Valuable Benefits of Essential Oil of Vetiver

Vetiver is a perennial bunchgrass, which shares characteristics with other fragrant grasses such as lemongrass and citronella. It is native to India, where it is known as 'khus' and is also cultivated in Indonesia, Haiti and Reunion. It is used in ayurveda to balance Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The vetiver plant can grow up to 150 centimeters or five feet tall. It forms clumps and has tall stems, long, thin leaves and brownish-purple flowers. The roots grow downwards, unlike most grasses, in which the roots spread horizontally. The vetiver plant is drought tolerant. Essential oil of vetiver is extracted through steam distillation of the plant's roots. Vetiver grass helps stabilize the soil and protect it against erosion as well as protect the fields against pests and weeds. It has good qualities as an animal food. The oil is used in cosmetics, aromatherapy, perfumes, herbal skincare and ayurvedic soap.

 As the grass has fibrous properties, it can be used for handcrafts and ropes. Vetiver grass has a pleasant, mild, earthy scent, which cools the body and calms the mind. In the tropical places where it grows, it has also been used on thatched roofs and even as curtains on doors and windows. It cools and scents the room as well as keeps the insects away. Vetiver essential oil blends well with benzoin, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, ylang ylang, clary sage, rose, sandlewood and frankinsence. In a blend, the qualities of vetiver oil as well as the other oils in the blend are heightened. Essential oil of vetiver is popular in the perfume industry because of its refreshing lemon-like aroma. 

 Valuable Benefits of Essential Oil of Vetiver 

Vetiver oil has effective anti-inflammatory properties. It is cooling and soothing and relieves inflammation in the circulatory and nervous systems. It is one of the best oils for general pain relief and has been effectively used in cases of rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain and headache. Vetiver essential oil is a tonic for the nerves and heals damaage casued by shock, stress and fear. It can help with various nervous disorders, including epileptic fits and hysteria attacks and neurotic disorders. It has an uplifting effect in cases of depression. It is a great sedative, having a relaxing effect and inducing sleep. It has been beneficial in cases of Parkinson's disease and when there are spasms and a lack of control over the limbs.Vetiver oil is known to be very grounding. Veitver oil has been used with success to help children with ADHD. If inhaled, it can improve focus and concentration and is generally beneficial for brain health. Essential oil of vetiver has strong antiseptic properties, It can stop the growth of bacteria that causes sepsis and for this it is sometimes taken internally. It can be applied topically to wounds and promotes the growth of new tissue in the wounded area. It prevents wounds from becoming infected by inhibiting the growth of microbes. It is popular for wound healing in the tropical countries in which it grows as wounds can turn septic fast due to the the hot, humid conditions. It is often added to face washes and soaps as it has antibacterial qualities.

 Essential oil of vetiver is well-known for its cicatrisant properties so it can help scars and other marks on the skin to disappear.It helps facilitate the growth of new tissues in affected areas which enables the skin to maintain an even, uniform look. It is very good for eliminating post delivery stretch marks and other spots left by pox or burns. It's antibacterial properties promote the healing of acne. It is effective against eczema, reducing redness, dryness and flaking of skin. A few drops of vetiver added to face washes, body soaps or lotions, will do wonders for the skin, including having an anti-ageing effect. If used with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba, its anti-inflammatory qualities will be enhanced. Vetiver is a good general tonic as it facilitates the regeneration of the body and tones all its systems, boosting immune and metabolic function. It is high in antioxidants that possess free radical scavenging benefits and therefore, removes toxins. Vetiver essential oil has been found to inhibit damage to the DNA and to reduce renal toxicity. It can also work as an aphrodisiac. Essential oil of vetiver is effective at warding off ticks and therefore helping to stop the spread of Lyme disease. It has also worked well against termites and can work as an insect repellent. A blend of vetiver, clove, citronella and lemongrass makes a good bug repellent spray. Vetiver oil is a strong head lice repellent and improves scalp health. It also heals any inflammation the lice could cause to the scalp. Essential oil of vetiver is believed to be able to help relieve some of the toxic effects of chemotherapy because of its antioxidant properties.

 How to Use Essential Oil of Vetiver 

A drop of essential oil of vetiver can be added to hot tea in winter to boost immunity and help heal sepsis. It is important if using essential oils internally to dilute them properly and use a low dosage. Vetiver oil makes a wonderful addition to a massage blend. It goes well with a base oil such as coconut or jojoba and promotes circulation and relaxation. For deep relaxation after a busy day, vetiver oil can be added to a bath. This will help promote sleep too. This is a great way to unwind and relieve stress. Another stress reliever is to diffuse it throughout the room blended with lavender and wild orange. It can be applied to the wrists and neck. Blended with a citrus oil and diffused throughout a classroom, it will improve concentration. Put a drop in cocount oil and apply to the face to cleanse the face. Add it to face washes, body lotions and shampoos to benefit the skin and hair. If mixed with baking soda, vinegar and water, it will be effective as a natural house cleaner. 

Risks of Essential Oil of Vetiver 

As with all essential oils, a patch test should be done on the skin with essential oil of vetiver to check for skin sensitivity. Excessive use of any oil over time can lead to sensitization. Essential oil of vetiver should be kept out of the ears, eyes and nose. If using internally, dilute well and use only a low dosage. Consult a health care practitioner if using essential oil of vetiver while on medication or if you are pregnant. Essential oil of vetiver should be used with caution during pregnancy especially during the first trimester. Never use any essential oil in a way not recommended by its maker. If ever an adverse reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately.

 Buying and Storing Essential Oil of Vetiver

It is important to buy good quality essential oils as there is a lack of industry regulations on terms such as 'pure' and 'natural'. Make sure the producers of the oil use proper plant varieties that are grown indigenously and organically without pestcides and herbicides. The oils should be harvested and extracted correctly tp preserve the oil molecules and the producer should stand behind internal use of their oils. As with all essential oils, essential oil of vetiver should be purchased and stored in dark glass bottles and kept in a cool, dark cupboard away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children

Astonishing Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera, often grown as an ornamental plant, is also well-known  for the health benefits provided by its gel, juice, latex and extracts. Aloe vera grows wild in tropical areas. It is a succulent plant that stores water in its leaves so it can also survive in areas of low rainfall. It doesn't grow in areas of heavy frost or snow. It is either stemless or has a very short stem. It reaches a height of anywhere between 60 and 100 cm. The leaves are thick and fleshy, with serrated edges. The plant flowers in summer and spreads by offsets.

 Each aloe vera leaf is full of a clear, slimy, jelly-like tissue that stores water. This is the gel from the cells in the center of the leaf. It can be used in topical applications to treat burns and skin problems or made into the juice. Aloe vera contains many nutrients including amino acids, proteins, antioxidants and vitamins . It is one of the few plant sources of vitamin B12. The latex, which is yellow in color and comes from cells under the leaf skin, also has medicinal value.There is large-scale production of aloe vera for the cosmetic industry and aloe vera gel is also used commercially as an ingredient in yoghurt, beverages and some desserts.

Astonishing Benefits of Aloe Vera

Consuming aloe vera boosts the immune system. Aloe vera is full of antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which inhibit the  growth of infection-causing bacteria. Enzymes contained in aloe vera break down proteins into amino acids, which then nourish all the cells of the body, enabling them to function well, stimulating the immune system. Zinc is present in aloe vera, which helps protect cell membrane function.

Aloe vera used in a mouthwash or added to toothpaste is effective in reducing plaque build up on the teeth as it kills plaque-causing bacteria. Aloe vera also facilitates the healing of mouth sores and ulcers and accelerates the healing of cold sores. Apply it several times a day.

Aloe vera can be applied topically for the rapid healing of minor burns, sores, sunburn and skin infections. It reduces the itching and burning sensation that  accompanies dermatitis and helps in the treatment of psoriasis.

Aloe vera generally benefits the skin and prevents wrinkles. It can be applied topically to increase  collagen production, which improves the skin's elasticity. It can reduce redness and irritation of the skin. Its antioxidants and vitamins also help reduce the  effects of exposure to the sun's UV rays and cigarette smoke. Aloe vera gel can be added   to natural skin lotions.

Aloe vera is believed to enhance insulin sensitivity and improve blood sugar management so it could be beneficial for those with diabetes.

Aloe vera juice is alkaline and to maintain the acid/ alkaline and PH balance in the body, it is necessary to consume alkaline foods and beverages.

Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory and laxative components, which provide many benefits, including the reduction of yeast formation and facilitating digestion. Aloe vera encourages friendly bacteria in the gut and reduces flatulence. It contains enzymes that help break down sugars and fats. It helps heal gastric ulcers and restores the stomach lining and can ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Aloe vera juice is beneficial in cases of constipation as it increases the water content of the gut, which stimulates peristalsis. Aloe vera is water dense and contributes to keeping the body hydrated. It benefits the liver and kidneys and helps in general detoxification of the body. It is good to drink aloe vera juice after a work out as this will help eliminate lactic acid.

Aloe vera is very beneficial for the hair and scalp. It can relieve a dry, irritated scalp and eliminate dandruff. It has a similar composition to keratin, the protein in hair and acts as a wonderful conditioner. It is often found in hair care products and helps promote hair growth, prevent falling hair and leaves the hair smooth and shiny. It increases the elasticity of the hair, preventing breakage. The enzymes in aloe vera gel  can  eliminate dead skin cells from the scalp and encourage regeneration of the skin tissue around the hair follicle. Aloe vera gel can be added to shampoo.

Risks of Aloe Vera

Some people have reported gastroinestinal upsets and liver inflammation when drinking aloe vera juice for more than a few weeks.

Pregnant women should not use aloe vera gel or latex as it could induce miscarriage or cause birth defects.

Aloe vera juice that has not been processed carefully may contain some of the yellow latex found under the  skin of the leaf. This is a stimulant laxative which can cause cramp and diarrhea and irritate the colon. The latex should be completely avoided in the case of Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and obstruction. It can also worsen hemarrhoids and kidney problems.

Aloe vera can interact with some medications. Consult a healthcare practitioner if taking medication before using  aloe vera  products. Don't use aloe vera products before surgery as they can affect blood sugar levels. Stop taking them two weeks before surgery.

Care should be taken by people with diabetes when using aloe vera products as they have been known to lower blood sugar levels. Monitor blood sugar levels closely when using them.

In some people aloe vera products have been found to dehydrate the skin cells.

Growing an  Aloe Vera  Plant

Aloe vera plants are popular to grow in the garden as ornamental plants. They are popular for their flowers, form and succulence.  They can also be grown indoors in a pot. If growing an aloe vera plant indoors, keep it in a window that gets alot of sun. It can be put outside in the summer. It is a succulent plant and stores water in its leaves. Therefore, it only needs to be watered two or three times a month. In winter it is dormant and only needs a little water. It should be kept inside during very cold temperatures as it cannot thrive in conditions of frost or snow. An aloe vera plant needs to be grown in a well-drained pot, such as a porous terracotta pot, in good quality cacti succulent sandy potting mix. It should be left to dry completely after every watering before being re-watered. Plants that have become crowded with growth should be divided and repotted to allow further growth and prevent pest infestation.

Purchasing and Storing Aloe Vera

Many aloe vera products from the gel, juice, latex and extracts can be bought in health stores. Be careful to check the quality of the product you are buying. The International Aloe Science Council developed a certification program that validates the quality and quantity of aloe vera in approved commercial products. Check the label carefully for this certification when buying aloe vera products.Aloe vera juice is different from the topical gel version of aloe vera, so make sure the label specifies the use of the product you are buying. Aloe vera juice should be purified, decolorized, organic and safety-tested. If not, it could cause adverse effects.

Aloe vera juice should always be kept refridgerated as it will last longer. Once a leaf is cut from the aloe vera plant, the natural enzymes and bacteria break down the active ingredients. As they degrade, their healing abilities decline. Correct processing and storage slows this process down. For this reason, if harvesting the gel directly from the plant, take only what you need at a time and prepare and use it within a few days.

Marvellous Benefits of Mint

Popular mint with its refreshing aroma is easy to grow and makes a great addition to beverages as well as various dishes and sauces.It is an ingredient in tourareg tea, which is popular in North African and Arab countries. Mint can be found growing naturally in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and North America.It grows in many places but does better in wet environments with moist soils. There are several different species of mint, which is generally a perennial herb. Mint plants reach anywhere between 10-120 centimeters tall and they can spread over a large area. Because of this, they are sometimes considered invasive. However, they can make good companion plants because of their ability to attract beneficial insects and repel pests. They are susceptible to white fly and aphids. Mint can be harvested at any time and the fresh leaves are best used immediately although they can be stored in the fridge in plastic bags for a few days. The essential oil of mint is used alot in breath fresheners, antiseptic mouth rinses and toothpastes. 

Marvellous Benefits of Mint 

The powerfully refreshing scent of mint makes it helpful in relieving headaches and nausea. Rubbing balm containing mint onto the forehead or temples is effective. Mint is soothing and can ease the inflammation and rise in temperature that often accompanies headaches and migraines. Mint is beneficial in clearing the congestion in the nose and chest that occurs with the common cold as well as in cases of asthma. Mint tea can also soothe a sore throat and the irritation of a persistent cough. Its relaxant qualities help with this also. The menthol in mint helps to break up phlegm and mucous, making it easier to expel.                  A cup of mint tea can work wonders in cases of indigestion, gas and bloating. It can also ease irritable bowel symptoms and nausea, including the nausea brought on by motion sickness. Mint is believed to facilitate bile flow, which also helps digestion. The menthol it contains protects the stomach lining, stopping gastric ulcers from forming. Brazilian mint works very well in this capacity when taken as a tea.                                                                 The scent of mint is uplifting and having fresh mint around or diffusing mint oil throughout a room can calm anxiety and lift depression and sluggishness. It stimulates qualities of alertness, cognitive function and memory retention. One of the first uses of mint in Europe was as a room deodorizer.                                        Application of mint oil can relieve the nipple pain and cracks that can occur with breastfeeding.                                                       Mint has one of the highest anti-oxidant capacities of any food. There are enzymes found in mint which may help prevent and treat cancer. 
                                                   

        Mint can be added to beverages in summer to facilitate cooling down but if it is consumed by someone with a fever, it will induce sweating, which helps break the fever and facilitate recovery.                                                                                                                       Mint juice can be applied to burns and also to rheumatic joints. Mint essential oil has been used in aromatherapy to help relieve post-surgery nausea. 
  Mint juice is a fantastic skin cleanser, which helps reduce pimples and acne. It can cure skin infections and itchiness and is very effective when applied to insect bites. Its anti-inflammatory qualities reduce swelling. Mint often appears in insect repellent products as many insects don't like the scent.  Mint generally benefits digestion and can assist weight loss by stimulating the digestive enzymes that absorb nutrients from food and turn fat into energy.

 Mint is fantastic for dental care. It has germicidal qualities and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria. It cleans the teeth and tongue and is a wonderful breath freshener so it is commonly found in dental products. Mint leaves can be chewed or rubbed directly onto the teeth and gums. The antiseptic qualities of mint make it useful for skin care. Mint leaf extracts inhibit the release of certain chemicals, which aggravate the nasal symptoms of allergies and hay fever. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties also make it useful for relieving the discomfort of allergy symptoms. In the garden, mint  makes a wonderful companion plant. It is rich in nectar and pollen so it will encourage beneficial insects but it will discourage pests.                                                                                        How to Use Mint 
   

 When added to a variety of dishes, mint gives a them a great flavor without adding calories, sugar or sodium. I always love new potatoes cooked with mint. Mint leaves, like cilantro and basil, are tender with gentle stems. They are best used raw or added at the end of cooking to maintain flavor and texture. Mint should be cut gently and with a sharp knife to avoid losing the flavor. Mint is a great addition to a cool beverage on a hot summer day. It adds a nice flavor to iced water. It can also be consumed as a warm tea, which is great for helping digestion and peppermint, in particular, can ease indigestion and gas. Mint can be applied to the skin in cases of insect bites, itchiness and swelling. Mint leaves can be chewed to freshen breath. A sprig of mint, along with thyme and wormwood can be put near a pet's bed to ward off fleas. Fresh mint in a room can act as an air freshener. Mint oil can also be diffused throughout the room. Mint oils can also be added to home cleaners, which leaves a nice scent .

  Risks of Mint 

Some people have an allergic reaction to mint and experience symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, headaches, heartburn, tingling or numbing around the mouth, anaphylaxis or contact dermatitis. So in this case, it should be avoided. Do not use mint if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease as mint can aggravate it. Pure menthol is poisonous and should not be taken internally. Don't put mint oil onto the face of a baby or a small child as it may cause spasms that make breathing difficult. Be careful with mint products if you are suffering from gallstones If taking medications, consult a health practitioner to find out whether the mint products could interact with the medications. 

Storing Mint 

Mint is an easy herb to cultivate in pots or in the garden but if purchasing it, be sure to buy mint plants that have bright, unmarked leaves. Mint can be stored in plastic bags or plastic wrap for about a week in the fridge. The leaves can also be dried and stored in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. If purchasing mint oils, buy them in dark, glass bottles and store them in a cool place away from direct sunlight.

Amazing Health Benefits of Essential Oil of Rosemary

Essential oil of rosemary is a popular, versatile oil. The rosemary bush, from which the oil comes, belongs to the mint family, which also includes basil, lavendar, myrtle and sage. The essential oil of rosemary is extracted from the leaves and flowering tops by steam distillation. The rosemary plant is bushy with small leaves. It grows well in soil with moderate sun exposure. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has a wonderfully uplifting taste and aroma. 

 Rosemary in its different forms has been used throughout history in different cultures. The Romans used it in religious and wedding ceremonies as well as in cooking and medicinal practices. The plant has a warm, astringent taste and is often added to soups, sauces, roasts, stews and stuffings. The Ancient Egyptians used it as incense. Rosemary was considered sacred by the Egyptians, Hebrews, Greeks and Romans. In the Middle Ages, it was used to ward off evil spirits and to give protection from the plague. Essential oil of rosemary has a refreshing smell. It is clear in color and watery in texture. 

Amazing Health Benefits of Essential Oil of Rosemary 

Rosemary oil is renowned for its use in hair care. It can be added to hair care products and regular use stimulates the hair follicles, resulting in longer, stronger hair. It slows down hair loss and greying hair and is a great tonic against baldness. It is of great benefit to the scalp, preventing dryness, flakiness and dandruff. Application of rosemary oil assists in the control of oil production over the entire scalp. 
 Along with hair care, rosemary is a favorite for use in skin care and skin care products. With its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, it is great for clearing up dermatitis, eczema and acne. It can be blended with other oils and a carrier oil and used in massage to improve skin tone and reduce dryness. It contributes to giving the skin a healthy and youthful glow. Rosemary oil has an anti-ageing effect on the skin. It reduces swelling, stimulates cell regeneration, firms the skin, enhances skin tone and increases blood circulation to the skin. Its anti-oxidants and vitamins give the skin a youthful look. It can also decrease swellings from wounds and insect bites. Rosemary is great to use in a mouthwash. Its disinfectant qualities eliminate oral bacteria and prevent bad breath, plaque build up, gingivitis and cavities. It can also be used in a gargle to swish around in the mouth but not to swallow. 
Rosemary has achieved recognition for boosting mental activity. It can improve memory retention and focus and is recommended to assist with studying. The carnosic acid it contains has neuro-protective properties, which enhance mood and memory as well as provide benefits to Alzheimer's patients. It is a mood uplifter and can reduce feelings of stress in anxiety sufferers. Inhaling rosemary has a calming effect on the nervous system. 

Rosemary functions as an immune-system strengthener. It has active anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic components, which give protection against a variety of diseases. It contains carnosol and carnosic acid, which inhibit the creation of excessive nitric oxide, therefore making it useful against inflammation. 
Rosemary can act as an appetite stimulant and the small leaves from the plant are often added to dishes to assist digestion. Rosemary can relieve indigestion, flatulence, cramps and bloating, as well as assist in detoxification of the liver. It helps to reduce cirrohsis of the liver, which is one of the slowest organs to heal. Being  slightly diuretic, rosemary can assist kidney function, flushing out toxins during urination. Again, the oil should not be ingested orally but can be applied through massage or inhalatiion. However, the leaves of the plant can be added to dishes. The plant is used in many cultures to reiieve upset stomachs and regulate bowel movement. 
Rosemary is also known for its ability to aid blood flow and circulation so it is valuable for adding to an oil blend for massage. It boosts the production of red blood cells, which oxygenates the vital organ systems in the body and facilitates cell repair. 
Rosemary has long been popular for its ability to relieve pain. It can be topically applied to the painful area, in the case of arthritis or joint pain, or inhaled, as in the case of migraines. Rosemary assists with health of the respiratory system.Inahling it can relieve congestion, allergies, cold and influenza and general respiratory congestion. It also eases sinus pain.

 How To Use Essential Oil of Rosemary 

Essential oil of rosemary can be diffused throughout the room in a diffuser to create a calming effect and relieve stress and fatigue and enhance learning and memory. It also works well as an air-freshener in this way, as well as being popular for use in candles and perfumes. 
A few drops can be added to a bowel of hot water and the steam can be inhaled to relieve migraines and respiratory congestion as well as to induce relaxation and relieve stress. Rosemary can also be rubbed onto the temples to relieve migraines and applied topically to other painful areas to reduce pain. It can be added to a bath to reduce the pain of arthritis. 
Rosemary can be used in the practice of oil pulling. Add a drop to coconut oil and swish it around in the mouth to relieve dental issues and clean bacteria from the mouth. The plant can be used to make a mouthwash. Boil it and strain the liquid and keep it in the fridge. Rosemary is popular for use in massage. It blends well with basil, frankinscense, lavendar, peppermint and eucalyptus. 

Rub a drop of rosemary onto the bottom of the feet or the stomach to assist digestion. 
To calm the nerves, apply a drop to the hands, rub together and cup over the nose and mouth and inhale.
 A drop of rosemary can be added to shampoos, conditioners and skin care products to benefit the hair and skin and to stimulate the growth of healthy, shiny hair.
 It can also be added to pet shampoos to help in the growth of a shiny coat. 
A drop of rosemary and lavendar can be added to almond oil and applied to puffy or red skin under the eyes. 
Massage one or two drops onto the chest and throat to relieve a cough. Repeat this every few hours.

 The Risks of Essential Oil of Rosemary 

The use of essential oil of rosemary should be avoided during pregnancy and in cases of epilepsy. 
It could also aggravate high blood pressure. 
Before use, do a patch test on the skin to test for skin sensitivity. Rosemary is a member of the mint family so should be avoided if there is a sensitivity to other mint family members as it could cause and allergic reaction. 
Excessive use of any oil can lead to sensitization. It should be kept away from the eyes, ears and nose. 

Storing Essential Oil of Rosemary

 As with all essential oils, essential oil of rosemary should be purchased and stored in dark, glass bottles and kept in a cool, dark place out of direct sunlight.

The Fabulous Benefits of Kefir

Kefir is a fermented milk drink, made by introducing Kefir grains into cow, goat or sheep milk.(Personally I prefer it made with cows' milk.) Kefir originates with the shepherds of the Caucasus mountains who discovered fresh milk carried in leather pouches would ferment.

 It has been consumed in Russia, after being brought there by the Czar at the beginning of the twentieth century, and in Central Asia for centuries. Its popularity is now increasing in Japan, the USA and Europe. It was tradtionally made in skin bags, which were then hung near a doorway so that people entering the doorway would knock the bag as they passed through, keeping the grains and milk well-mixed. The kefir grains, which range in color from white to yellow,  initiate the fermentation process. They are a combination of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts mixed with proteins, lipids and sugars. Lactobacillus species of bacteria are always present as well as several varieties of probiotoc bacteria.. Kefir is usually fermented overnight at ammbient temperatures. It has a sour taste, similar to yoghurt. Kefir contains many more beneficial microorganisms than other cultured milk products.

The Fabulous Health Benefits of Kefir

Good health begins with good digestion and kefir greatly benefits general intestinal health. It is a more potent source of probiotics than yoghurt and contains many nutrients.

 Kefir is a balanced and nourishing food, which is easily digested allowing more absoprtion of naturally present nutrients.It activates the flow of saliva and stimulates presitalsis and the digestive juices in the intestinal tract. It can relieve all intestinal disorders, promote bowel movement and relieve flatulence. It also has a soothing effect on the nervous system.A major benefit of kefir is that it can be digested by people who are normally lactose intolerant as the lactose is broken down by the lactic acid it contains. Kefir curd breaks up easily into small particles, which facilitates digestion, whereas yoghurt curd holds together or breaks into clumps.

Kefir produces antibiotic substances, which are anti-carcinogenic and control undesirable microorganisms. It generally improves the immune system and gives protection from the negative effects of radiation as well as inhibits the  growth of cancerous tumors.

Kefir has mild laxative properties.

It aids in the restoration of intestinal flora in people who are recovering from illness or from treatment with antibiotics.It  reduces the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It contains an abundance of natural sugar enzymes, which help break down the complex sugars in the bowel, reducing bloating and gas.

Not only is kefir a wonderful source of calcium, but it also facilitates calcium absorption. Therefore it reduces the risk of osteoporosis. 

Kefir has been shown to suppress inflammatory   responses related to allergies and asthma.

The excellent nutritional content of kefir makes the body feel well-nourished and balanced. This  assists in eliminating unhealthy food cravings.

When to Drink Kefir

It is best to drink kefir at the beginning of the day so that the dose of probiotics it provides will help with the digestion of everything eaten afterwards. It also coats the stomach with a protective lining, which is especially good for those who don't have breakfast.

Risks of Kefir

Kefir contains tyramine and histamine, which are produced in the bacterial fermentation process. So it should be avoided by people with conditions that require a reduction of histamine and tyramine and by people with histamine intolerance.

Care must also  be taken by people who are taking anti-depressants as some of these can cause dangerous spikes in blood pressure when taken with kefir.

Best Benefits of Cranberries and Cranberry Juice

I am a big fan of cranberries and cranberry juice and just like blueberry juice, it is something I enjoy all year round. Cranberries, which are high in nutrients and anti-oxidants, are considered a 'super food'. The juice, made from whole cranberries, is dark red and has a tart taste.It is usually diluted with water before drinking. I always dilute it with water. It strengthens the immune system and is great for the overall health. 

Benefits and Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar

I always keep a bottle of organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in the kitchen. Apple cider vinegar has become the most popular vinegar in the natural health community and it has been used throughout the ages. It kills many types of bacteria and other pathogens and has often been used as a food preservative that stops bacteria from growing in the food and spoiling it. Apple Cider vinegar is made by combining apples with yeast. This converts the sugar in the apples into alcohol. The alcohol is fermented into acetic acid by the bacteria, which are added. Apple cider vinegar is about six percent acetic acid. It also contains water and trace amounts of other acids, vitamins and minerals, most notably potassium. It is very low in calories. There are only about three per teaspoon. Many people enjoy including apple cider vinegar in their diet by adding it to dressings or mayonnaise. Others prefer to dilute it in water and drink it. I take a teaspoon diluted in a cup of warm water every morning before breakfast. As always, be sure to purchase organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a glass bottle and store it in a cupboard away from direct sunlight.