Herb Superfoods

In this section of Settle Organic Restaurants I want to talk about herbal superfoods. Herbs have been used for centuries for their natural healing powers. Herbs are low in calories and effective for losing weight. Herbs are powerful anti-inflammatory superfoods rich in phytochemical and antioxidants. Inflammation is the root of cancer, arthritis, allergies, asthma and heart problems.

You can find most herbs in almost every grocery store. Herbs are full of nutrients and can treat mineral deficiencies that exist in environment, soil or air. Herbs help the body to function well and heal or balance itself. Some of the herbal superfoods are ginseng, mushroom, tulsi aka holy Basil, ashwagandha, mangosteen rind, astragalus, aloe vera, camu camu berry ,nettle, echinacea and garlic.

Ginseng: For centuries ginseng has been used widely in Asia as energy tonic and healing medicine. Ginseng is usually used for its anti-infection properties, treating stress, fatigue or anxiety and recovering from surgery and illnesses. Ginseng has many other health benefits such as increasing alertness, treating diabetes, preventing growth of cancer cells, improving digestion, lowering the level of cholesterol and increasing body’s immune system.

Mushrooms: Medicinal mushrooms have polysaccharides and other beneficial compounds that can increase the body’s immune system to prevent diseases and illnesses. Some of the medicinal mushrooms are agaricus blazei murill, lions mane, shiitake, reishi, maitake and cordyceps. Medicinal mushrooms are antioxidants and can enhance the body’s immune system, boost the energy level and prevent problems in skin or liver.

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera grows widely in tropical and sub-tropical climates. Aloe vera is a rich source for minerals, enzymes, amino acids, natural steroids and antibiotic agents. Aloe vera can treat bruises, cuts, burns, eczema and can be used as skin moisturizer. Aloe vera can lower the level of cholesterol, reduce high blood pressure, prevent kidney stones, halt colon cancer, boost the level of oxygen in blood, heal infections, cuts and burns and protect the body from stress. Aloe vera is also alkaline which balances the body and nourishes the body with nutrients, minerals and enzymes.

Garlic: For thousands of years garlic has been used as both medicine and food. Garlic has been known for treating colds and flues, lowering the level of cholesterol and its anti-cancerous properties. Garlic can strengthen the immune system and prevent pancreatic, liver or colorectal cancer.

Echinacea: Echinacea is a very famous herbal remedy known for its antibacterial properties. Echinacea increases the body’s immune system by building white blood cells. Echinacea can heal colds and flues and promote overall health and well being of the body. Echinacea is also beneficial for people that their immune systems are weakened by disease such as AIDS or cancer.

Nettle: Nettle is a well-known herbal plant grown in tropical areas such as Brazil and South America. Nettle’s hairs and bristles can leave a sting on the skin and cause redness. Nettle protects urinary and respiratory problems like asthma, it decreases skin disorder, protects hair loss, decreases the chances of skin problems and since nettle leaves have high amount of iron it can treat anemia. Nettle can also regulate metabolism and get rid of fat in the body.