresh cabbage juice has been effective in the treatment of a number of cancers and ulceration in the digestive tracts.

ANEMIA: The super healing effect of the superior chlorophyll in cabbage has been found to be good for blood building.

BREAST ENGORGEMENT: 

Peel off the outer layers of cabbage, run it slightly under the rolling pin and cap it over the breasts as close to the skin as possible, to soothe breasts engorgement. Wear your maternity brassiere over the cabbage and leave till the cabbage leaves wither. I have tried this and found it to be rather soothing, the preferred natural and cheaper alternative over taking drugs.

CANCER: Daily and frequent consumption of cabbage juice has shown to be effective in preventing and treating cancers of the breast, colon, liver, lung and ovarian. A compound in cabbage, sulforaphane, also helps protect cells from invasion of carcinogens.

CONSTIPATION: The slightly laxative effect of cabbage makes it effective in stimulating bowel movement. Eat the uncooked cabbage, either on its own, or juiced. 

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: 

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The amino acid glutamine in cabbage juice is totally gentle and cleansing on the digestive system, detoxifying, repairing ulcers, healing and regenerating. The juice is to be taken in small amounts of about 100 ml, three times a day on an empty stomach.

IMMUNE SYSTEMS: A compound called histidine in cabbage is found to be useful in treating allergies and regulating the T-cells in our immune systems.

SKIN WOUNDS: Flatten layers of cabbage leaves with a rolling pin, and wrap it around affected areas of woundblisters, sores, skin eruptions (as in psoriasis), burns and ulcers. Keep in place with a bandage, until the leaves turn yellow then change the leaves and repeat till wounds heal. In between changes, clean and dry wounds.

STOMACH AND INTESTINAL TRACTS: The high sulphur, chlorine and iodine content in cabbage have the significant ability in cleansing the mucus membranes in the tracts.

WEIGHT LOSS: A substance in cabbage inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat, definitely a painless way of dieting. Check out this site, all about losing weight healthily with cabbage soup, with recipes and useful tips on dieting! 

CONSUMPTION TIPSWhen buying cabbage, choose the smaller variety, they taste better.Cabbage is easier to digest in its raw fresh form than when cooked. The longer it is cooked, the less digestible it becomes. Cabbage sprouts are delicate and easier to digest, and they also contain higher levels of nutrients.

Avoid buying precut cabbage that are either halved or shredded. The moment the cabbage is cut, it begins to lose its nutrient contents. To store, keep the vegetable refrigerated in a perforated plastic bag to prevent loss of its vitamin C.

CAUTION

Raw cabbage juice may be unpalatable for most people, but the health benefits of its raw state is immense.

To make it easier on the taste buds, mix your cabbage juice with any of these: carrot, green apple, celery, cucumber, spinach or even a slice of lemon (with peel).

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Take raw cabbage juice in small amounts initially if you are unfamiliar with drinking vegetable juice, gradually increasing.

Cabbage consumption may cause gas in some people, especially when cooked. In this case, add a few slices of turmeric in cooking to prevent gas, or limit your cabbage intake.

LETTUCE

NUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

Lettuce contains unique nutrition that have

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"sedative" and "painkilling"properties which makes it an effective juice for treating sleep, anxiety and nervous disorders. 

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is known since time immemorial for its refreshing, purifying and sedative properties. It derives its name from the milky juice (“latex”) leaking out from the stems after they are cut.

Today, lettuce is one of the most common leaf vegetables and a basic ingredient of many salads. It is characterized by large, tender leaves, usually light green in color, but sometimes red or purple depending on the variety. Both the leaves and the stems can be used, either lightly cooked or more frequently raw. Due to its high water content, lettuce is one of my favorite ingredients for a delicious, refreshing healthy juice. 

TYPES OF LETTUCE:•Iceberg/crisphead:  Greener leaves on the outside and whiter on the inside. This type is most popular for its crisp texture, juicy and mild taste. A good source of choline.

•Romaine lettuce:  Has deep green and long leaves. It has a crisp texture and a deeper taste than the other varieties. A good source of vitamins A, C, B1 and B2, and folic acid.

•Butterhead: This type of lettuce has large leaves that are arranged "loosely" and are easily separated from its stem. It has a softer texture with a sweet flavor compared to its other cousins. 

•Loose-leaf: As the name implies, this variety has loose leaves that are broad and curly. It has a delicate taste and slightly crispy texture.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITSAs in most vegetables, the darker the leaves, the greater the nutrient content and a good source of chlorophyll.

Lettuce has very low calorie content and is composed primarily of water, about 90-95%. It does also contain fiber, mineralspotassium, calcium, phosphorous, iron and magnesium; anti-oxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamins A, C and E, vitamin K, folic acid, as well as many vitamins of the B complex.

The milky latex, found mainly in the stems and leaf nodes of lettuce, contain a mixture of active principles which have been used for centuries for its medicinal virtues. It has extraordinary "sedative" and "painkilling" properties similar to those of opium. 

HEALTH BENEFITSAlthough the milky latex is mostly found in the wild varieties of lettuce, commercial lettuce does contain it as well. However, the healthy properties of lettuce are immense due to its many nutrients and anti-oxidants found in the leaves.

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Anti-anemic: Lettuce contains a relatively high amount of chlorophyll and iron, which are essential for the synthesis of hemoglobin in blood red cells.

ANTI-OXIDANT: Lettuce is rich in anti-oxidants, especially beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E. These substances help cleanse the body from toxins, prevent the damage caused by free-radicals, prevent premature aging and lower the risk of chronic diseases and cancer.

BONE HEALTH: There is evidence that lettuce has a protective effect on bone health, due to its high content in vitamin K which is required for the synthesis of osteocalcin, a bone protein which helps strengthen bone tissue. This bone protective action is particularly effective in preventing osteoporosis-related fractures in post-menopausal women and older adults. Lettuce is a good source of calcium and phosphorous, as well, which play a key role in bone structure and health.

CONSTIPATION: Thanks to its high fiber content, lettuce and its juice can help stimulate the function and motility of the intestinal tract, relieve constipation and cleanse the colon.

COUGH: 

Lettuce juice contains anti-cough agents, which can help relieve irritable cough, as well as the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis.

HYDRATION: Lettuce juice is an excellent source of hydration at the cellular level. They are refreshing, thirst-quenching and help rehydrates our cells and releasing toxins and harmful fats from our congested cells.

PURIFYING: The purifying effect of lettuce is the result of the combined actions of anti-oxidants (which help neutralize harmful substances accumulate in the body), potassium (which promotes diuresis, thereby helping eliminate toxins from the body) and fiber (which helps cleanse the colon).

SEDATION: Lettuce latex has been used for centuries by physicians as a substitute for opium, due to its natural sedative and painkilling properties. Today its medicinal use is limited to treat sleep disorders, nervous excitability, anxiety and restlessness, especially in children and elderly persons. Drink a glass of lettuce and celery juice an hour before bedtime to have a restful night’s sleep. Also helpful whenever you feel anxious or nervous, to keep yourself calm and relaxed.

SEXUAL HEALTH: This is still a subject of debate. It is known that the opium-like substances found in lettuce latex can be used to cool sexual appetite. However, some researches have observed that lettuce milk also contains pro-sexual

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substances, that can help fight impotence when taken in large doses. Whether this is true or not, one thing is sure: drinking a lettuce juice can’t do much harm in this sense!

CONSUMPTION TIPSLettuce can be used raw or cooked although raw, fresh lettuce is by far more refreshing, nutritious and versatile than cooked lettuce. 

You can use raw lettuce leaves in salads, sandwiches, as wraps, and in a variety of other dishes. For cooking, lightly cook lettuce to preserve its hydration values.Lettuce juice is best extracted using a gear juicer to get the most nutrition out of it. It blends very well with carrot, tomato, celery, fennel and artichoke. 

CAUTIONLettuce is a very safe vegetable and has no adverse reaction reported so far. 

There is only one condition in which large quantities of lettuce are contra-indicated: For patients undergoing anti-coagulant therapy with vitamin K antagonists (such as warfarin). The high amount of vitamin K, may interfere with the therapy, possibly leading to blood clots formation (thrombosis) and related complications. So be aware if you're on such medication.

SPINACH

NUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

Eat spinach in its fresh raw form in order to benefit most

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from its organic nutrition.Spinach belongs to the same family as beets and chard. This broad, leafy vegetable is cooling and is jade green in color. It has the slight bitter taste of its sister, beet greens and the slightly salty flavor of chard.

Spinach has always been known for its fine cleansing, building and nourishing properties for the digestive tract, intestines and colon. When properly prepared, spinach is highly beneficial in correcting many common ailments.

There are warnings of spinach having oxalic acid, and that its consumption should be limited. The presence of oxalic acid in food is said to prevent absorption of calcium and iron. 

The truth be told here: In its raw form, the oxalic acid is ORGANIC and is abundant in enzymes. Not only is the organic form beneficial, it is also essential for the physiological functions of the body.

Only when spinach is cooked and processed, however, that the oxalic acid turns INORGANIC and become harmful. Therefore, limit your consumption of cooked or processed spinach.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITSSpinach is one of the most nutrient-packed vegetables and its raw juice is an excellent source of chlorophyll. It is also a superb source of vitamins A, B complex, C, E, K, carotenes, folate, manganese, calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, some trace elements and many valuable amino acids.

The minerals in spinach is highly alkaline, making it helpful in regulating the body pH. It supplies the same amount of protein as you would get from the same quantity of meata cheaper and healthier alternative to getting protein.

HEALTH BENEFITSThe best way to enjoy all the health benefits of spinach is in the form of its fresh juice. Start adding spinach juice in your juicing diet to enjoy its numerous miracles:

ACIDOSIS: Its alkaline minerals are essential for cleaning out the tissues and maintaining the alkalinity of the blood, making it effective in combating acidosis.

ANEMIA: The high grade content of iron in spinach makes it a great blood builder. It regenerates and reactivates the red blood cells and supplies fresh oxygen to the body.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: The high alkalinity properties in spinach makes it the perfect choice of

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food for people suffering inflammatory ailments, like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Atherosclerosis: The folic acid and the anti-oxidants in spinach helps lower the homocysteine level, reducing the risks of atherosclerosis.

BLEEDING GUMS: Spinach juice when combined with carrot juice, effectively restore this disorder caused by deficiency of vitamin C and too much consumption of refined sugar.

CANCER: The fine chlorophyll and carotene (lutein) found in spinach is beneficial in fighting and preventing cancer. A variety of flavonoid compounds found in this vegetable are powerful anti-oxidants and anti-cancer agents. Studies have shown that properties in spinach slows down cancerous cell division, especially in cancers of the breast, cervical, prostate, stomach, and skin.

DIGESTIVE TRACTS: The high fiber content in spinach makes it a remarkable intestinal tract scrubber. It cleans out the system by removing the accumulated wastes in the digestive tracts by its mildly laxative effect. More importantly, it also repairs, heals and nourishes the tracts and tones up their functions. An excellent help for constipation, colitis, poor digestion or stomach ulcers.

EYE PROBLEM: The abundance content of vitamin A and carotenoids help prevent age-related eye problems. When combined with endive and carrot juice, it effectively helps prevent macular degeneration, night blindness, and the development of cataracts.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: A recent study also shows that certain protein compounds in spinach are beneficial in lowering high blood pressure.

OSTEOPOROSIS: The high content of vitamin K is essential in anchoring calcium in bones, making it important to bone health.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: Being a rich supplier of folic acid and iron, spinach juice provides the required nutrients that are necessary for the development of the foetus, preventing threatened abortion and accidental hemorrhage. Consumption of spinach juice also improves the quality and quantity of the lactating mother.Need we say more why you should add spinach to your juicing diet?

CONSUMPTION TIPS

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Whenever possible, try to eat organic. But if this is not possible, clean spinach thoroughly as it is a vegetable that tends to collect sand, soil and pesticides.

Use raw spinach in place of, or in addition to lettuce in your salad. Or add it as a garnish for sandwiches. Find creative ways to eat fresh spinach when you are not juicing.

CAUTION

Spinach is one of the foods that is most commonly associated with allergies. Probably because of its very tightly-packed nutrients. Any one of its agents could trigger an allergy in a person who happens to be allergy to something.

Wonderful though spinach is, and bountiful in healthful benefits, I say we still always eat in moderation. Limit yourself to no more than half a liter of spinach juice in a day.

GARLIC

NUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

The health benefits of

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garlic revolve around its anti-microbial effect,its antibiotic and immune enhancing ability and its many anti-oxidants.Garlic is cultivated and widely used in almost every culture in the world for its myriad medicinal values. The garlic bulb is composed of individual cloves enclosed in a white parchment-like skin. A bulb of garlic generally measures about two inches in height and two inches across in a teardrop shape. Garlic is commonly used in most Chinese cooking, not only to enhance the flavor of foods, but also for its wonderful and endless health benefits

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITSGarlic is an excellent source of vitamins A, B-complex and C. It provides a good supply of minerals like manganese, phosphorus, calcium, copper, potassium, iron and copper.

It also contains amino acids, essential oils, glycosides, and the rare essential trace minerals like germanium, selenium and tellurium. 

The phytochemical in garlic includes anti-oxidant allium, which is also present in onions, leeks, chives and shallots.

Garlic amazingly contains more than 12 types of anti-oxidants. Is it any wonder that it has numerous healing virtues? This is one of the few superfoods that doesn't lose its medicinal properties with cooking. However, garlic in its raw state has its other benefits too.

HEALTH BENEFITS

The health benefits of garlic revolve around its anti-microbial effect that efficiently combats bacteria, fungi, intestinal parasites, viruses, yeast, etc. 

It has natural antibiotic and immune enhancer ability, and is a potent anti-oxidant that helps neutralize the free radicals in the body.Take two or three cloves daily to see its efficacy in a variety of disorders:

ANTI-COAGULANT: The natural and effective blood-thinning method, safer than taking aspirin which can cause stomach bleeding. This means that it is protective against thrombosis blockages of blood flow by clots.

CANCER PREVENTION: Its anti-cancer properties help decrease the risks of cancers, especially stomach and colon cancer.

COMMON COLD: If you feel a cold coming on, take a clove or two of garlic to prevent it. If you have got a cold, take garlic too. It acts as a medication for the cold, helps relieve congestion and aids in speedy recovery.

CHOLESTEROL: 

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Garlic juice significantly reduces the oxidation of the blood cholesterol and the build-up of plaque in arteries, decreasing the risks of heart diseases.

DIABETES: Take one clove of garlic daily to lower blood sugar level.

ENCEPHALITIS: Garlic taken in high doses (under doctor's observation) have been known to cure encephalitis, but please read the cautionary note below.

FUNGAL INFECTIONS: Raw garlic juice taken internally is effective in treating fungal infections like athlete's foot or ear infections. Also apply the juice directly to the affected area to soothe the itch.

HYPERTENSION: The cleansing of the arterial deposits helps to normalize blood pressure.

PEPTIC ULCER: Also effective against the bacterial stomach parasite which causes peptic ulcers.

TOXICITY: The sulfur compounds in garlic greatly help in detoxifying the blood of toxins, lead and other heavy metals.

WIND: Small amounts of garlic taken can help relieve gas in the stomach.

CONSUMPTION TIPSRaw garlic is not easy to eat, it needs getting used to. But understanding all the good things it does, you will eat it. If you still find it difficult, sneak one or two cloves or garlic into the juicer when you juice your favorite juice recipe.

SPECIAL TIP!!Before you go to bed at night, prepare this magic potion: Finely chop or use the food blender to chop up two cloves of fresh garlic and let it expose to the air for a few minutes while you wash up your blender or chopping board.

The chopping releases the enzyme allinase in the garlic. Gather the chopped garlic on a spoon and swallow it with water.

The garlic will travel your entire digestive tract while you sleep and scavenge and neutralize all the toxins, carcinogens, harmful bacteria, fungi, viruses, foreign chemical before they can harm your healthy cells.

Swallowing the chopped garlic will not give you garlic breath, as long as you don't chew it. You brush your teeth and rinse your mouth before you go to bed anyway.

In the morning, drink a big glass of water. Your first bowel movement will

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have a strong garlic odor and you will know that the harmful stuff have been eliminated from your body. Try it, especially if you have had a bad eating day.

CAUTIONGarlic is a very potent medicinal herb. Take no more than three cloves a day (especially if taken raw). One or two cloves daily is sufficient for you to enjoy all the health benefits it has to offer.

As garlic has a blood-thinning effect, do not take it with other anti-coagulant drugs. Avoid taking large quantities of garlic. Though rare, high doses of garlic can trigger some health problems in some people causing anemia, weight loss, excessive gas, diarrhea or asthma.

ONIONS

NUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

The health benefits of onion are endless because of its powerful anti-septic and anti-bacterial properties.

The onion is a member of the lily

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family, a close relation of garlic. It is often called the "king of vegetables" because of its pungent taste.

There are many varieties of the onion white, yellow, red and green globes. They also differ in size, color and taste. The smaller onions come in many varieties such as the green onion, or scallion which includes chives, leeks and shallots.

The smaller the onions, the more pungent they are. They are the ones that make your eyes water when you cut them, when the organic sulphur is released. 

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITSThere is considerable variation in composition between different varieties and they also vary with the stage of maturity and the length of storage. 

Onion is a powerful anti-septic that is rich in vitamins A, B and C. It is a potent source of folic acid, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, chromium, iron and dietary fiber. 

HEALTH BENEFITSAncient records reveal that onions have been used as far back as 4000 B.C. as a cure-all for many illnesses. In WW II, the vapors of onion paste was used to reduce the pain and accelerated the healing of soldiers' wounds. Even now, we find many medicinal properties from this dynamite bulb:

ANEMIA: The high content of iron in onion makes it beneficial for the treatment of anemia.

ANTI-COAGULANT: Just by eating half a medium raw onion daily can significantly lower cholesterol and help prevent heart attacks.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: The anti-inflammatory agents in onion are useful in reducing the symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and gout.

ANTI-SEPTIC: Fights infection bacteria, including E.coli and salmonella, and is effective against tuberculosis and infections of the urinary tract, such as cystitis.

BLOOD PRESSURE: Whether you eat it raw or cooked, onions help to lower blood pressure naturally. It also thins the blood, dissolve blood clots and clear the blood of unhealthy fats.

CHOLESTEROL: Eating half a medium raw onion daily significantly helps to correct thrombosis, lower the LDL cholesterol and prevents heart attacks.

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COLON CANCER, PREVENTION: Fructo-oligosaccharides in onions stimulate the growth of good bacteria in the colon and help reduce the risk of tumors developing in the colon.

CONSTIPATION AND FLATULENCE: Add plenty onion in your cooking to help relieve chronic constipation and flatulence.

DIABETES: Chromium in onion helps diabetics' cells respond appropriately to bringing down the insulin level and improve glucose tolerance.

DIURETIC AND BLOOD CLEANSING: Help counter fluid retention, urinary gravel, arthritis and gout.

EAR DISORDER: In some culture, cotton wool is dipped into onion juice and put into the ear to stop ringing in the ear.

HAIR LOSS: A study has shown that applying onion juice on scalp twice a week for 2 months will cause hair regrowth. Definitely cost much less that those hair tonic.

IMMUNE BOOSTER: The pungency increases blood circulation and causes sweating. Useful in cold weather to ward off infection, reduce fever and sweat out colds and flu.

OSTEOPOROSIS: A compound has recently been identified in onions that prevents the activities of breaking down bone. Especially beneficial for women who are at risk for osteoporosis as they go through menopause.

RESPIRATORY: Mix equal amounts of onion juice and honey and take 3-4 teaspoons of this mixture daily. It helps liquefy mucus and prevents its further formation. It is also one of the best preventive potion against common cold.

Sexual debility: Onion is a potent aphrodisiac and stands second only to garlic. For this, the white variety is most effective.

URINARY TRACT INFECTION: Boil some onion in water till half of the water evaporated. Sieve the onion water, leave to cool and drink. The anti-bacterial properties help to relieve the burning sensation in urination.

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CONSUMPTION TIPSWhen buying onions, choose onions that are well-shaped, have dry and crisp outer skins. Avoid those which are already sprouting or have signs of decay, wilting or discolored tops.

Onions can be stored at room temperature but keep them in a well ventilated area, away from bright light to prevent roots from growing. Do not put them together with potatoes as they will absorb the moisture and ethylene gas from potatoes and rot faster.

To prevent tears when cutting onions, chill the onions for about an hour before peeling, or peel them in a tub of water. It is the sulfur compounds that is released in the air that irritates the eyes. Cut onions are to be stored in an air-tight condition to prevent oxidization. Use within one or two days.

CAUTION Even though onions have many health benefits, they are also very potent. As in anything good, always remember to take only in moderation. 

CELERY

NUTRITION

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INFORMATION AND FACTS

The health benefits of celery are more than just lowering blood pressure.They also contain at least eight families ofanti-cancer compounds to combat cancer

Celery is from the same family with parsley and fennel, the Umbelliferae family. It can grow to the height of up to 16 inches. The white celery is grown shaded from direct sunlight, thus has less chlorophyll, compared to its greener counterparts.

The ribs of celery are crunchy and are often used to make soup or salad. It has a salty taste, so celery juice is a good mix with the sweeter fruit juices. Depending on variety, some may taste very salty.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITSCelery leaves has high content of vitamin A, whilst the stems are an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2, B6 and C with rich supplies of potassium, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, sodium and plenty essential amino acids.

Nutrients in the fiber are released during juicing, aiding bowel movements. The natural organic sodium (salt) in celery is very safe for consumption, in fact is essential for the body. Even individuals who are salt-sensitive can safely take the sodium in celery, unlike table salt (iodised sodium) which is harmful for those with high blood pressure.

While many foods lose nutrients during cooking, most of the compounds in celery hold up well during cooking.

HEALTH BENEFITSCelery has always been associated with lowering of blood pressure. When combined with other juices, it provides different formula that help other conditions.

Recent studies have shown that celery might also be effective in combating cancer. 

Some of the health benefits of celery juice:

ACIDITY: The important minerals in this magical juice effectively balance the body's blood pH, neutralizing acidity.

ATHLETES: Celery juice acts as the perfect post-workout tonic as it replaces lost electrolytes and rehydrates the body with its rich minerals.

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CANCER: Celery is known to contain at least eight families of anti-cancer compounds. Among them are the acetylenics that have been shown to stop the growth of tumor cells. Phenolic acids which block the action of prostaglandins that encourage the growth of tumor cells. And coumarins which help prevent free radicals from damaging cells.

CHOLESTEROL: This humble pale juice has been shown to effectively and significantly lower total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol.

COLON AND STOMACH CANCER: The phytochemical coumarins prevent the formation and development of the colon and stomach cancers.

CONSTIPATION: The natural laxative effect of celery helps to relieve constipation. It also helps relax nerves that have been overworked by man-made laxatives.

COOLING: During dry and hot weather, drink a glass of celery juice two or three times a day, between meals. It wonderfully helps to normalize body temperature.

DIURETIC: The potassium and sodium in celery juice helps to regulate body fluid and stimulate urine production, making it an important help to rid the body of excess fluid.

INFLAMMATION: The polyacetylene in celery is an amazing relief for all inflammation like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, asthma and bronchitis.

KIDNEY FUNCTION: Celery promotes healthy and normal kidney function by aiding elimination of toxins from the body. While eliminating toxins, it also prevents formation of kidney stones.

LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE: Drinking celery juice every day for a week significantly helps lower blood pressure. A compound called phtalides help relax the muscle around arteries, dilating the vessels and allowing blood to flow normally. To be effective, drink the juice for one week, stop for three weeks, and start over.

NERVOUS SYSTEM: The organic alkaline minerals in celery juice has a calming effect on the nervous system, making it a wonderful drink for insomniacs.

WEIGHT LOSS: 

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Drink celery juice frequently throughout the day. It helps curb your cravings for sweets and rich food.

URINARY STONES, BREAKING OF: The diuretic effect of celery juice also aids the breaking and elimination of urinary and gall bladder stones.

You can expect many more healing benefits from celery juice as you consume its natural sodium. Read how our body lacks and have been deprived of, natural salt.

CONSUMPTION TIPSChoose green celery where possible for its chlorophyll. Ensure that the ribs are still firm, not limp. To store in the fridge, wrap celery in a sealed container or wrap in a plastic bag or a damp cloth. Do not leave it at room temperature for too long as it tends to wilt quickly. If your celery has wilted, sprinkle it with a little water and put it in the refrigerator for a few hours. It will regain its crispness.

CAUTIONCelery is such a succulent plant that it produces its own "pesticide" to protect itself from fungi. This protective layer is called psoralens which although protects the celery, may not go down so well with some people.

If you begin having skin problems after eating celery, it might mean that you have some sensitivity to psoralens. 

Some people with low blood pressure had complained that celery makes their blood pressure even lower. I personally didn't encounter that problem so I believe it is also your overall make-up. But, you might want to avoid celery if you have low blood pressure. Listen to your body when you take celery.

CARROT

NUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

Carrot is one of the most versatile vegetable that is highly nutritious and suitable to be included in any juice recipe.

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Carrot is one of my favorite juice ingredients. It not only tastes good, it has so many health benefits and is highly cleansing.

Carrots may have high sugar content but it is also a very good blood sugar regulator (it's a paradox I know). If you're generally healthy without blood sugar problem, two or three medium-sized carrots daily would not cause any adverse effect (but diabetics should keep to just half a carrot a day).

The natural sugar in carrots are easily assimilated. Fresh carrot juice has a glycemic index count of 80 which is at an acceptable borderline. Its consumption is encouraged for its rich nourishment and carotenoid content which actually helps balance blood sugar. However, always practice moderation in whatever you juice.

Depending on its variety, carrots can be as short as two inches or as long as three feet, with a diameter of between half an inch to over two inches.

When we speak of carrots, we often think "orange", but they also come in a variety of other colors like white, yellow, purple and red.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITSCarrot is one of the most healing foods that provides the finest and highest quality in nutrients, especially from its juice. It is an excellent source of pro-vitamin A, vitamins C, D, E, K, B1 and B6.It is rich with biotin, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, organic sodium and some trace minerals.

Carrot greens/tops CAN be eaten. It is very rich with potassium (vitamin K) and protein. Potassium is a key mineral in our body, thus high consumption of it keeps all the organs in our body in tip-top condition.

The known phytonutrients in carrots are lutein, lycopene, anti-oxidants alpha, beta and gamma carotenes, zeaxanthin and xanthophyll. You don't need to remember these fancy names, but just remember that phytonutrients are nature's marvelous provision for healing of various diseases.

HEALTH BENEFITSCarotenes, the famous ingredient in carrots, is an anti-oxidant that has powerful healing virtues for many diseases. Drinking a glass of carrot juice daily will do much more for you than many bottles of supplement tablets. Here are some disorders that can be helped by drinking carrot juice regularly:

ACIDOSIS: The vital organic alkaline elements in carrots help balance the blood acidity and blood sugar.

ACNE: 

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Its powerful cleansing properties are effective in detoxifying the liver, thus overall effective for acne which are caused by toxicity of the blood.

ANEMIA: Carrot's molecules are closest to human's hemoglobin molecules, making it very beneficial in blood-building.

ATHEROSCLEROSIS: The highly cleansing power of this miracle juice scrubs away even the old build-up of arterial deposits, reducing the risks of heart diseases and stroke.

ASTHMA: The anti-oxidants effectively protects the respiratory system from infections and free-radical attacks.

CANCER: Studies show that adding one carrot per day in our diet significantly reduces cancer risks.

CHOLESTEROL: Pectin in carrots lowers the serum cholesterol levels.

CONGESTION: Carrot juice is very effective in dispelling mucus from the ear, nose and throat area, easing nasal congestion, sinusitis, phlegm and mucus in the throat and other similar disorders.

CONSTIPATION: Take five parts of carrot juice with one part of spinach juice regularly to regulate chronic constipation problems.

EMPHYSEMA: If you smoke or are exposed to second-hand smoke, taking carrot juice regularly may well save your life.

EYES: Beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin are some of the finest nourishment that help keep the optic system in tip-top condition, with special protection against astigmatism, macular degeneration and cataracts.

FERTILITY: One of the reasons for infertility is lack of nutrients and enzymes in your dietary. Carrot juice taken regularly, is able to nourish your body back to fertility.

INFLAMMATIONS: Its anti-inflammatory effect greatly helps reduce arthritis, rheumatism, gout and other inflammations.

IMMUNE SYSTEMS: 

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It does wonders for boosting the immune system by increasing the production and performance of white blood cells; building resistant to various kinds of infections.

NURSING MOTHERS: Carrot juice helps enhance the quality and quantity of a mother's breast milk.

PREGNANCY: Drinking carrot juice regularly during pregnancy, especially during the last few months, will reduce the chances of jaundice in baby. No, you won't get an orange baby!

SKIN PROBLEMS: The high quality vitamin C and other rich nutrients in carrot juice efficiently nourish the skin, preventing dry skin, psoriasis and other skin blemishes.

THREAD WORMS: One small cup of carrot juice in the morning taken daily for a week can help clear up thread worms in children.

ULCERS: The abundance of nutrient present in carrots help nourish cells that have been starved of nutrients which result in ulcers.

WATER RETENTION: Carrot juice is diuretic and helps to eliminate excess fluids from the body, reducing water retention, especially for women during their monthly menstruation cycle and in pregnant women.

CONSUMPTION TIPSCarrots that are no longer than 6 inches tend to be sweeter. So choose the shorter variety if you like it sweet or the longer one if you prefer it less sweet. 

The most nutrients are concentrated just under the skin so try not to peel off the skin. To clean it, simply use a hard brush to brush the skin.Cut them lengthwise to preserve the nutrients as when cut in small rounds, they easily lose their nutrients in water when you wash or cook them.

Carrot is a very versatile and mild root vegetable that can easily mix with most other ingredients. I usually use it as a base, with apples.

CAUTIONYou may have heard of people "turning orange" from drinking carrot juice. Here's an explanation derived from a book written by Juicing Guru the late Dr Norman Walker, "Fresh Vegetable and Fruit Juices". 

Intestinal and liver diseases are sometimes due to a lack of certain of the elements contained in properly prepared raw carrot juice. When this is the

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case, then a noticeable cleaning up of the liver may take place, and the material which was clogging it may be found to dissolve.

Frequently, this is released so abundantly that the intestinal and urinary channels are inadequate to care for this overflow, and in a perfectly natural manner it is passed into the lymph for elimination from the body by means of the pores of the skin. This material has a distinctly orange or yellow pigment and while it is being so eliminated from the body will sometimes discolor the skin. Whenever such a discoloration takes place after drinking carrot or other juices, it is an indication that the liver is getting a well-needed cleansing.

It is NOT the carrot juice itself nor the carotene that comes through the skin, as this discoloration will take place even if the juice is filtered to the point of clearing it of all color pigment. It is just as practical an impossibility for the carrot pigment itself to come through the skin as it would be for the red pigment of the beet to turn the body red or the chlorophyll of the green vegetables to paint the skin green from within.

BANANA

THE BEST HEALTH BENEFITS OF BANANAS

Even if no one ever told me about the health benefits of

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bananas, I would love them. They are absolute staples in our house, and when the bananas run out, it sends a signal to me saying, "time to grocery shop."Nutrients in Bananas

Bananas are packed with dietary fiber, which helps clear your digestive tract and prevents degenerative diseases. One medium banana has about a quarter of your daily needs for dietary fiber!

They have about 1/3 of your daily nutritional needs for vitamin C as well as about 1/4 of your potassium needs and 40% of your vitamin B6 requirements, and are high in manganese. It's pretty insane that one tiny piece of fruit can contain such a large percentage of some crucial vitamins. 

Technically, if you ate three bananas in a day, you wouldn't need any other vitamin C to satisfy the recommended daily allowance. Of course, you're always better off eating a varied diet so you can take advantage of the other nutrients in other vitamin C-rich foods. 

This is probably going to come as a shock to some people... there is actually some protein in a single banana, about 1.3 grams. When someone asks you to list good sources of protein, very few stop to consider that fruits, vegetables, and grains all have varying amounts of protein as well. 

Are Bananas Fattening?I'm not exactly sure where or when the poor banana developed this stigma of being fattening and highly caloric. It's funny, most of the time people drastically underestimate how many calories a food contains, and therefore, how many they eat. Bananas have the opposite effect; if you ask the average person how many calories are in a banana, their guess will be anywhere from double to quadruple the true amount. 

A regular, medium sized banana has about 100 calories and under 1 gram of fat! 

My only guess as to why there's such a misconception about bananas being fattening is because they don't have nutritional stickers on each banana, and the only time we see what we think are pure bananas with nutritional information is on banana chips. Banana chips are typically deep fried, and are therefore as fatty (and devoid of nutritional value) as anything else you deep fry.

BENEFITS OF EATING BANANAS

Bananas can make you feel better?One of the more interesting health benefits of bananas is that they contain tryptophan, the same protein that used to make you feel full after eating dinner. The tryptophan in bananas will help enhance your mood, so if you're feeling down, trying snacking on a banana. 

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Evidently the vitamin B6 in bananas can also help calm your mood because it balances your blood sugar levels and calms the nervous system. Fruits and vegetables high in potassium, like bananas, can also help reduce our metabolic rate and lower stress in the body.

People also report using bananas as homeopathic cures for skin ailments like mosquito bites and warts. What they do is rub the inside of a banana peel on the affected area and cover it to keep the banana from rubbing off. 

All in all, there are many health benefits of bananas, and they're perfect for people of all ages. They even work as a wonderful first food for new babies when they are about 4-6 months old. 

Bananas consist mainly of sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) and fiber, which makes them ideal for an immediate and slightly prolonged source of energy.

REDUCING DEPRESSION:Bananas contain tryptophan, an aminoacid that can be converted to serotonin, leading to improved mood.

ANEMIA:Bananas are relatively high in iron, which helps the body’s hemoglobin function

EYESIGHT PROTECTION:Research published in the Archives of Ophthalmology has proven that adults consuming at least 3 servings of fruit per day have a reduced risk (by 36%) of developing age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), the primary cause of vision loss in older adults, compared to persons who consume less than 1.5 servings of fruit daily.

HEALTHY BONES:Bananas are an exceptionally rich source of fructooligosaccharide, a compound that nourishes probiotic (friendly) bacteria in the colon. These beneficial bacteria produce enzymes that increase our digestive ability and protect us from unhealthy bacteria infections. Thanks to fructooligosaccharides, probiotic bacteria can increase both in number and functionality, increasing our body’s ability to absorb calcium.

In addition, green bananas contain indigestible short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that are very nutrient to the cells that make up the mucosa of the stomach. These cells, when healthy, absorb calcium much more efficiently. Along with lowering blood pressure, potassium prevents the weakening of the body's bones. A high sodium intake, which is typical of many American diets, can cause excessive amount of calcium to be lost through the urine, which threatens not only the strength and general health of the bones, but also negatively affects blood clotting, proper muscle contraction, and normal nervous system function. The potassium found in bananas neutralizes the high amounts of sodium in one's diet, thus allowing for healthy amounts of calcium to remain within the body.

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HEALTHY KIDNEY:About 190,000 cases of kidney cancer are diagnosed each year.Research published in the International Journal of Cancer has shown that daily consumption of whole fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, is highly protective to kidney health. The results show that, over a long timeframe (13.4 years), women eating more than 2.5 servings of fruits and vegetable per day cut their risk of kidney cancer by 40%. Among the fruits, bananas were especially protective. Women eating bananas four to six times a week halved their risk of developing the disease compared to those who did not eat this fruit. The conclusion of the study is that frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, cabbage and root vegetables, may reduce risk of kidney cancer. This is because bananas and many root vegetables contain especially high amounts of antioxidant phenolic compounds, while cabbage is rich in sulfur, necessary for effective detoxification of potential carcinogens.

BLOOD PRESSURE:Studies show that Bananas are extremely high in potassium (about 4673mg), yet very low in sodium (1mg), (over 13% of the RDA) can lower one's blood pressure, which in turn lessens the possibility of atherosclerosis, heart attack and stroke. thus having a perfect ratio for preventing high blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

HEARTBURN:Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

MORNING SICKNESS:Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood-sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

SMOKING:Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. They contain vitamins B6 and B12 they contain, as well as potassium and magnesium: these substances help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

ULCERS:This is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicle cases. It also helps reduce acidity and reduces irritation. Bananas stimulate the cells on the internal stomach lining to produce a thicker mucus (which protects against acid). Additionally, bananas contain protease inhibitors that help eliminate bacteria in the stomach that have been pinpointed as a primary cause of ulcers.

NERVES:Bananas are high in B vitamins that have been shows to improve nerve function.

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MOSQUITO BITES:Many people report that rubbing the inside of a banana peel on a mosquito bite is very effective in reducing itching and swelling.

STRESS RELIEF:Bananas are high in potassium, which helps normalize the hearthbeat and regulate the body’s water balance. During periods of high stress, our body’s potassium levels tend to be rapidly depleted: eating bananas is a healthy way to rebalance them without using drugs.

STROKE RISK:According to a study in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can reduce the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%

DIET:One banana has 11% of the RDA of dietary fiber and only about 108 calories. The fiber in bananas not only keeps digestion regular, but also helps maintain low blood sugar and curbs overeating.

HIGH NUTRIENT ABSORPTION:The potassium in bananas is not the only means to ensure healthy levels of calcium in the body. Bananas also contain high levels of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) that--along with insulin--promotes calcium absorption. FOS further nourishes healthy bacteria in the colon that manufacture vitamins and digestive enzymes that boost the body's overall ability to absorb nutrients.

CONSTIPATION AND DIARRHEA:Bananas can diminish the uncomfortable effects of diarrhea and constipation. The high amounts of potassium in bananas can restock electrolytes that are easily depleted when suffering from diarrhea -- potassium being an important electrolyte itself. Furthermore, bananas can relieve the body from constipation and help restore regular digestion with pectin, a soluble polysaccharide that helps normalize the digestive tract.

RUGGED GUT:Bananas protect the healthy constitution of the stomach in two ways. Firstly, they trigger the production of mucus in the stomach, which provides a protective barrier against stomach acids. Secondly, bananas possess protease inhibitors, a substance that breaks down bacteria in the stomach that cause ulcers. (Moreover, protease inhibitor also obstruct the replication of certain cells and viruses, including HIV.)

CANCER PREVENTION:A large study by the Internal Journal of Cancer illustrates that the probability of developing kidney cancer is greatly lessened by frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables, though especially bananas. For instance, the probability of developing kidney cancer in female subjects decreased by 50% when eating bananas four to six times a week.

VITAMIN B6:

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One banana has an impressive 34% of the RDA of vitamin B6, which serves many important roles in the body's health. For example, the B6 in bananas acts as an anti-inflammatory agent that helps ward off cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, as well as obesity. B6 also contributes to the maintenance of the lymphoid glands that ensure the production of healthy white blood cells that protect the body from infection. Finally, the vitamin B6 in bananas plays a pivotal part in cell formation and proper nervous system function, making one banana a day a healthy and delicious choice.

GUAVA

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF GUAVA 

The health benefits of guava include treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, constipation, cough, cold, skin care, high blood pressure, weight loss, scurvy, etc.

Many of you might have tasted this mouth-watering treat, or at least have seen it or heard about it. Guava is very common in Asian countries. It is a good looking pear shaped or round shaped seasonal fruit, light green or yellow or maroon in color from outside when ripe, with white or maroon flesh and lots of small hard seeds enveloping very soft and sweet pulp. It is eaten raw (ripe or semi-ripe) or in form of jams and jellies. This attractive fruit is a real storehouse of nutrients. If it is “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” in Europe and Americas, it must be “A few guavas in the season keeps the doctor away for the whole year” in the Indian Subcontinent and places where guavas grow. Its scientific name is Psidium Guajava.

HEALTH BENEFITSDepending on the species, a guava’s flesh and seeds can be white, orange, pink or red. The skin is green before maturity and becomes yellow, maroon or remains green when ripe. They are best eaten when semi-ripe because they are crunchy.

Guavas are a treasure-trove of nutrients. Their being high in antioxidants has made them known as one of the “superfoods.” They are also known for their high pectin content.

1. Lowers cancer riskGuava contains the highest vitamin C content among produce at four times more than oranges. Vitamin C is known as one of the potent antioxidants which help protects cells from free radical damage. High levels of oxidants in the body can damage cell membranes and may contribute to the development of heart disease and cancer.

2. Lowers risk of diabetes Looking for other sources of fiber? Grab a delicious guava. It is rich in fiber, one of the most talked about nutrients today as it has found to be beneficial in a wide range of disease prevention including diabetes by slowing down the absorption of sugar in the body and thus very beneficial for diabetic individuals. A high fiber diet has also been linked to a lowered risk of developing type-2 diabetes.

3. Promotes good eyesightGuavas are very good sources of vitamin A, the nutrient best known for preserving and improving eyesight.

4. Helps promote fertility

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Munching on guava also supplies a good amount of folate in the body. The mineral folate is known for its fertility-promoting properties.

5. Helps regulate blood pressure levelsOne cup of guava is packed with almost the same potassium as bananas. Potassium works as an important factor in regulating blood pressure by reversing the role of sodium in unbalancing normal blood pressure.

6. Promotes healthy thyroid gland No guavas don’t contain iodine; they are good sources of copper, a trace mineral which plays a role in thyroid metabolism especially in hormone production and absorption.

7. Helps the body make use of key nutrientsOne of the key functions of manganese in the body is being an enzyme activator including the enzymes responsible for the utilization of some key nutrients such as biotin, thiamine and ascorbic acid. Guavas are good sources of manganese.

8. Relaxes nerves and musclesMagnesium is one of the essential minerals which needs to be obtained from food as the body cannot make them. Eating guavas can help relax the nerves and muscles through its good amount of magnesium content.

9. Keeps brain healthy The B group of vitamins play a vital role in brain function. Guavas are rich in vitamin B3 and B6. Vitamin B3, also known as niacin stimulates brain function and promotes blood flow, and vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is an important nutrient for brain and nerve function. 

10. Helps maintain healthy skinRegular guava consumption can also do the skin good through its vitamin E content. Vitamin E helps maintain healthy skin through its antioxidant properties.

11.Skin Care: Guavas can help improve your skin texture and avoid skin problems more than the best of beauty creams or skin toner gels can do. This is chiefly due to the abundance of astringents in its fruits (more in immature ones) and in leaves. You can benefit from it either by eating the fruits (this help tighten your muscles apart from your skin) or by washing your skin with the decoction of its immature fruits and leaves. It will tone up and tighten the loosened skin. In addition to the astringents, guava is very-very rich in vitamin-A, B, C and potassium which are very good anti oxidants and detoxifiers and keep your skin glowing and free from aging, wrinkles and other disorders.

12. Diarrhea & Dysentery: 

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Guava is very rich in astringents (compounds those make your gums feel tighter and fresh after you chew guava leaves or eat a raw guava or use some toothpaste) which binds up loose bowels in diarrhea. These astringents are alkaline in nature and have disinfectant and anti-bacterial properties, thus help cure dysentery by inhibiting microbial growth and removing extra mucus from the intestines. Further, other nutrients in guava, such as vitamin-C, Carotenoids and potassium strengthens and tones up the digestive system and disinfect it. Guava is also beneficial in gastroenteritis due to reasons stated above.

13. Constipation: Guava is one of the riches sources of dietary fiber. Its seeds, if ingested whole or chewed, serve as excellent laxatives. These two properties of guava help forming bowels, retaining water and clean your intestines and excretory system thoroughly. It is said that single constipation can lead to seventy two types of ailments. It is absolutely true. Every way to your total health goes through proper digestion and more importantly, proper excretion. Guava ensures both of these.

14. Cough & Cold:Juice of raw and immature guavas or decoction of guava-leaves is very helpful in giving relief in cough and cold by loosening cough, reducing mucus, disinfecting the respiratory tract, throat and lungs and inhibiting microbial activity due to its astringent properties. Guava is one of richest in vitamin-C and iron which are proven to be preventive against cold and viral infections. In some areas in India, roasted ripe guava is used as a remedy against extreme cases of cough and cold and congestion.

15. High Blood Pressure: Guava helps reduce cholesterol in blood and prevents it from thickening, thereby maintaining fluidity of blood and reducing blood pressure. Studies have shown that food stuffs which lack fiber (such a refined flour) add to blood pressure, due to quick conversion to sugar. Guava, being very rich in fiber and hypoglycemic in nature, helps reduce blood pressure.

16. Weight Loss: Guava is very helpful for those who want to lose weight without compromising with their intake of proteins, vitamins and fiber. Guava, being very high in roughage and very rich in vitamins, proteins and minerals, but with no cholesterol and less digestible carbohydrates, is very filling and satisfies appetite very easily. Just have a medium sized guava in the lunch and you will not feel hungry till night. But ironically, it helps gaining weight in lean and thin people. This is probably due to its richness in nutrients, which keeps your metabolism right helping proper absorption of nutrients.

16. Scurvy: 

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Guava can outdo many other fruits, including orange and other citrus fruits, when it comes to concentration of vitamin-C, whose deficiency causes scurvy and which is the only remedy to it. It contains five times the vitamin-C in oranges.

Other Benefits: 

Where to begin? Shall I start with the fact that guava helps control diabetes, protects prostrate, its Lypocene reduces the risk of cancer, the juice of the leaves cures toothache, swollen gums & oral ulcers, heals wounds when applied externally, convulsions, epilepsy, bacterial infections and so on and so forth.

" SABA'' OR CARDAVA BANANA 

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HEALTH BENEFITS

Cardava has the highest content of nutrients because it has the deepest roots among other banana plants, of which can absorb more nutrients from the soil. No wonder their trunk is long and big so with their fruits.

Because bananas are rich in potassium, they help the body’s circulatory system deliver oxygen to the brain. This also helps maintain a regular heartbeat and a proper balance of water in the body. Potassium is also helpful for reducing strokes and regulating blood pressure because of the way it promotes circulatory health.

Their abundance of vitamins and minerals, are a great source of natural energy. Eating only two bananas will give you enough energy to exercise or workout for an hour and a half. Bananas are also ideal for eating during that midday lull when you feel tired and sluggish. Instead of drinking caffeine or having a sugary snack, bananas provide a level of energy that lasts longer without the dramatic crash caused by caffeine.

One of the banana health benefits is that they can help stop constipation because bananas have a certain type of fiber that helps to restore and maintain regular bowel functions. Instead of using laxatives that might have chemicals or other synthetic substances, bananas are a natural source for lessening the effects of constipation without causing other bowel problems such as diarrhea.

If you were partying at night and having hangover the next morning, the natural ingredients in bananas and their ability to replenish the body’s vitamins make them an ideal way to reduce the effects of a hangover. Put a couple bananas in the blender with some plain yogurt and add some honey to sweeten the taste. The fruit tends to calm the stomach and the honey helps to restore the blood sugar levels to normal.

Similarly, bananas can help people who are trying to quit smoking. The B vitamins and other minerals that they contain reduce the physical and psychological effects of nicotine withdrawal. These B vitamins, specifically vitamin B6 can also minimize menstrual pains and regulates over all moods of women. Because of their calming properties, pregnant women often eat bananas to combat their morning sickness. In addition, they also help to replenish the body and restore a healthy blood glucose level. In addition, they also help regulate a pregnant woman’s temperature.

As a way to prevent and treat ulcers, bananas help to reduce the acidity

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that some foods can leave in the stomach. They help reduce the irritation of the digestive system by leaving a protective coating around the inner walls, making it a natural way to promote intestinal health as well. Since they help to neutralize acidity, they are also a great way to get rid of heartburn. They act as a natural antacid and they quickly soothe the burn.

Instead of eating an apple each day for optimum health, the adage should state that a banana each day keeps the doctor away. The banana health benefits far outweigh those of the apple because it has many more vitamins and nutrients than their round counterparts.

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"SWEET POTATO OR CAMOTE IN TAGALOG"

Health Benefits:

Camote should be part of diet even if you have more money to buy or prepare expensive dishes. Camote is the world’s healthiest food, this is according to statement of North Athlantic Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging. The

tuber is indeed healthy due to following reasons.

1) An energy food because of high carbohydrate contents. It can replace rice in diet. But Filipinos cannot do the switch because we are rice eating country. For me and others, a bread breakfast will not suffice.

2) Good for diabetics. It helps stabilize blood sugar levels by increasing adiponectin, an important factor of insulin metabolism. It has moderate glycemic index of 50.

3) High in dietary fiber and low fat content. Good for the heart and tummy. Fibers help reduce bad cholesterol and ease bowel movement.

4) Deep colored yellow camote contains lutein and beta carotene. Antioxidants to prevent rapid aging and maintain good eyesight. Eat yellow camote instead of taking eye supplement.

5) Have lots of essential minerals and vitamins. Manganese, copper, potassium, iron, Vitamin – E, C, B6, B2, and A. Its like a combination of rice and vegetables in a single package. But eating camote repeatedly is boring, have an alternate or try to mix it with other healthy foods.

6) An effective detoxifying agent. It adsorb heavy metals and take it out of the system. Metals such as lead, arsenic and mercury accumulate in our body due to consumption of commercially processed foods. They should be taken out before harming any tissues.

MALUNGGAY (MORINGGA)

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HEALTH BENEFITS

1. Malunggay leaves helps strengthens the immune system.

2. Malunggay can help restores skin condition, controls blood pressure, relieves headaches and migraines.

3. Malunggay tea can help strengthen the eye

muscles.

4. Malunggay tea can help heal inflammation of the joints and tendons.5. Malunggay tea can prevent intestinal worms.6. Malunggay can help increase semen count.7. Malunggay help normalize blood sugar level therefore preventing diabetes.8. Malunggay has anti-cancer compounds (phytochemicals) that help stop the growth of cancer cells.9. Malunggay helps relax and promotes good night sleep.10. Malunggay tea is used to treat fever and asthma.11. Malunggay help heals ulcers.12. Malunggay is high in calcium (four times the calcium in milk), therefore lactating mothers are advised to consume malunggay leaves to produce more milk for their babies. The young malunggay leaves are also boiled and taken as tea.13. Malunggay contains three times the potassium in bananas.14. Malunggay contain four times the vitamin A in carrots.An ounce of malunggay has the same Vitamin C content as seven oranges.15. Malunggay leaves contain two times the protein in milk.16. Malunggay seed is used to clean dirty or polluted water.

Malunggay is a very diverse plant in terms of its medicinal characteristics. It is universally known as Moringga. It is a rich source of vitamins, amino acids, and various nutrients which provides the needed energy to the body.

Its pods are edible. malunggay is mostly grown in the backyard. You can ask for them from a neighbor and they are given for free. They are cooked together with eggplant, ampalaya, tomatoes, and sitaw in a dish called pinakbet.

Its leaves are also incorporated in various dishes such as tinola, monggo and other kinds of meat dishes. They are used mostly by postpartum mothers in order to produce breast milk for the baby. These leaves are added to soups which the mother drinks in large amount. Nowadays, malunggay leaves are already available in capsule form and can be

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bought as over the counter drugs for breastfeeding women.

AMPALAYA (BITTER GOURD) OR BITTER MELON 

Bitter melon is one of the best vegetable-fruit that helps improve diabetic and toxemia conditions.

NUTRITION INFORMATION AND FACTS

The bitter melon (also known as bitter gourd) looks like a cucumber but with ugly gourd-like

bumps all over it. As the name implies, this vegetable is a melon that is bitter. There are two varieties of this vegetable: One grows to about 20 cm long, is oblong and pale green in color. The other is the smaller variety, less than 10 cm long, oval and has a darker green color.

Both varieties have seeds that are white when unripe and that turn red when they are ripe. The vegetable-fruit turn reddish-orange when ripe and becomes even more bitter.

Bitter gourd thrives in hot and humid climates, so are commonly found in Asian countries and South America. Westerners may not be so used to bitter melons, so may find them more difficult to consume. But if you can generally take bitter taste, you may be able to take this too. Try it, at least for all its healthful virtues!

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

Bitter gourds are very low in calories but dense with precious nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2, and B3, C, magnesium, folic acid, zinc, phosphorus, manganese, and has high dietary fiber. It is rich in iron, contains twice the beta-carotene of broccoli, twice the calcium of spinach, and twice the potassium of a banana.

Bitter melon contains a unique phyto-constituent that has been confirmed to have a hypoglycemic effect called charantin. There is also another insulin-like compound known as polypeptide P which have been suggested as insulin replacement in some diabetic patients.

HEALTH BENEFITSFew other fruits/vegetables offer medicinal properties for these ailments like bitter melon does.

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BLOOD DISORDERS: Bitter gourd juice is highly beneficial for treating blood disorders like blood boils and itching due to toxemia. Mix 2 ounces of fresh bitter gourd juice with some lime juice. Sip it slowly on an empty stomach daily for between four and six months and see improvement in your condition.

CHOLERA: In early stages of cholera, take two teaspoonfuls juice of bitter gourd leaves, mix with two teaspoonfuls white onion juice and one teaspoonful lime juice. Sip this concoction daily till you get well.

DIABETES MELLITUS:Bitter melon contains a hypoglycemic compound (a plant insulin) that is highly beneficial in lowering sugar levels in blood and urine. Bitter melon juice has been shown to significantly improve glucose tolerance without increasing blood insulin levels.

ENERGY: Regular consumption of bitter gourd juice has been proven to improve energy and stamina level. Even sleeping patterns have been shown to be improved/stabilized.

EYE PROBLEMS: The high beta-carotene and other properties in bitter gourd makes it one of the finest vegetable-fruit that help alleviate eye problems and improving eyesight.

HANGOVER: Bitter melon juice may be beneficial in the treatment of a hangover for its alcohol intoxication properties. It also help cleanse and repair and nourish liver problems due to alcohol consumption.

IMMUNE BOOSTER:This bitter juice can also help to build your immune system and increase your body's resistance against infection.

PILES: Mix three teaspoonfuls of juice from bitter melon leaves with a glassful of buttermilk. Take this every morning on empty stomach for about a month and see an improvement to your condition. To hasten the healing, use the paste of the roots of bitter melon plant and apply over the piles.

PSORIASIS: Regular consumption of this bitter juice has also been known to improve psoriasis condition and other fungal infections like ring-worm and athletes feet.

RESPIRATORY DISORDERS: Take two ounces of fresh bitter melon juice and mix with a cup of honey diluted in water. Drink daily to improve asthma, bronchitis and pharyngitis.

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TOXEMIA: Bitter gourd contains beneficial properties that cleanses the blood from toxins. Sip two teaspoonfuls of the juice daily to help cleanse the liver. Also helpful in ridding jaundice for the same reasons.

CONSUMPTION TIPSChoose unripe bitter melons that are firm, like how you would a cucumber. Avoid those that have turned orange or have soft spots. Ripe bitter melons can be excessively bitter.

Store bitter melons in the vegetable bin in the refrigerator which has the right temperature. It should keep for three to four days. Keeping bitter melons at room temperature or with other fruits and vegetables will hasten the melon to ripen and become more bitter, due to the emission of ethylene gas.

Clean your bitter melon under cold running water and brush with a soft vegetable brush. To prepare, slice the melon length-wise and scoop out the seeds. To lessen the bitter flavor, soak it in salt water for about half an hour before juicing/cooking.

The smaller variety is more bitter than the bigger one. To help make bitter gourd juice more palatable, take it with honey, or add carrot or apple juice. For diabetics, drink the juice with green apple juice.

CAUTIONDo not consume more than two ounces of bitter melon, or more than two melons a day. Excessive consumption may cause mild abdominal pain or diarrhea. Diabetics taking hypoglycemic drugs will need to alter the dosage of their drugs if they consume bitter melon on a regular basis. Please consult your doctor.

Pregnant women should avoid taking too much bitter gourd or its juice as it may stimulate the uterus that may lead to preterm labor.

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CANCER KILLER – NATURAL CANCER CELL KILLER 10,000 TIMES STRONGER THAN CHEMO!

The Soursop/Guyabano or the fruit from the graviola tree is a miraculous natural cancer cell killer 10,000 times stronger than Chemo.

Why are we not aware of this? Its because some big corporation want

to make back their money spent on years of research by trying to make a synthetic version of it for sale.

So, since you know it now you can help a friend in need by letting him know or just drink some sour sop juice yourself as prevention from time to time. The taste is not bad after all. It’s completely natural and definitely has no side effects. If you have the space, plant one in your garden.

The other parts of the tree are also useful.

The next time you have a fruit juice, ask for a sour sop.

How many people died in vain while this billion-dollar drug maker concealed the secret of the miraculous Graviola tree?

This tree is low and is called graviola ! in Brazi l, guanabana in Spanish and has the uninspiring name “soursop” in English. The fruit is very large and the subacid sweet white pulp is eaten out of hand or, more commonly, used to make fruit drinks, sherbets and such.

The principal interest in this plant is because of its strong anti-cancer effects. Although it is effective for a number of medical conditions, it is its anti tumor effect that is of most interest. This plant is a proven cancer remedy for cancers of all types.

Besides being a cancer remedy, graviola is a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent for both bacterial and fungal infections, is effective against internal parasites and worms, lowers high blood pressure and is

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used for depression,stress and nervous disorders.

If there ever was a single example that makes it dramatically clear why the existence of Health Sciences Institute is so vital to Americans like you, it’s the incredible story behind the Graviola tree.

The truth is stunningly simple: Deep within the Amazon Rainforest grows a tree that could literally revolutionize what you, your doctor, and the rest of the world thinks about cancer treatment and chances of survival. The future has never looked more promising.

Research shows that with extracts from this miraculous tree it now may be possible to:

Attack cancer safely and effectively with an all-natural therapy that does not cause extreme nausea, weight loss and hair loss

Protect your immune system and avoid deadly infectionsFeel stronger and healthier throughout the course of the treatment

Boost your energy and improve your outlook on life

The source of this information is just as stunning: It comes from one of America ‘s largest drug manufacturers, th! e fruit of over 20 laboratory tests conducted since the 1970's! What those tests revealed was nothing short of mind numbing…

Extracts from the tree were shown to:

Effectively target and kill malignant cells in 12 types of cancer, including colon, breast, prostate, lung and pancreatic cancer. The tree compounds proved to be up to 10,000 times stronger in slowing the growth of cancer cells than Adriamycin, a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug!

What’s more, unlike chemotherapy, the compound extracted from the Graviola tree selectively hunts down and kills only cancer cells.. It does not harm healthy cells!

The amazing anti-cancer properties of the Graviola tree have been extensively researched–so why haven’t you heard anything about it? If Graviola extract isOne of America ‘s biggest billion-dollar drug makers began a search for a cancer cure and their research centered on Graviola, a legendary healing tree from the Amazon Rainforest.

Various parts of the Graviola tree–including the bark, leaves, roots, fruit and fruit-seeds–have been used for centuries by medicine men and native Indi! ans in S outh America to treat heart disease, asthma, liver problems and arthritis. Going on very little documented scientific evidence, the company poured money and resources into testing the tree’s anti-cancerous properties–and were shocked by the results. Graviola proved itself to be a cancer-killing dynamo.But that’s where the Graviola story nearly ended.

The company had one huge problem with the Graviola tree–it’s completely

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natural, and so, under federal law, not patentable. There’s no way to make serious profits from it.

It turns out the drug company invested nearly seven years trying to synthesize two of the Graviola tree’s most powerful anti-cancer ingredients. If they could isolate and produce man-made clones of what makes the Graviola so potent, they’d be able to patent it and make their money back. Alas, they hit a brick wall. The original simply could not be replicated. There was no way the company could protect its profits–or even make back the millions it poured into research.

As the dream of huge profits evaporated, their testing on Graviola came to a screeching halt. Even worse, the company shelved the entire project and chose not to publish the findings of its research!

Luckily, however, there was one scientist from the Graviola research team whose conscience wouldn’t let him see such atrocity committed. Risking his career, he contacted a company that’s dedicated to harvesting medical plants from the Amazon Rainforest and blew the whistle.

MIRACLE UNLEASHEDWhen researchers at the Health Sciences Institute were alerted to the news of Graviola,! they be gan tracking the research done on the cancer-killing tree. Evidence of the astounding effectiveness of Graviola–and its shocking cover-up–came in fast and furious….

….The National Cancer Institute performed the first scientific research in 1976. The results showed that Graviola’s “leaves and stems were found effective in attacking and destroying malignant cells.” Inexplicably, the results were published in an internal report and never released to the public…

….Since 1976, Graviola has proven to be an immensely potent cancer killer in 20 independent laboratory tests, yet no double-blind clinical trials–the typical benchmark mainstream doctors and journals use to judge a treatment’s value–were ever initiated….

….A study published in the Journal of Natural Products, following a recent study conducted at Catholic University of South Korea stated that one chemical in Graviola was found to selectively kill colon cancer cells at “10,000 times the potency of (the commonly used chemotherapy drug) Adriamycin…”

….The most significant part of the Catholic University of South Korea report is that Graviola was shown to selectively target the cancer cells, leaving healthy cells untouched. Unlike chemotherapy, which indiscriminately targets all actively reproducing cells (such as stomach and hair cells), causing the often devastating side effects of nausea and hair loss in cancer patients.

…A study at Purdue University recently found that leaves from the Graviola tree killed cancer cells among six human cell lines and were

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especially effective against prostate, pancreatic and lungcancers…. Seven years of silence broken–it’s finally here!

MANGOSTEEN - GARCINIA MANGOSTANAHEALTH BENEFITS When you first hear about how Mangosteen benefits people on a variety of health conditions, you may be shocked by the number of health-enhancing properties this exotic fruit provides.

Doing your own research on this amazing fruit for the health benefits it may

provide your family and friends is time truly well spent. As you take a closer look at Mangosteen, you'll find solid scientific evidence behind the fruit's many healing properties.

1. Anti-fatigue (energy booster)2. Powerful anti-inflammatory (prevents inflammation)3. Analgesic (prevents pain)4. Anti-ulcer (stomach, mouth and bowel ulcers)5. Anti-depressant (low to moderate)6. Anxyolytic (anti-anxiety effect)7. Anti-Alzheimerian (helps prevent dementia)8. Anti-tumor and cancer prevention (multiple categories cited)... shown to be capable of killing cancer cells9. Immunomodulator (multiple categories cited) - helps the immune system10. Anti-aging11. Anti-oxidant12. Anti-viral13. Anti-biotic (modulates bacterial infections)14. Anti-fungal (prevents fungal infections)15. Anti-seborrheaic (prevents skin disorders)16. Anti-lipidemic (blood fat lowering, LDL)17. Anti-atherosclerotic (prevents hardening of arteries)18. Cardioprotective (protects the heart)19. Hypotensive (blood pressure lowering)20. Hypoglycemic (anti-diabetic effect, helps lower blood sugar)

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21. Anti-obesity (helps with weight loss)22. Anti-arthritic (prevention of arthritis)23. Anti-osteoporosis (helps prevent the loss of bone mass)24. Anti-periodontic (prevents gum disease)25. Anti-allergenic (prevents allergic reaction)26. Anti-calculitic (prevents kidney stones)27. Anti-pyretic (fever lowering)28. Anti-Parkinson29. Anti-diarrheal30. Anti-neuralgic (reduces nerve pain)31. Anti-vertigo (prevents dizziness)32. Anti-glaucomic (prevents glaucoma)33. Anti-cataract (prevents cataracts)34. Pansystemic - has a synergistic effect on the whole body—

AVOCADOHealth Benefits

Avocados or also called as alligator pear are the fruit of the tree, which belonging to the family Lauraceae including camphor, cinnamon and bay laurel. These fruits are believed to be originated in Mexico, where the name of “avocado” is derived from

Aztech or Nahuatl word ‘ahuacatl‘, meaning ‘testicle‘ due to the fruit resemblance to a testicle.

The avocados are very popular in vegetarian cuisine, as substitute for meats in sandwiches and salads because of its high fat content. It is used as the base for the Mexican dip known as guacamole, as well as a filling for several kinds of sushi, including California rolls. It is popular in chicken dishes and as a spread on toast, served with salt and pepper.

Avocados are frequently used for milkshakes and occasionally added to ice cream and other desserts. The dessert drink is made with milk, sugar and crushed ice. Chocolate syrup is sometimes added.

Apart from these, avocados are also considered as one of the healthiest foods in the planet because they contain in excess of 25 essential nutrients, including vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, copper, iron, phosporus, magnesium, and potassium. In fact, you would need to eat two or tree bananas to obtain the potassium content of one avocado. Avocados also contain fibre, protein and beneficial phytochemicals such as beta-sitosterol, glutathione and lutein, which help protect against various disease and illness.

Moreover, the avocado is one of the high calorie fruit that you could be

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eating. This is due to its larger amounts of fat content, approximately 20 times the average of other fruits. Although Avocado is high in fat content, but it is mostly the monounsaturated fat which is a healthy fat variety.

Here are some of the health benefits of avocados:

1.Maintain a healthy heart: Avocado contains vitamin B6 and folic acid, which help regulate homocysteine levels. High level of homocysteine is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Besides that, avocado also contains vitamin E, Glutathione and monounsaturated fat which help in maintaining a healthy heart.

2.Lower cholesterol levels:Avocados are rich in a compound called beta-sitosterol which has been shown to be effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels. According to a study, patients with mild hypercholesterolemia who included avocados in their diet for 7 days had 17 percent decrease in total blood cholesterol levels, a 22 percent decrease in both LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels, and a 11 percent increase in HDL (good cholesterol) levels.

3.Control blood pressure:Avocados are also a great source of potassium, which helps in controlling blood pressure levels

4.Anti-Inflammatory properties:Phytonutrient compound found in avocados, such as polyphenols and flavonoids have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, thereby reducing the risk of inflammatory and degenerative disorders.

5.Promote eye health:Avocado is an excellent source of carotenoid lutein, which known to help protect against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

6.Regulate the blood sugar levels:The monounsaturated (good) fats in avocados can reverse insulin resistance, which helping to regulate the blood sugar levels. Avocados also contain more soluble fiber, which keep a steady blood sugar levels.

7.Prevent birth defects:Avocados are rich in folate, a B vitamin commonly known as folic acid. One cup of avocado provides you about 23% of the Daily Value for folate. The high amount of folate in avocado is essential in the prevention of birth defects, such as neural tube defect and spina bifida.

8.Reduce strokes risk:

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The high levels of folate in avocados also protect against stroke. A study has shown individuals who ate a diet rich in folate had a lower risk of stroke than those who don't.

9.Protect against cancer:Many studies have shown that avocado can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. The oleic acid in avocado is also effective in preventing breast cancer.

10.Fight free radicals:Avocados contain glutathione, a powerful antioxidants to helps fight free radicals in the body.

11.Anti-aging properties:Being rich in antioxidants, avocado is beneficial in preventing aging symptoms. The glutathione in avocado may boosts immune systems, slows the aging process, and encourages a healthy nervous system.

12.Cure bad breath:Avocados are one of the best natural mouth wash and bad breath remedies. It is cleanses intestine which is the real cause of coated tongue and this unpleasant condition.

13.Increase nutrient absorption:Avocado intake is linked with increased nutrient absorption. A study suggests that, when participants ate salad included avocados, they absorbed five times the amount of carotenoids (a group of nutrients that includes beta carotene and lycopene) than those who do not include avocados.

14.Skin Care:The avocado oil is added in many cosmetics because of its ability to nourish the skin and make your skin glow. It also aids in treating psoriasis, a skin disease that causes skin redness and irritation.

15.Weight gain:The avocado has 200 calories for 100 grams. Typically, fruits has approximately 60-80 calories for 100 grams. Due to the high amounts of calories, avocado is a best diet for people who want to gain weight. Avocado is a healthy source of calories, unlike many other calorie-dense foods that may contain excess saturated fats and sugar.

FAT BURNING AVOCADO RECIPES:Store avocados at room temperature until ripened and ready to use, refrigerate ripe avocados. Store open avocado in an airtight container to prevent oxidation, the browning of the avocado due to oxygen.

• Chop ½ avocado and add it to your favorite salad.• Slice 1 avocado, ½ onion and 2 tomatoes for a quick salad.• Mash 1 avocado then whip for a healthy mayonnaise alternative.

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Also doubles as a delicious dip!• Chop 1 avocado and add to ½ cup each black beans, corn and chopped onion for a light non-traditional salsa.• Add sliced avocado to deli sandwiches for a creamy rich flavor that also provides you with health-boosting nutrients.

Taking advantage of the health promoting and fat burning benefits of avocado is easy. Use these recipes to jump start your fat burning process, and don’t let the misinformation and half-truths floating about avocado scare you.

When eaten in moderation—less that 1 avocado a day—you can enjoy all the health benefits of avocado while you lose weight!

PHILIPPINE MEDICINAL PLANT : BANABA

BANABA, the scientific name of which is Lagerstroemia speciosaA decidious tropical flowering tree,

5 to 10 m high, sometimes growing to a height of 20 meters. Leaves, large, spatulate, oblong to elliptic-ovate, 2-4 inches in width, 5-8 inches in length; shedding its leaves the first months of the year. Before shedding, the leaves are bright orange or red during which time it is thought to contain higher levels of corosolic acid). Flowers are racemes, pink to lavender; flowering from March to June. After flowering, the tree bears large clumps of oval nutlike fruits.

STUDIES :

• Diabetes: 

(1) Banaba has been extensively studied for its application in the treatment of diabetes. Early on, Its ability to lower blood sugar was attributed to corosolic acid, a triterpenoid glycoside, belived to facilitate glucose-transport into cells. 

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(2) Studied with abutra, akapulko, makabuhay for antidiabetic activity through activation of gucose transporter activity. One of the active principles from Banaba was the tripertene, corosolic aicd.

• Weight loss: Studies in mice suggest an antiobesity effect. It is becoming a common ingredient in weight-loss supplements / products as a metabolic enhancer.

• Hypertension:It is also being studied for its use in the treatment of blood pressure, renal and immune system benefits.

• Lipid-lowering: Studies in mice suggest a lipid lowering effect - decreasing triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. To date, no toxicity has been identified.

• Hypoglycemic Activity of Irradiated Banaba Leaves: Study showed the effects of nBLE and iBLE were comparable to the hypoglycemic effects of insulin.

• Xanthine oxidase inhibitors from the leaves of Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers: Xanthine oxidase is a key enzyme involved with hyperuricemia, catalyzing the oxidation of hypoxanthine to xanthine to uric aicd. The study supports the dietary use of the aqueous extracts from Banaba leaves for the prevention and treatment of hyperuricemia.

• Antidiabetic Activity: Study showed a significant reduction of blood glucose levels with the soft gel formulation showing better bioavailability than a dry-powder formulation.

• Other studies report potential uses:

(1) antibacterial effects from seed extracts (2) significant protection of HIV-infected cells by ellagic acid constituents (3) antioxidative activity of a water extract (4) inhibition of xanthine oxidase by aqueous extract,  31 and anti-inflammatory activity in mice.

• Anti-Inflammatory / Free Radical Scavenging: Study showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities from the ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts of Lagerstroemia speciosa.

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TOMATOES

Origin And Distribution

Tomatoes originated in South America and Central America. The name tomato is got from the spanish word 'tomatl'. The original native tomato was small and yellow coloured rather than the red coloured tomato we see today. The Spanish people were the ones who spread the tomato throughout the Americas

during the Spanish colonisation, and their colonies in the Caribbean and by taking the tomato seeds with them, when they went to Europe and the Philippines, from where it spread to other Asian countries.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Tomatoes are the one of the most grown garden fruits in the USA and about 7500 varieties are grown worldwide. They are plucked unripe and ripened in storage with Ethylene or without.

Tomatoes release ethylene gas naturally and hence placing a ripe tomato with the unripe ones and covering them with newspapers and putting in a

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box or keeping them in paper bag ,hastens the ripening process. A ripe banana or apple also releases ethylene and can be used in place of the ripe tomato.

Tomatoes are available throughout the year, fresh or preserved.

Tomatoes are best stored at room temperature although they can be stored in a fridge with some loss of taste and flavour. A big and firm tomato is the best. 

Tomatoes can be consumed in a variety of ways, raw, boiled, as juice, soup, salad ,ketchup etc. Because of their acidic nature, tomatoes can be canned very well.

Tomatoes have the capacity to react with aluminium and therefore should not be cooked in an aluminium vessel. The aluminium leaks in to the tomatoesmaking it bitter and changing its colour. The vessel too gets discoloured.

Tomatoes should best be eaten on an empty stomach and not to eat anything an hour after this.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION AND HEALTH BENEFITS

Tomato is a rich source of antioxidants Beta Carotene, Lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin. 

Tomatoes have more vitamin A, B and C as compared to an oranges or grapes, on a weight to weight ratio. The vitamins in tomato are not destroyed by heat.

Four tomatoes a day fulfils the body's daily requirement of vitamin A. The vitamin C content removes toxins from the body. Tomatoes contain more lime than vegetables and fruits. Lime is what makes the bones and teeth strong.Tomatoes also have a very high Iron content.

In pregnancy, extra iron is needed on a daily basis and tomatoes can really be a great help here, in preventing anaemia in pregnancy. It would not be out of context to mention her that tomato has 5 times as much iron as an egg.

Drinking a glass of tomato juice increases the hemoglobin levels.

Tomatoes give strength to the liver and lungs, increase memory, reduce blood pressure, reduce obesity and prevent skin diseases.

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FRUITY BEAUTY TREATMENTS

Next time you feel in need of some pampering, head not for the beauty salon but for your fruit bowl instead! Like centuries of beautiful women before you, discover the goodness to be had in the fruits of nature.

A quick glance along the shelves of beauty products will show you that many of them boast a natural fruit base, but, if you take a closer look at the list of ingredients you’ll find that real fruit makes up a very small percentage of the total

content.With today’s woman wanting a more natural, environmentally-

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friendly and ethical approach to beauty care, what better place to begin than at home with everyday fruit and veg?

Many fruits contain vitamins, enzymes and antioxidants, all of which can help your skin. So let’s begin with the favourite of old wives’: a slice of cucumber placed on each eyelid for 15 minutes really does help reduce puffiness. Similarly slices of kiwi will help to eliminate any dark circles under your eyes and give you a wide-awake feeling, while slices of avocado applied regularly under each eye for about 20 minutes will gradually improve the appearance.

EXFOLIATION

Exfoliation is getting rid of the old dead cells on the surface of your skin. Skin cells are constantly being replaced but the new young cells can be hidden by the dull dead ones. There are many fruit masks you can make easily at home that will help this removal process.

> It’s recommended that you treat your face once a week.> Wash and pat dry your face before using any of the treatments.

ORANGESqueeze the juice and pulp from half an orange into a bowl. Add 4 tablespoons polenta and mix well. Spread over your face and, using small circular movements, rub the skin gently for 2 – 3 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and splash with cold.

MOISTURISE.Alternatively, to make a good mask for oily skin, combine the juice and pulp of an orange with an egg yolk. Apply to damp skin and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse off.

BANANATo tone and moisturise your skin peel a banana. Mash it with a teaspoonful of honey and apply to your face. Leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and splash with cold.

Bananas help fight wrinkles!

PINEAPPLEPineapple is an excellent cleanser and exfoliant. Blend together half a cup of fresh pineapple and 3 tablespoons olive oil. Apply to your face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, splash with cold and pat dry.

KIWIKiwi contains more vitamin C than any other fruit and vitamin C is very good for your skin, helping to rejuvenate and hydrate it. Kiwi is also rich in vitamin E, which helps in healing damaged skin tissue.Peel a kiwi fruit and pop in the blender. Peel half a cucumber and add that to the blender along with about 5 strawberries. Whiz together then add a

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spoonful of oatmeal and whiz again. If it’s still very runny, add a little more oatmeal. Apply to your face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, splash with cold and pat dry.

AVOCADOAvocados were used by ancient civilisations as a beauty aid and their value is scientifically-proven today. For super-soft skin, peel and mash half an avocado and apply to your face. Leave it on for about 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water and patting dry.

VINEGAR RINSESVinegar rinses relieve itchy scalp, dandruff, and dull hair and restore the

scalp’s natural acid mantle. They are best for normal and oily hair, rather

than dry. Use white vinegar for blondes, apple cider vinegar for brunettes,

and red wine vinegar for red-heads. Leave the rinse on for at least five

minutes if you are going to rinse it out. You can, however, leave it on and

any smell will disappear once the hair is dry.

From "Herbal Hair Care," by Cristi Nunziata Herb blend: For blondes, calendula and chamomile; For dark hair, nettle and marshmallow; or make up your own Apple cider vinegar A few drops of essential oil Distilled water

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1. Fill a quart jar half way with herbs. Cover with vinegar and cap tightly.

Place the jar in a warm spot for 2-3 weeks, shaking daily.

2. Strain the vinegar and add essential oils. Store in a plastic bottle.

3. Dilute the rinse with distilled water. For oily hair, dilute one part rinse

with four parts water. For dry hair, dilute one part rinse with six parts

water. After shampooing and rinsing, pour vinegar rinse slowly over hair,

massaging it into the scalp. Rinse with water.

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