Tools for Natural Living

Pumpkin seed oil is a nutrient-rich oil cold-pressed from pumpkin seeds. It is also known as green gold, a reference to its abundant antioxidant content, as well as a generous amount of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Pumpkin seed oil also provides vitamins A, E and C, zinc, magnesium, tryptophan and linoleic and oleic fatty acids. Pumpkin seed oil has been extensively studied for its beneficial effects on the male prostate. Some background: As a man ages, there is typicall

This formula contains some of the best topical herbs for inflammation. Chickweed, for instance, is astringent and contains beneficial fatty acids to help counter hot, itchy rashes. Calendula, yarrow and Oregon grape root offer anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Together in a rich base of sweet almond oil, this salve is soothing and nourishing for all types of inflammatory skin conditions. Ingredients 1 1/2 cups organic sweet almond oil 3 tablespoon

The word “mushroom” conjures a number of associations for people. For many, the image of a wildly colorful fungus or toadstool comes to mind. While botanically correct, this connotation may be less than appealing, especially regarding ‘shrooms with oddball names like stinkhorn and yellow-pored scaber-stalk. But this extraordinary and diverse group of organisms play an important role in the ecosystem. They form the mycelium, the network of filaments (hyphae) that reside underg

Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus), also known as globe artichoke, is a common vegetable in the thistle family that is native to the Mediterranean region and now widely cultivated throughout temperate areas of Europe and North America. In recent years, the plant has been studied for its effectiveness is lowering cholesterol and in improving liver function. Most recently, scientists have found that compounds in the leaf may offer a viable therapy for non-alcoholic f

Image Credit: Jules/Creative Commons* You may have come across a recipe at some point that called for preserved lemons but didn't have a clue as to what they were. Preserved lemons, also known in various parts of the world as country lemons, lemon pickles and leems, are widely used in Middle Eastern, Indian and Moroccan cuisines. In Morocco, in particular, they are called Hamad m’rakhad, L'hamb Mssayr and most affectionately as Lim mraqqed, which means "lemons put to sleep."

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) may help to alleviate worsening symptoms of schizophrenia, such as social withdrawal. Typically, these symptoms are more difficult to manage than others, like hallucinations. Currently, the standard treatment involves anti-psychotic drugs. A team led by K.N. Roy Chengappa, M.D., FRCPC of the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Cente

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a compact shrubby plant in the nightshade family, making it a botanical cousin to the potato and tomato. Its species name comes from Latin to mean "induce sleep." Its common name comes from Hindu and translates to "horse smell," a reference to the fact that the plant emits a leathery, horse-like aroma. The herb is also known by many other common names, among them koorshout, penneroo-gadda, winter cherry and, because it is used in the Ayurve

Trying to shed a few pounds ? There are no shorts cuts or magic bullets; diet and exercise are and will always be key to success. Still, certain botanicals may help you to achieve your goal and stick to your healthy lifestyle. As an added bonus, these herbs and spices are loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that your body will love! Chia Seed Known as a “super food,” chia seeds absorb up to 10 times their weight in water and take on a gelatinous quality when introduced to

Most people are familiar with St. John’s wort’s benefit in addressing mild depression. The herb is rich in a variety of flavonoids that collectively inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO), the enzyme responsible for disrupting the function of neurotransmitters. serotonin and norepinephrine. These compounds, which include kaempferol, quercitin, myricetin, hyperoside, luteolin and rutin, also play a role in regulating serotonin and norepinephrine levels, the “feel good” brain chemical