When you have a lot of rosemary on hand, you cannot simply make roasted chicken and potatoes for every meal. You can add rosemary to stocks, soups, or infuse it into oil, but eventually, you will tire of the herb’s flavor. Too much of a good thing is real…or is it? When you no longer want to enjoy rosemary in culinary applications, use it to make nourishing products for your skin and hair. 

Why Should You Use A Facial Toner?

Facial toner works to remove traces of grime, dirt, and impurities that remain in your pores after you wash your face. Adding a toner to your daily skin care routine can have a positive impact on the overall appearance and tightness of your pores. Turning back the hands of time? Although it isn’t the anti-aging secret of the century, facial toner does help to restore the skin’s pH balance, creating a smoother appearance and tone. 

Everyone can benefit from using facial toner, but people with oily or acne-prone skin benefit a great deal. The reason for this is because toner goes the extra mile to clean the gunk out of those pores. If you have acne-prone skin, though, consider a toner that contains salicylic acid. People with oily skin may benefit from toners that help to balance oil production. Continue reading to learn more about the ingredients in this homemade toner and how they benefit your skin. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a common ingredient in many DIY face washes, acne spot cleansers, and toners. At this time, there isn’t sufficient research or scientific evidence to support the use of apple cider vinegar for facial skin care. That said, there are many anecdotal reports that suggest it works wonders for the skin. Apple cider vinegar works to remove excess oil, dirt, and other debris from pores. When incorporated into a toner or cleanser, apple cider vinegar can aid your skin-cleansing efforts. Because it is an astringent, apple cider vinegar lends itself to toners, creating more even skin tone and tighter pores. 

Rosemary

Rosemary, specifically rosemary oil, acts as a refreshing astringent that helps to balance skin tone. Topical application of this oil can help decongest oily skin types and acne-prone skin, while simultaneously maintaining the skin’s balance. The antimicrobial properties of rosemary help to invigorate the skin and increase circulation to the skin’s surface, contributing to a more youthful glow. Rosemary works to hydrate the skin and control oil production, while also providing antibacterial properties that help to keep breakouts at bay. Additionally, the use of rosemary oil on the skin has been associated with less flaking and dryness. It is a common ingredient in skin care products because it encourages healthier skin tissues. 

Homemade Facial Toner With Rosemary

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

• Combine the water and rosemary in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow it to simmer until the liquid has reduced by half. 
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the liquid to cool before straining it through a fine mesh strainer and into a glass jar. 
• Pour in the apple cider vinegar and mix well to combine. 
• When ready to use, shake well to combine, dip a cotton ball or pad in the mixture, and gently pat your face with it to apply. 
• Leave for a minute or so and then follow with your favorite moisturizer.

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Without the lungs, you cannot survive. They are vital organs responsible for the delivery of oxygen throughout the body and the removal of carbon dioxide. With increasing levels of pollution and toxins in the environment, it is easy for the lungs to become overwhelmed and unable to function optimally. 

The good news is that there are many natural remedies, such as our Lungs & Respiratory formula, that help cleanse and nourish the lungs. If you do not cleanse the lungs, irritants, pollutants, and other toxins can build up in them, causing inflammation, respiratory issues, and potential health conditions like asthma. Lung cleansing helps improve overall respiratory health, making it easier to breathe and reducing the risk of respiratory infections. 

How Can Herbs Assist?

For centuries, people have used herbs or herbal remedies to treat various health conditions, including respiratory problems. Many herbs exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that work to cleanse the lungs. Upon consumption, the herbs in this article may help eliminate toxins and mucus from the lungs, which ultimately reduces inflammation and promotes better respiratory health. Continue reading to learn which herbs are helpful for eliminating mucus from the lungs. 

Hyssop

Exhibiting strong expectorant properties, hyssop can help clear out entrenched phlegm that gets stuck in the lungs. Hyssop is an antispasmodic herb, meaning it helps relieve spasms in the respiratory system and soothes coughs. Studies have found hyssop syrup to be effective for asthmatic patients with productive cough and higher body mass index (BMI). Other studies found it to be effective for cough relief. 

Licorice Root

Licorice root has been used in various traditional medicinal applications. It acts as a soothing agent, demulcent, coating agent, and an expectorant, meaning it works to loosen mucus and make it easier to expel from the lungs. It is also a naturally sweet herb, containing a compound that is nearly 50 times sweeter than sugar. 

Elecampane Root

Regarded for its ability to promote better respiratory health, elecampane tea exhibits several promising characteristics for optimal lung health. For example, elecampane root has expectorant, sedative, anti-fungal, relaxing, antitussive (cough suppressant), warming, and antimicrobial properties. Various studies confirm that elecampane can help soothe bronchial tube linings, in addition to serving as an expectorant to facilitate lung cleansing. In the 1800s, cough drops and lozenges were made from elecampane root. 

Peppermint

Peppermint is another herb that offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Containing menthol, peppermint can help relax the muscles in the respiratory tract, which makes it easier to breathe more easily. If you have a sore throat or cough, peppermint can also benefit you in this regard. Consume peppermint in the form of tea or add some peppermint essential oil to a diffuser and inhale the steam for a quick lung cleanse. 

Elderflowers

Elderflower is an astringent that is somewhat drying, but it manages to moisten the internal mucus membranes. It exhibits antiviral properties that benefit head colds or infections in the upper respiratory tract. Elderflower is a key herb in many herb blends that benefit lung health and immune function. In addition to the flower, elderberries offer lots of vitamins A & C, antiviral properties, and iron that is easy for the body to absorb. 

Oregano

Popular in various culinary applications, oregano has potent medicinal properties. Researchers note that carvacrol, a compound in oregano, exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Oregano may help clear mucus from the lungs and reduce inflammation, making it effective for lung cleansing. 

Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root is a prominent ingredient in our Lungs and Respiratory formula, and for good reason. It is a demulcent herb that may help relieve swelling and irritation of mucus membranes, in addition to soothing the respiratory tract. Research shows that it acts like a protective film on inflamed mucosa, making it effective for soothing a dry cough.

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Plenty of people who swear by natural remedies regarding oral health or detoxing the mouth tend to practice oil pulling. Oil pulling is an age-old practice that involves swishing oil (typically coconut or sesame oil) in the mouth and then spitting it out. The claim is that oil pulling can help remove plaque and keep oral bacteria in check and although some research exists, most of the evidence is anecdotal.

What Is Oil Pulling?

An article in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine described oil pulling as swishing oil around in the mouth first thing in the morning. By swishing the oil in the mouth, you “pull” the oil between teeth. Ideally, you do this for five to 20 minutes and spit the oil in the trash when finished. It is important not to swallow the oil or spit it down the drain, as that can affect plumbing. The practice stimulates saliva production and helps remove harmful oral bacteria.

Does Oil Pulling Work?

Some studies exist on oil pulling’s effect on oral health and hygiene. Most of the discussion is about which oil is the best for the practice. The research is as follows:

• One study concluded that oil pulling with coconut oil is more effective than sesame oil in reducing the severity of gingivitis. 
• Another study found that oil pulling with coconut oil was as effective as chlorhexidine, a prescription mouthwash, in the reduction of Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria believed to cause tooth decay. 
• Olive oil may also be useful for oil pulling because it exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. 

It’s important to note that these studies, and other studies, were mostly small-scale, so more research is necessary to draw positive conclusions about oil pulling. The American Dental Association (ADA) does not consider oil pulling to be a reliable replacement for brushing and flossing. It may enhance your oral health routine, but you continue to brush and floss as you would in your normal day.

Oil Pulling With Coconut Oil

Unlike alcohol-based mouthwashes and toothpaste, oil may get into those hard-to-reach parts of the gums. The natural antibacterial properties of oils like coconut may help break down bacteria. A lot of people who oil pull with coconut oil find that their teeth and gums feel much healthier and cleaner when they add it to their oral hygiene routine. Oil pulling is not a miracle cure, nor is it for everyone. There is a good chance that it can help promote healthier teeth and gums, just like Dherbs’ Natural Tooth Powder, especially if you use it in combination with other oral health practices. 

Coconut Oil Pulling With Essential Oils

Below, you will find a recipe for coconut oil chews, which make oil pulling a little easier. We added essential oils for flavor and health properties that may help enhance oral health. Peppermint, clove, and tea tree essential oils work to improve the taste. Whichever essential oils you choose, make sure that you are not allergic, they do not interact with your meds, and that they are safe for oral use. 

Coconut Oil Pulling Chews

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• 10 drops clove essential oil

Instructions:

• Melt the coconut oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. You don’t want it to be solid, but you don’t want it completely liquid either. 
• Remove from the heat, add essential oils, and mix gently. Pour the mixture into silicone molds and put in the fridge or the freezer to harden. 
• Once the molds are firm, remove from the molds and store in a jar in the fridge. Use one chew per day, or as needed, for oil pulling.

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Think about how often your yoga mat touches the floor, especially if that floor is in a public yoga studio. Now think about all of the sweat, oils, and bacteria that accumulate on the mat during your yoga session. It’s safe to say that your yoga mat needs to be cleaned regularly, but does that happen? We are not here to judge; rather, we are here to provide a natural cleaner that helps remove all of that dirt and grime. 

What Is A DIY Yoga Mat Cleaner?

Think of this as a general cleaning spray, only without all of the harsh chemicals. This homemade solution contains vinegar or witch hazel, and essential oils, all of which help to remove sweat, germs, dirt, and oils from your yoga mat. That helps make your mat not only cleaner, but wonderfully scented. 

Using a DIY yoga mat cleaner also helps save you money and reduces waste. Not to mention, it gives you control over what touches your skin. Plus, making your own cleaner can feel both rewarding and creative, almost as if crafting your own wellness ritual. Keeping your yoga mat clean can help avoid skin irritation, in addition to the following benefits: 

• Helping prevent breakouts and skin rashes
• Removing odors caused by sweat
• Keeping the yoga mat free of bacteria and germs
• Extending the yoga mat’s life
• Enhancing the overall yoga experience 

Why Use Vinegar?

Vinegar is a staple household ingredient that is highly useful when it comes to cleaning certain items and surfaces. Regarding cleaning, vinegar’s most useful asset is its acidity. It is mild enough not to damage fabrics and surfaces, while being strong enough to get rid of stubborn stains and deposits. It can have a pH as low as 2.2 to 10 times as acidic as the average soft drink. 

One of the advantages of vinegar is that it exhibits antimicrobial activity. Some highly evolved bacteria can survive in acidic environments, but most find it difficult to thrive and replicate in these conditions. According to research, cleaning with vinegar can kill a range of pathogens, including E. coli. It has also proven to be an effective cleaning agent for dentures or a disinfectant for fruits and vegetables. 

What About Witch Hazel?

Yet another medicine cabinet hero! Witch hazel is typically for beauty applications, but it can be a powerful addition to your natural cleaning arsenal. Witch hazel is typically used as an astringent to help clean minor cuts or soothe bug bites. The astringent and antibacterial properties make it a fantastic cleaning agent. It is great for light cleaning tasks, especially when you want to avoid harsh chemicals. 

Not only can witch hazel improve your at-home cleaning game, but it can also help neutralize odors. Just keep in mind that witch hazel is not an approved disinfectant by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). You should not rely on witch hazel to eliminate viruses or bacteria; rather, use it as a complementary cleaner for light tasks. 

DIY Yoga Mat Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar or witch hazel (whichever you prefer)
• 10 drops tea tree oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour the distilled water into a spray bottle and then add the vinegar or witch hazel. 
• Drop in the essential oils and then screw on the top. Shake gently before each use to thoroughly mix up the ingredients. 
• To use, lightly spray on your yoga mat and wipe with a soft cloth.

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There are many fad diets that focus on cutting out entire food groups, calories, and more. Unlike those diets, the portfolio diet focuses on strategically incorporating specific cholesterol-lowering foods into your daily meals. Don’t think of this as a diet; rather, it is more akin to a plant-forward way of eating that helps you maximize health benefits, particularly for optimal cardiovascular function.

What Is The Portfolio Diet?

Any smart business person knows that it is best to diversify investments. You want to make your portfolio perform as best as it can, which is why this diet focuses on combining a specific combination of functional foods. You don’t count calories; rather, you prioritize nutrient synergy. Basically, the foods you eat work together to deliver strong cholesterol-lowering effects.  The diet is built around the following food categories:

• Viscous (soluble) fiber
• Plant-based protein
• Plant sterols
• Nuts

Many studies indicate that each of those components can independently improve cholesterol markers in humans. When you combine them, their effects are amplified and they can better support lipid profiles, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiometabolic health. Although this diet is compared to the DASH diet or Mediterranean diet, it is different in that it places more emphasis on foods clinically proven to lower cholesterol levels. 

How To Follow The Diet

The beauty of this diet is that it does not require perfection. As long as you are consistent and thoughtful with your food choices every day, you can be successful. 

Core guidelines:

• Base most of your meals around plant-based foods
• Replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats
• Include multiple portfolio components daily
• Limit or avoid consumption of ultra-processed foods and refined sugars

Daily targets:

• Viscous fiber: 10 to 25 grams (g) per day
• Plant-based protein: several servings per day
• Plant sterols: 2 g per day
• Nuts: 1 to 2 ounces (oz) per day

Viscous (Soluble) Fiber Sources:

• Oats and oat bran
• Psyllium husk
• Eggplant
• Barley
• Rye
• Chickpeas
• Beans and lentils
• Okra
• Vegetables
• Whole grains
• Apples, berries, and citrus fruits

Plant-Based Protein Sources:

• Lentils
• Chickpeas
• Black beans and other beans
• Legumes
• Split peas
• Soy foods (tempeh, tofu, soybeans)

Plant Sterol-Rich Foods:

• Fortified yogurts
• Fortified juices
• Certain fortified spreads
• Fortified plant milks

Nuts:

• Almonds
• Walnuts
• Hazelnuts
• Pecans
• Pistachios
• Nut butters
• Peanuts

Foods To Limit Or Avoid:

• Red and processed eats
• Fried foods
• Sugar-sweetened beverages (such as sodas and juices)
• Refined carbohydrates
• Butter, cream, and full-fat dairy
• Packaged snacks high in trans fats

Health Benefits Of The Portfolio Diet

The primary benefit is that this way of eating helps to lower cholesterol levels. Clinical trials found that combining portfolio foods can significantly reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. In fact, the effects were comparable to low-dose statin therapy in some individuals. That is largely attributed to the plant sterols blocking cholesterol absorption and soluble fiber binding to bile acids. A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials involving adults with hyperlipidemia found that combining the portfolio diet with a standard cholesterol-lowering background diet significantly reduced LDL cholesterol by 17%. 

It’s possible that following the portfolio diet may help reduce inflammation, as many portfolio foods contain anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows that plant-based dietary patterns, such as the portfolio diet, is associated with lower inflammatory markers linked to heart disease.

Due to the inclusion of more viscous fiber in the portfolio diet, you may experience better gut health. This soluble fiber produces short-chain fatty acids that support both digestive and metabolic health. Research found that increasing soluble fiber intake improved microbiome diversity. In fact, systematic reviews of plant-based dietary patterns in adults, such as the portfolio diet, increased beneficial bacterial groups in the gut.

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A finger lime is not a common produce item in the average person’s kitchen. While it is not exclusive to Michelin Star restaurants, it is not as common as the standard lime. As the name suggests, it is similar in size to a human thumb. It comes in several varieties with skins in varying shades of yellow, green, purple, and red. And each of those colors exhibits a subtle variance in flavor. 

What Are Finger Limes?

The finger lime is endemic to Australia and although their outer skin is similar to a regular lime, the inside couldn’t be more different. When you cut one open, you will find tiny little pearls, also known as vesicles. It’s almost as if these fruits are like nature’s caviar! These juicy pearls exhibit a tart flavor and the texture is reminiscent of the classic Pop Rocks candy. Finger limes are also like kumquats, in that you can eat the entire fruit, including the skin, if you so choose. It is the pearls, however, that most people use when cooking. 

Health Benefits Of Finger Limes

Just like other members of the citrus family, finger limes offer some unique health benefits. Researchers attribute these benefits to the many phenolic compounds in the skin and vesicles. The primary phenolic compounds in finger limes are flavonoids, which offer potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which support the body in myriad ways. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of finger limes. 

High Antioxidant Activity

Antioxidants are substances that can help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The body naturally produces free radicals, but you don’t want an excess amount in the body. Research shows that too many free radicals in the body can increase the response to smoking, stress, pollution, and other environmental factors. They cause damage to cells and contribute to chronic diseases, early signs of aging, and other health conditions. The antioxidant compounds in finger limes aim to protect the body’s cells and support overall health. 

They Have Antimicrobial And Antiviral Properties

According to emerging research, finger limes (among other native citrus fruits) may contain compounds rich in antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Researchers believe these compounds support immune resilience. More research is necessary to determine the efficacy of these compounds in relation to improved immune function. 

They Are Rich In Fiber

Health experts encourage adults to eat at least 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories consumed. That equates to about 28 to 34 grams of fiber per day for most men and 25 grams for women, although most consume less than half that amount. Fiber also helps balance gut microbiome, regulates blood sugar levels, and lowers the risk of certain cancers. One serving of finger limes (7 limes) offers three grams of fiber. Although they are not a high-fiber food, three grams is an excellent start on the road to the recommended daily intake. 

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Inflammation is the immune system’s normal response to stress, trauma, or infection. Problems arise when inflammation becomes chronic, as it contributes to issues such as arthritis, autoimmune disorders, heart disease, and other conditions. Some of the compounds in finger limes work to reduce inflammation by blocking the production of cytokines, which are made by the body during an inflammatory response. By reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines, you may help alleviate symptoms associated with chronic inflammation.

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There are many skin care products that promise to clear up your skin and keep it blemish-free. Seldom do these products keep their promise. In fact, many of them can cause dryness, skin irritation, or other skin complications that detract from the overall health of the skin. Instead, it is better to use more natural ingredients to make a skin care product that can help cleanse and nourish the skin. 

This homemade cinnamon and honey anti-acne mask uses powerful ingredients that can help reduce breakouts and improve overall skin health. It may seem weird or different to lather honey and cinnamon on your face, but these ingredients exhibit acne-fighting abilities. Researchers claim that the compounds in these ingredients may benefit overall skin health and combat breakouts. 

Honey’s Antimicrobial Properties

Honey exhibits natural antibacterial activity that helps inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria. The presence of bacteria on the skin can clog pores and lead to inflammation, which results in acne. Honey also acts as a humectant, which means that it helps the skin retain moisture. That enhanced hydration can help the skin from overproducing oil, which can lead to future breakouts. If you use honey regularly, it can also help minimize the appearance of acne scars, all while keeping the skin healthy. 

Cinnamon’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Cinnamon contains lots of antioxidant compounds and has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe irritated skin. That is particularly beneficial for people suffering from acne, as inflammation tends to worsen the condition. When you apply cinnamon topically, it can help increase blood circulation to the skin. The increase in circulation helps bring more nutrients to the skin’s surface, which helps promote clearer complexion. Some of the compounds in cinnamon also exhibit antimicrobial effects that can target multiple strains of bacteria that contribute to acne. 

Working Together

If you want to address acne, you have to tackle the root cause, which tends to be bacteria, inflammation, excess oil, or all of the above. Together, cinnamon and honey create a powerful anti-acne face mask. It is a very easy mask to prepare and you don’t have to worry about melting shea or cocoa butter in a double boiler. Mix one teaspoon of cinnamon and two tablespoons of honey until well-combined. Before you apply the mask, make sure to. That step helps the skin better absorb the cinnamon and honey. 

DIY Cinnamon And Honey Anti-Acne Mask

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons raw honey

Instructions:

• In a small mixing bowl, add the cinnamon and honey and stir well to combine. The mixture should look like a uniform paste and should spread easily. 
• It is optional, but you can add a few drops of lemon juice for added exfoliation benefits. Just make sure the mixture isn’t too runny before you apply it. 
• Before applying the mask, wash your face and pat it dry. Use a clean brush or your fingers to spread the mask evenly on your face, ensuring you avoid the eye area. 
• Leave the mask on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing the mask off with lukewarm water. Once your face is clean, apply a hydrating moisturizer to help maintain moisture balance.

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For hundreds of years, different civilizations used their own versions of fire cider or herbal tonics to promote general well-being. These days, you can see people and “wellness gurus” alike making spicy fire cider on TikTok or Instagram. The claim is that it not only enhances immune function, but it is also a natural cold killer. 

What Is Fire Cider?

Fire cider is a spicy, homemade drink made with all-natural ingredients that help optimize immunity. The proponents of fire cider claim that when all of the ingredients work in unison, they create a super beverage that can help prevent you from getting sick. The term “fire cider” was coined by Rosemary Gladstar in 1970, when she published a recipe that used: 

• Raw apple cider vinegar
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Honey
• Horseradish root
• Onion
• Cayenne pepper

Since then, many people have published variations of the drink, with some including ingredients like:

• Elderberry
• Rosemary
• Turmeric
• Orange or lemon zest
• Jalapeño or habanero peppers

Once you have your recipe of choice, combine all of the ingredients (except honey) in a glass jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place. After the ingredients steep for one month, you strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and add honey to taste. That liquid is the fire cider, which sounds interesting, but how effective is it?

Are There Benefits? 

The predominant claims from people who love fire cider are that it helps fend off sickness and builds a healthy immune system. The unfortunate reality is that there is no scientifically-backed evidence stating that fire cider actually works. What is true is that the ingredients offer beneficial nutrients that can encourage healthy immune function. They do not, however, possess the abilities to prevent or cure illness. Continue reading to learn about the benefits of some of the ingredients. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Since the times of the Ancient Greeks, vinegar has been used to help treat sores and clean wounds. In recent years, apple cider vinegar has received a lot of attention because people claim that it can aid weight loss, improve digestion, enhance immunity, and more. Test tube studies found that apple cider vinegar effectively killed certain disease-causing yeast and bacteria. Other studies found that consuming apple cider vinegar can help lower total blood cholesterol and blood sugar. More research is needed in both regards, though. 

Ginger

This is a common spice used to help soothe a sore throat and an upset stomach. Researchers have studied ginger extensively because it is effective at relieving nausea, easing period cramps, relieving muscle and arthritis pain, and reducing inflammation. Although ginger is thought to enhance immune function, there is no scientific evidence that supports that. Some people also claim that it aids weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness. There is no evidence that supports that either. 

Hot Peppers

You can include cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or other spicy peppers in fire cider. Peppers are naturally rich in vitamin C and contain active compounds that may help you live longer, according to some research studies. Capsaicin is the active compound that is responsible for the heat in peppers, but it also exhibits impressive antimicrobial activity. Capsaicin can irritate the skin, so make sure to wash your hands after handling hot peppers, as you don’t want to touch your eyes or other sensitive areas. 

Garlic

If you know anything about garlic, you know that it has a lot of “antis,” such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer properties. Garlic can be hard to digest for certain people because it contains fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs). For this reason, garlic can occasionally cause cramping, bloating, and diarrhea in certain people.

Honey

Many people celebrate honey for its antimicrobial properties, and it has been used in healing practices since ancient times. Medical grade honey may help remedy minor wounds, diabetic ulcers, and burns. You do not find medical grade honey on your average grocery store shelf, though. The honey you have in your pantry will not kill or prevent the common cold. It is possible for honey to soothe a sore throat and ease some symptoms of respiratory infection.

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Wormwood sounds like an herb that you would receive from a shaman during a medieval quest. Believe it or not, wormwood is one of the three key ingredients in absinthe, which Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, and Vincent Van Gogh used to drink. Maybe that’s why they were such incredible artists!

What Is Wormwood?  

Wormwood, known scientifically as Artemisia absinthium, helps to eliminate intestinal worms, specifically roundworms and pinworms. The plant, which is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, has a bitter taste and has been used for centuries in medicinal applications. Researchers note that wormwood is a perennial herb that exhibits a wide range of health benefits. Continue reading to learn about six of the many impressive health benefits of wormwood.

Aids Digestion

According to historical evidence, wormwood has helped treat flatulence, indigestion, gastritis, and other digestive issues. Wormwood contains bitter compounds that stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which enhance the absorption of nutrients from the foods you eat. The terpenes in wormwood also stimulate saliva, stomach mucus, and intestinal secretions, all of which may ease digestive symptoms. Wormwood may also reduce stomach acids that contribute to acid reflux and peptic ulcers. 

It Exhibits Anti-inflammatory Properties

Wormwood contains artemisinin, a compound that researchers believe to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. A few studies suggest that wormwood may also temper the actions of cytokines, which are proteins that help instigate inflammation. In doing so, wormwood may ease redness, warmth, swelling, and other symptoms of inflammation. Most of the research about wormwood’s anti-inflammatory properties have been focused on people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. A 2016 study monitored people who took 150 milligrams of wormwood extract per day for 12 weeks. The results indicated that they experienced less joint pain than the group that took a placebo. 

It Has Antimicrobial and Anti-parasitic Effects:

Wormwood has exhibited potent antimicrobial properties against many pathogens, from bacteria to fungi, and even parasites. Studies show that wormwood is most effective when it comes to eliminating pinworms and roundworms from the body. Other studies found wormwood to be effective against gut parasites like Giardia lamblia and Helicobacter pylori. For these reasons, wormwood may be a promising natural alternative to traditional anti-parasitic medications or drugs.

Enhances Liver Function

Historically, wormwood was used to help support liver function. Wormwood contains compounds that help promote the secretion of bile, aiding in the breakdown of fats and toxins. Reports suggest that regular consumption of wormwood may help detoxify the liver, which helps protect it from free radical damage.

May Fight Cancer Cells

Several studies found that the artemisinin compound in wormwood may fight against iron-enriched breast cancer cells. It actually fights these cancer cells the same way it eliminates malaria-causing parasites. Cancer cells can be rich in iron because they soak it up, which facilitates cell division. A 2012 study tested samples of breast cancer cells and normal breast cells that had been treated to maximize iron content. After that, the cells were treated with a water-soluble form of artemisinin. Results revealed that normal breast cells showed little change. Within 16 hours, however, the cancer cells were dead, with only a few normal cells killed. 

May Offer Pain Relief

In the past, wormwood was used in herbal remedies as a pain-reliever. Because it contains analgesic properties, wormwood may alleviate various forms of discomfort, including headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle pain. Researchers don’t fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects, so more research is necessary.

Precautions

Although wormwood offers a variety of health benefits, it is crucial to exercise caution when using it. Because wormwood contains thujone, a compound that can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts, there are certain people that should avoid it. Pregnant women, individuals with seizure disorders, and those with liver disease should not consume wormwood. Should you want to incorporate wormwood into your diet, consider speaking with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a health condition or take specific medications.

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You’ve got your beach bag, cooler, and bathing suit ready, but what about essential oils? Believe it or not, the beach isn’t the only thing that can offer an uplifting and refreshing experience during the summer. Summery essential oils offer cooling properties that make them ideal during warmer months. Some of the essential oils in this article even offer protection against insects, sun exposure, and overheating, in addition to supporting your skin, energy, and mood. 

Most of the summer essential oils offer anti-inflammatory, soothing, and antimicrobial properties. They assist in helping you stay balanced during hot and humid weather. They tend to have floral, citrusy, and herbaceous aromas, making them perfect for diffusing in the home. You can also use them in DIY body sprays, apply them in diluted form to the skin, or add them to your summer skin or hair care routines. 

Spearmint Essential Oil

Different to peppermint essential oil but still similar, spearmint essential oil offers a cooling sensation that may help relieve tension, improve focus, and freshen the home. It has a milder aroma than peppermint essential oil, but still gives off an uplifting, minty scent. Spearmint essential oil is great for those who are sensitive to strong oils. Some studies found that it may soothe headaches, freshen breath, and support digestion.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

Cedarwood essential oil has a woody aroma that helps to calm the nervous system. Many people value it during the summer because it exhibits potent insect-repelling abilities. It may also help with oily or acne-prone skin, and even lends itself to nighttime diffusions to promote better sleep. 

Citronella Essential Oil

Citronella is a well-known plant that helps repel bugs, especially mosquitos. The essential oil is very energizing and deodorizing, making it a great oil for outdoor gatherings. Citronella is a must-have during summer, particularly if you want to spend your evenings outdoors in the summer. You can use it in a diffuser to help repel mosquitos, or even add it to homemade body sprays. 

Citrus Essential Oils

Known for their uplifting and invigorating properties, citrus essential oils can help boost energy, promote positivity, and provide a zesty scent. Citrus oils, including lemon, orange, and grapefruit, exhibit antimicrobial and detoxifying properties, helping support digestion and immunity, two things that are challenged by extreme heat. Lemon essential oil may offer relief from nausea and assist with skin care management. Grapefruit essential oil, similar to lemon, offers antibacterial properties and may help reduce stress and sugar cravings. Finally, orange essential oil is a great one to use during summer, due to its immune-boosting effects. You can also add it to DIY non-toxic cleaning products. 

Tea Tree Oil

Offering antibacterial and antiseptic properties, tea tree oil is highly useful for minor cuts, scrapes or bug bites that occur during summer. It also exhibits anti-fungal activity, making it excellent for managing skin irritation, athlete’s foot, and acne. You can add tea tree oil to natural insect repellent recipes, foot sprays, scalp treatments, or DIY deodorant. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil is commonly used to promote sleep, as its aroma helps to calm the mind and body. It can also help soothe sunburns, insect bites, and minor cuts. Lavender is a highly useful and versatile essential oil that shines during summer. The anti-inflammatory properties make it helpful for calming sensitive or irritated skin. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Got a little annoying cricket chirping away outside your window at night? Time to bust out the peppermint essential oil! Crickets despise peppermint’s aroma, so you can place a few drops in your windowsills to deter them. Peppermint essential oil offers cooling effects, making it great for hot summer days. It may help lower body temperature when applied (diluted of course) to the skin and may soothe sunburns and heat rashes. From an aromatic standpoint, peppermint essential oil boosts alertness and may help relieve headaches. 

Bergamot Essential Oil

Bergamot essential oil exhibits a bright, citrusy aroma that may uplift your mood and reduce stress. It also supports emotional balance, making it great for summer anxiety or emotional burnout. Additionally, bergamot essential oil may help reduce the appearance of blemishes and balance oily skin. Avoid sun exposure after application due to bergamot’s photosensitivity, just like citrus essential oils.

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