Marjoram (Origanum majorana) is a somewhat cold-sensitive perennial herb or undershrub with sweet pine and citrus flavors. In some Middle Eastern countries, marjoram is synonymous with oregano, and there the names sweet marjoram and knotted marjoram are used to distinguish it from other plants of the genus Origanum. It is also called pot marjoram, although this name is also used for other cultivated species of Origanum.
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OTHER NAME(S): Essence de Marjolaine, Garden Marjoram, Gartenmajoran, Huile de Marjolaine, Knotted Marjoram, Maggiorana, Majoran, Majorana Aetheroleum Oil, Majorana Herb, Majorana hortensis, Majorana majorana, Marjolaine, Marjolaine des Jardins, Marjolaine Ordinaire, Marjolein, Marjoram Essential Oil, Marjoram Oil, Marubaka, Marwa, Mejorana, Mejram, Origan des Jardins, Origan Marjolaine, Origanum majorana, Sweet Marjoram.
It is commonly used for runny nose, coughs, colds, infections, and various digestion problems, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these or any other uses. In foods, marjoram herb and oil are used as flavorings. In manufacturing, the oil is used as a fragrance in soaps, cosmetics, lotions, and perfumes.
Don’t confuse it with winter marjoram or oregano (Origanum vulgare), which is also referred to as wild marjoram.
BENEFITS OF MARJORAM
Asthma. Early research shows that taking 2 drops of the essential oil daily along with asthma medication for 3 months might improve lung function in people with asthma better than taking asthma medication alone.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: When added to your food, it can help reduce your risk of developing inflammatory reactions. It can help with conditions such as asthma, fever, muscle aches, sinus headaches and migraines.
Improved Digestive Function: When used to make tea, this herb can help improve your digestion by improving your appetite and increasing the production of digestive enzymes that help break down food. In addition, marjoram tea can help alleviate common digestive disorders such as flatulence, constipation, diarrhea and stomach cramps.
Improved Heart Health: it can help improve your overall cardiovascular health by maintaining normal blood pressure levels, which lowers your risk of hypertension. It’s also known for helping reduce the buildup of cholesterol in your arteries, which can prevent heart disease.
Painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea). Early research suggests that massaging a cream containing lavender, clary sage, and marjoram essential oils to the abdomen may reduce pain in some women with painful menstrual cramps. The effect of marjoram essential oil alone on menstrual cramps is unclear.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Early research suggests that drinking the tea might improve some chemical markers of PCOS, but overall it does not seem to improve body weight, blood sugar, or levels of certain hormones in women with PCOS.
Protection Against Common Illnesses: it contains various compounds that have effective antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. As such, it can help reduce your risk of diseases such as the common cold, measles, mumps, influenza, food poisoning and various staph infections.
Therapeutic Benefits: in its essential oil form, can help uplift your mood and improve your psychological well-being. It can be used to help relieve insomnia and reduce stress and anxiety.
BENEFITS OF MARJORAM ESSENTIAL OIL
Collected by steam distillation of the fresh flowering tops. Marjoram oil happens to be popular among aromatherapy enthusiasts, and is known for providing a warm, spicy, woody and camphoraceous scent that can provide a vast array of benefits, such as:
Analgesic: Helps alleviate pain related to colds, fevers, inflammation and headache.
Antiseptic: Applying the essential oil on wounds can help prevent them from becoming infected and developing tetanus.
Antibacterial: Helps kill bacteria that may cause various skin and digestive infections.
Carminative: Can help solve digestive problems such as flatulence by relaxing the muscles in the abdominal region.
Diuretic: Can help increase your frequency and quantity of urination, thereby helping improve your ability to eject excess water and harmful toxins from your body.
USES FOR MARJORAM LEAF
Marinades: Upgrade the taste of your marinated meat and fish dishes by adding it to the marinade.
Roasted meats: it can add an herbal aroma to roasted meats, such as chicken.
Sautéed vegetables: Side dishes such as sautéed vegetables become more flavorful with a dash of marjoram.
Soups: It gives vegetable soups more flavor.
Teas: in medicinal amounts for short periods of time to alleviate symptoms of cold and flu
DOSAGE
The typical oral dose of marjoram is one to two cups of the tea daily. Prepare the tea by steeping one to two teaspoons of the flower or leaf in one cup of boiling water for five minutes, and then strain. Marjoram can also be used as a poultice or mouthwash; consult with your physician for appropriate concentrations.
Child Dosage: Children should avoid it in amounts larger than those typically used in culinary applications.
SIDE EFFECTS & SAFETY
Marjoram is LIKELY SAFE in food amounts and POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth in medicinal amounts for short periods of time.
It is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when used long-term. There is some concern that marjoram could harm the liver and kidneys or cause cancer if used long-term.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is POSSIBLY UNSAFE to use marjoram in medicinal amounts if you are pregnant. It might start your period, and that could threaten the pregnancy. Not enough is known about the safety of using it in medicinal amounts if you are breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Children: Do not give marjoram to children in medicinal amounts. It is POSSIBLY UNSAFE for them.
Bleeding disorders: Taking medicinal amounts of marjoram might slow clotting and increase the chances of bruising and bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.
Allergy to basil, hyssop, lavender, mint, oregano, and sage: it can cause allergic reactions in people allergic to these plants and other members of the Lamiaceae family of plants.
Surgery: Taking medicinal amounts of marjoram might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using marjoram medicinally at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Lithium interacts with MARJORAM: it might have an effect like a water pill or “diuretic.” Taking marjoram might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Your lithium dose might need to be changed.
RECIPE
Spicy Roast Chicken With Tomatoes and Marjoram
Ingredients:
24 ounces of cherry tomatoes (about 4 cups), stemmed
1/4 cup of coconut oil
5 garlic cloves, pressed
1 1/4 teaspoons of dried crushed red pepper
2 Tbsp. of chopped fresh marjoram
4 pasture-raised chicken breast halves with ribs
Himalayan salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Procedure:
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Toss the tomatoes, coconut oil, garlic, crushed red pepper and 1 tablespoon of marjoram in a large bowl.
Place the chicken slices on a rimmed baking sheet.
Pour the mixture over the chickens, while arranging the tomatoes in a single layer on a sheet around the chickens.
Sprinkle the chicken slices generously with salt and pepper.
Roast until the chicken slices are cooked through and the tomatoes are blistered, for about 35 minutes.
Transfer the chickens to plates.
Spoon the tomatoes and juices over.
Sprinkle the plates with the remaining 1 tablespoon of marjoram and serve.
Common Names: licorice root, licorice, liquorice, sweet root, gan cao, gan-zao, Chinese licorice
Latin Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza uralensis
Liquorice (British English) or licorice (American English) is the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra from which a sweet flavor can be extracted. The liquorice plant is an herbaceous perennial legume native to southern Europe and parts of Asia, such as India. It is not botanically related to anise, star anise, or fennel, which are sources of similar flavoring compounds. Liquorice flavors are used as candies or sweeteners, particularly in some European and Middle Eastern countries.
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The word “liquorice” is derived (via the Old French licoresse) from the Greek γλυκύρριζα (glukurrhiza), meaning “sweet root”, from γλυκύς (glukus), “sweet” and ῥίζα (rhiza), “root”, the name provided by Dioscorides. It is usually spelled “liquorice” in Commonwealth usage, but “licorice” in the United States.
It is one of the most widely used herbs worldwide and is the single most used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine today. It was used by the Egyptians as a flavoring for a drink called Mai-sus, and large quantities were found in the tomb of King Tut for his trip into the afterlife. Pliny the Elder recommended it to clear the voice and alleviate thirst and hunger.
Dioscides, when traveling with Alexander the Great, recommended that his troops carry and use it to help with stamina for long marches, as well as for thirst in areas of drought. In the Middle Ages it was taken to alleviate the negative effects of highly spicy or overcooked food.
It was also used for flavoring tobacco, and as a foaming agent in fire extinguishers and beer. In a recent survey of Western medical herbalists, licorice ranked as the 10th most important herb used in clinical practice.
G. glabra from Koehler’s Medicinal-Plants
An astonishing number of Chinese herbal formulas (over 5,000) use it to sweeten teas and to “harmonize” contrasting herbs. Its first documented use dates back to the time of the great Chinese herbal master Zhang Zhong Zhing, about 190 AD, but it was certainly used for many centuries prior to this.
In 1914 the Chicago Licorice Company began to sell Black Vines, the first in a very long line of licorice based modern candies.
Chemical Composition
The scent of this root comes from a complex and variable combination of compounds, of which anethole is up to 3% of total volatiles. Much of the sweetness in liquorice comes from glycyrrhizin, which has a sweet taste, 30–50 times the sweetness of sugar. The sweetness is very different from sugar, being less instant, tart, and lasting longer. The isoflavene glabrene and the isoflavane glabridin, found in the roots of liquorice, are phytoestrogens.
Medicinal Uses of Licorice Root
The chemicals contained in licorice are thought to decrease swelling, thin mucus secretions, decrease cough, and increase the chemicals in our body that heal ulcers.
It can be taken by mouth for various digestive system complaints including stomach ulcers, heartburn, colic, and ongoing inflammation of the lining of the stomach (chronic gastritis).
Some people take licorice by mouth for sore throat, bronchitis, cough, and infections caused by bacteria or viruses.
Licorice is also taken by mouth for Addison’s disease, a type of diabetes caused by a hormone deficiency (diabetes insipidus), menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), liver disorders, malaria, tuberculosis, high potassium levels in the blood, food poisoning, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a condition in which there is too much muscle tone (hypertonia), abscesses, recovery after surgery, rash, high cholesterol.
It is recommended to treat respiratory problems. Taking licorice as an oral supplement can help the body produce healthy mucus. Increasing phlegm production may seem counter intuitive to a healthy bronchial system. However, the opposite is true. The production of clean, healthy phlegm keeps the respiratory system functioning without old, sticky mucus clogging it.
Licorice is sometimes taken by mouth along with the herbs Panax ginseng and Bupleurum falcatum to improve the function of the adrenal glands, especially in people who have taken steroid drugs long-term. Steroids tend to suppress the activity of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands produce important hormones that regulate the body’s response to stress.
Licorice is also taken by mouth in combination with peony to increase fertility in women with a hormonal disorder called polycystic ovary syndrome, to treat people with abnormal levels of a hormone prolactin, for muscle cramps, and to reduce cancer pain. In combination with other herbs, licorice is also used to treat prostate cancer and the skin disorder known as eczema. Licorice is also taken in combination with andrographis, Siberian ginseng, and schisandra to treat familial Mediterranean fever. This hereditary condition is characterized by recurrent and painful swelling in the chest, stomach, or joints. A formulation containing licorice root along with slippery elm bark, lactulose, and oat bran has been used for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Some people use licorice as a shampoo to reduce oiliness in their hair. It is also applied as a gel for itchy, inflamed skin (eczema), as a solution to stop bleeding, as a patch in the mouth or as a gargle for canker sores, as a cream for psoriasis, weight loss, or a skin condition characterized by brown spots (melisma), as a gargle for recovery after surgery, and as a paste for dental plaque.
Licorice is used intravenously (by IV) to treat hepatitis B and C, as well as mouth sores (lichen planus) in people with hepatitis C.
Recovery after surgery. Research suggests that sucking on a single lozenge containing licorice (Sualin, Hamdard Pharma, India) beginning 30 minutes before having a tube inserted through the mouth into the trachea reduces cough following surgery by about 50%. Also, gargling with a licorice fluid before intubation reduces complications when the breathing tube is removed.
Bleeding. Early research suggests that applying a specific product containing alpinia, licorice, thyme, stinging nettle, and common grape vine (Ankaferd Blood Stopper, Mefar Ilaç Sanayi A.S., Istanbul, Turkey) to the skin reduces bleeding during surgery, but does not reduce time in surgery. Another early study suggests that applying the same product after dental surgery reduces bleeding.
Hepatitis. There is some evidence that certain components in licorice might be effective in treating hepatitis B and hepatitis C when given intravenously (by IV). Early research shows that using a specific IV product (Stronger Neominophagen C, Minophagen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd) seems to reduce death by about 50%. However, the studies involved too few patients to draw firm conclusions.
High cholesterol. Early research suggests that taking licorice root extract daily for 1 month reduces total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in people with high cholesterol.
High potassium levels. Some research suggests that certain components in licorice decrease potassium levels in people with diabetes or kidney problems.
Hot flashes during menopause. Some early research shows that taking licorice root extract can reduce the number and intensity of hot flashes in menopausal women. But other early research shows that taking licorice root extract does not significantly reduce the number or intensity of hot flashes.
Muscle cramps. Early research suggests that taking a specific product containing licorice and peony (Shakuyaku-kanzo-to) might reduce muscle cramps in people with liver disease (hepatic cirrhosis) or in people undergoing treatment for kidney failure (hemodialysis).
Liver disease not associated with alcohol use (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease). Early research suggests that taking 2 grams of licorice root extract daily for 2 months reduces test markers of liver injury in patients with liver disease not caused by drinking alcohol.
Pain. Early research suggests that taking a combination of licorice root and peony root with Taiwanese tonic vegetable soup containing lily bulb, lotus seed, and jujube fruit reduces pain in cancer patients.
Psoriasis. Early evidence suggests that applying a cream containing licorice and milk to the skin for 4 weeks does not reduce the amount of standard therapy needed, but does seem to improve skin peeling in patients with psoriasis.
Weight loss. There is conflicting information about the use of licorice for weight loss. Licorice seems to reduce body fat. However, it causes water retention that can offset any change in body weight.Other research suggests that taking a specific licorice product (Glavonoid) daily for 8 weeks has no effect on weight or body fat.
Caution Must Be Taken with Licorice Root
Liquorice extracts have been used in herbalism and traditional medicine. Excessive consumption of liquorice (more than 2 mg/kg/day of pure glycyrrhizinic acid, a liquorice component) may result in adverse effects, such as hypokalemia, increased blood pressure, and muscle weakness.
The United States Food and Drug Administration believes that foods containing liquorice and its derivatives (including glycyrrhizin) are safe if not consumed excessively. Other jurisdictions have suggested no more than 100 mg to 200 mg of glycyrrhizin per day, the equivalent of about 70 to 150 g (2.5 to 5.3 oz) of liquorice. Liquorice should not be used during pregnancy.
An increase in intake of liquorice can cause many toxic effects. Hyper-mineralocorticosteroid syndrome can occur when the body retains sodium, loses potassium altering biochemical and hormonal activities. Some of these activities include lower aldosterone level, decline of the renin-angiotensin system and increased levels of the atrial natriuretic hormone in order to compensate the variations in homoeostasis.
Some other symptoms of toxicity include electrolyte imbalance, edema, increased blood pressure, weight gain, heart problems, and weakness. Individuals will experience certain symptoms based on the severity of toxicity. Some other complaints include fatigue, shortness of breath, renal failure, and paralysis.
Dosage and Forms
Liquid extract: Licorice extract is the most commonly found form of licorice. It’s used as a commercial sweetener in candies and beverages. Licorice extract consumption by an individual should not exceed 30 mg/mL of glycyrrhizic acid. Ingesting more could cause unwanted side effects.
Powder: Health food stores and online specialty retailers sell licorice powder. Combined with a gel base, it can become a topical ointment that clears the skin. In its powder form, licorice is especially helpful in treating eczema and acne. You can also pour the powder into vegetable capsules and ingest them orally. The recommended dosage of licorice root is less than 75 milligrams per day, according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
Tea: Licorice plant leaves, dried and crushed into a tea, have become popular. You can purchase these teas at supermarkets and health food stores. Teas are used to promote digestive, respiratory, and adrenal gland health. When you see herbal teas for “bronchial wellness” and “cleanse and detox,” they usually contain forms of licorice. The popular throat remedy known as Throat Coat tea is a combination of marshmallow root, licorice root, and elm bark. It’s not recommended that people ingest more than 8 ounces of licorice tea per day.
DGL: licorice with glycyrrhizin removed, which is a safer form. DGL should contain no more than 2 percent glycyrrhizin. This form is recommended for gastrointestinal symptoms as long-term intake may be needed. DGL is available in chewable tablets, capsules, tea, and powder. Consume no more than 5 grams of DGL per day.
By H. Zell – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10415334
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)
AROMA: Sweet, rich herbaceous, camphoraceous
BLENDS WELL WITH: Angelica, Bay, clary sage, geranium, grapefruit, lavandin, lavender, lemon, mandarin, Melissa, myrtle, orange, rosemary, sage, tangerine
HERBAL MISCELLANY: It is one of the bitter herbs mentioned in the Old Testament, employed to purify the temples. Romans used hyssop to protect themselves against the plague, and to clean the houses of the sick. The chief constituents of Hyssop essential oil are Alpha Pinene, Camphene, Beta-Pinene, Sabinene, Myrcene, Limonene, Pinocamphone, Iso-Pinocamphene, Gamma Terpineol, Cineole, and Thujone.
What Is Hyssop Oil: The perennial plant hyssop is native to the Mediterranean region and was considered a holy plant in biblical times. During the time of the Romans, this herb was used against the plague, as a disinfectant and for treatment of minor infections. In some parts of the world, it had a spiritual function, and was believed to purify and “forgive sins.” Christianity held hyssop in high regard — the herb was cited as a symbol of baptism and reconciliation. In other religions, it is associated with purification.
The plant grows up to 60 centimeters or 2 feet high, and has a “hairy” stem with small pointy leaves and blue, purple or white flowers. Today, hyssop is cultivated in various parts of France for its essential oils. It is deemed one of the strongest antiviral essential oils out there because it contains nearly every type of chemical compound found in essential oils. However, the oil is still mild and gentle.
How Does Hyssop Oil Work?
The essential oil of the hyssop plant can be used in several ways. It can be applied topically on your skin or inhaled through a diffuser or vaporizer. Below are some ways to enjoy the benefits of this essential oil:
Help relieve fatigue, stress and even any type of body pain — Add two drops of hyssop oil to your bath water, preferably warm. Taking a bath in hyssop oil infused water may also contribute to a peaceful night’s rest.
Possibly address menstrual discomfort or menopausal symptoms — Mix three drops of hyssop oil with a carrier oil and use the mixture as a massage oil on your abdomen.
Help reduce pain as massage oil — Similar to the previous suggestion, use three drops of this oil blended with a carrier oil and massage on painful muscles. Rubbing the mixture on your stomach may also relieve gastrointestinal discomfort caused by indigestion and gas.
Aid in lowering fever — Massaging two drops of this herbal oil with 1 milliliter of coconut oil on the soles of your feet may help reduce fever.
Help clear clogged respiratory tracts — When inhaled, hyssop oil can ease nasal congestion, breathing difficulties, colds and cough. Use two drops in steam inhalation. You may also apply two drops of hyssop oil mixed with vapor rub onto your chest to induce the oil’s expectorant effect.
Help heal and prevent scars — Add two drops of hyssop oil to your lotion or cream and apply topically.
BENEFITS
The health benefits of Hyssop Essential Oil can be attributed to its properties as an astringent, stimulant, anti-Spasmodic, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, carminative, cicatrisant, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, hypertensive, nervine, sudorific, tonic, febrifuge, vermifuge, and vulnerary substance.
Astringent: The function of an astringent is to contract or cause something to shrink. Hyssop essential oil, being an astringent, makes the gums, muscles and limbs, abdomen, intestines, skin, tissues and blood vessels to contract. This can help you in many ways. This can prevent muscles and skin from sagging down due to age, loosening or loss of teeth, wrinkles, and hemorrhaging, all by quickly contracting the blood vessels.
Antispasmodic: Being an antispasmodic, Hyssop essential oil gives relief in spasms of the respiratory system, thereby curing spasmodic coughs. It also cures spasms of the nervous system in order to cure convulsions and related problems, as well as reducing muscular spasms, which cures cramps, and spasms of the intestines, giving relief from acute abdominal pain. It is also beneficial in curing spasmodic cholera.
Coughing is a common reaction of the respiratory system trying to expel harmful microbes, dust or irritants, so hyssop’s antispasmodic and antiseptic properties make it a great natural treatment for coughs and other respiratory conditions. Hyssop can also work as a remedy for sore throats, making it a great tool for people who use their voices throughout the day, like teachers, singers and lecturers. The best way to soothe the throat and respiratory system is to drink hyssop tea or add a few drops of oil to your throat and chest.
Almost everybody has likely experienced discomfort in his or her muscles at some point. Because almost every part of the body has muscle tissue, this type of pain can be felt practically anywhere. A study done at the Department of Pharmacology of Natural Substances and General Physiology in Italy found that hyssop oil had muscle-relaxing activity when it was tested on guinea pig and rabbit intestines. The hyssop oil treatment inhibited contractions and reduced the amplitude of spontaneous movements. Hyssop oil’s antispasmodic properties can help treat muscle aches, cramps and charley horses naturally.
Antirheumatic: Since Hyssop oil improves and promotes circulation, it helps cure diseases associated with poor circulation, such as rheumatism, arthritis, gout, and swelling. An increase in blood flow or circulation in the body benefits the heart and the body’s muscles and arteries. Hyssop improves and promotes circulation because of its anti-rheumatic properties. By increasing circulation, hyssop can work as a natural remedy for gout, rheumatism, arthritis and swelling. Your heart rate lowers when your blood circulates properly, and then your heart muscles relax and your blood pressure flows evenly throughout the body, affecting every organ.
So many people are looking for natural arthritis treatments because it can be a crippling condition. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, occurs when cartilage between joints wears down, causing inflammation and pain. By increasing circulation, hyssop oil and tea inhibit swelling and inflammation, allowing the blood to flow through the body and relieve the pressure that builds up because of clogged arteries.
Because of its ability to improve circulation, hyssop oil is also a home remedy and treatment for hemorrhoids, which are experienced by 75 percent of Americans at some point in their lives. Hemorrhoids are caused by an increase in pressure on the veins of the anus and rectum. The pressure on the veins causes swelling, pain and bleeding.
Antiseptic: Whenever we are wounded or get a cut or abrasion, our first worry is that the wound might become septic. If it is an iron object, then there remains a chance of it becoming infected by tetanus. Hyssop oil, applied on wounds, might help us avoid both of the above situations. Since it is an antiseptic substance, it prevents infections from developing into wounds.
Hyssop prevents infections from developing in wounds and cuts. Because of its antiseptic properties, when it’s applied to an opening of the skin, it fights infection and kills bacteria. Hyssop also helps in healing deep cuts, scars, insect bites and even can be one of the great home remedies for acne.
A study done at the Department of Virology, Hygiene Institute in Germany tested hyssop oil’s ability to fight genital herpes by testing plaque reduction. Genital herpes is a chronic, persistent infection that is spread efficiently and silently as a sexually transmitted disease. The study found that hyssop oil lowered plaque formation by more than 90 percent, proving that the oil interacted with the virus and serves as a therapeutic application for the treatment of herpes.
Cicatrisant: Deep cuts will heal quicker and the scar marks left by them will disappear sooner if Hyssop oil is applied to them. It is equally beneficial to fade away the after spots of boils, pox, infections, and insect bites.
Hyssop oil can work as a natural treatment for acne. Because hyssop oil is antiseptic, it can kill bacteria on the skin and fight infections. Research also demonstrates that hyssop essential oil exhibits bacteriostatic activity, which means it can stop bacteria from reproducing.
Digestive: This oil facilitates digestion. Being a stimulant, it stimulates the secretion of gastric juices like acids, enzymes, and bile into the stomach, which speeds up the decomposition of complex proteins, carbohydrates, and other nutrients. It also facilitates the passage of these foods through the intestines by stimulating peristaltic motion, thereby optimizing the absorption of these nutrients by intestinal villi.
Hyssop oil is a stimulant, so it increases the production of secretions, like bile, digestive enzymes and acid. These gastric juices are necessary in order to break down food as it makes its way to the stomach. We have digestive juices that contain enzymes in order to speed up the chemical reactions in the body and break down food into nutrients.
By facilitating digestion, hyssop oil helps with the decomposition of complex proteins, carbohydrates and nutrients. Because the digestive system interacts with all other body systems, including the nervous, endocrine and immune systems, the role that hyssop plays as a stimulant is very beneficial. Hyssop oil can also be helpful with intestinal gas, indigestion and loss of appetite.
Diuretic: Hyssop essential oil can also speed up detoxification of your body, removal of excess water and sodium, loss of fats and reduction in blood pressure just by promoting a single thing – urination. It increases the frequency of urination and the quantity of urine as well. This has other benefits too. Hyssop essential oil keeps your heart healthy, aids digestion, and also reduces the formation of gas.
Emmenagogue: This property of Hyssop essential oil can help women with irregular, obstructed, painful, or exhausting menstruation. This oil opens up menses, makes it regular and also helps overcome symptoms related with menses like nausea, headache, pain in lower abdomen, fatigue, loss of appetite, and mood swings.
Expectorant: This is yet another beneficial property of Hyssop essential oil. It is an expectorant. This is a good remedy to loosen phlegm that has been tightly deposited in the respiratory tracts. This keeps the respiratory system warm and stops any further deposition of phlegm in it. Moreover, it helps to cure the infections due to the common cold.
Carminative: This oil, having carminative properties, helps clear gases from the intestines and relieves you of problems like uneasiness, heaviness, indigestion, stomach aches, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and even heart troubles. Furthermore, Hyssop oil does not allow the formation of gas. It actually stimulates the downward passage of gas for safe expulsion from the body.
Febrifuge: When fever is due to infections, it helps reduce it by fighting infections. When fever is due to an accumulation of toxins in the body, this oil reduces it by promoting the removal of toxins from the body through urination. Hyssop oil also brings about sweating, which helps bring down a person’s temperature in cases of very high fever.
Hypertensive: Now, this property may not be welcome for normal or hypertensive people, but it is beneficial for hypotensive people (people who suffer from low blood pressure). This essential oil can raise blood pressure and help get rid of problems associated with low blood pressure, such as headaches, a tendency of vomiting, fatigue, and swelling in the limbs.
Nervine: Being a Nervine means serving as a tonic for the nervous system. This keeps the nervous system healthy and in good, working order, and helps to avoid nervous disorders. It is effective in cases of vertigo, nervousness, and convulsions as well. Hyssop essential oil is a good nervine and tones up the entire nervous system.
Stimulant: Hyssop oil stimulates all the systems running inside the body. It stimulates the nervous, circulatory, digestive, endocrine, neural, and excretory systems. Thus, it stimulates the body’s metabolism as a whole and helps in optimal consumption and absorption of the nutrients. It also stimulates and activates the immune system and protects your body from infections and diseases.
Sudorific: If someone is suffering from very limited perspiration, obstructed perspiration, or no perspiration at all (something teenagers have always wanted), he or she could be in big trouble. It simply means that toxic elements, excess water, and sodium is accumulating in your body, which is paving the way for bigger or chronic trouble. So, get going and use Hyssop essential oil. Being a sudorific, it helps bring about a lot of perspiration and frees your body of toxins, water, and extra salts. It also can help you to slim down.
Vermifuge: It kills worms, intestinal and otherwise while helping those children enjoy a better life who were suffering from obstructed growth due to these worms. Nutrients can actually be put to good use, and children can begin to develop properly.
Hyssop has the ability to fight parasites, which are organisms that feed off the nutrients of other organisms. Some examples of parasites include tapeworm, fleas, hookworms and flukes. Because it’s a vermifuge, hyssop oil expels parasitic works, especially in the intestines. When a parasite lives in and feed on its host, it disrupts nutrient absorption and causes weakness and disease. If the parasite is living in the intestines, it disrupts the digestive and immune systems.
Therefore, hyssop can be a key part of a parasite cleanse, as hyssop helps many systems in the body and ensures that your needed nutrients aren’t taken by these dangerous organisms.
Vulnerary: Hyssop essential oil protects wounds from infections and helps them heal quicker.
Other Benefits: It is very effective against diseases resulting from viral infections such as coughs, colds, flu, mumps, tonsillitis, and sore throat, as well as on bronchitis, asthma, eczema, dermatitis, and inflammation.
PRECAUTIONS: Oil Specific: Avoid in epilepsy, and while pregnant. Not for internal use.
General: As with all essential oils, never use them undiluted, in eyes or mucus membranes. Do not take internally unless working with a qualified and expert practitioner. Keep away from children. If applying an essential oil to your skin always perform a small patch test to an insensitive part of the body (after you have properly diluted the oil in an appropriate carrier.
How to Use Hyssop
Hyssop is most commonly used to fight throat and respiratory infections, fatigue, muscle aches, and arthritis. It’s traditionally used in teas, but it’s equally effective as a capsule, oil or extract. Here are some common hyssop uses:
For aromatherapy, diffuse or inhale 3–5 drops of hyssop oil.
When used topically to treat skin irritations, burns, bruising and frostbite, dilute 2–3 drops of hyssop with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) before applying to skin.
To heal scars and wounds, add 2–3 drops of hyssop oil with coconut or jojoba oil and apply the mixture to the specific area twice daily.
Add 3–5 drops of hyssop oil to warm bath water to stimulate sweating and lower body temperature.
To reduce fever, massage two drops of hyssop oil and a teaspoon of coconut oil into your feet.
To clear clogged respiratory system, add 2–3 drops of hyssop oil to my Homemade Vapor Rub recipe.
To treat a cough, add one drop of hyssop oil to a homemade cough syrup.
As a fragrance, hyssop oil can be added to soaps, lotions and body washes.
Can you eat hyssop? The fresh herb is commonly used in cooking, but the flavor is very strong, so it’s often steamed when making broths or soups. It can be added to salads in small amounts. The leaves have a lightly bitter taste due to its tannins and an intense minty aroma.
Hyssop flower tops and leaves are steeped in water to make infusions and medicinal tea.
The plant is commonly used by beekeepers to produce a rich and aromatic honey.
The hyssop herb is used to flavor liqueur and is part of the official formulation of Chartreuse.
To kill bacteria in the mouth, gargle 1–2 drops of hyssop mixed with water.
To increase blood circulation and repair damaged heart cells, add 1–2 drops of hyssop oil, or dried hyssop leaves, to my Hot Heart Health Juice.
Hyssop essential oil blends well with other essential oils such as geranium, lemon, clary sage, grapefruit, lavender, rosemary and orange.
Hyssop Tea Recipe: To make your own hyssop tea, follow these directions.
Start by boiling two cups of water.
Add two tablespoons of fresh hyssop leaves to the water
Let it steep for 30 minutes.
You can make a bigger batch of tea and reheat it when needed.
Hyssop tea is a great way to relieve respiratory infections, the common cold and sore throat. It also helps regulate your digestive system and supports the immune system. You can even dab hyssop tea on your wounds, cuts and bruises to speed up the recovery process and minimize the look of dark spots and scars.
How to Make a Hyssop Oil Infusion
What You’ll Need:
Fresh hyssop
Knife
Ceramic or enamel stock pot with lid
Clean brick or canning rack
Ceramic bowl or heatproof glass
Distilled water
Ice cubes
Jar
Small glass bottle or vial
Procedure:
Gather a basketful of flowers and leaves from hyssop plants early in the morning.
Rinse and dry the hyssop flowers and leaves, then chop them. Crush these to slightly release their volatile oils.
Put a clean brick or canning rack at the bottom of your stock pot.
Place a heat-proof bowl on top of the brick or rack. This will then be the “receiver” of the condensed hyssop vapor.
Surround the bowl inside with the chopped hyssop. It should be halfway up the side of the bowl.
Pour enough hot distilled water over the chopped hyssop until it is immersed in water, but do not spill water into the bowl.
Turn the burner to high until the water boils, then lower to a simmer.
Invert the lid of the stockpot and use it to cover the pot. The upside down handle will act as a “drip mechanism” from which the condensed vapor can drip into the bowl.
Place several ice cubes on the outside of the inverted lid, along the center depression. As older ones melt, continue adding fresh cubes.
After three to four hours, turn off the heat and remove the interior bowl, which is filled with the condensed drops from the vaporized hyssop water. The product is the hyssop hydrosol, or herbal water.
Extract the essential oil by pouring the hydrosol into a jar and placing it in the freezer. The liquid portion of the herbal water will freeze, while the volatile oil will stay as it is.
Pour the essential oil into a small bottle or vial. Seal it and store in a dark, cool place.
Magical/Energetic Uses: An excellent plant for purification and protection, hyssop is invaluable in its ability to dispel negativity. Hang a bouquet at the front door of your home to deflect any unwanted energy from entering. It can also be dried and displayed anywhere you wish to create extra protection, such as in a car or bedroom.
On a waning or dark moon, burn it in ritual to assist in cutting energetic cords, banishing attachments or releasing patterns that no longer serve you. It is useful to combine hyssop with other cleansing herbs such as sage and cedar to smudge and clear unwanted energies throughout your home.
Planted in your garden, hyssop can help create protection and a positive energetic flow throughout your yard. This in turn, can elevate the vibrational frequency around your home and garden area and act as a beacon attracting nature fairies and elementals to your space.
Botanical
Name: Anthemis nobilis / Chamaemelum nobile
Common
Method of Extraction: Steam Distilled
Plant
Part Typically Used: Flowers/Buds
Color: Gray/Very
Pale Blue
BLENDS
WELL WITH: Bergamot, clary sage, eucalyptus, geranium, grapefruit,
jasmine, lavender, lemon, neroli, oakmoss, palmarosa, rose, tea tree
Chamaemelum nobile commonly known as Anthémis, Anthémis
Odorante, Anthemis nobilis, Babuna Ke Phool, Camomille d’Anjou, Camomille Noble,
Camomille Romaine, Chamaemelum nobile, Chamomilla, Chamomile, Chamomillae
Ramane Flos, English Chamomile, Fleur de Camomille Romaine, Flores Anthemidis,
Garden Chamomile, Grosse Kamille, Ground Apple, Huile Essentielle de Camomille
Romaine, Low Chamomile, Manzanilla, Manzanilla Romana, Ormenis nobilis, Roman
Chamomile Essential Oil, Romische Kamille, Sweet Chamomile, Whig Plant.
Composition
of Roman Chamomile Oil: main components include a-pinene,
b-pinene, camphene, sabinene, 1,8-cineole, myrcene, caryophyllene, y-terpinene,
propyl angelate and butyl angelate.
Roman chamomile comes from northwestern Europe and
Northern Ireland where it creeps close to the ground and can reach up to one
foot in height. Gray-green leaves grow from the stems, and the flowers have
yellow centers surrounded by white petals, like miniature daisies. Its leaves
are thicker than German chamomile, and it grows closer to the ground. The
flowers smell like apples.
The plant is used to flavor foods, in herbal teas,
perfumes, and cosmetics. It is used to make a rinse for blonde hair, and is
popular in aromatherapy; its practitioners believe it to be a calming agent to
reduce stress and aid in sleep. It can also be used to create a fragrant
camomile lawn. A chamomile lawn needs light soil, adequate moisture, and sun in
order to thrive. Each square meter contains 83-100 plants. The lawn is only
suitable to light foot traffic or in places where mower access is difficult.
Its properties make it appropriate for the treatment of
cracked nipples that develop during breastfeeding. It can be applied directly
to the skin for pain and swelling. It is not recommended for use during
pregnancy as it can cause uterine contractions and miscarriage.
How to Use Roman Chamomile
The appropriate dose of Roman chamomile depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Roman chamomile. It is not known if Roman chamomile interacts with any medications. There are no known interactions with other herbs and supplements. There are no known interactions with foods.
Tea:
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 to 3 heaping tsp. (2 to 4 g) of dried herb,
steep 10 to 15 minutes. Drink 3 to 4 times per day between meals.
Bath: Use
1/4 lb. of dried flowers per bath, or add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil to a
full tub of water to soothe hemorrhoids, cuts, eczema, perineal pain, or insect
bites.
Cream/Ointment:
Apply cream or ointment containing 3 to 10% chamomile content.
History
and Facts
Chamomile is one of the oldest, most widely used and
well-documented medicinal plants in the world and has been recommended for a
variety of healing applications. Chamomile plants are a member of the
Asteraceae/Compositae family. There are two common types of chamomile used
medicinally today: German chamomile (chamomilla recutita) and Roman chamomile
(chamaemelum nobile).
Roman chamomile essential oil is steam-distilled from the
plant’s flowers and has a sweet, fresh, apple-like and fruity aroma. After
distillation, the oil ranges in color from brilliant blue to deep green when fresh
but turns to dark yellow after storage. Despite the color fading, the oil does
not lose its potency. Approximately 120 secondary metabolites have been
identified in chamomile, including 28 terpenoids and 36 flavonoids. Roman
chamomile essential oil is mainly constituted from esters of angelic acid and
tiglic acid, plus farnesene and a-pinene, which have anti-inflammatory and
antibiotic properties.
Considered to be one of the most ancient and versatile
essential oils, Roman chamomile essential oil has been used to treat a variety
of conditions because of its anti-spasmodic effects due to its high esters
content. Today, it’s commonly used in the natural treatment of nervous system
problems, eczema, fever, heartburn, gout, anxiety and insomnia.
Proven Benefits of Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Fights
Anxiety and Depression: Roman chamomile essential oil has been
used as a mild sedative to calm nerves and reduce anxiety by promoting
relaxation. Inhaling Roman chamomile is one of the best ways to utilize
essential oils for anxiety. The fragrance is carried directly to the brain and
serves as an emotional trigger. Research shows that Roman chamomile has been
used for relief of depressive and anxiety symptoms all over the world,
including a number of regions in southern Italy, Sardinia, Morocco and Brazil.
Serves as a Natural Allergy Reliever: Roman chamomile possesses antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and it’s commonly used for hay fever. It has the power to relieve mucus congestion, irritations, swelling and skin conditions that are associated with seasonal allergy symptoms. When applied topically, Roman chamomile oil helps relieve skin irritations that may be due to food allergies or sensitivities.
Helps
Alleviate PMS Symptoms: Roman chamomile essential oil serves as
a natural mood booster that helps reduce feelings of depression — plus its antispasmodic
properties allow it to soothe menstrual cramps and body aches that are commonly
associated with PMS, such as headaches and back pain. Its relaxant properties
make it a valuable remedy for PMS symptoms, and it can even help clear up acne
that may appear as a result of hormone fluctuations.
Reduces
Symptoms of Insomnia: The relaxing properties of Roman
chamomile promote healthy sleep and fight insomnia. A 2006 case study explored
the inhalation effects of Roman chamomile essential oil on mood and sleep. The
results found the volunteers experienced more drowsiness and calmness,
demonstrating its potential to improve sleep and help enter a restful state.
Inhalation of chamomile reduces a stress-induced increase in plasma
adrenocorticotropic hormone levels.
Boosts Skin Health: Roman chamomile promotes smooth, healthy skin and relieves irritations because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It has been used as a natural remedy for eczema, wounds, ulcers, gout, skin irritations, bruises, burns, canker cores, and even skin conditions like cracked nipples, chicken pox, ear and eye infections, poison ivy, and diaper rash.
Supports
Digestive Health: Chamomile is used traditionally for numerous
gastrointestinal conditions, including digestive disorders. Roman chamomile
essential oil contains anodyne compounds that are antispasmodic and can be used
to treat or relieve digestive issues, such as gas, leaky gut, acid reflux,
indigestion, diarrhea and vomiting. It’s especially helpful in dispelling gas,
soothing the stomach and relaxing the muscles so food can move through the
intestines with ease. Because of its relaxing properties, Roman chamomile can
also be used internally and topically to get rid of nausea.
Promotes
Heart Health: Roman chamomile provides cardiovascular
protection because of its high levels of flavonoids, which have been shown to
significantly reduce mortality from coronary heart disease when taken
internally. Because of the flavonoids present in Roman chamomile essential oil,
it may lower blood pressure and have a relaxing effect on the heart.
May
Relieve Arthritic Pain: A study in human volunteers demonstrated
that chamomile flavonoids and essential oils penetrate below the surface into
deeper skin layers. This is important for their use as topical
anti-inflammatory agents that can effectively treat arthritic pain. When
applied topically or added to a warm water bath, Roman chamomile oil helps
reduce pain in the lower back, knees, wrists, fingers and other problematic
areas.
Gentle
Enough for Children: For centuries, mothers have used chamomile to
calm crying children, reduce fevers, eliminate earaches and soothe upset
stomachs. It’s often called the “kid calmer” because of its ability to help
children with ADD/ADHD, and it’s one of the gentlest essential oils on the
planet, making it great for infants and children.
Displays Anticancer Activity: Studies evaluating chamomile on pre-clinical models of skin, prostate, breast and ovarian cancer have shown promising growth inhibitory effects. In a 2007 study conducted at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, chamomile extracts were shown to cause minimal growth inhibitory effects on normal cells but significant reductions in cell viability in various human cancer cell lines. Chamomile exposure induced apoptosis in cancer cells but not in normal cells at similar doses. The study represents the first reported demonstration of the anticancer effects of chamomile.
In addition to these Roman chamomile essential oil benefits, preliminary research suggests that chamomile may also help treat hemorrhoids, have a protective effect on pancreatic beta cells in diminishing hyperglycemia-related oxidative stress, relieve symptoms of vaginitis (vaginal inflammation), treat the common cold, and relieve sore throat and hoarseness.
How to Use Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Roman chamomile essential oil is available in health stores and online. It can be diffused, applied to the skin topically and taken internally. Here are some easy ways to use Roman chamomile oil:
To fight anxiety and depression, diffuse 5
drops, or inhale it directly from the bottle.
To improve digestion and leaky gut, apply 2–4
drops topically to the abdomen. When diluted with a carrier oil like coconut
oil, it can even be used in low doses for children with colic and diarrhea.
For a restful sleep, diffuse chamomile oil
next to bed, rub 1–2 drops onto the temples or inhale it directly from the
bottle.
To help calm children, diffuse Roman
chamomile oil at home or dilute 1–2 drops with coconut oil and apply the
mixture topically to the area in need (such as the temples, stomach, wrists,
back of neck or bottoms of the feet).
To use as a home remedy for acne, treat
various skin conditions and combat the signs of aging, add 2–3 drops to a clean
cotton ball and apply chamomile oil to the area of concern, or add 5 drops to a
face wash. If you have very sensitive skin, dilute chamomile with a carrier oil
before applying it topically. (15)
To promote heart health, apply 2–4 drops
topically over the heart or take internally by placing it under the tongue.
To ease nausea, inhale Roman chamomile
directly from the bottle, or combine it with ginger, peppermint and lavender
oil and diffuse. It can also be used topically on temples to help with nausea.
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil Precautions
Because Roman chamomile oil is an emmenagogue, which means that it stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area, it should not be used during pregnancy.
Possible
Interactions: If you currently take any of the following
drugs, you should not use chamomile without first talking to your health care
provider.
Blood
thinning medications (anticoagulants and antiplatelets):
Chamomile may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinners such
as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and aspirin.
Sedatives:
Chamomile can make these drugs stronger, including:
Anti-seizure
drugs, such as phenytoin (Dilantin) and valproic acid
(Depakote)
Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines,
such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium)
Drugs
to treat insomnia, such as zolpidem (Ambien), zaleplon
(Sonata), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and ramelteon (Rozerem)
Tricyclic
antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (Elavil)
Alcohol
The same is true of sedative herbs, such as valerian, kava, and catnip.
Blood
pressure medications: Chamomile may lower blood pressure slightly.
Taking it with drugs for high blood pressure could cause blood pressure to drop
too low.
Diabetes
medications: Chamomile may lower blood sugar. Taking it
with diabetes drugs could raise the risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.
Other
drugs: Because chamomile is broken down by the liver, it may
interact with other drugs that are broken down the same way. o weeks at a time
and use only the highest quality essential oil.
Buttermilk
is a milk product or dairy ingredient which widely used in the food industry
since it contains emulsifying properties and it can enhance the flavor of the
food. Commercial buttermilk which we found in market is categorized as sweet
buttermilk. The sweet buttermilk is a by-product from the churning process of
sweet cream into butter. Buttermilk has sour characteristic taste due to the
lactic acid which formed during the process of culturing by bacteria.
Buttermilk itself is prepared by churning the curd of milk and it is considered a good after-dinner-drink especially after the consumption of heavy foods like vegetables, meats, and grains. Here is the list of nutrients in 100 g buttermilk (percent daily value are based on 2000 calories diet)
Energy 40kcal
Carbohydrates 4.8 gr
Fat 0.9 gr
Protein 3.3 gr
Calcium 116 mg/12% DV (Daily Value)
Potassium 54 mg
Cholesterol 10 mg
Magnesium 8 % DV
Folate 4 % DV
Zinc 8 % DV
Riboflavin 20% DV
Vitamin B6 4 % DV
Vitamin B12 10% DV
Vitamin A 1 % DV
Vitamin C 4 % DV
Iron 1 % DV
Health benefits of Buttermilk
Buttermilk
provides many nutrients to the body that provide multiple health benefits. It
can stimulate digestion function and it also can be used to treat of many
disorders including abdominal disorders.
Promote healthy digestion: Buttermilk contains probiotic which can promote healthy digestion. Buttermilk contains prebiotic which known as a substance that can enhance the growth of good bacteria inside the colon. These bacteria will keep the intestine and the digestion tract healthy and prevent it from any infection that caused by pathogen microorganism such as Helicobacter pylori. These bacteria are the common cause of stomach or gut ulcer.
Boost immune system: Not only enhance the function of digestion system, the prebiotic content of buttermilk also can promote the body immune system against infection of pathogens. Buttermilk also contains zinc, a mineral that can improve the immune system response and strengthen the immune cells together with Vitamin C.
Maintain strong bones: Calcium is a mineral that effective in maintain the bone mass and keep it strong. Buttermilk contains high level of calcium which can help keep the bone from losing its mass and maintain the bone structure.
Make a glowing skin: Buttermilk will enrich your skin with dozens of nutrients and it will make your skin glow. Buttermilk not only used in food commercial product but it also used in the cosmetic and skin care products. It contains protein, vitamin C and antioxidant that can nourish the skin and make it clearer.
Promotes healthy pregnancy: During pregnancy, mom needs more nutrients to enhance her health and promote the development of her baby. Buttermilk contains protein and other nutrient and prebiotic which can keep mother from suffering any illness or disease. It also contains folate that improve the brain and organs development of the fetus inside the womb. Taking buttermilk once a day is beneficial to both mother and baby.
Treat upset stomach: If you are feeling sick after enjoying spicy food or even bad or spoiled food, try buttermilk. Buttermilk contain protein and amino acids which can bind chemical or harmful substances within the food and protect the stomach lining from infection.
Keeping healthy heart: Heart is one of the most vital organ of human body and it also needs to be nourished. Buttermilk contains some potassium which plays important role in maintaining normal heart beat and helps the body control blood pressure.
Lowering cholesterol: Even though buttermilk has creamy texture and taste it doesn’t contain high amounts of cholesterol. According to study, buttermilk contains milk protein globule that can bind the cholesterol and prevent it from entering the blood vessel and causing atherosclerosis. If you consume a heavy food that contains high amount of cholesterol, consuming buttermilk after eating will significantly help you to stabilize the cholesterol inside the body.
Rehydrate the body: The nutrients in buttermilk assist the body in rehydration. One half cup with sunstroke or dehydration will have you back to feeling good in no time.
Maintain normal metabolism: Metabolism is a body process to produce energy and it required the presence of some metabolic enzymes. Buttermilk contains some nutrients including Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, and other B Vitamins that are the component of metabolic enzymes produced by the body. Without the existence of these substances, the body can’t produce the energy needed for maintaining all body cells.
Treat insomnia: Buttermilk contains magnesium that can help the body to relieve some types of sleep deprivation or sleep disorders like insomnia. Magnesium is a mineral that play important role in controlling nervous system and it help to soothe and relax the nerves within the brain. Consume buttermilk one hour before going to sleep.
Improve healthy vision: Not only does it contain protein, fat and other nutrients, buttermilk is also complete with Vitamin A which is mostly required to keep healthy function of retina or eyes. Consuming buttermilk regularly will also help to prevent any eyes disorders like age related macular degeneration.
Treat sunburn: Buttermilk contains smoothing and calming properties that help to treat sunburns. Apply directly to sunburn or pour in bath the soothe burned skin.
Treat diarrhea: It is mentioned in a study that the milk fat content in buttermilk is effective in adding bulk to stool and loosen it so it will be easy to pass the colon. Buttermilk has been used as an Ayurvedic medication for thousands of years to treat diarrhea and other digestive problems.
Prevent anemia: Buttermilk contains iron that plays important role in the red blood cells formation and function. Without the presence of iron, the body can’t form a healthy red blood cell and it will cause poor oxygen and nutrient transport within the body which leads to anemia.
Prevent cancer: Buttermilk contains anti-inflammatory properties and provides antioxidant affects that can help prevent the development of cancer cells.
Moisturize dry hair: Buttermilk can be used in hair treatment as hair mask and it will result in a smooth and shiny hair. Just apply some buttermilk on your hair and leave it for 15 minutes. Rinse it out with warm water. The protein and other nutrients within the buttermilk will nourish your dry hair and make it supple and smooth.
Homemade buttermilk is
very easy to make and tastes excellent in pancakes and other flour-based foods.
To make buttermilk at home, use the following steps.
Mix
1 cup of milk with 1 cup of lemon juice. Use a milk product with a higher fat
content, such as 2 percent milk, whole milk or cream.
Let
the milk and lemon juice mixture sit for up to 10 minutes. The milk should
start to thicken and curdle.
Substitute
the commercial buttermilk for the homemade buttermilk in any recipe that calls
for the ingredient.
Another
method of making buttermilk involves churning heavy cream into solids and
liquids. To use this method, blend some cream in a food processor or mixer
until it separates. Strain the solids through some cheesecloth and use the
strained buttermilk in any recipe that calls for the ingredient. Rinse out the
solids well and set them aside. The solids create an excellent homemade butter
that can keep for several weeks.
If
homemade or commercial buttermilk are not available, yogurt or sour cream can
make good substitutes in recipes that call for the ingredient.
