Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation, swelling, and irritation in the joints. It can also cause problems in other body parts, including the eyes, skin, heart, lungs, and blood vessels. RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s tissues. 

RA differs from osteoarthritis, a more common condition that causes damage to joints from overuse. People living with RA can experience difficulty with everyday chores, such as opening a refrigerator or cleaning a counter. Sometimes, pain can strike when you least expect it, even with assisted devices that are designed to eliminate pain. 

In order to offer some relief for people with RA, we’ve compiled a list of hacks that are designed to provide relief for RA hand pain. If these hacks do not help your situation, though, you may need to see a specialist or therapist for rehabilitation. 

Try An Apron As A Tool Belt

Doing minor work around the house? Spending a couple hours cleaning? Try using an apron as a tool belt. It can hold a hammer and nails or a spray bottle and paper towels. Place these items in the apron so that you don’t have to fatigue your fingers and wrists. The items will be at the ready in the pockets of the apron. This helps keep your hands pain-free until you are ready to complete the tasks at hand. 

Try Cuticle Scissors For Opening Packages

There are a lot of tiny packets, such as mustard, ketchup, soy sauce, and other condiments, that can be very difficult (and painful) to open. Some people with RA keep a dedicated pair of cuticle scissors on their person for this reason! If you get scissors, make sure to get a pair with a larger, padded grip. 

Use A Potholder While Ironing Clothes

Although an iron isn’t the heaviest of objects, it can be taxing on the wrists with repeated use. It is better to slide the iron as much as possible to avoid lifting it up and putting it back down. What do you do when you have to adjust the item you are ironing? Keep a potholder on the ironing board and slide the iron right onto it until you are ready to slide it back onto the garment. Additionally, consider doing a task like ironing during a time of day when your hands are less likely to hurt.

Use A Kitchen Sponge For Stability

Whipping up a batch of banana bread or pancake batter? It can be very difficult to grip the mixing bowl with one hand while stirring the ingredients with the other. Try placing a damp sponge under the bowl to keep it in place without using your hand to support it. A damp cloth is equally as effective if you do not have a spare sponge. If you have a little extra spending money, consider investing in a stand mixer, which does most of the work for you. 

Stick A Tennis Ball On Your Toothbrush

If you do not have a specially made grip for your toothbrush, no need to fret. You can slice open a tennis ball and insert the handle end inside. That will give you a larger surface area to grip the toothbrush while brushing your teeth. You can also try to wrap the handle in rubber bands to make it easier to grip. The Arthritis Foundation commonly recommends people with RA to buy toothbrushes that come with larger handles. 

Use Headbands To Pull Things Closed

Pulling things with your forearms, instead of your fingers, is much easier on your joints. Wrap headbands with Velcro closures around the refrigerator and oven doors to close them easily. Loop your arm into the headband and pull the door closed when ready. This exact concept applies to any item that you have to grip to close, such as kitchen drawers, a purse zipper, or cabinets below the sink. If there is a handle, you can attach a strap to make it easier to close.

SHARE:

The post These Hacks May Help Rheumatoid Arthritis Hand Pain appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Drinking tea is a relatively easy habit to adopt, and it comes with some potential health benefits. Some teas, such as green, black, ginger, turmeric, or oolong, contain compounds that may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Keep in mind that teas, alone, will not fix high cholesterol; rather, you need to pair your tea habits with a balanced diet. 

What Is Cholesterol?

What is cholesterol and what does it do? Well, cholesterol is a waxy substance in the body that is not “bad” unless you have too much of it. The body requires cholesterol in order to build cells and make vitamins and other hormones. The liver makes all of the cholesterol you need, while the rest of cholesterol in the body comes from foods, such as poultry, meat, dairy products, and processed foods. Those foods can also be high in saturated and trans fats, both of which can increase the amount of cholesterol in the body. 

There are two types of cholesterol: LDL and HDL. The former is “bad” and too much in the body can increase the risk of heart disease, while the latter is beneficial. LDL cholesterol is the type that can slowly build up in arterial walls, which can impair blood flow. Cholesterol can join with other substances to form plaque in the arteries, making them less flexible, which is a condition known as atherosclerosis. 

If your cholesterol levels are high, it’s advisable to limit your consumption of trans and saturated fats. By balancing your diet and drinking the following teas, you may help naturally lower cholesterol levels. 

Oolong Tea

This popular tea has a unique yet mild flavor that is enjoyable hot or iced. It falls between green and black tea and contains polyphenols and catechins that may help lower cholesterol. Researchers note that these compounds work by blocking lipase, an enzyme involved in the digestion of fat. That process may help reduce how much fat is absorbed by the gut. 

Green Tea

Green tea exhibits numerous health benefits, most notably for heart health. Just like oolong tea, green tea contains catechins, which may lower LDL cholesterol in the blood. One review of studies found that green tea consumption lowered total and LDL cholesterol by up to 5%. Even a reduction this small can make a difference when it comes to heart health. Studies found that a small drop of 1% in LDL cholesterol was associated with a 1% lower risk of heart disease. 

Hibiscus Tea

This is one of two caffeine-free teas in this article and it is made from dried hibiscus flowers. The flavor is somewhat tangy and sour, so some people refer to it as sour tea. According to research, hibiscus tea may help lower LDL cholesterol and boost HDL (good) cholesterol. Researchers largely attribute these benefits to the anthocyanin antioxidants in hibiscus. Higher levels of HDL have been linked to better heart health. 

Black Tea

Black tea is naturally rich in polyphenols, a group of plant compounds that may lower LDL cholesterol. Various studies found that these effects are potentially stronger in people who have a higher risk of heart disease. Other research suggests that the polyphenols in black tea may promote overall health by improving blood flow and supporting healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, black tea may also reduce how much fat and sugar the body absorbs and support weight management efforts. 

Ginger Tea

It is common to drink ginger tea when you have a sore throat or an upset stomach. While it can benefit digestive health, it also contains compounds that may reduce inflammation and support overall heart health. Several studies found that ginger may help lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood, and high levels can increase the risk of heart disease. You can make fresh ginger tea by steeping freshly sliced ginger root in hot water. 

To reiterate, these teas may help you naturally lower cholesterol, but they cannot cut through the damage of a poor diet and no physical activity. Additionally, to make the most of these cholesterol-lowering teas, avoid sweetening them too much. If you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor, add a small drizzle of honey, squeeze of lemon, or dash of stevia. If you need more help lowering cholesterol levels, consider the Dherbs Cholesterol Formula. It contains various herbs that may help maintain cholesterol levels already within normal range. It is suitable for adults looking to support overall cardiovascular health.

SHARE:

The post Can Drinking Tea Naturally Lower Your Cholesterol? appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Can too much stress in your life cause sickness? This was once thought to be a wellness cliché, but a growing body of research suggests that there may be real truth behind this theory. Chronic stress not only affects how you feel on an emotional level, but it also alters immune function on a cellular level. Ultimately, that changes how well the body defends itself against foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, pollutants, and other germs. 

A recent study published in Frontiers in Immunology found that insomnia and anxiety were linked to significantly lower levels of natural killer (NK) cells. These cells are among the immune system’s first line of defense. Findings indicated that the more severe the anxiety, the steeper the decline in NK cells. That means that stress and anxiety may actively thin your immune system’s army, in a way, making you more susceptible to illness. 

What Are NK Cells And What Do They Do?

NK cells belong to the innate immune system, which you can think of as the body’s rapid-response team. These cells monitor blood and tissues, identifying and destroying damaged, infected, or abnormal cells before problems arise. There are two subtypes of NK cells:

• CD16+CD56dim cells: These cells make up the majority of NK cells and are very cytotoxic, which means that they directly destroy harmful cells. 
• CD16+CD56high cells: These cells assist with regulating immune signaling and inflammation. 
• If NK cell numbers decline too much, the immune system may find it difficult to both contain infections and abnormal cell growth in the early stages. That ultimately raises long-term health risks. 

What Did The Study Reveal?

To begin, researchers examined 60 female university students aged 17 to 23. Participants completely validated questionnaires, assessing self-reported anxiety and symptoms of insomnia. They also provided blood samples in order for researchers to measure different NK cell populations. 

Researchers noted that mental health responses were very bleak, with 75% of participants reporting anxiety symptoms. Roughly 17% and 13% of participants fell into moderate and severe categories. Additionally, 53% of the participants experienced sleep difficulties that researchers found consistent with insomnia. Besides these startling findings, researchers noted that blood samples revealed a much clearer picture:

• The severity of anxiety mattered, with mild anxiety showing minimal, non-significant changes. Moderate to severe anxiety was associated with a notable reduction of NK cells. 
• Students who reported anxiety symptoms exhibited both lower numbers and lower percentages of NK cells, including cytotoxic types. 
• In students who reported sleep disturbances, higher anxiety scores revealed an even greater decline in total peripheral NK cells. 

An Important Note

The study focused on young women between the ages of 17 and 23. Sleep disorders and anxiety are rising the fastest in this age group. Although that makes the findings relevant, it also limits how broadly they can be applied. Researchers need future studies across different ages, sexes, and regions in order to fully understand how stress affects immune function. 

The Takeaway

Stress is not just something that lives in the mind. The constant edge that you cannot shake or racing thoughts may reshape the immune system and how it functions, leaving your body more vulnerable to illness. This study serves to remind people that having stress management practices can help your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. Allow your whole body to flourish in the immediate and long-term when you get your stress under control.

SHARE:

The post A New Study Finds That Stress May Make You Sick appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

If you have hypertension (high blood pressure), management is key in order to minimize your risk of heart attack or stroke. In order to manage high blood pressure, you have to avoid or limit certain foods, in addition to supplements, as they can affect blood pressure, or make matters worse. 

High blood pressure is characterized by a blood pressure reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Older adults have a higher risk of the condition, due to large arteries getting stiffer with age. If you cannot control blood pressure on your own with lifestyle changes, medication may be necessary. The American Heart Association (AHA) estimated that 46% of American adults have high blood pressure. Should you have the condition, avoid the supplements in this article. 

Licorice Root

Licorice root is not solely used as a flavoring in food, candy, and even tobacco products. In fact, it has a long history of use in folk medicine, treating wounds and relieving symptoms of lung disease and liver disease. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizic acid (GA), which can elevate blood pressure. Researchers note that doses as low as 100 milligrams (mg) can raise blood pressure. Other supplements with GA can also interact with diuretics and blood pressure meds. It may affect how well blood pressure meds work and increase the risk of side effects. If you have high blood pressure, it is best to avoid products that contain licorice root. 

Arnica

Some people use arnica ointment to reduce swelling and bruising, while others take it orally as a supplement. Arnica belongs to the sunflower family and is usually taken by mouth homeopathically. There are typically no. active ingredients in homeopathic products, so side effects are unlikely. That said, taking arnica by mouth can increase blood pressure or potentially damage some organs, including the heart. This is not for certain, but if you have high blood pressure, avoid arnica supplements. 

Bitter Orange

Taken from the fruit or peel of a bitter orange, this supplement is typically used to aid weight loss or improve athletic performance. The fruit and peel of bitter orange can also be used to flavor drinks or in perfumes and other beauty products for aromatic purposes. Bitter orange does contain p-Synephrine, which is a type of stimulant similar to ephedrine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned ephedrine stimulants because they can cause health issues, such as heart attack and stroke. Although bitter orange is not on a banned list, use it with caution, especially if you have high blood pressure. Studies show that this supplement can not only raise heart rate and blood pressure, but also increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. Bitter orange found in food and drinks is not likely to cause these issues, though. 

Vitamin D (In High Doses)

The body produces vitamin D when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Vitamin D is necessary for optimal bone health, inflammation reduction, and other bodily functions. It is naturally available in foods and supplement form. Some research indicates that vitamin D may play a role in treating high blood pressure, specifically in doses of 200 – 8,000 International Units (IU) per day. Doses larger than 10,000 IU per day can lead to dangerous side effects, such as high calcium levels (hypercalcemia). Over time, hypercalcemia can cause high blood pressure. High doses of vitamin D can also interact with certain diuretics, which are commonly used to treat high blood pressure. The body may not get rid of enough calcium, raising calcium and blood pressure in the process. 

St. John’s Wort

This plant is often used to treat symptoms of menopause and depression. Despite its longstanding use in traditional medicine, this plant may negatively interact with a variety of medications. St John’s wort weakens the efficacy of medications used to treat high blood pressure. Some of the blood pressure meds that St. John’s wort interacts with include Talinolol, Verelan, and Procardia. The interactions are likely due to the fact that St. John’s wort blocks the medication from being absorbed by the body.

SHARE:

The post 5 Supplements To Avoid If You Have High Blood Pressure appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

A lot of people find it difficult to pull off seasonal eating during the winter, especially when it comes to fruits. The weather and darker days inspire people to eat comfort foods and avoid trips to local markets and such. The reality is that winter fruits are rich in a plethora of nutrients, and buying them from local farmers helps support their business.

Which fruits grow during the winter? You tend to see a lot of citrus varieties, including blood oranges and grapefruit, in addition to kiwi, winter melons, and more. When you put an emphasis on cold-weather produce, you can obtain integral nutrients that support immune function and more. Some of the key nutrients in these fruits include magnesium, fiber, and vitamin C. Continue reading to see which winter fruits you should be eating, although the availability of these fruits may depend on where you live. For example locations closer to the equator may experience more winter fruits than people who live closer to Canada and deal with serious weather. Regardless, examples of winter fruits are as follows:

Kiwi

The small, fuzzy fruit with a green flesh that packs more vitamin C than an orange. It is harvested through winter and into spring and provides lots of vitamin K, vitamin E, and potassium. Kiwi is also a rich source of antioxidant compounds, including phenols and carotenoids. These compounds work to reduce oxidative stress, which can increase the risk of certain age-related diseases. 

Pomegranates

This red, sweet and sour fruit is filled with small, juicy seeds, also called arils. These arils are rich in antioxidant compounds, including flavonoids that have been linked to detoxification, improved heart health, and cancer prevention. Pomegranates are also rich in folate, vitamins C & K, and potassium. 

Persimmon

Persimmons have a limited window, so get your hands on them before they disappear until next fall. Native to Asia, persimmons are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and manganese. They contain gallic acid and epicatechin gallate, two compounds that may help reduce cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and inflammation. 

Clementines

Sometimes called “cuties” or “halos” in grocery stores, clementines are essentially small oranges. More specifically, they are types of mandarin oranges made from crossing two different orange species. They are usually easy to peel, seedless, and naturally rich in vitamin C, which may enhance skin and immune health. 

Grapefruit

Similar to other citrus fruits, grapefruit grow predominantly in California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida. You typically see them from January to late spring, and they offer a lot of vitamin C and vitamin A. Researchers have identified several beneficial phytochemicals in grapefruit, including beta-carotene, limonoids, lycopene, and naringenin. These compounds may fight free radical damage and oxidative stress, which contribute to early signs of aging and chronic disease development. 

Kumquat

Yet another citrus fruit, the kumquat is a tiny sweet and sour citrus that comes from the same plant family as the orange. Kumquats are great sources of vitamin C and fiber, and you can actually eat the entire fruit. Yes, you can even eat the thin peel! The pulp has a distinctly sour flavor, but the skin provides a little extra sweetness, in addition to protective antioxidant compounds. 

Winter Melon

No matter which way you slice it, winter melon (or ash gourd) is a great fruit to consume during winter. Naturally rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, winter melon is dark green and has an oblong shape. The flesh is white, as are the seeds, but you cannot consume it raw. Typically, you simmer or steam winter melon because it is heated more like a vegetable than fruit in Indian and other Asian countries.

SHARE:

The post The Top Winter Fruits For Your Health appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

It’s officially winter, people! Just because the weather is colder and the decorative lights adorn houses, that doesn’t mean that fresh produce takes a backseat to comfort foods. In fact, the colder months actually bring some of the most nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables of the year. Winter produce is typically hearty, flavorful, and especially good for supporting the body when daylight is short and colds and flus are circulating. Consider this article a tour of some of the best seasonal winter produce; plus, your body will thank you for eating them.

Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Grapefruits, Lemons)

Think of winter as citrus season, and that’s no accident. It’s exactly when you need them most, as they are naturally rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps the body absorb iron from plant-based foods. Vitamin C also works to enhance collagen production, which your skin desperately needs during dry winter weather. Citrus fruits also contain antioxidants that work to protect cells from damaging free radicals. Plus, their bright, fresh flavor is a mood booster during those gray winter days.

Kale

Kale is one of those leafy greens that thrives in cold weather, and frost actually makes it taste slightly sweeter. That’s true for a lot of other root vegetables, such as parsnips and sweet potatoes, as well. The light snow cover somehow makes them a little sweeter! Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, all of which aid immune function, bone health, and vision. It also contains compounds that support heart health and help reduce inflammation. For such a tough-looking green, it’s surprisingly nutrient-dense. Just make sure to remove the thick, fibrous stems before you enjoy, as they can taste quite bitter.

Brussels Sprouts

Once unfairly hated, Brussels sprouts are now a winter favorite, and you can commonly see them on restaurant menus. These little green bulbs are rich in fiber, which helps keep you regular and may promote better heart health. The vitamin C in Brussels sprouts support immunity, but it also helps protect cells and may support long-term health.

Sweet Potatoes

A classic winter staple, sweet potatoes are filling, comforting, and quite versatile. They contain a lot of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A to support vision and immune health. Sweet potatoes also provide complex carbohydrates for steady energy, in addition to fiber that helps keep you full and supports gut health.

Carrots

It’s hard to think of carrots as a winter produce item, considering that you can buy them throughout the year. They are especially tasty during winter and just like sweet potatoes, carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function. They also contain antioxidants and fiber, making them good for both overall health and digestion.

Beets

Beets are a cold-weather root vegetable with a vibrant crimson color and bold, earthy flavor. Beets contain nitrates that help to encourage healthy blood flow and heart function. They’re also a source of folate, which is integral for cell growth and healthy fetal development, and they contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.

Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn, Kabocha)

As the name suggests, these squash varieties are freshest during winter, although they show up during mid-to-late fall. Winter squash are built for the season, as they have thick skin, long shelf life, and tons of nutrients. Most of them have a rich, orange flesh, meaning they are naturally rich in beta-carotene, but they also contain vitamins A and C, which encourage immune and skin health. They also provide potassium, which helps to naturally lower sodium levels in the body, a process that may lower blood pressure levels. Their natural sweetness makes them perfect for cozy winter meals, such as stews, soups, or roasted vegetable medleys.

Apples and Pears

Even though apples and pears are classic fall fruits, they are still going strong throughout winter. Both apples and pears are rich in fiber, especially in their skins, offering support to the digestive system and helping to keep blood sugar stable. They also contain antioxidants that support heart health and overall wellness.

Winter produce may not always look the most appealing, but it’s hearty, nutrient-dense, and exactly what the body needs during colder months. Plus, eating seasonally means better flavor, better nutrition, and often better prices. Even when it’s freezing outside, your plate can still be colorful, fresh, and full of health/life.

SHARE:

The post Winter’s Best Produce: What to Eat When It’s Cold Outside appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Various studies indicate that cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, but it isn’t the only superfood in the spice drawer. There are other spices, which you should not overlook, that offer potent antioxidant compounds. Some of these compounds may help boost immune function, fight inflammation, and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic health conditions. 

What Are Antioxidants?

In simple terms, antioxidants are molecules that assist the body with fighting off harmful free radicals, which the body naturally produces. Ultimately, “antioxidant” is a general term for any compound that counteracts unstable molecules (free radicals) that damage DNA, cell membranes, and cell parts. Antioxidants help control the amount of free radicals in the body, helping lower the risk of health conditions such as cancer and diabetes. You can find antioxidants in many foods, and several vitamins, such as vitamins C and E, are powerful antioxidants.

Turmeric

One of the best anti-inflammatory spices is turmeric, and it is largely because of the active compound: curcumin. Not only does it work to lower oxidative stress and support immune function, but it also supports inflammation pathways in the body. Although curcumin has been linked to improvements in arthritis, anxiety, and metabolic syndrome, more research is necessary. Ground turmeric powder offers the most concentrated antioxidants, but make sure to pair it with black pepper and a fat source to make curcumin more bioavailable. If you are on blood thinners or other medications, consult your doctor before you take turmeric because it can interfere with some medications. 

Ginger

Ginger adds a zesty zing to any sauce, smoothie, or stir fry, and the tea has just enough spice to help soothe a sore throat. Both fresh and ground ginger offer benefits, but fresh ginger root brings more aromatic compounds. According to research from 2020, ginger can trigger the release of anti-inflammatory messenger proteins called cytokines while simultaneously reducing pro-inflammatory ones. The specific antioxidant compound behind this ability is gingerol, which gives ginger its warm, bright flavor. Studies show that when ginger is dried, the gingerols convert to shogaols, which can be more potent, according to lab studies. Both gingerols and shogaols may have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. 

Cloves

Laboratory measures of a specific food’s antioxidant content do not reveal how the body absorbs or uses them. Ground cloves, however, have a higher Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) than cinnamon, according to nutritional data. The antioxidants in cloves include flavonoids, gallic acid, and eugenol. A 2025 study found that the antioxidants from clove pods could be more effective in lower doses when compared to other antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and ascorbic acid. Eugenol also binds strongly to bacterial enzymes, meaning it may have antibacterial properties. Cloves may also help decrease blood clotting and blood sugar, but may be harmful in high doses. 

Oregano

A classic spice in many different cuisines, oregano is rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants, including thymol and carvacrol. Studies suggest that these antioxidants may support immune function. In fact, as an essential oil, oregano has exhibited powerful antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties. Oregano may also support intestinal wellbeing, helping to fight bad bacteria in the gut and balance overall gut bacteria. Due to oregano’s potency, exercise caution when using it. As a supplement, oregano is very strong and should only be used under medical supervision. If you use oregano oil, use it in the short-term, as long-term use can disrupt gut microbiome.

SHARE:

The post 4 Spices That Are Jam-Packed With Antioxidants appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Mounjaro, Ozempic, Wegovy, and countless other glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications are intended to help lower blood sugar levels. They work to trigger insulin release from the pancreas. Insulin lowers the amount of glucose in the blood, and insufficient insulin levels can cause blood sugar to increase and increase the risk of diabetes. That is not really why GLP-1 medications are so popular these days, though. People use these drugs to promote weight loss and control obesity. 

Glucagon is a hormone that the body uses to elevate blood sugar levels when necessary. GLP-1 actually prevents glucose from entering the bloodstream. It also slows stomach emptying, which ultimately releases less glucose from the food you eat into the bloodstream. GLP-1 medications also affect the area of the brain that processes hunger and satiety. You basically feel full quicker after eating a smaller amount. 

Given the popularity of these drugs, scientists question whether or not there is a natural way to tap into those same hunger- and fullness-pathways without drugs. A new review pulled emerging evidence on foods and plant compounds that may help support the body’s own GLP-1 activity. Just to be clear, though, these natural options are not replacements for medications. Early science does suggest that they may play a meaningful role in supporting appetite regulation and blood sugar balance. 

The Science Behind Natural GLP-1 Modulation

The review was recently published in Toxicology Reports and included decades of data on how foods, herbs, and bioactive compounds influence GLP-1, the hormone that GLP-1 drugs are designed to mimic. The gut produces GLP-1 and it has several jobs, such as:

• Stimulating insulin release
• Slowing digestion so you can stay fuller for longer
• Signaling fullness to the brain
• Reducing blood sugar after meals

GLP-1 medications work so well, so is it even possible for natural substances to gently support similar pathways? In order to figure this out, researchers looked at the combined research of studies on spices, teas, plant polyphenols, and fermented foods to see which compounds consistently influenced GLP-1 release or activity. As of now, nothing works as powerfully as prescribed medications; however, some ingredients triggered increases in GLP-1 release, or at least improved the body’s sensitivity to it. 

What The Researchers Found

According to the studies that researchers examined, the most natural GLP-1 supporters are as follows:

• Cinnamon extract
• Curcumin (from turmeric)
• Berberine
• Green tea and post-fermented tea compounds
• Wheat protein
• Ginger and gingerol
• Quercetin-rich plant foods (including apples, berries, cherries, onions, leafy greens, and grapes)

Researchers note that these natural GLP-1 modulators are not replacing existing medications. Instead, they want people to know that natural options exist. That helps because GLP-1 medications are not affordable or available to everyone. Some people also cannot tolerate the medications and experience intense side effects. Lastly, many people prefer nutrition-forward approaches to things. If you are looking to naturally support metabolic pathways, consider the ingredients we detailed. When paired with balanced nutrition and regular exercise, they may do wonders for your body.

SHARE:

The post Can You Naturally Boost GLP-1 Production?  appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

If you want to maintain a healthy immune system and promote overall wellness, proper lymphatic function is a key factor. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in the body’s immune response and helps remove harmful substances from the body. Unfortunately, the lymphatic system does not have a natural pump; rather, you have to move in order to move lymphatic fluid. Failure to move frequently can result in lymphatic blockages, which can lead to swelling, lymphedema, or impaired immune function. 

What’s interesting is that many essential oils have proven to be effective at enhancing lymphatic drainage. Adding specific essential oils to lymphatic drainage massages or using them in other ways, such as aromatherapy, may improve the efficacy of the lymphatic system. This process aids the removal of cellular waste, helps to improve blood flow, and reduces pain and swelling. Continue reading to learn about the best essential oils that support lymphatic drainage.

Grapefruit Essential Oil

This essential oil has natural properties that work to increase blood flow and improve the movement of lymph, an essential process for detoxification. Stimulating lymphatic flow ultimately reduces congestion in the lymphatic system, which may prevent fluid buildup. Grapefruit essential oil also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may reduce inflammation, which allows for better lymphatic flow. 

Ginger Essential Oil

Known for its warming and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger essential oil is an excellent choice for stimulating lymphatic drainage. It may help promote circulation and stimulate the movement of lymphatic fluid. The improved flow can help clear blockages, reduce lymphatic congestion, and assist with the removal of toxins and waste. Ginger essential oil’s warming properties may stimulate sweating, which further supports the removal of waste products, thereby enhancing lymphatic health. 

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties are anything but recent news. It is commonly used in aromatherapy or massage to help reduce inflammation and improve lymphatic function. Adding a few drops to your bath or massage oil may further support detoxification. Tea tree oil is also versatile, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of therapies. 

Helichrysum Essential Oil

Helichrysum essential oil is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a valuable essential oil for lymphatic drainage. The potent anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce swelling and inflammation in lymph nodes or surrounding tissues. That process ultimately allows for smoother lymphatic flow, preventing blockages. Helichrysum essential oil has also demonstrated detoxifying effects, which may enhance the body’s removal of harmful substances. Lastly, this essential oil may improve blood flow and help maintain lymphatic flow. The regenerative properties also support tissue repair and recovery. 

Frankincense Essential Oil

Used for thousands of years for its health benefits, frankincense essential oil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation works to ease lymphatic flow and helps prevent blockages. The reduction of inflammation may make the lymphatic system more effective at eliminating waste. Various compounds in frankincense essential oil, such as boswellic acids, may boost immune function. If the immune system is functioning optimally, the lymphatic system has more support to filter and remove waste. 

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon essential oil is naturally rich in limonene, a compound that helps promote the body’s natural detoxification processes. It also works to stimulate lymphatic flow and promote the removal of toxins and waste. The natural diuretic properties encourage the release of excess fluids. By reducing water retention and swelling, lemon essential oil helps support the lymphatic system by enhancing overall drainage. 

Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil may help reduce hair loss, but it can also stimulate blood circulation, which may help move lymph through the body more effectively. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties may soothe inflamed tissues and reduce swelling, making rosemary essential oil a great choice for supporting the lymphatic system. 

If you experiment with these essential oils or want to enhance lymphatic cleansing, consider the Blood & Lymphatic formula, which works to naturally cleanse the blood and support lymphatic function. You can also consider our Circulation Aid, which encourages optimal blood flow.

SHARE:

The post Great Essential Oils That Support Lymphatic Drainage appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

It is not hard to recognize an acorn squash because, well, it is the exact shape of an acorn. It has a ribbed green exterior with bright orange flesh and belongs to the Cucurbitaceae gourd family. Although acorn squash belongs to the same summer species as summer squash like zucchini and crookneck, its season is during late fall and winter. Many people enjoy it because it exhibits a sweet and nutty flavor and tender texture when cooked. 

Acorn Squash Nutrition

Similar to other winter squash varieties, acorn squash provides a diverse mix of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. One cup of cubed, cooked acorn squash provides:

• Calories: 115
• Carbohydrates: 29.9 grams (g)
• Fiber: 9 g
• Protein: 2.3 g
• Vitamin C: 22.1 milligrams (mg)
• Folate: 39 micrograms (mcg)
• Iron: 1.91 mg
• Vitamin B6: 0.39 mg
• Magnesium: 88.2 mg
• Manganese: 0.49 mg
• Potassium: 896 mg

May Help Reduce Inflammation

There are numerous chronic diseases fueled by systemic inflammation. For this reason, dietitians encourage everyone to consume more antioxidant-rich foods, such as acorn squash. Antioxidants work to reduce inflammation by cleaning cells of harmful waste. Acorn squash contains vitamins A & C and manganese, all of which have antioxidant properties. It is particularly rich in carotenoids, like zeaxanthin, which are plant pigments that may help protect against cardiovascular disease, neurological disease, some cancers, and type 2 diabetes. 

Boosts Digestive Health

With nine grams of fiber per cup, acorn squash is a great food to help you meet your recommended daily intake (RDI) of fiber. A diet rich in fiber can help contribute to digestive health, since the gut microbiome requires fiber to create a healthy habitat for beneficial bacteria. Additionally, more fiber in the diet can help prevent constipation. Acorn squash also has magnesium, which is known for its laxative and stool-softening properties. 

May Support Healthy Vision

As we mentioned earlier, acorn squash is rich in carotenoids and vitamin A, both of which support eyesight. It also contains lutein, which has been linked to sharper vision. The most sensitive part of the retina in the eye is the macula, which has the highest concentration of photoreceptors. It is the portion of the retina where your sharpest vision is produced. Lutein and zeaxanthin help form the pigment in the macula that protects millions of photoreceptor cells located in the small area of the central retina. 

Supports Immune Function

Although acorn squash doesn’t offer the same amount of vitamin C as a kiwi, guava, bell pepper, or orange does, it does provide about one-quarter of the RDI. Research shows that getting sufficient vitamin C every day can help prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections. According to scientific studies, it is better to get your vitamin C through your food, as opposed to a supplement. The reason for this is because it may increase the bioavailability, due to the fact that food also contains other nutrients that impact how the body absorbs vitamin C. 

May Help Reduce Blood Pressure

Researchers note that increasing your intake of potassium has a powerful effect on lowering blood pressure, especially when coupled with a low-sodium diet. Adding magnesium to the equation has an even more pronounced effect for blood pressure reduction. Acorn squash is a great source of potassium and magnesium and while the squash itself is not linked to lower blood pressure, the nutrients it provides may aid your efforts.

SHARE:

The post 5 Health Benefits Of Acorn Squash appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.