‘Natural’ and ‘Safe” Are Not Always The Same
The use of medicinal plants is increasingly widespread in society. They are used seemingly for anything: from weight loss, to sleep, to stress management.
In short, to feel better. But we must always ask ourselves the following question: Is natural always safe? Today’s video will try to answer this question.
Medicinal plants are an important therapeutic arsenal that nature offers us. They have been the first medicines of Humanity and have served as a model for the subsequent development of most industrial medicines.
They are generally safe and are widely used to treat mild ailments but, since they are products that have a clear pharmacological activity, it is essential to take into account that they do not interact with other drugs that we are taking or that they may be counterproductive for other diseases that we suffer.
People who take anticoagulant drugs, for example, have to be especially careful since they are using very complicated treatments that interact with a multitude of medicinal plants, such as green anise, common chamomile. People with high blood pressure may need to be careful about using licorice as it tends to raise it.
People with thyroid problems should also be especially careful, for example, with seaweed-based preparations, as they can provide an extra amount of iodine that can affect their pathology.
Pregnant and lactating women should also be especially careful not to take any medicinal plant without first consulting their doctor or pharmacist; this is the case of the use of aloe vera to treat constipation in pregnant women (it is a laxative of the so-called irritants that can cause contractions, so it should not be used).
These are just some examples, but the recommendation we give you is the convenience of always asking a healthcare professional about whether a certain product can be used together with the specific medication and diseases of each person.
So, the morale of the story is: do not try medicinal plants without researching them first and preferably only after going to your registered herbalist for advice and choose the most appropriate for you.
Homemade Spray To Relieve Muscle And Joint Pain
Aches and pains due to muscle or joint issues? This remedy blend is super fast and easy to make, can be made cold (no need to heat the oils) and the result seems good to me. It is effective, fast and very simple to do. Also, everyone who doesn’t like the feel of oily and sticky creams loves this spray too.
Check out the video here and the ingredients and written instructions below
Ingredients
2 ounces of 70% + alcohol pharmacy alcohol.
1 oz of menthol crystals.
1.5 oz of camphor crystals.
35 drops of turpentine essential oil
35 drops of wintergreen essential oil
5 drops chamomile essential oil
Process
- Weigh the menthol and camphor crystals using a scale.
- In a clean, dry, wide-mouth glass jar, add the rubbing alcohol and then the crystals.
- Shake well until the crystals have dissolved in the alcohol. The crystals should dissolve perfectly at room temperature.
- Now add the drops of essential oil, close and shake again. I
- Package in a dark glass container with spray, very clean and dry.
- Store it in the cupboard or bathroom cabinet, away from light, heat, and moisture. And away from children.
Ways of use and precautions
- First and foremost, they cannot use it: pregnant women, during lactation, small children under 8 years old. We must be very careful with people who are asthmatic or sensitive to aromas.
- We must be careful with the mucous membranes (eyes, nose and mouth) and we must not apply it to open wounds.
- It is applied as a normal spray on the area where we feel pain, for example, a sore ankle, a sprain, a contracture, etc. The ideal is to apply it and cover it with a gauze or bandage and let it act. It can even be used before or after a massage, depending on what we see.
- We can use it one to two times a day safely, for several days in a row.
Best Digestive Tea Blend After a Large Meal
Digestion is a complex process that involves many organs in our body. Correct digestion, among other things, is essential for the body to assimilate the necessary nutrients to carry out its vital functions.
Stress, a heavier than normal meal, ultra-processed foods, changes in routine, excess cold or heat … All these things can influence your digestion and when faced with the discomfort of poor digestion, plants may be your allies.
The ideal is to take it after a large meal, to facilitate the digestive process and reduce the effects of heavy digestion (bloating, gas, heartburn, general discomfort). To aid digestion after a heavy meal you can take a digestive infusion made with three very special herbs. Check the video and directions below:
Digestive Infusion
- Mint 50%
- Licorice 25%
- Fennel Seeds 25%
Mix all the ingredients following the indicated proportions and add to a glass jar, mixing thoroughly. When ready, use a single level tablespoon of herbal tea for every 250 ml (8 oz) of hot water. Avoid scalding hot or boiling water.
During the warm season you can also have this infusion cold and enjoy it as a flavored drink to finish your meals and dinners.
5 Plants that Can Strengthen Your Immunity and How To Use Them
People often ask me how seasonal foods and medicinal plants can be an ally to increase their defenses. According to the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) the vitamins and other micronutrients contained in certain foods can contribute to the proper functioning of the immune system.
Other studies show that malnourished people are more exposed to infections and diseases due to the lack of nutrients.
Despite the fact that a person who follows a healthy life will hardly have a lack of vitamins or mineral salts, it is possible that, at times, their immune defenses may be more exposed to attacks by viruses and bacteria.
The change of seasons are usually key moments for our immune system. In addition, stress and bad habits like smoking poor sleep and excessive alcohol intake are other factors that can affect the functioning of your defenses and weaken our immune system.
That’s where some of the amazing botanicals I love the most come to play! These are plants that, when used in combination with a whole foods plant-based diet, exercising and resting correctly are amazing tools that could make a difference in your ability to stave off disease. Check them out here:
1. Echinacea. It is probably one of the most used plants in natural preparations against flu and colds. Echinacea root extracts have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects (stimulate or depress the immune system) in in vitro and in vivo experiments.
2. Thyme. It is rich in flavonoids and tannins, substances that help to strengthen the defenses, and essential oils with bactericidal properties. Using thyme in the kitchen is a very good idea not only to strengthen our defenses, but to improve digestion.
3. Rose Hip. It contains above all vitamin C and flavonoids, important antioxidants that strengthen our defenses and help prevent colds and flu.
4. Garlic. It is a great ally of health and should not be missing in our kitchens. It is renowned for its protective properties of the circulatory system and for being an antioxidant. In addition, garlic extracts have shown antiviral activity, among others.
5. Sea buckthorn. The fruit of this plant has traditionally been used as a topical healing and anti-inflammatory.
Teas In Bulk Versus Tea In Sachets + Which One Is Best?
Before I started researching medicinal plants and studying herbal medicine, I used to drink infusions in ready-made sachets. There are amazing brands and blends on the market, to meet all tastes and needs. However, over time I have moved to buying herbal blends in bulk and avoiding the use of tea bags and herbal teas. Why?
For several reasons:
Taste: The aroma and flavor of an infusion prepared with loose or fresh plants are usually better than that of infusions in a sachet.
Process: The preparation of an infusion for me is a ritual, I enjoy every detail, the aroma, the colors, the calm … Dedicating a few quality minutes each day to take care of ourselves either with an infusion, a little exercise or reading a book, it should be imperative. Do not you think?
Savings: Infusions in sachets tend to be more expensive compared to bulk plants.
Quality: The raw material contained in the bags and stored for a long time can lose its properties. The same happens with loose plants, but if they are acquired in a trustworthy place and stored correctly, they last longer and keep the active principles unchanged.
Safety: Acquiring infusions in bulk in trusted establishments is synonymous with security. We can ask about the origin and date of production of the plant. The material used to produce the sachets often contains plastic and other toxic products. So it is appropriate to read the packaging or ask the manufacturer. If you want to know more about this point, I suggest you read this article on Living without plastic.
This doesn’t mean there aren’t amazing advantages of using tea in little bags.
First and foremost, in this form they are easier to take to the office or when you go on a trip. But also:
Blend Variety: The blends, or blends, are created to provide a tasty infusion. There are them with mixtures of very varied herbs and spices for all palates.
Easy to Get: They are found in any supermarket, herbalist, or health food store.
In short, if you want to enjoy a good infusion and let the process become part of your ritual, very pleasant and relaxing… AND if you dare to create your own mixes it will be even more entertaining to savor the final result in a cup.
If you don’t want to give up a good infusion when you travel or at work, infusions and tea bags are perfect in these situations. You just have to choose the ones that best suit your needs and tastes.
So tell me: do you prefer infusions and tea in bulk or in bags? I wait for you in the comments!
5 Aromatic Plants That are Also Medicinal
Do you know the difference between aromatic and medicinal plants? Do not worry, it is a fairly frequent question since, despite the different definitions of medicinal and aromatic plants, many times the same plant can fit into the two categories.
What is the difference between aromatic and medicinal plants?
Both medicinal and aromatic plants have been present in our culture since ancient times. First, let’s review the definition of aromatic and medicinal plants:
Aromatic plants, also known as aromatic herbs or fine herbs, are characterized by their perfume and flavor. Its green leaves are usually the edible and nutrient-rich part and for this reason they are used for cooking.
Medicinal plants are those that contain in one or more parts active compounds that are beneficial for the health of humans and animals. If you want to know more about this topic, you can read the post “Medicinal plants: history, types, uses”.
The difference between the two concepts is in the plant’s use. While the former are used above all for culinary use, so they are edible; the latter have healing properties, but not all of them can be ingested.
Here are some examples of aromatic plants with medicinal properties.
1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
It is a very aromatic and common herb of Mediterranean cuisine that is also curative.
Its active principles promote digestion and stimulate the appetite.
2. Rosemary (Rosmarinus)
It is another herb very commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.
Its essential oils and chemical compounds have a carminative (reduces gas) and hepatoprotective effect. Scientific studies are also investigating the antioxidant properties of this aromatic and medicinal plant.
3. Sage
A plant with a delicate and unique aroma, ideal for flavoring all kinds of dishes. It is also traditionally used for its antifungal and antibacterial properties to relieve and prevent inflammation of the oral cavity.
4. Thyme
It is a plant with a very intense and balsamic aroma. The European Medicines Agency validates the use of this plant for the relief of flu states and coughs based on the traditional use of this plant. Find out more about thyme here.
5. Mint
The fresh and intense aroma of this plant is unmistakable and that is why it is used in many sectors, from the pharmaceutical industry, to perfumery and food. The leaves of this aromatic herb are rich in essential oils and other compounds that alleviate disorders related to poor digestion.
Do you take advantage of the medicinal properties of any aromatic plant? Let me know in the comments below.
Control Sugar Cravings Series | 4 herbs that may detox the sugar
Video No 3 of the 3-video series on how to control your sugar cravings is here!
Today we will talk about 4 herbs that are believed to help you metabolize sugar and eliminate the toxic-by products of heavily sweet and processed foods. Let’s check them out here!
Interested in learning more about how to control your sugar cravings? Check Out The Get Off Sugar Program Here!
Missed the other 2 videos in the series? Not to worry! Click Here for Video No 1 and Click Here for Video No 2
1 Milk Thistle:
This is the most recommended herb of all for liver ailments and/or protecting a normal liver from daily toxins. Milk thistle is available in capsules or extracts, sometimes it’s called silymarin, which is the active ingredient that’s in the seeds.
Milk thistle is a flowering plant of the daisy family indigenous to Europe, North Africa, and the Mid-East. It has been clinically proven to improve liver function and repair liver damage. Standardized 80 percent silymarin is recommended in either pill or extract form with dosage amounts ranging from 100 to 1,000 mg.
It’s common for people with liver issues to take 300 mg three times daily. Whether the liver needs healing or protection, milk thistle can be used for as long as someone wants. It’s best to use milk thistle seeds for DIY tinctures.
2 Dandelion:
Is another safe liver herb sometimes mixed with milk thistle in capsules, an excellent combination. Some prefer extracts or even teas made from dandelion. Those weird looking weeds with small yellow flowers that many complain about when they pop up in their lawns are dandelions.
In addition to being a good source of most major vitamins, the plant provides iron, potassium, and zinc. Its most cherished function is stimulating the production of bile and its flow between the gall bladder and liver to improve liver function and overall health.
3 Burdock root:
Also purchased as rough cut root chunks that can be easily made into teas. This is a favorite blood purifier among Ayurvedic medicine doctors.
It also stimulates bile flow while helping a weakened liver by purifying the blood and restoring damaged cells. Small burdock root chunks are ideal for DIY tinctures. Allow for swelling during the soaking process.
4 Turmeric:
This is the most clinically tested and written about herb for any and all inflammation. Since most liver ailments are inflammatory, it’s wise to include it in a liver healing protocol.
Curcumin capsules are readily available. But to ensure maximum absorption, get those that include piperine, an active ingredient from black pepper that helps extract nutrients from foods considerably.
Control Sugar Cravings Series | 4 Herbs That May Help Reduce Blood Sugar
Video No 2 of the 3-video series on how to control your sugar cravings is here!
Today we will talk about 4 herbs that may help reduce blood sugar, cleanse and detox your elimination system and eventually help you control your sugar cravings. Let’s check them out here!
Interested in learning more about how to control your sugar cravings? Check Out The Get Off Sugar Program Here!
1 Ginger
Ginger has a strong cleansing effect on the body, and one of the best features is that it helps the body absorb the nutrients and minerals taken in by eating. One thing that is often overlooked by those trying to detox the body is that it’s not just about getting rid of the toxins, but replacing them with the things your body does need. Using a spice like ginger can go a long way in assisting your body in absorbing the things it needs most. Ginger is also really great for the digestive system, and can help reduce the symptoms that come from detoxing, including flatulence and bloating.
2. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is used to heat up a dish, but it’s also good at helping the body cleanse itself. It’s often cited as helping to lose weight, as it’s said to speed up the metabolism, making it easier to lose weight without really trying. As far as detoxification goes, it’s going to help your digestion, which has a trickle down effect on the rest of your body and especially in how you feel. A backed up digestion will trap toxins in a sort of holding pattern in your body, and can lead to feelings of malaise and lethargy. Taking herbs and spices like cayenne pepper helps to get things moving again and helps the body properly eliminate these toxic substances.
3. Cardamom
This is a popular spice used in Indian cuisine, and can go a long way if you’re trying to detox the body. Cardamom goes to work on harmful bacteria in the body, without destroying the beneficial bacteria that you want in there. When used in conjunction with other spices that help the digestion you’ve got a powerful one-two punch that can kill off these bacteria, and then whisk them out of the body. One side benefit of using more cardamom is that it acts as a natural antidepressant. Even if you’re not depressed it will help boost your mood, making it a great spice to introduce into your diet.
4. Cinnamon
This is a popular spice often seen used in baked goods. Unfortunately when it’s used in sweet pastries it isn’t going to have much of a detoxifying effect. It needs to be consumed either by itself or with other wholesome and natural ingredients if it’s going to provide any sort of detox benefits. The best way to consume cinnamon for detox is to add it to a detox beverage, such as a shake, smoothie, or detox water. This gives you the most direct benefit and will yield the best results.
Control Sugar Cravings Series | Apple Cider Vinegar
Welcome to the 3-video series on how to control your sugar cravings! Today we will talk about how amazing apple cider vinegar is for you! Here are the top 4 ways in which it can help you control your sugar cravings:
Interested in learning more about how to control your sugar cravings? Check Out The Get Off Sugar Program Here!
1. Weight Loss:
Many people drink apple cider vinegar to help with weight management. Consuming it daily is thought to:
- help reduce bad cholesterol
- fight off cravings
- reduce abdominal fat
Overall, it seems like apple cider vinegar is useful as a weight loss aid, mainly by promoting satiety and lowering blood sugar and insulin levels.
2. Reduce fasting blood sugar
A small study in people with diabetes reported that consuming 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before bedtime reduced fasting blood sugar by 4% the following morning (9). Numerous other studies in humans show that vinegar can improve insulin function and lower blood sugar levels after meals
3. May help manage blood sugar levels and even fight diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels, either because of insulin resistance or an inability to produce insulin.
However, high blood sugar can also be a problem in people who don’t have diabetes. It is believed to be a major cause of aging and various chronic diseases.
4. Can Reduce Candida
Candida is a naturally occurring bacteria in the body, often associated with yeast infections and negative bacterial overgrowth. The natural enzymes in apple cider vinegar can help the body get rid of yeasts associated with candida overgrowth in humans. Candida excess symptoms include foggy brain, excessive tiredness, poor memory, sugar cravings and others.
How To Get Rid of Intestinal Parasites… Naturally
There are home remedies that are prepared with botanicals like peppermint, rue and mugwort, which have anti-parasitic properties, and are very efficient in eliminating parasites and intestinal worms.
These can be used every 6 months or in small doses on a regular basis to keep the intestine clean, but can also be used after confirmation of the presence of pinworms as a way to complement the treatment indicated by the doctor. It is important to remember that in the case of pregnant women, nursing women or children, it is important to first consult a doctor before ingesting them.
Here are 5 home remedies with anti-parasitic actions traditionally used to manage intestinal parasites. They are:
1. Rue tea with papaya seeds
The home remedy with papaya and rue is optimal in the treatment of worms, since rue is a powerful anthelmintic.
Ingredients
1/2 tablespoon of papaya seeds;
1 tablespoon of dried rue leaves;
1 cup of water.
Preparation mode
Place the ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil. Then it should be strained and drunk warm, during the day.
2. Turmeric tea
7 home remedies to kill parasites and intestinal worms
Another good home remedy to treat intestinal parasites is turmeric tea (curcuma longa), because this root has curcumin as an active principle, which according to some studies, inhibits the growth of some pathogens, including helminths and protozoa. In addition to this, turmeric is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients
12 ounces of water;
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder.
Preparation mode
Boil the water and add the teaspoon of turmeric, let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day between meals.
3. Olive oil with garlic
7 home remedies to kill parasites and intestinal worms
Garlic is optimal for the elimination of intestinal worms and can be consumed raw, but it can also be consumed daily as a flavored oil, as it maintains its anthelmintic properties.
Ingredients
16 ounces of olive oil;
1 branch of rosemary;
3 cloves of peeled garlic.
Preparation mode
In a bottle of approximately 700 ml place the peeled and gently crushed garlic cloves and then add the oil and the rosemary branch. Close and store in a dry, moisture-free place for at least 10 days. Use this oil to cook food and to dress salads or soups.
See all the health benefits of garlic.
4. Mugwort tea
Mugwort is excellent for eliminating intestinal parasites due to its antiparasitic properties, its scientific name is mugwort vulgaris.
Ingredients
20 g of artemisia leaves;
32 ounces of boiling water.
Preparation mode
Add the leaves to the boiling water and let it rest for 5 minutes. Strain and drink when hot 3 times a day.
5. Anise tea
Anise tea also has anthelmintic action, being useful to complement the treatment against intestinal parasites.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon of anise seeds;
1 cup of boiling water.
Preparation mode
Place the seeds in the boiling water and let it rest for 8 minutes. Strain and take after meals. Learn more about anise and its properties.
Herbal Blends for Gallbladder Stones
The presence of gallstones causes symptoms including vomiting, nausea, and pain in the right side of the abdomen or in the back. The size of these stones is variable, and can be like a grain of sand up to the size of a golf ball.
Gallstones that are very large can only be removed with shock wave therapy or surgery, but small stones can be removed through the intake of medications and / or with the use of some natural treatments, plant under the doctor’s guidance.
An excellent home remedy to eliminate small stones from the gallbladder is to drink 100 mL of water every hour until you can ingest 2 liters of water throughout the day. This will allow the gallbladder to relax, thus reducing the swelling and painful sensation caused by gallstones.
Other excellent home remedies to remove small gallstones are:
1. Black radish juice
Black radish is a root that has substances in its composition that prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the gallbladder, helping to prevent and eliminate the stones that form on this site. It can also be used to reduce fat accumulated in the liver and as an antioxidant agent, reducing the effects of aging.
Ingredients
3 black radishes;
1-2 glass of water;
1 teaspoon of natural sweetener
Preparation mode
Wash the radishes and blend them together with the cold water and honey, until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Then serve the juice in a glass and drink up to 2 times per day.
2. Dandelion Tea
Dandelion is a plant known to combat digestive problems, acting mainly on the liver and the gallbladder, because it has choleretic effects, that is, it promotes increased bile flow by helping to expel stones from the gallbladder.
Ingredients
3 Tbsp of dried dandelion leaves;
16-20 ounces of water.
Preparation mode
Boil the water and place the dried dandelion leaves, cover and let it rest for 10 minutes. Next, you must strain the infusion and drink warm. It can be ingested 3 times a day.
3. Artichoke
Popularly, artichoke is a plant used to treat various health problems such as anemia, hemorrhoids, rheumatism, and pneumonia. Some studies show that it is also a plant used to eliminate stones in the gallbladder because it stimulates the production of bile, helping not only the gallbladder but also liver function.
Ingredients
2 to 5 mL of artichoke tincture
12 of room temp. water
Preparation mode
Dilute the artichoke tincture in water and drink the mixture up to 3 times a day.
4. Peppermint essential oil
The essential oil of peppermint can help to eliminate stones in the gallbladder, 0.2 mL of this oil should be taken, once a day, to cause the desired effect. However, it is possible to prepare peppermint tea, because it is also recommended for the treatment of these types of health problems.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons whole or crushed dried peppermint leaves or 2 to 3 fresh leaves
16 ounces of boiling water
Preparation mode
Place the peppermint leaves in a teacup and fill it with boiling water. Let the infusion rest for 5 to 7 minutes, strain and drink 3 to 4 times a day, preferably after meals.
5. Milk thistle
Milk thistle, also known as Silybum marianum, is a natural remedy widely used to treat liver problems and gallbladder stones, because the main compound in this plant is silymarin. In general, the extracts of this plant can be bought in pharmacies or in natural stores in the form of capsules, but milk thistle fruit tea can also be used.
Ingredients
1 teaspoon of crushed milk thistle fruits;
1 cup of water.
Preparation mode
Boil the water and place the crushed milk thistle fruits, let the infusion rest for 10 minutes. After this time, you should strain the infusion and drink 3 to 4 cups of tea per day.
Natural Ways To Manage Hemorrhoids
There are some home remedies that can be used to relieve symptoms and cure external hemorrhoids faster, complementing the treatment by the doctor. Some good examples are the sitz bath with horse chestnut or the use of a witch hazel ointment, but there are other solutions such as increasing the consumption of foods rich in fiber and taking capsules of garlic, echinacea or Psyllium.
Garlic and echinacea capsules are also great options for internal hemorrhoids, but these home treatments should not replace doctor-prescribed treatment, which may include the use of pain relievers, ointments, or balms. See some of the most popular herbal blends traditionally used to treat hemorrhoids.
For external hemorrhoids
1. Sitz bath with horse chestnut
Home remedies for external and internal hemorrhoids
Horse chestnut is one of the most scientifically proven natural ingredients for the treatment of external hemorrhoids, because it contains properties that improve circulation. Likewise, horse chestnut is also rich in aescin, a type of saponin that exerts a strong anti-inflammatory effect, relieving pain and discomfort.
Ingredients
½ cup 60 grams of the shell of the horse chestnut powder;
2 liters (60 ounces) of boiling water
Preparation mode
Mix all the ingredients and boil for more than 12 minutes. When warm, you should strain and place the mixture in a bucket or large container. You must then sit, without underwear, for 20 minutes. Repeat this home treatment for at least 5 days.
Horse chestnut can also be ingested in capsule form. For best results, it should be taken around 300 mg, 2 times a day, but treatment can also be done with 40 mg, 3 times a day.
2. Sitz bath with cypress essential oil
Home remedies for external and internal hemorrhoids
Cypress has soothing and antimicrobial properties that help control pain and reduce inflammation, bringing the hemorrhoid back to normal.
Ingredients
1.5 liters of boiling water;
8 drops of cypress essential oil.
Preparation mode
You should place the drops of cypress essential oil in hot water and mix well. When the water temperature is comfortable, the person should sit in the container and stay for at least 20 minutes at least, allowing the remedy to work.
Another option to use another essential oil is to apply 2 or 3 drops in another vegetable oil, such as sweet almond oil, for example, and apply it directly on the region. This essential oil of cypress should not be applied directly to the skin, as it can cause a burn.
3. Sitz baths with Epsom salts
Epsom salts can also be used in the treatment of hemorrhoids, because it is excellent to reduce inflammation, and can be easily added to water. Thus, in addition to the warm water that helps stimulate the normal functioning of the intestine, this home treatment also has a strong anti-inflammatory component that is released by the salts.
Ingredients
2 tbsp epsom salts;
2 liters of boiling water.
Preparation mode
Mix the salt into the water until it dissolves. When the water is warm you should sit in the bucket, without wearing intimate clothing, for 15 to 20 minutes. This sitz bath can be repeated 2 to 3 times a day.
4. Chamomile compresses
Home remedies for external and internal hemorrhoids
Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, so placing compresses on hemorrhoids helps to relieve discomfort.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers;
100 ml of water.
Preparation mode
Let the water boil, turn off the heat and add the chamomile flowers. Let it rest for 5 minutes, strain, wet a clean cloth and apply to the affected region for 15 minutes.
Stress Causing Your Blood Pressure to Rise? Try One Of These
Does all the stress of today’s work making your blood pressure rise? The world of herbal medicine has a lot to offer and I wanted to share a bunch of them here.
Although these home remedies are useful to supplement treatment for high blood pressure, they should only be taken with the knowledge of the cardiologist, as they are not a substitute for medications prescribed by the doctor.
Check out these 5 remedies (with recipes) to learn what to do when your blood pressure rises.
1. Garlic water
Garlic water is an excellent way to regulate blood pressure because it stimulates the production of nitric oxide, which is a gas with a strong vasodilator action, which facilitates blood circulation and reduces pressure on the heart.
In addition to this, garlic is an excellent ally to maintain the cardiovascular health of anyone, because it has incredible antioxidant and protective properties of blood vessels that prevent the emergence of problems such as atherosclerosis.
An excellent way to consume garlic is by drinking garlic flavored water or its capsules throughout the day.
Ingredients:
1 clove of raw garlic, peeled and crushed;
12-16 oz of water.
Preparation mode
Place the garlic clove in a glass of water and let it steep for 6 to 8 hours (while sleeping, for example) and drink this water on an empty stomach the next morning, or prepare a liter of garlic water and drink throughout the day.
In addition to this water, garlic can be ingested throughout the day with food, being easier to ingest than water. A good tip is to add a few garlic cloves to the olive oil. Thus, whenever you use olive oil, in addition to consuming a good fat, you will also be using the properties of garlic.
2. Lemon juice
A good home remedy to control high blood pressure is to drink lemonade mixed with coconut water because this juice has diuretic properties that help regulate blood pressure.
Ingredients
3 lemons;
20 ounces of coconut water.
Preparation mode
Mix the ingredients very well and drink next. Take 1 time a day.
3. Hibiscus flower tea
The hibiscus flower, also known as hibiscus, is a plant that has been widely used during the weight loss process. However, this plant has other important effects, such as lowering blood pressure. This occurs because it is rich in anthocyanins, which are flavonoids that help regulate blood pressure.
However, for best results darker flower calyxes should be used. The calyxes are the structures that connect the flower’s tail to the petals. The darker the flowers, the greater the amount of anthocyanins and the greater their effect on lowering blood pressure.
Ingredients
½ tsp of dried hibiscus flower;
1 cup of boiling water.
Preparation mode
Place the calyxes of the hibiscus flower inside the mug and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Then strain and drink 1 to 2 times a day, keeping at least 8 hours between one cup and another.
Although there are still no studies that prove, it is possible that hibiscus is toxic above the daily dose of 6 grams. So it is advised that the indicated dose is not increased.
Hibiscus flower tea can have a rather bitter taste, so if necessary, you can add a small spoonful of stevia or honey to sweeten it.
4. Valerian tea
Valerian roots contain excellent calming and relaxing properties that help improve blood circulation. In addition to this, because it is very calming and acts directly on the neurotransmitter GABA, valerian can be used especially in people who have frequent anxiety attacks, which can cause an increase in blood pressure.
Ingredients
2-3 Tbsp of valerian root;
1 cup with boiling water.
Preparation mode
Place the valerian root in the cup with the boiling water, letting it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and drink 2 to 3 times a day. In some people this tea can cause drowsiness during the day, and in these cases it should be used only before sleeping.
5. Olive leaf tea
Olive leaves are one of the best natural remedies for high blood pressure, because through the action of their polyphenols they manage to regulate blood pressure and lower it, without causing risk of hypotension, even if they have been consumed in excess.
In addition to this, they also cause a mild calming and relaxing effect that helps control symptoms in people who suffer from constant anxiety.
Ingredients
2 to 3 tablespoons of dried olive leaves;
1 cup with boiling water.
Preparation mode
Place the olive leaves in a cup of boiling water, letting it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm 3 to 4 cups throughout the day.
In addition to tea, there is also olive leaf extract, which can be bought in natural product stores in capsules, which can be consumed in a dose of 500mg, 2 times a day after.