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HEALTH TIP
Rosehip is particularly high in Vitamin C, with about 1700-2000 mg per 100 g in the dried product. It also contains vitamins A, D, and E, essential fatty acids and antioxidant favonoids. Besides being used as a remedy for rheumatoid arthritis, dizziness and headaches it is commonly used externally in oil form to restore firmness to skin by nourishing tissue.
Source: BBC News, June 18, 2007
Gynostemma Pentaphyllum (botanical name), or Jiaogulan (Chinese name), is a five leafed adaptogenic herb. It has the unique ability of restoring homeostatis (balance and equilibrium) to all five body systems. The body systems are the cardiovascular, the digestive, the immune, the nervous and the reproductive systems.
The chemical constituents responsible for the adaptogenic characteristic of Gynostemma are saponins (triterpene glycosides or gypenosides). Gynostemma contains the widest range of saponins from all the plants in nature. There are approximately four times as many saponins in Gynostemma Pentaphyllum as there are in ginseng. There are more than 100 different gypenosides in Gynostemma, all very similar to the ginsenosides of Panax Ginseng and Siberian Ginseng. Four of Gynostemma's saponins share the identical chemical structure as the saponins found in Ginseng and eleven more are nearly identical. There is a saying that Gynostemma is "Ginseng at a tea price"
Gynostemma has developed a large following in Asia in weight control programs. It has a double direction efficacy regarding body weight. It will help reduce weight in overweight people and help slim people and athletes to gain weight. It helps adjust blood sugar levels and reduce blood fat (hyperlipidemia) which are vital steps in attaining healthy metabolic function. Gynostemma helps maintain healthy bowels. It acts as a cleanser in the stomach and intestines, eliminating the body of toxins and waste.
As an antioxidant, gynostemma boosts the immune system by increasing the number and activity level of white blood cells. It strengthens the digestive system by assisting in liver function. It helps relieve stress by soothing and relaxing the central nervous system. It is calming when one is overexcited and stimulating when one is depressed. Studies have shown that Gynostemma is useful in a number of neurological conditions, including depression, anxiety & stress.
Studies into the anti cancer activity of Gynostemma have shown a significant inhibition rate on a broad cross section of cancer cells. Intensive studies are being conducted into both its anti cancer activity and its potential as an immune protection / prophylactic agent for HIV infected patients. There is research indicating that Gynostemma may prevent cells from becoming cancerous in the first place and may disrupt cell division in existing cancer cells.
The locals call it 'Miracle Tea'
Gynostemma contains many amino acids, vitamins and minerals that are healthy to the human body, including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc and more. The locals who cultivate & consume Gynostemma call it 'miracle tea'
The first emperor of the Qin Dynasty, Qin Shi Huang who conquered all the independent states in China and established the first Chinese empire had to endure long hours of work during which he enjoyed drinking a very special tea. He had ordered this special tea to be prepared for him from a herb authorised only for the use of the Emperor. The herb was, and still is, Gynostemma Pentaphyllum.
Lemon grass is a perennial plant that is native to India and Nepal; it has a light, lemony scent and flavor, with a hint of ginger. Lemon grass is one of the wondrous herbs; it is known for its calming effect that relieves insomnia or stress.
Health Benefits of Lemon Grass:
- It contains an antibacterial and antifungal properties
- It helps to detoxify the liver, pancreas, kidney, bladder and the digestive tract.
- Helps boost the immune system
- Helps reduce uric acid, cholesterol, excess fats
- Helps alleviates indigestion and gastroenteritis.
- Helps improve the skin by reducing acne and pimples
- It helps tone the muscle and tissues. oHelps in menstrual troubles
- Helps reduce blood pressure and improve blood circulation
- Helps reduce cellulite
- Act as sedative for the central nervous system.
- May help prevent color cancer.
- Helps in reducing fevers
- Help in flatulence and colic
- Relieves arthritic pain and rheumatism |
