by AJ Adams
Blackberries are late season autumn berries that are well worth the wait. This dark purple fruit is high in vitamin C, vitamin E and, like other dark berries, antioxidants.
The path to great blackberries is paved by the 4 P's; Purchasing, Prepping, Preserving and Preparing.
Purchasing: When you're looking for the perfect blackberries and you can't get out to the farm yourself to pick them, you want to keep your eyes out for a nice, purple-black color. The berries should be firm, but still plump looking. They should also be dry, but not too dry - you want some juiciness about it. Like most fruits and vegetables, the best smelling and most fragrant ones are the tastiest, so give them a good smell.
Preparation: Don't wash or rinse the berries until you're ready to use them. Otherwise, the extra moisture and condensation could speed up the spoiling process. When you're ready, rinse the berries thoroughly under low-pressure running water. Pick out any loose stems or leaves.
Preserving: If you're not going to use the berries within a few days or purchasing or picking them, then you'll need to preserve them. The easiest way is to freeze them. A good method is to lay out the berries on a flat tray, freeze them and then move them to a plastic freezer bag. This will keep them from freezing as one solid clump.
Preparing: If you plan on serving the berries solo with a touch of cream and sugar, then fresh is best. But, if your blackberry dreams are pinned on pies, puddings, crumbles, and jams then frozen blackberries will do just fine, but remember that cooking and processing, like in all produce, will drastically reduce the levels of Vitamin C and Vitamin B. Like all fruits and vegetables, blackberries combine best with other fruits from their season, so try matching them with apples and squash for fantastic flavor.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
What's Good For Age Spots?
by Charles Browne
Age spots (also called liver spots or solar lentigines) are collections of pigment caused by excessive sun exposure, poor liver function, nutritional deficiency, or lack of exercise. Age spots are the yellowish-brown flat spots that look like large freckles of various sizes. Though harmless and painless, these changes in skin color are associated with older skin. They usually appear on the hands, but they can be almost anywhere, such as the face, arms, shoulders, back, or feet- the areas most exposed to the sun. While age spots are very common in adults over 40, they can affect younger people also.
As we age, and our metabolism slows down, the liver may become so overloaded with toxins that it cannot rid the body of them. Years of being in the sun begin to add up. Oxidation within the body, and the lack of antioxidants in our diet, also plays an influential role in this process. Due to thin skin or excessive sun exposure, pigment can also be deposited as a reaction to an injury or bruise, similar to a scar being a response to a cut.
Age spots are the surface sign of free radical intoxification of the body, therefore it may be more beneficial to fight them internally. Vitamins (or foods rich in the vitamins) which may be helpful include: B6 (pyrodoxine), Beta-carotene, B Complex, C, Calcium & Magnesium, Cysteine, D, E, Lecithin, and Selenium. Herbs which may be helpful include: Burdock, Ginseng, Gotu Kola, Licorice root, Milk Thistle, Red Clover, and Sarsaparilla.
Vitamins and herbs may also be applied externally, to be absorbed into the skin. Those useful include: Apple Cider Vinegar, Dandelion juice, Lemon juice, Onion, and vitamins A, C, & E.
Age spots take years to form and eliminating them will also take time, so don't give up. Try a remedy, be patient, and if there's no improvement after a few months, try another one. Avoid excessive sun exposure, and always use a sunscreen of at least SPF 15. Avoid unhealthy fats.
To promote liver function, eat lots of fruits and vegetables (especially raw), & whole grains. Consume plenty of green vegetables. Maintain a healthy weight, and remember that sweating is good for you. Also avoid alcohol, artificial sweeteners, aspirin, caffeine, drugs, fats, food additives & preservatives, foods with artificial anything, meat, processed foods, salt, shellfish, sugar, tobacco smoke, and white flour.
NOTE: Irregular, dark spots that increase in size or change color or texture, should be checked immediately by a doctor. They could be skin cancer.
Age spots (also called liver spots or solar lentigines) are collections of pigment caused by excessive sun exposure, poor liver function, nutritional deficiency, or lack of exercise. Age spots are the yellowish-brown flat spots that look like large freckles of various sizes. Though harmless and painless, these changes in skin color are associated with older skin. They usually appear on the hands, but they can be almost anywhere, such as the face, arms, shoulders, back, or feet- the areas most exposed to the sun. While age spots are very common in adults over 40, they can affect younger people also.
As we age, and our metabolism slows down, the liver may become so overloaded with toxins that it cannot rid the body of them. Years of being in the sun begin to add up. Oxidation within the body, and the lack of antioxidants in our diet, also plays an influential role in this process. Due to thin skin or excessive sun exposure, pigment can also be deposited as a reaction to an injury or bruise, similar to a scar being a response to a cut.
Age spots are the surface sign of free radical intoxification of the body, therefore it may be more beneficial to fight them internally. Vitamins (or foods rich in the vitamins) which may be helpful include: B6 (pyrodoxine), Beta-carotene, B Complex, C, Calcium & Magnesium, Cysteine, D, E, Lecithin, and Selenium. Herbs which may be helpful include: Burdock, Ginseng, Gotu Kola, Licorice root, Milk Thistle, Red Clover, and Sarsaparilla.
Vitamins and herbs may also be applied externally, to be absorbed into the skin. Those useful include: Apple Cider Vinegar, Dandelion juice, Lemon juice, Onion, and vitamins A, C, & E.
Age spots take years to form and eliminating them will also take time, so don't give up. Try a remedy, be patient, and if there's no improvement after a few months, try another one. Avoid excessive sun exposure, and always use a sunscreen of at least SPF 15. Avoid unhealthy fats.
To promote liver function, eat lots of fruits and vegetables (especially raw), & whole grains. Consume plenty of green vegetables. Maintain a healthy weight, and remember that sweating is good for you. Also avoid alcohol, artificial sweeteners, aspirin, caffeine, drugs, fats, food additives & preservatives, foods with artificial anything, meat, processed foods, salt, shellfish, sugar, tobacco smoke, and white flour.
NOTE: Irregular, dark spots that increase in size or change color or texture, should be checked immediately by a doctor. They could be skin cancer.
Super Foods are Self Contained Powerhouses of Nutritional Content
by Paul Crantz
If you've heard the term "super food", are you thinking of vitamin drinks or the latest greatest diet and muscle concoction? The generally accepted criteria for a super food is a food unusually rich at least one or more essential nutrient. Most contain multiple nutrients and benefits at levels well above the norm. Well, you may be surprised to learn that the world's most nutritionally beneficial foods are right under your nose, readily available most anywhere. Let's take a quick look.
Let's start with nuts, walnuts, peanuts, macadamias, my favorite, and others. Just by eating a handful of nuts, five times a week, you can improve your cholesterol and lower your risk of cardiovascular disease by 15% to 50%. Just try and find a pill that will even touch those numbers, at least naturally and safely. Nuts, especially walnuts, are an excellent source of plant based Omega 3 fatty acids. For vegans, this is good news indeed, for much of the foods rich in fatty acids are found in animal products, such as fish and eggs. One generous handful of nuts, say a dozen walnut halves, contain about 150 calories which should not wreck your diet.
Another super food group are foods that are deep blue, purple, red, green, or orange. For instance, take the blueberry, in a class all by itself. They are not hugely nutritious in any one area as much as they have such a broad spectrum. They have folic acid, C., carotenes, bioflavanoids and literally hundreds of other compounds, all beneficial to health. Strawberries, raspberries and most other berries are also similar in nutritional value. Tomatoes are packed with vitamin C and vitamin A, and you also get some fiber, but especially Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, is abundant in tomatoes and tomato products. Studies found that lycopene may help reduce some cancer and heart disease. Sweet potatoes are one of the best vegetables you can eat. They're loaded with carotenoids, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
Whole grains are definitely in this class. Whole grains are thought to have even more phytochemicals and antioxidants than even the best fruits and vegetables. You've probably heard the adage that Bread is the Staff of Life. It's not hard to see why. Most of the antioxidants are found in the germ and the bran of a grain. Whole grains are an excellent source of B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, iron and fiber as well as other valuable antioxidants not found in some fruits and vegetables. Whole wheat, wild rice, brown rice, oatmeal and popcorn are all good examples.
What about pomegranates? There are other super fruits but pomegranates are probably not as well known as they should be. Pomegranate fruits contain polyphenols, tannins and anthocyanins - all are beneficial antioxidants. Interestingly, pomegranate juice contains high levels of antioxidants - higher than most other fruit juices, red wine or green tea. Studies have shown that the juice of the pom is effective in lowering high blood pressure as well as LDL, the bad cholesterol. Plus, it is absolutely delicious. Don't miss this one.
Seafood, especially wild salmon, sardines and tuna, are an undeniable super food group. These foods are extremely rich in the good fatty acids, especially Omega 3 acids. It has been shown, beyond any doubt, that Omega 3 is crucial for optimal brain functioning. The brain is about 60% fat, it needs a fat based nutrient to keep it well lubed, so to speak. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular docosahexaenoic acid or DHA. Not only will it feed and lubricate a developing brain, DHA also seems to help stave off dementia, a very real problem in the elderly population.
Legumes or beans are super in every sense of the word. Each bean may have its own unique nutritional characteristics, but they all provide a tremendous nutritional boost to our diets. Beans are an excellent source of low fat protein and fiber, and they are loaded with B vitamins, folate, magnesium, iron and potassium, just to name a few. Beans are also loaded with hundreds of phytonutrients, which play an essential role in overall cellular health, and numerous other benefits.
The foods listed above are on my short list of super foods. I chose these foods for two reasons. Number one is that they are, for the most part, readily available worldwide. Number two is that these foods are synergistic, meaning any combination of two or more of these foods used in our diets could keep us in glowing good health, satisfying our nutritional needs for a lifetime. Bon appetit', thanks for reading.
If you've heard the term "super food", are you thinking of vitamin drinks or the latest greatest diet and muscle concoction? The generally accepted criteria for a super food is a food unusually rich at least one or more essential nutrient. Most contain multiple nutrients and benefits at levels well above the norm. Well, you may be surprised to learn that the world's most nutritionally beneficial foods are right under your nose, readily available most anywhere. Let's take a quick look.
Let's start with nuts, walnuts, peanuts, macadamias, my favorite, and others. Just by eating a handful of nuts, five times a week, you can improve your cholesterol and lower your risk of cardiovascular disease by 15% to 50%. Just try and find a pill that will even touch those numbers, at least naturally and safely. Nuts, especially walnuts, are an excellent source of plant based Omega 3 fatty acids. For vegans, this is good news indeed, for much of the foods rich in fatty acids are found in animal products, such as fish and eggs. One generous handful of nuts, say a dozen walnut halves, contain about 150 calories which should not wreck your diet.
Another super food group are foods that are deep blue, purple, red, green, or orange. For instance, take the blueberry, in a class all by itself. They are not hugely nutritious in any one area as much as they have such a broad spectrum. They have folic acid, C., carotenes, bioflavanoids and literally hundreds of other compounds, all beneficial to health. Strawberries, raspberries and most other berries are also similar in nutritional value. Tomatoes are packed with vitamin C and vitamin A, and you also get some fiber, but especially Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, is abundant in tomatoes and tomato products. Studies found that lycopene may help reduce some cancer and heart disease. Sweet potatoes are one of the best vegetables you can eat. They're loaded with carotenoids, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
Whole grains are definitely in this class. Whole grains are thought to have even more phytochemicals and antioxidants than even the best fruits and vegetables. You've probably heard the adage that Bread is the Staff of Life. It's not hard to see why. Most of the antioxidants are found in the germ and the bran of a grain. Whole grains are an excellent source of B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, iron and fiber as well as other valuable antioxidants not found in some fruits and vegetables. Whole wheat, wild rice, brown rice, oatmeal and popcorn are all good examples.
What about pomegranates? There are other super fruits but pomegranates are probably not as well known as they should be. Pomegranate fruits contain polyphenols, tannins and anthocyanins - all are beneficial antioxidants. Interestingly, pomegranate juice contains high levels of antioxidants - higher than most other fruit juices, red wine or green tea. Studies have shown that the juice of the pom is effective in lowering high blood pressure as well as LDL, the bad cholesterol. Plus, it is absolutely delicious. Don't miss this one.
Seafood, especially wild salmon, sardines and tuna, are an undeniable super food group. These foods are extremely rich in the good fatty acids, especially Omega 3 acids. It has been shown, beyond any doubt, that Omega 3 is crucial for optimal brain functioning. The brain is about 60% fat, it needs a fat based nutrient to keep it well lubed, so to speak. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular docosahexaenoic acid or DHA. Not only will it feed and lubricate a developing brain, DHA also seems to help stave off dementia, a very real problem in the elderly population.
Legumes or beans are super in every sense of the word. Each bean may have its own unique nutritional characteristics, but they all provide a tremendous nutritional boost to our diets. Beans are an excellent source of low fat protein and fiber, and they are loaded with B vitamins, folate, magnesium, iron and potassium, just to name a few. Beans are also loaded with hundreds of phytonutrients, which play an essential role in overall cellular health, and numerous other benefits.
The foods listed above are on my short list of super foods. I chose these foods for two reasons. Number one is that they are, for the most part, readily available worldwide. Number two is that these foods are synergistic, meaning any combination of two or more of these foods used in our diets could keep us in glowing good health, satisfying our nutritional needs for a lifetime. Bon appetit', thanks for reading.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Selecting the Best Tea for You
by Dennis Brown
If you're ready to explore the fine world of healthy tea, you should understand there are three foremost types of tea decorating the shelves of supermarkets: green, oolong, and black. Today, the three prominent brands of tea are joined by a fourth, which promises a wealth of medical aid - white tea. The distinction between all of the types of tea is the way that each is harvested and processed. As a rule of thumb, the younger the leaf, the higher the numbers of antioxidants (as exhibited with the white tea variety).
Black Tea
Accounting for greater than 75% of the tea production in the entire world, the black variation is sometimes called pekoe or orange pekoe. Since the leaves are fermented before drying, black tea has the tiniest numbers of the antioxidants that can be helpful to your body. When matched to all the teas, black tea possesses the highest quantity of theaflavin, which is thought to limit the danger of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Per a long-term study done by the Netherlands National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, parallels were detected between daily consumption of black tea and a smaller risk of suffering a stroke. Scientists in Saudi Arabia also discovered a 50% reduction of developing coronary heart disease.
Oolong Tea
Since oolong tea undergoes an incomplete fermentation, there is still a reasonable measure of antioxidants to prevent and treat an assortment of medical concerns. A large level of polyphenol is related to the drinking of oolong tea, which has a connection to the hindrance and handling of heart-related diseases. When drinking a ½ cup of oolong tea every day may arise in a smaller risk of high blood pressure (or hypertension) by almost 50%. This type of tea also helps against embarrassing skin conditions and tooth decay.
Green Tea
Green tea does not enter a conversion of fermentation, which leads to a larger concentration in healthy qualities than the black and oolong type. A large quantity of catechin is contained inside a cup of green tea and it is due to this component that you get the multitude of anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Drinking green tea may also help various patients fight high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular disease, infection, rheumatoid arthritis and a weakened immune system.
White Tea
When processing the ingredients for white tea the youngest leaves and buds are left untouched. Due to this the biggest quantity of antioxidants is present inside a cup of white tea. White tea has the potential to fight against fungi, viruses, and bacteria. The white type of tea also boosts the anti-bacterial and anti-viral fighting strength of several of the most purchased toothpastes on the market. Studies done on the polyphenols in white tea have discovered the potential to eradicate cancer causing cells.
You can find it very demanding to select the right tea when they each have innumerable possible benefits. I would suggest that you should regularly consume the one that you think is most enjoyable. Tea is something that should be savored not just considered a medicine. I would also suggest you to pick a couple days each week to sample a different tea. This way you might get some of the potential benefits of all the teas and you might even discover a new favorite tea.
About the Author
To read more about the benefits of tea, come over to Dennis Brown's site www.lifestea.com
If you're ready to explore the fine world of healthy tea, you should understand there are three foremost types of tea decorating the shelves of supermarkets: green, oolong, and black. Today, the three prominent brands of tea are joined by a fourth, which promises a wealth of medical aid - white tea. The distinction between all of the types of tea is the way that each is harvested and processed. As a rule of thumb, the younger the leaf, the higher the numbers of antioxidants (as exhibited with the white tea variety).
Black Tea
Accounting for greater than 75% of the tea production in the entire world, the black variation is sometimes called pekoe or orange pekoe. Since the leaves are fermented before drying, black tea has the tiniest numbers of the antioxidants that can be helpful to your body. When matched to all the teas, black tea possesses the highest quantity of theaflavin, which is thought to limit the danger of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Per a long-term study done by the Netherlands National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, parallels were detected between daily consumption of black tea and a smaller risk of suffering a stroke. Scientists in Saudi Arabia also discovered a 50% reduction of developing coronary heart disease.
Oolong Tea
Since oolong tea undergoes an incomplete fermentation, there is still a reasonable measure of antioxidants to prevent and treat an assortment of medical concerns. A large level of polyphenol is related to the drinking of oolong tea, which has a connection to the hindrance and handling of heart-related diseases. When drinking a ½ cup of oolong tea every day may arise in a smaller risk of high blood pressure (or hypertension) by almost 50%. This type of tea also helps against embarrassing skin conditions and tooth decay.
Green Tea
Green tea does not enter a conversion of fermentation, which leads to a larger concentration in healthy qualities than the black and oolong type. A large quantity of catechin is contained inside a cup of green tea and it is due to this component that you get the multitude of anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Drinking green tea may also help various patients fight high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular disease, infection, rheumatoid arthritis and a weakened immune system.
White Tea
When processing the ingredients for white tea the youngest leaves and buds are left untouched. Due to this the biggest quantity of antioxidants is present inside a cup of white tea. White tea has the potential to fight against fungi, viruses, and bacteria. The white type of tea also boosts the anti-bacterial and anti-viral fighting strength of several of the most purchased toothpastes on the market. Studies done on the polyphenols in white tea have discovered the potential to eradicate cancer causing cells.
You can find it very demanding to select the right tea when they each have innumerable possible benefits. I would suggest that you should regularly consume the one that you think is most enjoyable. Tea is something that should be savored not just considered a medicine. I would also suggest you to pick a couple days each week to sample a different tea. This way you might get some of the potential benefits of all the teas and you might even discover a new favorite tea.
About the Author
To read more about the benefits of tea, come over to Dennis Brown's site www.lifestea.com
Exercise And The Benefits To Older Skin
by Louise Forrest
Exercise is not only good for young skin, but it can also have amazing benefits for older skin too.
Exercise has been linked to benefits with the skin for years now, and it is no big surprise that if you exercise regularly, your skin will really reap the benefits. So just what benefits can exercise provide for older skin?
The Benefits of Exercise on Older Skin:
Keeping yourself in shape when you are older not only improves your fitness level, helps you to live longer, and help to firm the skin, but it can also help to heal the skin.
Older skin is generally more prone to wounds and sores, and exercise can really help to heal them. Even if you have never exercised in your life, if you start exercising regularly when you are older, you will still see the benefits.
As you get older, less exercise is needed and so you generally need to exercise for around fifteen minutes per day. It all depends upon the type of exercise which you do. If for example you fancy a walk, you only have to do fifteen minutes.
However, if you wanted to ride a stationary bike, you would have to do thirty minutes in order for the benefits to really show. The most essential thing to do before exercising is to warm up. If you do not warm up for at least ten minutes by stretching, you are likely to cause an injury to your body throughout the actual exercise.
Common skin problems in older people include age spots, bruising, Actinic Keratoses, and Cherry angiomas. Actinic Keratoses is basically a thick, rough, warty, growth which appears on sun exposed skin. Cherry angiomas are small, bright red domes which are created by dilated blood vessels.
Exercise helps by boosting antioxidants which fight free radicals which cause ageing. By fighting the free radicals, it leaves the skin healthier and younger looking and feeling, and that helps the skin to heal a lot better. The main benefit of exercise helping to heal wounds is that it stops infections.
Infections can be extremely worrying for elderly people and they can cause a lot of problems. As you get older your immune system is not as healthy as it used to be. This means that there is a lot more stress on it and it is harder to fight off any infection. Even small infections can lead to serious problems and sometimes in extreme cases, it could be fatal.
So what are the best exercises for older people then? Well walking is a really gentle exercise and many older people find it really enjoyable. Swimming is also another popular choice and there are often specially designed swimming days for older people too so check out your local pool to see if they offer these classes.
Some older people even go jogging, but obviously that will depend upon your current fitness level, you may simply wish to just stick to walking.
Generally all exercise can be done by any age. Even yoga can still be done whilst you are in your seventies! There really is no excuse and the benefits far outweigh the effort of having to actually do the exercise! So, if you want your skin to heal a lot quicker as well as keeping it firm and flexible, exercise is definitely the way to go about it!
Exercise generally increases collagen production which in turn helps to keep the skin firm. If you are an older person looking to start exercise, it is always important to check with your doctor to see what they recommend. They will be able to match you to something which will best fit your ability level.
About the Author
Keep YOURSELF looking and feeling great with these great FREE Beauty Tips from http://www.NaturalElements.co.uk In just seconds you can access over 36 beauty topics that will keep you looking younger and more radiant. You can now get the very latest information on Skin Care Products by subscribing with RSS
Exercise is not only good for young skin, but it can also have amazing benefits for older skin too.
Exercise has been linked to benefits with the skin for years now, and it is no big surprise that if you exercise regularly, your skin will really reap the benefits. So just what benefits can exercise provide for older skin?
The Benefits of Exercise on Older Skin:
Keeping yourself in shape when you are older not only improves your fitness level, helps you to live longer, and help to firm the skin, but it can also help to heal the skin.
Older skin is generally more prone to wounds and sores, and exercise can really help to heal them. Even if you have never exercised in your life, if you start exercising regularly when you are older, you will still see the benefits.
As you get older, less exercise is needed and so you generally need to exercise for around fifteen minutes per day. It all depends upon the type of exercise which you do. If for example you fancy a walk, you only have to do fifteen minutes.
However, if you wanted to ride a stationary bike, you would have to do thirty minutes in order for the benefits to really show. The most essential thing to do before exercising is to warm up. If you do not warm up for at least ten minutes by stretching, you are likely to cause an injury to your body throughout the actual exercise.
Common skin problems in older people include age spots, bruising, Actinic Keratoses, and Cherry angiomas. Actinic Keratoses is basically a thick, rough, warty, growth which appears on sun exposed skin. Cherry angiomas are small, bright red domes which are created by dilated blood vessels.
Exercise helps by boosting antioxidants which fight free radicals which cause ageing. By fighting the free radicals, it leaves the skin healthier and younger looking and feeling, and that helps the skin to heal a lot better. The main benefit of exercise helping to heal wounds is that it stops infections.
Infections can be extremely worrying for elderly people and they can cause a lot of problems. As you get older your immune system is not as healthy as it used to be. This means that there is a lot more stress on it and it is harder to fight off any infection. Even small infections can lead to serious problems and sometimes in extreme cases, it could be fatal.
So what are the best exercises for older people then? Well walking is a really gentle exercise and many older people find it really enjoyable. Swimming is also another popular choice and there are often specially designed swimming days for older people too so check out your local pool to see if they offer these classes.
Some older people even go jogging, but obviously that will depend upon your current fitness level, you may simply wish to just stick to walking.
Generally all exercise can be done by any age. Even yoga can still be done whilst you are in your seventies! There really is no excuse and the benefits far outweigh the effort of having to actually do the exercise! So, if you want your skin to heal a lot quicker as well as keeping it firm and flexible, exercise is definitely the way to go about it!
Exercise generally increases collagen production which in turn helps to keep the skin firm. If you are an older person looking to start exercise, it is always important to check with your doctor to see what they recommend. They will be able to match you to something which will best fit your ability level.
About the Author
Keep YOURSELF looking and feeling great with these great FREE Beauty Tips from http://www.NaturalElements.co.uk In just seconds you can access over 36 beauty topics that will keep you looking younger and more radiant. You can now get the very latest information on Skin Care Products by subscribing with RSS
Hawthorne Berries and Heart Health
by Patsy Hamilton
The Hawthorne berry is the fruit of the Common Hawthorne or Midland Hawthorne, a low growing shrub or small tree, with waxy leaves similar to the holly tree. Hawthorne berries are not commonly used as a food source, today, but the extract is found in some health supplements that promote heart and vascular health.
Apparently, the Hawthorne berry was used to make a fermented beverage in China, during per-historic times. Remnants of Hawthorne berries have been found in pottery jars dating back to 7000 B.C. Archeologists believe that these beverages were medically or religiously significant in ancient Chinese culture.
The New York Medical Journal first published a report concerning the use of Hawthorne berry in the treatment of heart disease in October 1896. A Dr. Green of Ennis, Ireland had developed a reputation for "curing" heart disease, but refused to share his secret with colleagues. After his death, his daughter revealed the name of the remedy used by her father. The name was Crataegus Oxycantha, the older scientific name for the Common Hawthorn. The official designation is now Crataegus monogyna, but the older name is sometimes used.
Clinical trials and research continued on the medicinal value of Hawthorne berries throughout the early 1900's and is still going on today. Scientific evaluation of the benefits of Hawthorne berry has only been partially completed. It is believed that antioxidants, flavonoids or other compounds such as epicatechin, quercetin and rutin, are responsible for the beneficial effects of Hawthorne berries. The extract is sometimes added to health supplements designed to promote heart health, reduce blood pressure and correct unhealthy cholesterol levels.
The most recent studies of the medicinal value of the Hawthorn berry related to the affect of the extract on the liver, the digestive system, the cardiovascular system and as an anti-inflammatory. The extract has natural anti-inflammatory action, has reduced ulcerative colitis and protected the liver from damage usually associated with cardiac events in laboratory animals. In the vascular system, the extract has been shown to reduce calcification. It is calcification of arterial plaques that leads to atherosclerosis and life threatening blood clots.
Even though some health care professionals have recognized the medicinal value of Hawthorne berries for over 100 years, research related to them is still considered preliminary. Most scientific research is funded by pharmaceutical companies and pharmaceutical companies cannot patent naturally occurring substances. So, the Hawthorne berry is of little interest to them. To learn more about Hawthorne berries and supplements designed to promote heart health, please visit Heart Health Diet Tips.com.
About the Author
Patsy Hamilton was a health care professional for over twenty years before becoming a freelance health writer. She is currently writing a series of articles about supplements that promote better heart health. Read more at http://heart-health-diet-tips.com.
The Hawthorne berry is the fruit of the Common Hawthorne or Midland Hawthorne, a low growing shrub or small tree, with waxy leaves similar to the holly tree. Hawthorne berries are not commonly used as a food source, today, but the extract is found in some health supplements that promote heart and vascular health.
Apparently, the Hawthorne berry was used to make a fermented beverage in China, during per-historic times. Remnants of Hawthorne berries have been found in pottery jars dating back to 7000 B.C. Archeologists believe that these beverages were medically or religiously significant in ancient Chinese culture.
The New York Medical Journal first published a report concerning the use of Hawthorne berry in the treatment of heart disease in October 1896. A Dr. Green of Ennis, Ireland had developed a reputation for "curing" heart disease, but refused to share his secret with colleagues. After his death, his daughter revealed the name of the remedy used by her father. The name was Crataegus Oxycantha, the older scientific name for the Common Hawthorn. The official designation is now Crataegus monogyna, but the older name is sometimes used.
Clinical trials and research continued on the medicinal value of Hawthorne berries throughout the early 1900's and is still going on today. Scientific evaluation of the benefits of Hawthorne berry has only been partially completed. It is believed that antioxidants, flavonoids or other compounds such as epicatechin, quercetin and rutin, are responsible for the beneficial effects of Hawthorne berries. The extract is sometimes added to health supplements designed to promote heart health, reduce blood pressure and correct unhealthy cholesterol levels.
The most recent studies of the medicinal value of the Hawthorn berry related to the affect of the extract on the liver, the digestive system, the cardiovascular system and as an anti-inflammatory. The extract has natural anti-inflammatory action, has reduced ulcerative colitis and protected the liver from damage usually associated with cardiac events in laboratory animals. In the vascular system, the extract has been shown to reduce calcification. It is calcification of arterial plaques that leads to atherosclerosis and life threatening blood clots.
Even though some health care professionals have recognized the medicinal value of Hawthorne berries for over 100 years, research related to them is still considered preliminary. Most scientific research is funded by pharmaceutical companies and pharmaceutical companies cannot patent naturally occurring substances. So, the Hawthorne berry is of little interest to them. To learn more about Hawthorne berries and supplements designed to promote heart health, please visit Heart Health Diet Tips.com.
About the Author
Patsy Hamilton was a health care professional for over twenty years before becoming a freelance health writer. She is currently writing a series of articles about supplements that promote better heart health. Read more at http://heart-health-diet-tips.com.
How to Make an Easter Bunny Cake
by LeAnn R. Ralph
For many years, chocolate has had the poor reputation of being "bad for you." But researchers have now discovered that chocolate contains as many if not more antioxidants than tea.
Pictures of the Easter Bunny Cake are here -- http://www.ruralroute2.com/bunny_cake_pictures.php
To make this double-chocolate Easter bunny cake (chocolate cake and chocolate frosting), use your round layer-cake pan. In addition to the cake and frosting, you will need:
* jelly beans * coconut * malted milk eggs (the large ones that come in a variety of colors) * 2 wafer cookies (for the ears)
Cake
* 1 1/2 cups flour * 1 cup sugar * 1 teaspoon baking powder * 1/2 teaspoon salt * 1/3 cup cocoa * 3/4 cup milk * 1/2 cup cooking oil * 1 egg * 1 teaspoon vanilla
Measure all ingredients into a medium-sized bowl. Use an electric mixer and blend at low speed for 1 minute. Scrape the bowl while blending. Beat at high speed for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping the bowl occasionally. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes in a greased and floured round layer-cake pan. Allow the cake to cool thoroughly before removing it from the pan.
Frosting * 3 cups powdered sugar * 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon cocoa * 6 tablespoons butter, softened (or margarine, if you prefer) * 1/4 cup milk
Measure all ingredients into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Blend at low speed for 1 minute. Scrape the bowl while blending. Beat at high speed for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping occasionally. If frosting seems too stiff, add milk by the teaspoon until the frosting reaches the desired consistency. If the frosting seems too thin, add powdered sugar by the tablespoon until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.
How to Make Your Chocolate Easter Bunny Cake
Remove the cake from the round cake pan. Cut in half. Frost the flat side of one half and put the two pieces together. Place on a platter or a large plate, cut side down.
Frost the cake with chocolate frosting.
Place two jelly beans for the eyes and one jelly bean for the nose. Use a large malted milk egg for the tail.
With a sharp knife, cut a hole on each side of the head where you want to place the ears. To make the ears, use the sharp knife to trim a wafer cookie into the shape of bunny ears. Frost the ears. Put a little frosting into the holes to anchor the ears.
Sprinkle coconut around the Easter bunny cake. Decorate with jelly beans and malted milk eggs.
***********************
LeAnn R. Ralph is the author of books about growing up on a small family dairy farm 40 years ago. The Midwest Book Review calls this series of books "Highly recommended reading!" You are invited to sign up for the twice-monthly newsletter from Rural Route 2 -- http://ruralroute2.com
About the Author
For more free recipes visit --http://ruralroute2.com
For more free recipes visit --http://rosinfo.blogspot.com
For many years, chocolate has had the poor reputation of being "bad for you." But researchers have now discovered that chocolate contains as many if not more antioxidants than tea.
Pictures of the Easter Bunny Cake are here -- http://www.ruralroute2.com/bunny_cake_pictures.php
To make this double-chocolate Easter bunny cake (chocolate cake and chocolate frosting), use your round layer-cake pan. In addition to the cake and frosting, you will need:
* jelly beans * coconut * malted milk eggs (the large ones that come in a variety of colors) * 2 wafer cookies (for the ears)
Cake
* 1 1/2 cups flour * 1 cup sugar * 1 teaspoon baking powder * 1/2 teaspoon salt * 1/3 cup cocoa * 3/4 cup milk * 1/2 cup cooking oil * 1 egg * 1 teaspoon vanilla
Measure all ingredients into a medium-sized bowl. Use an electric mixer and blend at low speed for 1 minute. Scrape the bowl while blending. Beat at high speed for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping the bowl occasionally. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes in a greased and floured round layer-cake pan. Allow the cake to cool thoroughly before removing it from the pan.
Frosting * 3 cups powdered sugar * 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon cocoa * 6 tablespoons butter, softened (or margarine, if you prefer) * 1/4 cup milk
Measure all ingredients into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Blend at low speed for 1 minute. Scrape the bowl while blending. Beat at high speed for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping occasionally. If frosting seems too stiff, add milk by the teaspoon until the frosting reaches the desired consistency. If the frosting seems too thin, add powdered sugar by the tablespoon until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.
How to Make Your Chocolate Easter Bunny Cake
Remove the cake from the round cake pan. Cut in half. Frost the flat side of one half and put the two pieces together. Place on a platter or a large plate, cut side down.
Frost the cake with chocolate frosting.
Place two jelly beans for the eyes and one jelly bean for the nose. Use a large malted milk egg for the tail.
With a sharp knife, cut a hole on each side of the head where you want to place the ears. To make the ears, use the sharp knife to trim a wafer cookie into the shape of bunny ears. Frost the ears. Put a little frosting into the holes to anchor the ears.
Sprinkle coconut around the Easter bunny cake. Decorate with jelly beans and malted milk eggs.
***********************
LeAnn R. Ralph is the author of books about growing up on a small family dairy farm 40 years ago. The Midwest Book Review calls this series of books "Highly recommended reading!" You are invited to sign up for the twice-monthly newsletter from Rural Route 2 -- http://ruralroute2.com
About the Author
For more free recipes visit --http://ruralroute2.com
For more free recipes visit --http://rosinfo.blogspot.com
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