Most people give little thought to the tiny wrinkled drupes that serve as seasoning and proverbial companion to table salt. But, as it turns out, black pepper as a lot more going for itself – and for you. In fact, it deserves a place in the apothecary as much as it does the spice rack. The first activity black pepper exerts occurs as soon as it hits your tongue. Like herbal bitters, the spice is thought to enhance digestion by stimulating the secretion of saliva. Studies indicate that pepper may work in the gastrointestinal tract as well, increasing the production of digestive enzymes to assist in moving food through the gut and enhance nutrient absorption. You may have heard that black pepp
Your morning cup of java may do more than clear away drowsiness; it may also protect your neural cells from oxidative damage that leads to cognitive decline. According to a recent study conducted by researchers at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, two coffee components, working together synergistically, may reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease and other forms of dementia that are characterized by abnormal deposits of proteins inside nerve cells called with Lewy bodies, or DLB. The study, funded by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, and published in the December 19, 2019 issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, revealed that caffeine an
Few things are worse than an annoying tickle in the back of the throat, or a relentless, hacking cough that seems to hang on forever. Conventional cough syrups can help with symptoms, but they are usually laden with alcohol and other ingredients that cause drowsiness or are otherwise unsuitable for some people, including children. Fortunately, there are several few herbal allies that are effective at reducing congestion and cough we can turn to. Sage (Salvia officinalis) is an excellent cough-suppressant with the added benefits of being antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory. This time-honored remedy is particularly effective if sore throat is present. Several studies have demonstrat
Yet another reason to love chocolate (as if you needed one)! According to researchers at the University of Hull in Yorkshire, England, chocolate may be more effective at calming a nagging cough than cough syrup. At least that’s the effect they observed in the 163 patients that participated in their study. This isn’t new news, actually. A small study conducted at the Imperial College London previously found that the enzyme theobromine in chocolate seems to be responsible for its demulcent effects. It seems that this enzyme inhibits activity of vagal nerves, which would otherwise trigger the cough response. Aside from the palate pleasing factor, a does of chocolate instead of cough syrup sugg
Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a small shrub native to India that is now cultivated in temperate regions throughout the world, most notably in the Middle East, Asia and the Mediterranean. Both the seeds and juice of the fruits are enjoyed in various world cuisines. While the juice is more commonly consumed in North America, the seeds are widely used in India and Asia in cooking and to produce spices. The seeds, which are highly nutritious, have also been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine. Now, researchers think that eating pomegranates may help people who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD refers to either of two conditions -- Crohn’s disease and ulcerative
This is a rich, nutrient-dense treat that delivers an abundance of sweetness without the fat or calories -- or a mound of mixing bowls and baking dishes to clean up. It's also very versatile. The herbs suggested here are in powdered form for ease of mixing and improved texture and were selected for their adaptogen and antioxidant qualities, but you can certainly make substitutions. Similarly, feel free to swap out the tahini (sesame paste) with your favorite nut butter, or maple syrup for the honey. You could also substitute carob for final rolling/dusting with melted chocolate and shredded coconut. As long as you keep the ingredient proportions more or less the same, you really can't go wr
This spirited scent is uplifting, yet warm, embracing and sensual at the same time. The perfect aromatic inspiration for the start of the new year and new ventures! Ingredients 10 ml sweet almond or jojoba oil 2 drops bergamot essential oil 2 drops neroli (orange blossom) essential oil 2 drops frankincense essential oil 2 drops myrrh essential oil 2 drops ginger essential oil Directions Combine all ingredients in a 1/3 fluid ounce glass bottle with a roll-on applicator (or a glass bottle with cap, if you can't find a roll-on type). Cap the bottle and gently roll between the palms of your hands to mix. If you want to make a quantity of perfume, adjust the ingredient measures according t
