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Eggplant, commonly known as Aubergine and Brinjal, belongs to the solanaceae family of vegetables. Eggplant belongs to the nightshade family, and is kin to the tomato, bell pepper and potato. What is surprising to many is that eggplant actually comes in a variety of colours such as purple, yellow, green and orange.

Eggplants, aside from their rich texture, contain a multitude of vitamins and phytonutrients. Eggplants are a source of antioxidants, dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, and manganese.

Antioxidant Activity

Eggplant is a source of antioxidants. It is the presence of the phytonutrients, nasunin and chlorogenic acid, that provide eggplant with its antioxidant potential. Nasunin is a anthocyanin and is commonly found in the skin of the eggplant. Nasunin is very effective in naturalizing free radical activity in the body. Nasunin and chlorogenic not only protect at the cellular level, but has been shown to protect lipids that are present in brain cell membranes.

Lower Cholesterol with Eggplants

Laboratory results indicate that eggplant has the potential to lower total body cholesterol level. Furthermore, eggplants have been shown to help improve the flexibility of blood vessels, thereby improving the flow of blood. The active nutrients in play are numerous phytonutrients that work together to help lower cholesterol levels. It is important to note, however, that results have been mixed so more research is recommended on this subject matter.

Source of Fiber

Eggplant is a source of dietary fiber. Fiber not only helps to keep you regular, but has many cardio-protective factors as well. Dietary fiber helps keep blood sugar in check, helps lower cholesterol, improve digestive function and help with weight management.

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Onions have been recognized through centuries for their culinary versatility, as well as their medicinal properties. Onions have been cultivated for thousands of years. Onions have also been recognized for their positive effects on diabetes, cardiovascular health and anti-bacterial properties.

Onions are rich in sulfur-containing compounds, which give them their unique aroma and health promoting benefits. Onions are a source of vitamin C, the mineral chromium, and the antioxidant quercitin. There are many health benefits of onions!
 

Blood Sugar-Lowering Effects

The consumption of onions with meals may help regulate blood glucose levels after a meal. This may be due to the presence of allyl propyl disulfide (which improves the availability of insulin) as well as chromium, the mineral that helps in insulin response. Onions may be a beneficial factor in diabetes management.
 

Cardiovascular Benefits

Onions may help promote cardiovascular health. The sulfur content, along with the presence of vitamin B6 and other vitamins and minerals of Onions have been shown to lower high cholesterol levels, as well as high blood pressure. Therefore, regular consumption may help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease and stroke.
 

Onions: Cancer Fighting Properties

Onions contains many cancer-fighting compounds. Onions may help protect the colon against toxic chemicals and may help stop the growth of cancer cells. New research suggests that onions have many compounds that help slow tumour growth and also reduce their size. Onions may reduce the risk of oral cancer, esophageal cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate cancer.
 

Onions: Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Bacterial Activity

Traditionally, onions have been used to reduce inflammation. Fresh onions contain many anti-inflammatory compounds, anti-oxidants and phytochemicals. Therefore, onions may help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with many chronic conditions, including asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Certain flavonoids including quercitin, in onions also give it potent anti-bacterial properties.
 

Traditional Uses

Onions have been used to cleanse the system by increasing urination. Onions have also been prescribed to improve the appearance of hair, finger and nails. Onions have also been used to treat sinus inflammation.

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Green peas, a legume, have three distinct types: garden or green peas, snow peas and snap peas. Peas are primarily recognized for their intense green colour and somewhat sweet flavour, depending on the variety.

Peas are packed with a multitude of health promoting properties. Peas are a source of vitamin A, vitamin C, protein, vitamin K, thiamine, vitamin B6, folate, pantothenic acid, iron, manganese and dietary fiber.
 

Anti-Oxidants and Flavonoids

Green peas are an excellent source of phytonutrients with anti-oxidant activity. Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, play a role in decreasing cardiovascular damage. These beneficial compounds neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals directly damage blood vessels and can cause cholesterol to build up in artery walls; therefore, anti-oxidants can be helpful in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis, stroke, heart disease and arthritis.
 

Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Green pea consumption helps in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke and heart disease. Green peas are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps remove free radicals form the system, and thereby reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke. Green peas are an excellent source of vitamin K, which is important for both bone health and proper blood clotting.

Folate and vitamin B6 promote the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that a deficiency of folate, which causes the accumulation of the amino acid homocysteine in the body, significantly increases the risk for heart disease. Homocysteine promotes atherosclerosis by promoting the deterioration of arterial walls as well as promoting blood clot formation. The dietary fiber content in green peas further helps reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
 

Source of Folate

Green peas are also an excellent source of folate, which not only helps lower the risk of neural birth defects, but helps prevent heart disease. Green peas are an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral that can help lower high blood pressure and protect against heart disease as well.
 

Green Peas: Source of Iron

Green peas are an excellent source of iron. The mineral iron helps transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. A regular consumption of iron, which is necessary for proper blood cell formation, may help prevent anaemia.
 

Green Peas: Source of Dietary Fiber

Green peas are a source of dietary fiber. Fiber may help with weight management, as well as keep your digestive health in check. Fiber also acts to prevent constipation, help lower cholesterol levels, reduce cancer risk, as well as relieve other gastro-intestinal issues.
 

Therapeutic Role of Green Peas:

Due to being low calorie but very nutrient dense, green peas make an excellent snack if you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Green peas have also been prescribed to increase energy function in the body. Green peas are said to maintain healthy vision as well as improve immune function.

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Holy basil, popularly known as Tulsi, is a revered plant in India. Not only is tulsi a sacred plant in Hinduism, tulsi has long been used for its exceptional health promoting properties.

The essential oils of tulsi, along with its array of phytochemicals, are commonly used for medicinal purposes. In fact, tulsi is considered one of the most effective herbs available to improve human health and longevity. Tulsi has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.

Treatment of a Variety of Skin Conditions

The essential oils of tusli have been used in many beauty products. Tulsi has commonly been used to cleanse the skin, reduce the instance of rashes and treat eczema. Tulsi has traditionally been used to treat and prevent acne and pimples.

Improve Gastro-Intestinal Health

Drinking the tea of holy basil is said to improve the functioning of the gastro-intestinal system. Tulsi is said to improve digestion, prevent the formation of gas and treat constipation. Tulsi is also commonly prescribed to help treat acidity and heartburn.

Reduce Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Tusli has traditionally been used to help lower total cholesterol levels. Tusli is also beneficial in reducing the risk of heart disease, cancers, stroke, and arthritis. The reduction of many chronic conditions has been attributed to the antioxidant potential of tulsi.

Promotes Longevity, Natural Antiseptic and Painkiller

Holy basil has long been called the “elixir of life.” Tulsi is believed to boost immunity and protect the body from the harmful effects of oxidative damage. Tulsi is often consumed to help boost the body’s natural defence mechanism against colds, flu and inflammations. Also, due to the presence of the compound eugenol, tulsi has long been recognized as a powerful painkiller. Tulsi has traditionally been used as a natural antiseptic. Tulsi has shown to prevent the proliferation of many bacteria, fungi and protozoa.

Helps Improve Memory

Holy basil is a holistic memory booster. Tulsi is said to help calm the body and relax the mind. Tulsi is often consumed to improve memory in the form of a natural medicine containing tulsi leaves, almonds and honey.

Tulsi is often prescribed to help treat stress and anxiety. Tulsi has been used for centuries to help alleviate and treat mental anguish, emotional tensions and depression.

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Health Benefits of Africa Rue

Africa Rue, also known as Harmala, has long been used to alleviate a variety of diseases. The traditional uses of Africa Rue are described below.

Traditional Herb at a Glance

Traditional Uses

• Africa Rue has been used treat many disorders of the eyes.
• It has long been used as a natural anti-inflammatory.
• It is believed to increase the production of breast milk.
• Africa Rue is commonly used for its anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.
• Harmala root paste mixed with mustard oil is commonly applied to the scalp to treat head lice.
• Harmala has commonly been used to treat chest congestion.
• Harmala seeds have long been prescribed to alleviate menstrual pains.
• Africa Rue is believed to have sedative properties.

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Since ancient time, celery has been revered for its taste as well as its medicinal properties. Celery belongs to the umbelliferae family, which includes carrots, fennel, parsley and dill.

Surprising to many, celery has long been used to treat many cardiovascular disease. Many nutrients and compounds give celery its unique health benefits. These include vitamin C, phthalides, and coumarins. Celery also contains many other nutrients that make it an excellent addition to any diet.
 

Antioxidant Activity

Celery is a rich source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C helps prevent the damage caused by free radicals, and therefore helps decrease the risk of inflammatory conditions, such as asthma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, stroke and cancers. Vitamin C also helps boost immune function and protects against colds and flus.

Another source of antioxidants from celery is from the seeds. Celery seeds contain limonene oil, which shows high anti-oxidant potential.
 

Potential Blood Pressure Benefits

Traditional medicine, particularly Chinese medicine, has prescribed celery to lower blood pressure. Phthalides, which are contained in celery, help which can help relax the muscles around the arteries as well as reduce stress hormones. Both these factors contribute to improved blood flow.

Celery is also a good source of potassium, magnesium and calcium, which help lower blood pressure.
 

Traditional Uses of Celery

Celery has been used to treat a variety of ailments and is an integral part of many home remedies. Traditionally, celery has been prescribed to induce calmness. It has been prescribed to treat joint pains, including those associated with arthritis. Also, celery juice has been used to suppress appetite.

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Nervousness is often experienced during stressful situations. Nervousness is often associated with apprehension, anxiousness and fear. Common symptoms include sweating, heart palpitations, muscle spasms, insomnia and shortness of breath.

To deal with nervousness, the key is to figure out what is actually causing the nervous reaction. You may also want to try the following home remedies and natural cures to treat nervousness.

Home Remedies for Nervousness

• Make sure to eat a well-balanced and wholesome diet. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Make sure to keep hydrated. As well, try avoiding refined and fried foods as much as possible.

• Have a glass of warm milk on the onset of nervousness. Drinking a glass of warm milk is said to both help calm and relaxes the system.

• If you experience nervousness, try eating a banana. Bananas are traditionally consumed to treat nervousness.

• Aromatherapy is said to be an effective remedy to treat nervousness. Try lighting a scented candle or your favourite incense. You can also boil ingredients such as cinnamon cloves and cardamom in water. The scent of lavender is also said to be very effective.

• Add a tablespoon of honey to your orange juice. This mixture is said to help alleviate symptoms of nervousness.

• Massage the temples and forehead with mustard oil. This is said to help relieve the symptoms of nervousness.

• Add ginger to your tea. Ginger is said to be very effective in treating nervousness.

• Have almond milk. Add almond paste to your milk, adding sugar to taste. Almond milk is said to help relieve nervousness.

• Try yoga. Yoga and breathing exercise are known to be very effective in calming and relaxing the system.

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The Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica) is known the world over as the “tree of life.” Its medicinal and healing properties have long been revered and worshiped, while mention of its name and properties dates back thousands of years in ancient holy texts from the Indian Subcontinent. The medicinal and healing properties of the Neem Tree have garnered much recent scientific clinical investigation. So far, the clinical results seem to be promising.

From the leaves, seeds, flowers to the bark, all parts of the Neem Tree are used to treat a multitude of diseases and disorders. In fact, entire villages in rural India depend on the Neem Tree to maintain the health of the village inhabitants. Various components of the Neem Tree have been scientifically shown to possess antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Traditional Uses of the Neem Tree

Skin Conditions

• Neem oil and neem powder are commonly used to treat a variety of skin conditions.
• Due to its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, neem is widely used to treat and manage skin conditions.
• Neem is often applied to external wounds or cuts to promote healing and lower risk of infection.
• Neem oil is often used to treat acne, skin rashes and burns.
• Neem has long been used in the natural treatment of eczema. In fact, neem is said to actively reduce the itching and redness caused by eczema.
• Neem is used to treat mild, moderate and even severe cases of acne. Neem has been shown to reduce the frequency of acne breakouts, and reduce the redness and inflammation associated with acne.
• Neem is added to a variety of cosmetic soaps and lotions to help treat dry skin and prevent wrinkles.

Hair Health

• Neem oil is applied to the scalp to prevent the premature greying of hair.
• Neem oil is believed to reduce hair loss.
• Neem is often massaged into the scalp to treat and prevent dandruff.

Arthritis

• Neem has actively been used for centuries in the treatment of arthritis. According to Ayurvedic medicine, neem effectively treats arthritis and prevents the progression of the disease.
• Neem oil is applied to the skin to treat muscle aches and joint pain.
• Lower back pain sufferers may find relief in massaging the affected area with neem oil.
• Neem is often used to treat the swelling, pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.
• Clinic results suggest that these anti-inflammatory properties are due to the presence of compounds such as nimbidin, limonoids and catechin, which are found primarily in neem seeds.

Stomach Related Concerns

• Neem is commonly used to treat indigestion, acidity and heartburn, stomach pains and constipation.
• Neem tea is often prepared to relieve any stomach related concerns.

Immunity and Cleansing Properties

• Neem is believed to be a powerful natural cleanser and is said to effectively remove toxins from the blood.
• According to the teachings of Ayurveda, the bark of the Neem Tree are said to boost immunity and help build resistance to disease.

Diabetes Treatment

• Neem has long been used to manage and treat diabetes in Ayurvedic medicine.
• Neem is believed to help controls blood glucose levels and increase insulin sensitivity.
• Much clinical evidence is currently being collected to identify the mechanisms involved in neem’s ability to help treat diabetes.

Cancer

• Ayurvedic medicine has long prescribed various neem-centered remedies to help treat and prevent cancers.
• Current clinical research is being conducted on neem’s ability to reduce tumour size.

Teeth and Gums

• The twigs from the neem tree are commonly used as natural toothbrushes to clean the mouth and to promote oral health.
• Mouth washes and neem based toothpastes are used to actively treat tooth decay, treat inflamed gums and help prevent cavities.
• According to Ayurvedic teachings, neem actively stimulates and strengthens gum tissue and helps prevent gum disease and gingivitis.

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Caraway seeds (Ajwain, Ajowan, Caraway, Carom seed) is a popular aromatic spice which is used extensively in authentic Indian and South Asian cuisine. Greyish-brown in colour and tiny oval-shaped in appearance, caraway seeds have both a unique look and taste profile. With an essence somewhat similar to thyme, ajwain is quite strong and pungent flavour. The seeds are known to be hot and slightly bitter in flavour. Caraway seeds are commonly grown in India, Iran, Egypt and Afghanistan.

Caraway seeds are rarely consumed raw. Instead, they are either dry-roasted or fried in oil before they are added to foods. A staple ingredient in Indian cuisine, caraway is used in a variety of dishes, added to chutney and curries, used as a garnish, or added to fragrant drinks and tonics.

Medicinally, ajwain has long been used in traditional Ayervedic medicine. Caraway is most widely known as a natural digestive aid. The following are additional uses of caraway.

Traditional Medicinal Properties and Uses of Caraway Seeds

• Caraway is commonly used as a digestive aid. It is known to relieve abdominal discomfort.

• Caraway seeds are consumed to help stimulate appetite.

• Used as an antiseptic.

• Ajwain is used to treat stomach pains and many gastric conditions.

• Caraway is eaten to treat gas and indigestion.

• The aroma of ground caraway seeds is said to help alleviate migraines.

• Caraway is used to treat acidity and heartburn.

• Caraway seeds are said to provide relief from a toothache.

• Ajwain oil is used to treat earaches.

• Ajwain oil is massaged into the skin to treat arthritis, joint pain and inflammation.

• Ajwain seeds are chewed or ajwain tea is prepared to help treat and alleviate coughs.

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