Cardamom

Its
ts prime uses are similar to those of cinnamon and ginger - as carminative, digestion and
stimulant. It is also a valuable flavoring agent for herbal medicinal preparations for indigestion
and flatulence.
Cardamom also helps in cleansing the body as it has detoxifying properties. It improves blood
circulation to the lungs and can be helpful in prevention of spasms or convulsions. Hence,
cardamom in small quantities is beneficial for those suffer
suffering from asthma or bronchitis.
bronchitis
Cardamom is also chewed as a breath and tooth cleaner. Chinese use powdered cardamom
sprinkled on cooked cereal to correct gluten intolerance in children.
The 1997 Commission E on Phytotherapy and Herbal Substances of the Ge
German
rman Federal Institute
for Drugs recommends Cardamom for Dyspepsia.
The seeds are helpful in indigestion and flatulence, giving grateful but not fiery warmth. When
chewed singly in the mouth the flavor is not unpleasant, and they are said to be good for colic
and disorders of the head.
According to traditional wisdom of Ayurveda, cardamom is effective in improving digestion.
digestion It
helps thosee suffering from stomach cramps. It is a good stimulant and beneficial for those
suffering from flatulence and gas
gas.
Tea blended with the powdered seeds of the herb helps in relieving depression and is one of the
many cardamom health benefits offered. The herbalists also use cardamom seed extracts in
treating sexual dysfunctions such as impotency and premature ejaculation
ejaculation.. However care must
be taken not to exceed more than a pinch of cardamom seed extracts, as excessive use may lead
to impotency.
 Cayenne (Red) Pepper and Paprika (Chilli)

Cayenne is a wonderful natural remedy to boost our health and get rid of numerous health
problems such as digestive ailments, rheumatism, and improve circulation.

The intense heat produced by cayenne pepper is produced by its high concentration of capsaicin.
This compound is well recognized in clinical research as an effective pain reliever, as a digestive
and antiulcer aid and for its cardiovascular benefits.

In addition capsaicin has the ability to lower body temperature by stimulating the cooling center
of the hypothalamus in the brain, helping to deal with the intense tropical heat.

Inflammation and Pain Fighting - Topical creams and ointments containing capsaicin
psaicin have been
shown to reduce pain from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, muscle spasms, back
pain, psoriasis and shingles and diabetic neuropathy.

Stomach Ailments and the Digestion System - For a long time it was thought that hot and spicy
foods, like peppers were the cause of stomach ulcers. Since then it has been found that a
bacterium, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) was found to be the leading cause of peptic ulcers and
gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining. Studie
Studiess have shown that cayenne has the
ability to prevent ulcers by killing this bacterium while also stimulating the cells lining the
stomach causing the stomach to secrete protective buffering juices that prevent ulcer formation.
Improved Circulation - Our circulatory systems can get sluggish because of a heavier fatty diet
and a sedentary lifestyle. A diet higher in animal fats will cause the blood to become sluggish
from a higher cholesterol level. Cayenne is a blood detoxifier and has been found to reduce
cholesterol; triglyceride levels and platelet aggregation while at the same time increase the
body’s ability to dissolve fibrin, a substance that is involved in the formation of blood clots.
Smoother flowing blood means more oxygen flowing through the body, which means more
energy and a higher metabolism and that, can help with weight loss. Cayenne’s ability to cleanse
the blood and improve circulation is very good for the heart and possibly reducing the risk of
heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular disease. Some have said that cayenne tea has revived
heart attack patients.

Colds and Flu Help - Cayenne is good for stimulating the immune system. Just eating a small
amount of cayenne, chili peppers or chili powder makes you sweat and is good for breaking a
fever, fighting infection and cleansing of your body. Cayenne and chili peppers can relieve
congestion quickly. When you have a cold or flu and the mucous membranes are swollen and
clogged up, just a little chili pepper in a bowl of chili can relieve the stuffiness almost instantly.
This can also relieve tightness in the chest due to respiratory infections and illness.

With cayenne, chili peppers and chili powder, remember that a little bit goes a long way, unless
you’re one of those individuals who can eat hot peppers all day long. Peppers like these are also
used in pepper sprays that can stop a bear, so do not touch your face or eyes after handling
peppers.

Red pepper consumption protects against aspirin - induced stomach damage and improved
abdominal pain, fullness, and nausea scores in people with nonnuclear dyspepsia.

Cayenne pepper also exerts a number of beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system.
Specifically, it reduces the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis by reducing blood
cholesterol and triglyceride levels and platelet aggregation, as well as increasing fibrinolytic
activity, referring to the ability to prevent the formation of blood clots, which can lead to a heart
attack, stroke or pulmonary embolism.
 Cinnamon
It has a long history of use in both Eastern and Western cultures as a medicine. Cinnamon'
s
unique healing abilities come from three basic components in the essential oil found in its bark.
This oil contains active components called cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate and cinnamyl
alcohol, plus a wide range of other volatile substances.

Some of its reported uses are in cases of arthritis, asthma, cancer, diarrhea, fever, heart problems,
insomnia, menstrual problems, peptic ulcers, psoriasis, and spastic muscles. There are scientific
studies to support some of these uses.

Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it
especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes.

In some studies, cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant

medication yeast
infections.

In a study published by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland,

cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

It has an anti-clotting
clotting effect on the bblood.
In a study at Copenhagen University, patients given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder
combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning before breakfast had significant relief in
arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month.

When added to food, it inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food
preservative.

One study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.

Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in
unpasteurized juices.

It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.

Other clinical studies have shown cinnamon containing formulas to be useful in cases of the
common cold, influenza, and frostbite.

Some of the confirmed effects of cinnamon are as a sedative for smooth muscle, circulatory
stimulant, carminative, digesting, anticonvulsant, diaphoretic, diuretic, antibiotic, and ant
ulcerative.

Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol.
 Cloves
It contain significant amount of an active component called eugenol, which has made them the
subject of numerous health studies, including studies showing benefit for the prevention of
toxicity from environmental pollutants, such as carbon tetrachloride, prevention of digestive tract
cancers and treatment of joint inflammation.

Analgesic Properties - The analgesic property of clove is due to an active ingredient, eugenol
oil, which is used for treatment of various dental pro
problems
blems like tooth ache. A cotton ball soaked
in the clove oil can work wonders on the aching tooth. The oil obtained from cloves is known to
possess antibacterial properties and is used in various dental creams, toothpastes, mouth wash,
and throat sprays to cleanse bacteria. It is also used to relieve pain from sore gums and improves
overall dental health.

Anti-inflammatory Effects - Cloves are also used as an anti

anti-inflammatory
inflammatory agent, due to their
high content of flavonoids. Aromatherapists use pure clove oil to cure the symptoms of
rheumatism, and arthritis. The aromatic clove oil when inhaled, can help soothe certain
respiratory conditions like cold, cough, asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, and also clears the nasal
tract.
Antiseptic and Antispasmodic Effects - Due to its antiseptic characteristics, clove and clove oil
work as an effective remedy for some common problems such as cuts, fungal infections, burns,
wounds, athlete'
s foot and bruises. The clove oil if directly applied on the skin can cause
irritation. The clove oil is hence used in the diluted form. As an antispasmodic agent, clove oil
helps to relieve muscle spasms when applied topically near the affected portion.

Digestive Health Benefits of Cloves - Cloves can effectively cure many digestive problems.
Cloves are known to have medicinal qualities to cure flatulence, loose motions, indigestion and
nausea. Cloves are useful in relieving the symptoms of diarrhea, gastric irritability and vomiting.

Cancer - Researchers have suggested that the cloves can effectively prevent lung cancer as well
as skin cancer. Eugenol, an essential component found in cloves, helps in minimizing the
harmful effects of environmental wastes that can cause cancer of digestive system.

Immune System - Clove and clove oil boosts the immune system by purifying the blood and
helps to fight against various diseases.

Other Health Benefits of Cloves

Cloves are used for treating a number of health conditions such as malaria, cholera, scabies in the
tropical Asian countries.

Cloves benefit the diabetic patients by controlling the blood glucose levels. The essential
constituent (Eugenol) found in cloves is also powerful for preventing blood clots.

Clove oil mixed with milk and salt can be used as a home remedy for headache. It is one of the
effective remedies for stye and various eye infections. If a piece of clove is applied to stye, it
gives a great relief. Clove is used as a relief for ear aches, a mixture of clove oil and sesame oil is
warmed and applied ear aches.
 Coriander seeds
It has a health supporting reputation that is high on the list of the healing spices. The essential
oils in the seeds make it and effective carminative and digestive aid. In parts of Europe,
coriander has traditionally been referred to as an anti diabetic plant. In parts of India, it has
traditionally
tionally been used regarding to its anti-flammatory
flammatory properties. Modern scientific
investigations of coriander have focused on it
its antimicrobial properties, ant anxiety action and
cholesterol – lowering effects.
Coriander has many important vitamins and minerals. It provides calcium, phosphorus, iron and
some other vitamins such as vitamin B and vitamin C.

Regular use of coriander helps to improve the overall health and prevents many of the vitamin
deficiency diseases. Coriander is also used as a carminative.

Uses of coriander seeds

Coriander tea is recommended for patients suffering from kidney problems. For preparing
coriander tea,, coriander seeds are allowed to boil in water for a few minutes and the decoction is
taken as a medicine. Coriander tea also helps to cure mouth ulcers and swellings. Regular intake
of coriander tea also helps to lower the blood cholesterol levels. In cas
casee of Diarrhea, coriander
seeds is soaked in water overnight and then taken along with buttermilk early in the morning.
 Cumin
Cumin seeds have traditionally been noted to be of benefit to the digestive system.

Research on animals has indicated that cumin may stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes,
important factors in proper digestion and nutrient assimilation.

Building healthy blood - Cumin is exceptionally rich in iron, making it a great natural
supplement
ment for blood health and an antidote for anemia. Increased iron makes the blood richer in
hemoglobin, the substance that transports oxygen to all the cells of the body.

Strengthening
trengthening the immune system – Because of its powerful antioxidant properties, cumin
cumi
strengthens the body’s natural immunities.

Prenatal health – Cumin supports healthy prenatal development in pregnant women. It is also
believed to make childbirth easier, and improves the milk supply of nursing mothers. Because it
is so rich in iron, cumin
in is also a healthy herb for women of all ages during their menstrual cycle.

Insomnia – Cumin seeds are a highly effective treatment for insomnia. In traditional medicine,
cumin seeds combined with a ripe banana are taken at bedtime to induce peaceful sleep.
sle

Memory loss – Cumin improves memory and overall mental function, and can speed recovery
from amnesia.
Digestive function – Cumin seeds improves digestion and relieves many common digestive
ailments, including flatulence (gas), bloating, diarrhea, nausea and indigestion. Cumin is
believed to aid digestion by stimulating the production of pancreatic enzymes.

Cancer – One of cumin’s most important uses may be in treating cancer. Recent research has
revealed that cumin may slow the growth of breast and colon cancer cells. Cumin appears to act
against cancer via its strong radical scavenging activity.

Colds and respiratory ailments – A tonic made from cumin seeds is used traditionally to treat
colds, cough, fever and sore throat.

Kidney health – When combined with caraway seed and black salt, cumin seeds provide an
effective treatment for renal colic.

Healthy metabolism – Cumin boosts the metabolic rate and facilitates the absorption of nutrients
throughout the body. Many herbal practitioners consider cumin to be one of nature’s best overall
body tonics.
 Fennel
Fennel seeds are a common cooking spice worldwide, popular with fish and curries. Fennel is an
element of Chinese five spice powder
powder. The herb is also traditional in Chinese, Arab, Indian and
Western pharmacopoeias. After meals, fennel seeds are used in several cultures to prevent gas
and upset stomach.

The 1997 Commission E on Phytotherapy and Herbal Substances of the German Federal Institute
for Drugs recommends Fennel seed for '
Dyspepsias such as mild, spastic gastrointestinal
afflictions, fullness, flatulence. Catarrh of the upper respiratory tract. Fennel syr
syrup,
up, fennel honey:
catarrh of the upper respiratory tract in children

Bad Breath - Bad breath or Halitosis is often caused by digestive disorders. Fennel seeds are an
excellent natural remedy for bad breath since the seeds can help resolve this digestive problem
p as
well as provide a fresh aromatic scent.

Chew one to one-and-a-half

half teaspoons of fennel seeds throughout the day.

A warm fennel tea can be used as a mouthwash to diminish bad breath.

Cold, Flu, and Sinus Disorders-- A few studies suggest that Fennell seeds may help with sinus
congestion, chronic coughs, and flu symptoms.

Nasal Congestion - Boil 1 liter of water in a pot and add 44-5

5 teaspoons of fennel seeds. Lean over
the pot and inhale the vapours by covering your head with a towel or a large cloth.
cloth
Sore Throat - Gargle warm Fennel tea 2-3 times daily and before going to sleep at night.

Cough and Flu Symptoms - Make Fennel tea by boiling one teaspoon of fennel seeds in a cup of
water for about 5 minutes. Add honey to sweeten and drink this tea three times daily.

Colic in Babies- Colic is a condition that affects babies, and it is characterized by prolonged and
uncontrollable crying. While the actual cause of colic is not always known, one common theory
is that it may be caused by digestive problems including intestinal spasms or cramping. If this is
the case, Fennel can be used to help relieve these symptoms. A simple solution is to make Fennel
water or Fennel syrup and store it in the refrigerator for emergencies.

Fennel Water

Boil one teaspoon of Fennel seeds in a cup of water for 5 minutes. Add half a teaspoon of sugar.
Let the mixture cool down, and then strain out the seeds. Give one teaspoon of this Fennel water
to the baby three times a day or until symptoms subside.

Fennel Syrup

To make Fennel Syrup, boil 3 teaspoons of fennel seeds in a cup of water. Add half a cup of
sugar and boil until the mixture develops the consistency of syrup. Give 1/4 teaspoon of this
Fennel syrup to the baby twice daily until symptoms subside.

Menstrual and Menopausal Problems - The antispasmodic, phytoestrogenic and anti-

inflammatory properties of Fennel may soothe the muscles in the uterus, which can help relieve
the cramping and discomfort associated with PMS and menstruation. Fennel can also help ease
hot flashes and other menopausal problems by balancing the estrogen levels in the body.
Therefore, a simple remedy for menstrual cramps, PMS, and symptoms of menopause is to make
a Fennel tea as follows:

Boil a cup of water.

Add a teaspoon of fennel seeds to the boiling water.

Leave the mixture on low heat for 5 minutes.

Using a strainer, pour the tea into a mug.

Add honey as an optional sweetener.

For relief of menopausal symptoms, drink this tea twice daily. For menstrual cramps, start
drinking this Fennel tea three days before the expected period and continue drinking it until
symptoms subside.

Anemia: Iron, and Histidine, an amino acid found in fennel, are helpful in treatment of anemia.
Where iron is chief constituent of haemoglobin, Histidine stimulates production of haemoglobin
and also helps forming other components of blood.

Indigestion: It is a common practice, particularly in Indian Subcontinent, to chew fennel seeds

after meals. This is done to facilitate digestion and to keep bad breath away. Some of the
components of the essential oils in fennel are stimulants and stimulate secretion of digestive and
gastric juices, reduce inflammation of stomach and intestines and facilitates proper absorption of
nutrients from the food. It also has anti acidic (basic) properties and is extensively used in
antacid preparations. It is an appetizer too.

Flatulence: Fennel is most popular as an anti flatulent, due to the carminative properties of
Aspartic acid found in fennel. Its extract can be used in right from the infants to the old, to cure
flatulence and to expel gases from the stomach.

Constipation: Fennel seeds, particularly in powdered form, act as laxative. The roughage helps
clearance of bowels whereas the stimulating effect helps maintain the proper peristaltic motion
of the intestines, thereby helping proper excretion.

Diarrhea: Fennel is helpful in curing diarrhea if caused by bacterial action, as some components
of essential oils in fennel such as Anetol, Cineole etc. have disinfectant and anti bacterial
properties. Some amino acids such as Histidine aid digestion and proper functioning of digestive
system, thus helping cure diarrhea due to indigestion.

Colic: Polymeric and heavy molecules are useful in the treatment of Renal Colic. Such polymers,
also called Phytoestrogens, are found in Anethole, a component of the essential oils in fennel.
Fennel, with this virtue, is thus helpful in treating Renal Colic.

Respiratory Disorders: Fennel is useful in respiratory disorders such congestion, bronchitis,

cough etc. due to presence of Cineole and Anetol which are expectorant in nature, among their
many other virtues.

Eye Care: While using fennel in food helps protect eyes from inflammation, disorders related to
aging, macular degeneration etc. due to presence of anti oxidants (vitamin-C, amino acid like
Other Benefits: Fennel is diuretic, i.e. increases amount and frequency of urination, thereby
helping removal of toxic substances from the body and helping in rheumatism, swelling etc. It
also increases production and secretion of milk in lactating mothers and since this milk contains
some properties of fennel, it is anti flatulent for the baby too. It strengthens hair, prevents hair
fall, relaxes body, sharpens memory and has a marvelous cooling effect in summer if the pale
greenish-yellow water, in which it is soaked, is taken with a bit of sugar and black-sal '
 Fenugreek
Fenugreek - Galactomannas, which have been found in fenugreek and glucomannas have been
determined to have cholesterol-lowering
lowering activity and to help stabilize blood sugar.

Herbal Cure for Skin Inflammation

Research has shown that Fenugreek is an effective topical treatment for skin problems such as
abscesses, boils, burns, eczema, and gout. Therefore, a simple skin inflammation remedy is the
following:

Take a spoonful of fenugreek and grin

grind it into a powder.

Mix the ground fenugreek with warm water.

Take a simple piece of clean cloth and soak it into the mixture.

Apply the soaked cloth directly onto the affected skin as a poultice.

Natural Cure for Heartburn and Acid Reflux - Fenugreek seeds

ds contain a lot of mucilage, which
helps sooth gastrointestinal inflammation by coating the lining of the stomach and intestine.
Therefore, for an effective remedy against heartburn or Acid Reflux, simply sprinkle 1 teaspoon
of fenugreek seeds onto your food.
ood. Another option is to take one teaspoon of Fenugreek seeds
and swallow them with water or juice before any meal.
Home Remedy for Fever - The Fenugreek herb has been known to help reduce fever when taken
with lemon and honey, since it nourishes the body during an illness. Therefore, to treat a fever,
simply consume one to two teaspoons of Fenugreek seeds three times a day along with an herbal
tea (such as green tea) with a teaspoon of honey and lemon juice. Some health food stores also
sell herbal Fenugreek teas, which can be used instead of the green tea.

Breast Enlargement - Fenugreek is often used in many teas and other products that help balance
women'
s hormones and/or enlarge the breasts. Therefore, a simple home remedy for breast
enlargement is to make Fenugreek a part of your regular diet. A common suggestion is to
consume up to 3g of Fenugreek per day.

Remedy to Ease Child Birth for Pregnant Women - Fenugreek stimulates uterine contractions
and can be helpful to induce childbirth. However, pregnant women should only use Fenugreek
for inducing labor after consulting with their doctor.

Remedy to Aid Milk Production in Lactating Women - Fenugreek has been known to increase
milk production in lactating women. Research has even shown that milk production can increase
by over 500 percent within 24 to 72 hours after consuming fenugreek. Although it is not known
why this happens, researchers speculate that the oil contained in fenugreek seeds plays a role.
Therefore, a recommended remedy to increase milk flow is to consume one capsule of fenugreek
seed (at least 500mg) three times a day.

What are the Side Effects of Fenugreek?

While Fenugreek is generally considered to be safe when used moderately, there have been
reports of a few minor side-effects. Nausea is one common side effect, while other people have
reported gastrointestinal discomfort (diarrhea and/or gas). Also, when using fenugreek topically
on the skin, it is important to watch out for skin irritations and rashes.

Fenugreek use during pregnancy is not recommended, since it has the potential to induce labor.
If you are pregnant and wish to take it, you should do so only after consultation with your doctor.
 Ginger
Ginger – it is very effective in alleviating symptoms of gastrointestinal distress. In herbal
medicine, ginger is regarded as excellent carminative, a substance that promotes the elimination
of intestinal gas, and intestinal spasmolytic, a substance that relaxes and soothes the intestinal
tract.

A combination of ginger cardamom, cinnamon and coriander is carminative and stimulating to

the digestion.

Gingerroot appears to be equally effective for automobile, airplane, train or boat trips, It reduces
all symptoms associated
ssociated with motion sickness, including dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and cold
sweating. Ginger affects the gastrointestinal tract and slows the feedback interaction between the
stomach and the nausea center in the brain by absorbing and neutralizing gastrointestinal
gast
hormones, toxins and acids.

Ginger has also been used to treat the nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, including
hyper emesis grvidarum, the most severe form of pregnancy – related nausea and vomiting.

Ginger also contains very potent

nt anti
anti-flammatory
flammatory compounds called gingerols. These substances
are believed to explain why so many people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis experience
reduction in their pain levels and improvements in their mobility when they consume ginger
regularly. Gingererols inhibit the formation of inflammatory cytokines, chemical messengers of
the immune system.

Ginger has enjoyed the status of being the traditional medicine for the treatment of cough, cold
and congestion in the fields of ayurveda and naturopathy.

The extracts of ginger namely the ginger beer and the ginger ale are used as stomach settlers for
generations in many countries due to their properties of being good analgesics and sedatives - a
ginger benefit.

The medical form of ginger, popularly known as ‘Jamaica Ginger’, is used for treating dyspepsia
and colic diseases and is especially recommended to people who suffer from gall stones. This is
due to the fact that the intake of this herb triggers the release of bile from the gall bladder and
thus causes the problem to heal over a period of time.

Among the reputed health benefits of ginger is that it can be taken by people who have diabetes
and also by those who suffer from heart problems because it is believed to have the health
benefit of lowering the cholesterol content of the blood.

Ginger has been used by pregnant women to ward off the morning sickness.

Since some people believe it can be used for the health benefit of treatment of external wounds
like snake bites as well as for internal disorders like ovarian and colon cancers, it is considered to
be a universal remedy which could be present at home at all times.

Fresh ginger juice if applied to minor burns as well as skin irritations provides immediate relief
for some people where as ginger oil is used in spas and saloons for a perceived refreshing effect
on one’s mind and a potential ability to reduce arthritic pain.

Ginger is added as a ginger seasoning or flavoring agent in a number of recipes and food stuffs
which vary according to the region in which they are prepared.

Ginger can also be used for reducing toothache and the discomfort which arises due to the
infection in the upper respiratory tract due to its antibacterial and antifungal nature.
 Pepper
Pepper (black) - pepper is valued not only for culinary purposes but also for its medicinal
applications for treatment of digestive disorders. Black pepper has diaphoretic, carminative and
diuretic properties. It also stimulates the taste buds in a manner that causes an increase in
stomach acid secretion, thereby improving digestion. Black pepper has demonstrated impressive
antioxidant and antibacterial properties as well, and the outer layer of the peppercorn has been
proven to stimulate the breakdown of fat cells.

Many of the benefits of black pepper are due to the compound piperine. Piperine has been shown
to

-dramatically
dramatically increase the absorption of certain nutrients, such as selenium, B vitamins and beta-
beta
carotene.

- support and assist the body'

s natural thermogenic ac
activities

- support and enhance the liver'

s detoxification process.

Black pepper aids digestion - Pepper'

s natural antibiotic properties make it an effective remedy
for intestinal diseases caused by bacteria. Pepper causes an increase in the secretion of
hydrochloric
drochloric acid in the stomach, improving overall digestion by reducing gas, diarrhea,
constipation and colic.
Black pepper helps relieve cough and colds - Pepper'
s antibacterial properties also make it an
effective remedy for respiratory conditions including colds, coughs and flu. Pepper'
s spiciness
clears congestion and helps clear up sinusitis.

Black pepper helps fight cancer - Research has revealed that pepper exerts a free-radical
scavenging activity, and thus may assist in preventing some cancers and slow the growth of
cancer cells.

Black pepper may help in weight loss - The outer layer of the peppercorn contains substances
that boost fat metabolism. Adding black pepper to foods may help in the treatment of obesity.

Black pepper helps treat skin conditions - Research conducted in Great Britain has indicated that
the active chemical ingredient in pepper, piperine, is an effective treatment for vitiligo, a skin
disease that causes areas of the skin to lose their pigment. Pepper is also believed to decrease
susceptibility to skin cancers caused by excess ultraviolet radiation.

Black pepper improves bioavailability - Eating black pepper promotes the absorption of nutrients
to all the tissues of the body, improving overall health.

Black pepper improves dental health - Pepper helps fight tooth decay and provides relief from
toothache.

Black pepper is a natural antidepressant - Black pepper has been the investigated for its
antidepressant properties. Animal studies showed that treatment with black pepper improved
cognitive function and stimulated the central nervous system.

Black pepper is a powerful antioxidant - Pepper has a rich natural content of phenols, organic
chemicals that have strong antioxidant properties.

Black pepper reduces inflammation - Animal research has revealed that pepper'
s active
ingredient, piperine, has natural anti-inflammatory effects.

Reduces intestinal gas - Black pepper provides a natural solution to the embarrassing problem of
intestinal gas. The stimulation of hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach reduces the
intestinal gas problems.

Antioxidant - The antioxidant property of black pepper prevents and curtails oxidative stress.
Moreover, several of these compounds work indirectly by enhancing the action of other
antioxidants.
 Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural pain reliever and anti
anti-inflammatory
inflammatory Laboratory studies have demonstrated

turmeric'
s potency against virtually all primary inflammatory agents. Patients with rheumatoid

arthritis reported significant pain relief when given turmeric in a clinic

clinical study.

Turmeric can help the body stave off flu and ease its symptoms. While not a replacement for a

flu shot, turmeric has been shown to be a natural preventative against many flu viral strains. As a

natural protease inhibitor, turmeric interferes with the ability of the flu virus to replicate itself.

Turmeric has been the subject of anti

anti-cancer
cancer research. Preliminary studies indicate that turmeric

may slow the growth of certain tumors. Demographic research has shown that people in areas

where turmeric iss abundantly consumed have some of the lowest cancer rates in the world.

Turmeric stimulates the production of gastric mucus

mucus,, making it useful in assisting digestion and

protecting against ulcers.

Turmeric is a natural pain reliever. Various laboratory studies have demonstrated turmeric'
s

potency against virtually all primary inflammatory agents.

Turmeric promotes wound healing. Because of its antiseptic and analgesic properties, turmeric

can be applied topically to speed the healing of wounds.

Turmeric has anti-asthmatic properties. Clinical studies have shown turmeric to be effective in

treating bronchial asthma.

Turmeric promotes cardiovascular health. A clinical trial showed turmeric'

s cholesterol-reducing

properties to be as potent as the medication Clofibrate. Another study showed that turmeric

lowered cholesterol and triglycerides levels in nearly all cases. Patients in both studies also

reported reduced angina.

Turmeric helps stabilize blood sugar levels. An extract prepared from turmeric root was found to

have a hypoglycemic effect. In combination with other herbs, turmeric'

s anti-diabetic properties

are even more pronounced.

Turmeric is useful in weight management. Because it stimulates the metabolism of fat, turmeric

has been found useful for combating obesity and promoting healthy weight loss.
 Garlic
Garlic is known to have antiviral properties, which helps the body fight against allergies. Simply
take one tablet of garlic supplement each day 2 or 3 weeks before the usual allergy season
begins.

Coughing - Garlic'
s antibacterial properties make it a wonderfu
wonderfull treatment for coughs and other
throat irritations. Garlic may also reduce the severity of upper respiratory tract infections.

Diabetes - Garlic is considered to regulate blood sugar levels by increasing the release of insulin
in diabetics. Therefore an effective remedy is to take one capsule or tablet of garlic everyday.

High Blood Pressure - Clinical studies have shown that people with high blood pressure who
took garlic capsules daily for up to five months lowered their blood pressure levels as effectively
effe
as patients taking prescription blood pressure drugs. A suggested dosage is 600-900mg
600 garlic
capsules once daily.

High Cholesterol- Studies have shown that taking 600

600-900mg
900mg of garlic everyday lowers
cholesterol levels and reduces arterial plaque fformation by 5–18%.
18%. Therefore, an effective
natural remedy is to take one garlic tablet or capsule (600
(600-900mg)
900mg) once per day.

Alliin - is an odorless substance in whole garlic bulb which when ground or chewed turn into
allicin. Allicin is a substance that ccarries
arries the strong odor most of us associate with garlic, as well
as the healing powers of the herb.
Allicin is a substance in garlic that inhibits or totally destroys many types of bacteria and fungi;
in many cases this substance is stronger than penicillin and tetracycline.

Anti-hemolytic factor - It is claimed that this is responsible for the beneficial effect of garlic in
the treatment of anemia.

Anti-oxidant factor - garlic has been shown capable of helping to prevent foods from getting
rancid.

Anti-coagulant factor - garlic contains certain active substances, which appear to prevent blood
from coagulating therefore benefiting certain heart conditions.

Saponin - a compound which helps lower blood pressure, thus preventing strokes.

Fructose - this carbohydrate helps stimulate the immune system.

Di-Sulphides - these are believed to have cholesterol lowering effect which helps to control
cholesterol and other fats within the arteries and blood vessels.

Toothaches - Garlic'
s antibacterial, analgesic, and anesthetizing properties can help cure
toothaches. Simply put some garlic oil or a piece of crushed garlic clove directly onto the
affected tooth and the gum for instant relief.

Warts- Garlic'
s ability to fight infections and bacteria makes it an effective cure for warts and
other skin problems.

Take a fresh clove of garlic and cut its tip off.

Rub the cut area of the clove directly onto the wart for a few seconds.

Repeat this each night before going to bed until the wart disappears.

If you feel any kind of irritation or strong burning sensation, simply rinse the area with water.

Side Effects of Garlic

For most individuals, garlic does not cause any serious side effects. However people who are
allergic to garlic or who consume it in large quantities may suffer from stomach irritation,
heartburn, or flatulence. Garlic appears to be safe during pregnancy and breast-feeding. In fact,
two studies have shown that babies prefer breast milk better from mothers who regularly eat
garlic.
 Curry leaf

The
he Indian curry leaf tree is a relative of the lemon tree and a native of India and South-east
South
Asia.

The curry leaf is used in several “Ayurvedic” and “Unani” prescriptions. According to scientists
at the horticulture division of the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Dharward., the
leaves are packed with minerals, vitamins A and B, and are rich ssources
ources of carbohydrates,
proteins, amino acids and alkaloids. Its bark is acrid, cooling, alexiteric( a remedy against
contagious diseases), an analgesic and cures piles. It is useful in the treatment of leucoderma and
blood disorders.

Here are some other therapeutic uses of Curry Leaves.

Curry leaves are useful for stomach ailments, morning sickness, nausea, nausea due to
indigestion and the excessive intake of fats. They are also useful for the treatment of diarrhea,
dysentery and piles.. The powdered bark of the tree helps treat bilious vomiting.

Hereditary diabetes and diabetes due to obesity may also be helped by consuming curry leaves.

Pain associated with the kidneys is relieved by drinking the juice of the root of the plant.

Fresh juice of curry leavess brightens the eyes and prevents the early development of cataract.

The juice of the berries of the Curry Leaf tree mixed with an equal quantity of Lemon juice is a
good soothing lotion for insect bites.