Introduction:

Astragalus is an herb that people have used in traditional medicine for centuries. Some evidence suggests that it has wide-ranging properties and health benefits.

Astragalus membranaceus is the Latin name for the herb astragalus.   Different species of astragalus grow worldwide in places such as Southwestern Asia, the Chinese Himalayan region, the Americas, and Europe.

Other common names for astragalus include:

• Milk vetch
• huáng qi
• Radix astragalus.

Astragalus health benefits:

·         Antioxidant effect

·         Anti viral effects

·         Cardiotonic effects stimulates the heart muscle

·       Astragalus may have pro-aging support.

·         May have potential benefits in cancer

·         May help in regularizing the blood sugars.

·         May help in liver diseases like cirrhosis and portal hypertension.

• May help in chronic kidney failure.
• Supports the immune system.

Possible side effects:

• Rash
• Itching
• Abdominal symptoms
• Nasal symptoms.

Conclusion:

Astragalus is an herb that people use in traditional Chinese medicine. Evidence suggests it may have various health benefits; to protect and support the immune system, preventing colds and upper respiratory infections, lowering blood pressure, treating diabetes, and protecting the liver. Astragalus has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. People sometimes use it on the skin for wound care.

Introduction:

Burdock root is a vegetable native to Northern Asia and Europe, though it now grows in the United States.  Burdock root has been used for centuries in holistic medicine to treat a variety of different conditions. Traditionally, it’s been most commonly used as a diuretic and a digestive aid.

Burdock root benefits:

Powerhouse of antioxidants

Burdock root has been shown to contain multiple types of powerful antioxidants; including quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids    Antioxidants can also help to reduce inflammation. One study found that burdock root reduced inflammatory markers in the blood of patients with osteoarthritis

Purifies the blood:

One of the most common uses for burdock root has been to purify the blood.  Recent evidence has found that burdock root contains active ingredients in its root system that can remove toxins from the bloodstream. Research also found that burdock root effectively detoxified blood and promoted increased circulation in the surface of the skin

Inhibits certain forms of cancer:

Burdock root, as it turns out, may not only purify the blood, but it may also inhibit certain types of cancer.

Aphrodisiac effect:

Another use of burdock root is as an aphrodisiac. In a nonhuman study, it was found that the extract of burdock root had an aphrodisiac effect.

Treats skin conditions:

Burdock root has also long been used to treat skin conditions like acne and eczema. The root’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can help resolve skin issues.

Forms of preparations:

There are a number of different forms of burdock root available. These include:

• fresh burdock root
• burdock tea
• dried root powder
• burdock oil or burdock extract

Conclusion:

Burdock herb may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects.  Burdock root is available in tea form or supplements. Consult and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and those on the supplement’s label.

Introduction:

Aloe vera has been used for centuries and is currently more popular than ever.  It is cultivated worldwide, primarily as a crop for “Aloe gel,” which comes from the leaf.

Aloe vera is widely used today in:

• Food – it is approved by the FDA as a flavoring.
• Cosmetics.
• Food supplements.
• Herbal remedies.

Benefits of Aloe vera:

Teeth and gums

Aloe vera in tooth gels is as effective as toothpaste in fighting cavities.  Aloe latex contains anthraquinones, compounds that actively heal and reduce pain through natural anti-inflammatory effects.

Constipation

It is said to help fight constipation. But more research needs to be done.

Diabetes-induced foot ulcers

Aloe vera promotes significant wound healing and closure and is used in Diabetic foot ulcers.

Antioxidant and possible antimicrobial properties

Aloe vera flower and leaf extracts had antioxidant properties, the leaf skin extract also exhibited anti-mycoplasmic properties.

Protection from ultraviolet (UV) irradiation

Aloe shoot extract and adult Aloe shoot extract might have a protective effect on UVB-induced skin photo aging; in other words, whether they could protect the skin from the aging effects of sunlight.

Wounds from second-degree burns

A team of plastic surgeons compared Aloe vera gel to 1 percent silver sulphadiazine cream for the treatment of second-degree burn wounds and they found excellent results in burn and wound healing.

Conclusion:

Most global health authorities say that many of the dozens of therapeutic benefits associated with Aloe vera require further scientific evidence. This does not mean the claims are necessarily inaccurate.    However, the use of topical Aloe vera is likely to be safe

Introduction:

Cumin is a leafy plant that grows low to the ground in China, India, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean region. The fruit of the plant is called the cumin seed, and it’s popular all over the world as a spice.

Benefits of Cumin:

Contains antioxidants

Cumin seeds contain naturally occurring substances that act as antioxidants. That means that these substances (called aliening and luteolin) keep the tiny free radicals that attack healthy cells from being successful. Antioxidants help you feel healthier and more energetic, and they help keep your skin from looking aged.

Has an anticancer property

Cumin appears to have the ability to keep cancer cells from multiplying, according to some experiments.   Studies have found that out of nine popular herbs and spices, basil and cumin were the most powerful anti-carcinogen plants.

Helps control blood sugar

Studies have shown that Cumin helps in controlling blood sugar levels.

May help treat diarrhea

Traditional medicine practitioners have recommended cumin for the treatment of diarrhea for centuries. Western medicine is just starting to catch on to this benefit of cumin.

 Has an anti-inflammatory effect

The active ingredients in cumin seeds have an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic effect. Cumin in your diet may counter the effects.

May help lower cholesterol

A hypolipidemic is a substance that helps your body control high levels of fats that hurt your heart and cholesterol levels. Cumin is considered to have hypolipidemic properties.

 Aids in weight loss

Several group studies have looked into ways cumin can help you lose weight. More research however is needed.

Improves symptoms of IBS

Researchers have evaluated cumin extract for treating the cramps, digestive spasms, nausea, and bloating associated with Irritable bowel syndrome.

Boosts memory

Cumin can help your body by stimulating your central nervous system to be more effective. This can result in a sharper memory and greater control over your limbs.

Conclusion:

Cumin has a variety of benefits ranging from helping improve your digestion to boosting your memory. Cumin may also prevent cancer cells from multiplying and help reduce pain with its anti-inflammatory properties.

Introduction:

Heavy metals occur naturally on the planet, and some like iron, zinc, and even silver and copper are vital for life in trace amounts.  Heavy metals accumulate in the body over time. They hide out deep in our tissues and organs — and can be highly toxic, contributing to many chronic health problems.

Where can one ingest heavy metals?

• Lead from old pipes, paint, or even leaded gasoline still in topsoil (with children particularly at risk because even brief exposure can affect brain development)
• Mercury from dental fillings and industrial applications
• Cadmium from tobacco smoke or food grown in cadmium-rich soil
• Arsenic from treated lumber, coal-fired power plants, and runoff into groundwater

How can heavy metals be harmful to the body?

Heavy metals bond to and accumulate in organs and tissues, causing all kinds of physical, mental, and neurological damage.  Many “mystery illnesses,” like muscle weakness, brain fog, fatigue, nausea, headaches, and even constipation, can be traced to heavy metal exposure and accumulation. The higher the concentration, the worse can be the problems.

Some consequences of heavy metals:

• Depression
• Hair loss
• Learning disabilities
• Immune disorders
• Cancer
• Death

Avoid additional heavy metal exposure when at all possible:

• Eat only organic produce.
• Rice is one of the most arsenic-contaminated crops—it is better to limit your consumption and check if your organic source is tested for heavy metals.
• Limit your consumption of fish, which is often contaminated with mercury.
• Heavy metals build up in animal fat—make sure your meat is from good sources

• Install water filters on your home
•  
•  Switch to a dentist who uses non-toxic procedures and can safely remove metal fillings.
• If your home was built before 1952, have pipes and paint checked for lead.
• Wear protective masks and clothing if you work in industries using heavy metals.

Dietary methods to get rid of heavy metals from the body:

• Dietary fiber: Various foods rich in fiber, such as fruit and grains with bran, may help remove heavy metals. Researchers have found fiber to reduce mercury levels in the brain and blood.
• Chlorella: Studies have shown that chlorella increases the detoxification of mercury in mice.
• Foods containing sulfur: Foods rich in sulfur, such as garlic and broccoli, may be good chelation agents. Research has suggested that garlic may have prevented kidney damage from cadmium and reduced oxidative damage from lead in rats.
• Cilantro: Cilantro may help, but there is currently limited evidence to support this.

Conclusion:

Certain supplements may also work to detoxify the body from heavy metals. People should consult their doctor before taking any new supplements, however, and they should always follow the guidance of their healthcare professional when aiming to naturally detoxify from heavy metals.

Introduction:

Lotus root, also known as Kamal Kakdi in Hindi, is a versatile vegetable that is an integral part of Indian as well as some Asian cuisines. The lotus root is the lower, edible part of the lotus plant. It is crunchy and sweet, similar to the taste and texture of a raw potato. It can be steamed, braised and fried. It is also used as an herbal medicine in dry and powdered form. 

Nutritional Value of Lotus Root: 

The total energy obtained from 100g of lotus stem is 74 Kcal.³ the following nutrients are present in the lotus stem. 

The vitamins present in the lotus stem are:   

• Vitamin B1 (thiamin) 
• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) 
• Vitamin B3 (niacin) 
• Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) 
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 
• Vitamin B9 (folate) 
• Vitamin C

Health benefits of the Lotus root:

Helps in controlling blood pressure: 

Lotus root is an excellent vasodilator as it is good source of Potassium. It helps in reducing bad cholesterol in your blood. Its consumption can reduce the risk of heart attack and prevents blockage of the arteries. The presence of pyridoxine in Lotus Root helps to manage homocysteine ​​levels in the blood and keep the heart healthy. 

Helps in curing infections and allergies: 

We can prevent our body from various infections and fungal diseases such as smallpox, leprosy and ringworm by consuming lotus root. We can also cure bleeding disorders, excessive sweating, nosebleeds and hematuria by using the leaves of this plant. It is a good source of antioxidants as it contains sufficient amount of vitamin C.

Helps in curing inflammation: 

Inflammation is often accompanied by a burning sensation. It is an unpleasant side effect or symptom of many conditions. White lotus can help reduce inflammation. A 2013 study by Trusted Source showed that two polysaccharides in lotus plum have significant anti-inflammatory effects.  

Helps in reducing stress:  

Lotus root has a vitamin B complex, which contains a compound called pyridoxine. This compound interacts with nerve receptors in the brain, which are responsible for reducing stress, irritability, and headaches. 

Helps in maintaining balanced mental state: 

Lotus root is also a very good source of vitamin B6. Insufficient consumption of vitamin B6 can cause Short term memory loss, depression, irritability, and difficulty in concentration. One hundred grams of vitamin B6 can give you 0.258 mg or 20% of your daily vitamin B6 that your body needs to function properly. 

Gives healthy skin and hair: 

Consumption of lotus can bring you glowing skin and silky smooth hair as it is good source of vitamins like B and C. Vitamin C stimulates collagen production in the body, which is responsible for skin firmness. 

Helps in maintaining weight: 

It contains very less calories and more fiber. This property of lotus root does not let you feel hungry and thus reduces your consumption of fatty foods. . In addition, it also helps stimulate your digestive system, helping to lose weight. 

Stimulates digestion: 

Lotus root contains a large amount of fiber, which helps to stimulate digestion. It helps to combat constipation while ensuring the absorption of nutrients through the secretion of gastric juice and further stimulates peristaltic movement (intestinal contractions) in the intestinal muscles to facilitate easy and loose bowel movements.  

Conclusion:

Lotus stem is known to be high in fiber. As it is rich in fiber, it might also help in digestion. It is also a good natural source of protein, fiber, and iron. Therefore, it might be good for gut health.

Introduction:

Cardamom is a spice with an intense, slightly sweet flavor that some people compare to mint.  It originated in India but is available worldwide today and used in both sweet and savory recipes.  The seeds, oils and extracts of cardamom are thought to have impressive medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

Health benefits of cardamom:

Antioxidant properties:

Cardamom may be helpful for people with high blood pressure.    The spice may lower blood pressure due to its diuretic effect, meaning it can promote urination to remove water that builds up in your body.

Cancer fighting properties:

The compounds in cardamom help fight cancer. 

Anti-inflammatory properties:

Cardamom is rich in compounds that may fight inflammation.  Antioxidants, found in abundance in cardamom, protect cells from damage and stop inflammation.

Helps digestion:

Cardamom has been used for thousands of years to help with digestion.  It’s often mixed with other medicinal spices to relieve discomfort, nausea and vomiting

Treats bad breath and prevent cavities:

The use of cardamom to treat bad breath and improve oral health is an ancient remedy. In some cultures, it’s common to freshen your breath by eating entire cardamom pods after a meal.

Has anti-bacterial properties:

 Cardamom also has antibacterial effects outside of the mouth and may treat infections. The essential oils and extracts of cardamom may be effective against a variety of bacterial strains that contribute to fungal infections, food poisoning and stomach issues.

Improves lung function:

Compounds in cardamom may help increase airflow to your lungs and improve breathing.  When used in aromatherapy, cardamom can provide an invigorating odor that enhances your body’s ability to use oxygen during exercise.

Lowers blood sugar:

When taken in powder form, cardamom may lower blood sugar.

Other benefits:

 ·         Liver protection: Cardamom extract may decrease elevated liver enzymes, triglyceride and cholesterol levels. They may also prevent liver enlargement and liver weight, which reduces the risk of fatty liver disease.

• Anxiety: One rat study suggests that cardamom extract may prevent anxious behaviors. This may be because low blood levels of antioxidants have been linked to the development of anxiety and other mood disorders.
• Weight loss: A study in 80 overweight and obese prediabetic women found a link between cardamom and slightly reduced waist circumference. However, rat studies on weight loss and the spice have not found significant results.

Conclusion:

Cardamom in a very versatile spice with medicinal properties. Cardamom is used for digestion problems including heartburn, intestinal spasms, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), intestinal gas, constipation, liver and gallbladder complaints, and loss of appetite. It is also used for common cold, cough, bronchitis, sore mouth and throat, and tendency toward infection.

Introduction:

Mustard seeds (Brassica napus) are also famous as rai or sarson ke beej in India. All parts of the mustard plant (leaves, flowers, and seeds) are edible and possess numerous essential nutrients. These seeds are globally the third most common source of vegetable oil, after soya bean and palm oil.

A 20-gram portion of mustard seeds contains:

• Calories: 101.6 calories
• Fiber: 2.44 grams 
• Protein: 5.22 grams 
• Fat: 7.24 grams 
• Vitamin C: 1.42 milligrams
• Vitamin K: 1.08 micrograms
• Thiamin: 0.16 milligrams
• Riboflavin: 0.05 milligrams
• Niacin: 0.95 milligrams
• Folate: 32.4 micrograms
• Calcium: 53.2 milligrams
• Iron: 1.84 milligrams
• Zinc: 1.22 milligrams
• Copper: 0.13 milligrams
• Magnesium: 74 milligrams
• Phosphorus: 165.6 milligrams
• Potassium: 147.6 milligrams
• Sodium: 2.6 milligrams
• Manganese: 0.49 milligrams
• Selenium: 41.6 micrograms

Health benefits:

These tiny seeds are rich in numerous essential minerals, which have the following health benefits:

• Each part of the mustard plant is rich in various nutrients. But the mustard’s leaves and seeds contain copious amounts of vitamins A, C, and K, which are crucial for fighting chronic diseases, better vision and eye health, and blood clotting mechanisms.
• Mustard seeds are rich in fibers, selenium, manganese, and magnesium, which boost our immunity, maintain various bodily mechanisms and are crucial for bone health.
• Mustard seeds contain numerous glucosinolates-derived antioxidants, including isothiocyanates and sinigrin. Apart from these, mustard seeds are also rich in isorhamnetin, kaempferol, and carotenoids. All these antioxidants help protect our body against oxidative damage, several infections, and chronic diseases. They also possess antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.
• Regular consumption of a mustard seeds-rich diet reduces inflammation and activates the healing process in psoriasis-caused lesions and contact dermatitis.
• Mustard green extract benefits people with diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels.

Generally, mustard seeds are safe for eating, but some people encounter problems when consuming a large amount or applying their paste directly to the skin.

Conclusion:

Mustard seeds are extensively used in Indian cuisine. Mustard seeds are rich in antioxidants help protect our body against oxidative damage, several infections, and chronic diseases. They also possess antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.

Introduction:

Cloves are frequently used to improve the flavor of the food. In addition to making the dish mouth-watering, it is a healing spice.  Cloves, often referred to by their scientific name Syzygium aromaticum, are highly good for health, particularly in Ayurveda. Clove’s therapeutic qualities can provide relief from stomach discomfort, toothaches, and throat pain when regularly ingested.

Nutritional Value of Cloves:

One teaspoon (2 grams) of ground cloves contains: 

• Calories: 6
• Carbs: 1 gram
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Manganese: 55% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin K: 2% of the DV

Health Benefits of Cloves:

1. Regulates hunger levels

 Cloves are an amazing spice that can help keep your stomach from growling between meals. They are high in fiber, which is a nutrient that can help regulate hunger levels. Just one teaspoon of cloves provides close to a gram of fiber.

2. Keeps blood sugar levels in check

 Cloves are one of the best spices for regulating blood sugar levels. They contain manganese, a mineral that helps the body process and utilize glucose. Adding cloves to your diet is an easy and delicious way to keep your blood sugar levels in check.

3.  Good for oral health

Clove oil is a popular ingredient in many oral health products, including mouthwashes and toothpastes. This is because clove oil has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which can help fight plaque and bacteria in the mouth.

4. Alleviates tooth pain:

 Cloves can be used to help relieve pain from a toothache. The eugenol in cloves acts as a natural anti-septic, and studies have shown that cloves are more effective than other common options for relieving pain, inflammation, wound healing, and infection. 

5. Anti-inflammatory:

 If you’re struggling with inflammation, cloves may be a helpful addition to your diet. Cloves are known for their anti-inflammatory effects, and studies have shown that eating them on a daily basis can lead to major benefits. Experts specifically recommend cloves for helping with arthritis, and using clove oil as a lotion or adding cloves into tea to reduce inflammation.

6. Cures cough:

 If you have a cough, one home remedy you can try is to chew on cloves. Cloves are known to help suppress a cough by relaxing the throat muscles. To do this, simply chew on the cloves (but don’t swallow them). You can also brew them into a tea and sweeten it with honey. 

7. Good for bones:

Eugenol and flavonoids, two hydro-alcoholic substances abundant in cloves, can boost bone density and mineral content. Cloves are beneficial for those with osteoporosis and brittle bones. 

8. Boosts immunity

Clove has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb. The active ingredient in clove, eugenol, is effective against many harmful bacteria, fungus and viruses. Clove also has anti-viral and blood purifying properties which can help to decrease toxicity in the blood and increase resistance to diseases. 

9. Anti-cancerous

Cloves are not only a great way to add flavor to your food, but they also offer a variety of health benefits. One such benefit is that cloves may help protect against cancer. The eugenol in cloves has strong anti-carcinogenic properties and may help control lung cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer.

Conclusion: 

Cloves are full of antioxidants. These compounds help your body to fight free radicals, which damage your cells and can lead to disease. By removing free radicals from your system, the antioxidants found in cloves can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers

Introduction:

A spice that is commonly used in the preparation of various dishes across various cuisines, nutmeg is valued for its sweet aroma. Said to be a native of Indonesia, found in the Spice Islands, it is the seed of the fruit of an evergreen tree known as Myristica fragrans. It now grows in Malaysia, the Caribbean, and Southern India as well.

Health benefits of Nutmeg:

Relives Pain

Nutmeg contains many essential volatile oils such as myristicin, elemicin, eugenol and safrole.  Its (nutmeg) volatile oils have anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful for treating joint and muscle pain.  Just a few drops of the essential oil on the affected area can treat inflammation, swelling, joint pain, muscle pain and sores.

Helps Treat Insomnia

Nutmeg has a calming effect when consumed in smaller doses. Various ancient medicinal practices credit it for its sleep inducing and de-stressing effects.  According to Ayurveda, you should add a pinch of nutmeg to a glass of warm milk and have it before sleeping. You can also add in some almonds and a pinch of cardamom for added benefits.

Helps Digestion

Nutmeg contains essential oils which have a carminative effect on our system. So if you are suffering from digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating or gas, a home remedy is to grate a pinch of nutmeg in your soups and stews, and have it. It will help in the secretion of digestive enzymes, bringing about relief, whereas the fiber content in nutmeg will help in bowel movement. It also helps in removing excessive gas from the system.

Brain Health

Nutmeg is an aphrodisiac, stimulating the nerves of the brain. It was commonly used as a brain tonic by the Greek and Romans during the ancient times. It is known to be an effective ingredient for treating depression and anxiety as its essential oil tend to ease fatigue and stress.

Treat Bad Breath

Bad breath could be a sign of toxicity in your system. Unhealthy lifestyle and improper diet can build up toxins in your organs. Nutmeg is touted to help in detoxifying the body, clearing out toxins from the liver and kidneys. Since its essential oils have anti-bacterial properties, it helps in removing bacteria from the mouth which are responsible for causing bad breath. It is commonly used as an ingredient for Ayurvedic toothpastes and gum pastes. The essential oil eugenol helps in reliving toothaches as well.

Gorgeous Skin

Nutmeg is a good ingredient for skincare because of its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties as well as its ability to remove blackheads treat acne and clogged pores. A common home remedy is to mix equal parts of ground nutmeg and honey, make a paste and apply it on pimples. Leave it for 20 minutes, and then wash with cold and warm water alternately.

Blood Pressure and Circulation

Its high mineral content makes nutmeg a good ingredient for regulating blood circulation and pressure. It contains calcium, iron, potassium, manganese, etc., which are all essential for various functions in the body. Its stress reducing properties help in relaxing the blood vessels while keeping the heart functioning efficiently.

Conclusion:

According to animal research, nutmeg may help boost mood, enhance blood sugar control, and reduce risk factors for heart disease. Studies in humans are needed to further investigate these potential health benefits.