Burn Fat the Healthy Way

Avoid fad diet

Any diet that suggests going very low on fat is not healthy and will set you up for failure. The body was designed to store fat in times of famine. Cutting fat (and even calorie) intakes to extreme low levels will only cause your body to store all the calories it consumes as fat.

Avoid high intake of protein

Eating diets with high protein levels and high fat can lead to muscle loss and not fat loss. You could be adding to your fat percentage with the loss of lean muscle.

There is no shortcut to weight loss

It takes time to lose fat. How much time depends on how you go about it? The simple solution is to take in less calories, burn off more calories. There is absolutely no other way to do it for long term results.

Never skip meals

Skipping meals or not eating enough calories will put the body in starvation mode. Eating several times a day actually stokes the metabolism to keep burning fat for fuel

Say no to processed food

Avoid as much processed food as you can. Once your body adjusts to eating healthy it will actually require less food, it will adjust its calorie needs and less food will satisfy hunger.

Go green

Animal protein sources contain higher levels of fat than plant sources. Plants also contain fibre which is harder to digest. As it passes through your system, it takes some fat with it. Fibre gives a feeling of fullness that lowers cravings and blood cholesterol.

Add healthy oils to your diet

Healthy oils contain more omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation in the body and increase heart health. Try eating cold water fish, as well as nuts like flaxseed.

Exercise is the key

While food is a big part of the equation, exercise increases the amount of calories you burn. When the body is filled with wholesome foods, the body will use stored fat to burn for energy, thus reducing your total body fat.

Have smaller meals

Speed up the metabolism by increasing meal frequency. Instead of eating 2 – 3 meals per day, try eating 4 – 5 small meals per day, or 3 meals and 2 healthy snack meals. Food substitutions can help tremendously when trying to reduce calories and speed up the metabolism

Eat for energy!

Eat for energy! Ever felt energy levels dipping just halfway through work. The mind goes on a jaunt and work seems to be a big blur? One would look for quick fix solution in a cup of coffee or find solace in sugary treat. But wait! There could be a greater link between your food and energy levels. Trace back your eating pattern to get to the missing link. Skipped meals?                                                                                                           A harried schedule or a battle with the bulge - whatever the reason skipping meals could be the main cause for the energy levels to dip. Go with little or no food for long periods and the blood sugars required to provide energy to all the cells, plummets. A good fibre rich breakfast could fuel your muscles and brain throughout the day. Besides this, opt for small but frequent meals. A vital drink – water:                                                                                             Many would give this essential nutrient a skip. It’s something the body relies on to throw out the toxins, absorb nutrients and to keep it fresh and hydrated. While plain water would be the best choice, juices could also be counted as fluid intake. Coffee, tea, alcohol and aerated drinks are more harmful than helpful since they can dehydrate the body. Iron out the diet:                                                                                                          A deficiency of iron in the diet causes anemia. Iron is a nutrient used by the blood cells to carry oxygen to all the cells. When the cells are deprived of it the result is chronic fatigue like conditions. There are plenty of options to get the nutrient: soya beans, dried dates, pulses, green leafy vegetables, garden cress seeds besides meats. Make sure there is a wedge of lemon on the plate since Vitamin C in it helps to improve the absorption of iron. Vitamin B in your plate:                                                                                            Vitamin B is involved in the process of metabolism and helps to derive energy from the food that is eaten. A deficiency of Vitamin B12 and Folate results in a type of anemia that can affect work output too. Getting these nutrients should be fairly easy since they are found in whole cereal grains, pulses, nuts and seeds, milk, eggs, fish and green leafy vegetables. Smart snacks:                                                                                                              A balanced diet does make use of snacks in between the main meals. Nibbling on fried foods would not do much to perk up the energy levels. Some of the ‘pick-me-up’ foods would include fruits like banana, nuts, plain popcorn, cereal flakes, whole wheat bread sandwich and milkshakes. Build up the energy levels throughout the day:                                                        Sugary snacks, such as a piece of cake would be hard to resist! Occasional indulgence would not harm. However choosing foods that are sugar laden or are made with refined carbohydrates (maida) regularly would cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels giving an initial burst of energy. But soon it goes into a nosedive and you are back with the jaded feeling.  Choose fibre rich foods that release glucose slowly to keep the energy levels at top all the time.  What’s the good choice? Fruits like apples, watermelon, cereals like broken wheat or dalia, ragi, steamed preparations like dhoklas, idlis, rice cakes etc. From http://www.sanjeevkapoor.com

Diabetes: The 10 warning signs

Frequent urination

Frequent urination is one of the very early signs of diabetes. It occurs due to too much glucose in the blood. If insulin is nonexistent or ineffective, the kidneys are unable to filter glucose back to the blood. They then try to draw extra water out of the blood to dilute the glucose. This keeps the bladder full.

Extreme thirst

If you feel abnormally thirsty, especially if it seems to go hand in hand with frequent urination, get your blood sugar levels checked. If your body is pulling extra water out of your blood and you're running to the bathroom more, you will become dehydrated and feel the need to drink more to replace the water that you are losing

Constant hunger

Those with high blood sugar levels often feel hungry because of loss of energy and extreme tiredness.

Blurred vision

High blood sugar changes the shape and flexibility of the lens of the eye distorting the ability to focus and causes blurred vision.

Sudden weight loss

In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas stop making insulin, possibly due to a viral attack on pancreas cells or because an autoimmune response makes the body attack the insulin producing cells. The body looks for an energy source because the cells stop getting glucose. It starts to break down muscle tissue and fat for energy. This results in weight loss.

Nausea & vomiting

If you often feel nauseate and vomit frequently without a known cause, get your blood sugar levels tested.

Extreme tiredness

Due to lack of insulin, the body cells become energy starved and you feel tired.

Slow-healing wounds

If you notice that your wounds are not heeling in normal span of time, get your sugar levels tested as poor circulation can limit the amount of oxygen and healing nutrients that reach a wound.

Itching and skin infections

Diabetes can affect every part of the body, including the skin. Skin problems are sometimes the first sign that a person has diabetes. These skin troubles may include bacterial infections, fungal infections, and itching.

Mood swings

If your observe that you have been experiencing extreme mood swings without any reason, it's advisable that you get your blood sugar levels checked.

10 Tips on Dealing with Depression

Clinical depression is a medical condition where a person feels very low or sad over a long period of time. During bouts of depression, a person feels extremely dejected and has feelings of inadequacy or low self esteem.

Eat healthy

Depression can be treated by eating regular and healthy meals. Some foods, chocolates and sweets in particular, makes one feel good and happy. If feeling depressed, have food at your favourite restaurant and this will make you feel good about life.

Relax and meditate Deep breathing techniques and meditation can help relax your mind and body. Exercise regularly Studies have shown that exercise can fight mild to moderate depression because it increases your energy and provides a distraction from your worries. It also helps you sleep better, which can often be a problem when you're depressed. Get a good sleep Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Go to bed at the same time and wake up at the same time. Do some exercises in the evening. This makes you tired and you will get sleep easily. Share your thoughts Environmental factors like the death of a parent can cause a depressive episode. Sharing your thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment can be the first step towards resolving stress, anxiety and feeling of sadness. Stay positive Some people have personality traits that make them more susceptible to depression. These people view themselves as losers and have a negative attitude towards themselves. Stay positive and try to avoid negative thoughts. Keep doing your normal activities with family and friends. Do what you enjoy It is now believed that depression is caused by a combination of genetic factors and exposure to a stressful life event. Therefore, take time for yourself and do something you enjoy like photography. Consult your doctor Physical illnesses like cancer and heart disease may be followed by depression. There may also be conditions like Parkinson's disease, whose symptoms include depression. It is good to talk to your doctor if you continue to feel sad or anxious. Don't self-medicate Drug treatment is the most common method of treatment for depression. Alcohol and some medications may worsen recovery by masking the real problem. Check with your doctor before taking any new medications.

Foods for abs

Green leafy vegetables

Green vegetables are a good source of calcium, which is essential for muscle contraction. If you want flat abs, have at least three servings a day.

Yoghurt

It helps reduce abdominal fat. The probiotic bacteria present in most yoghurts help maintaining a healthy digestive system and can be consumed several times a day.

Almonds

Almonds contain protein, fibre, vitamin E and magnesium - essential to produce energy, build and maintain muscle.

Apples

Apples not only provide fibre, but also are comprised of 85% water, giving a feeling of fullness and reduce the impact of cholesterol.

Soybeans

Soyabeans are a great source of antioxidants, fibre and protein. They also help you have flat abs.

Eggs

For flat abs, have one egg a day, unless you have high blood cholesterol, in which case you should check with your doctor first.

No junk Eliminate all junk food from your diet or reduce it as much as you can. Avoid packaged foods Packaged foods such as meats, fried foods, sodas and more should be avoided as contribute to abdominal fat, which is difficult to reduce later. Restrict your carbohydrate intake Reduce your intake of foods containing lots of carbohydrates like pasta, white bread, cookies etc. They are converted into sugars and hundreds of calories. Never skip breakfast Breakfast gives our body the energy needed to start the day. It helps in healthy metabolism and thus, help burning up fat faster.

Common myths related to diabetes

Sugar causes diabetes- Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetic factors combined with environmental triggers. Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Diabetics do not need to stop eating foods that are concentrated sources of sugar, but they can eat small amounts of sugar. 

Diabetics can’t eat sweets or chocolates- Small quantities of sweets and chocolates are occasionally OK as a part of a healthy eating and physical activity plan. 

Diabetics have to eat special foods- Like everyone, people with diabetes have to eat healthy. That means a diet low in saturated fat and high in fibre and whole-grain foods.

You can catch diabetes- You can never catch diabetes. It is not contagious like cold and cough. 

People can have a “touch of diabetes”- You can’t have mild or borderline diabetes. All diabetes is serious and, if not managed properly, can lead to serious complications.

Foods that help you Loose Weight

Potatoes

You'll be surprised to know that baked or boiled potatoes eaten without fatty accompaniments are great for your diet. Have them mashed, adding pepper and a dash of lime makes for a great dish.

Salads

Make salads a mandatory part of your diet if you intend to lose weight. Tomato, beetroot, cabbage, capsicum, or cucumber salads are all low in calories. Plus, they also help fill you up.

Dark chocolate

It's good to indulge in chocolates to avoid binges. An occasional 20-gram chocolate bar helps prevent sweet-tooth cravings.

Fruits

Instead of munching biscuits or other high-calorie snacks, its better to have fruits like grapes, apples or oranges that give you the required energy and also work as great fillers in between meal

Fiber cereals

Chapatti, dhokla, idli, upma, brown bread provided bulk to your diet.

Sprouts

Eating raw sprouted pulses help gain vitamins and fiber. Moong, for instance, sprouts quickly and is beneficial for the health also.

Nuts

Nuts like almonds, packed with monounsaturated fatty acids, contain fats that lower your risk of heart disease and diabetes and also help you control your appetite.

Curds

Curds made from skimmed or toned cow's milk contain only 56 calories per 100 grams and are a good source of protein, calcium and vitamins.

Water

Water has no calories, so it's great for filling up. It also helps you digest food.

Whole grains

All types of grains are naturally low in fat, a good source of complex carbohydrates, and contain beneficial vitamins and minerals.

Marshmallow

Marshmallow (Althea officinalis) -- the herb, not the white puffy confection roasted over a campfire -- has been used for more than 2,000 years as both a food and a medicine. The Romans, Chinese, Egyptians, and Syrians used marshmallow as a source of food, while the Arabs made poultices from its leaves and applied them to the skin to reduce inflammation. Both the root and leaves contain a gummy substance called mucilage. When mixed with water, it forms a slick gel that is used to coat the throat and stomach to reduce irritation. It is also applied topically to soothe chapped skin.

Very few scientific studies have looked at the effects of marshmallow in humans. Most of its suggested uses come from a long history of use in traditional healing systems.

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Common cold/sore throat
• Cough
• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• Indigestion
• Stomach ulcers
• Skin inflammation

Herb Description

Marshmallow ( Althea officinalis )-the herb,has been used for centuries as both a food and a medicine. Its botanical name comes from the Greek word "altho," which means "to cure." The Romans, Chinese, Egyptians, and Syrians used marshmallow as a source of meal,To reduce inflammation on the skin Arabs used its leaves & applied on external areas. Marshmallows are incredibly cool not because of its good taste, but also a good source of light, just lighting them you can create a great light in a dark campsite.Due to exceptional healing properties it has been used by herbalists for many centuries to heal a range of ailments, hence its botanical name, Althea officinalis, from the Greek altho, meaning 'to heal'.

Mallows & there family grows largely in the tropical region, where they form a large proportion of the vegetation; towards the poles they gradually decrease in number. Besides the medicinal virtues of so many species, some are employed as food; the bark of others affords a substitute for hemp; the cotton of commerce is obtained from the seed vessels of yet other species, and many ornamental garden flowers are also members of this group.

Both Marshmallow root and leaf are medicinal teas. The root is used as medicine to prepared cough tea and cough syrup medicines . In the United States, marshmallow is used as a component of dietary supplement antitussive and demulcent preparations .

Uses and Benefits

Marshmallow is used to cure following problems:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Common cold/sore throat
• Cough
• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• Stomach ulcers
• Weight loss aid (marshmallow swells with fluid and gives a sense of fullness)
• Wound healin

Marshmallow is excellent for the skin. If applied externally it shows fantastic moisturizing and nourishing properties and is used to soothe and repair dry and cracked skin.

Marshmallow contains anti-inflammatory effect, Marshmallow is very good for problems with the urinary system, including .cystitis, urethritis, urinary gravel and calculus. 

Marshmallows leaf if used internally cure the irritation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa and associated dry cough.

Root of Marshmallow use in :

• Demulcent
• diuretic
• emollient
• vulnerary.

Leaf of Marshmallow use in :

• Demulcent
• expectorant
• diuretic
• emollient
• antilithic.

Flowers of Marshmallow use in :

• expectorant

Side Effects

Not recommended during pregnancy .

Don't take medicine if it shows following symptoms which may mean you are allergic to it.The right away is to talk to your doctor.

• Breathing problems.
• tightness in your throat.
• Chest pain .
• Skin hives.
• rash.
• itchy.
• swollen skin .
• tightness in your chest .

Dosage

As a dietary supplement take 1-3 ml. (approx. 28-84 drops), 3 times a day

• Leaf fluid extract: ¼ to ½ tsp (1:1 g/mL),2-3 times daily
• Leaf tincture: 1 to 2 tsp (1:5 in 25% ethanol), 2-3 times daily
• Root infusion or cold-water maceration (2% to 5%): 5 ounces (1 to 2 tsp) taken to soothe cough and sore throat
• Dried root: 2 to 6 g or equivalent preparations daily (cold infusion 3 times per day)
• Marshmallow cough syrup (from root): 2 to 10 g per single dose

Unless otherwise prescribed: 5 g per day of cut leaf.

Infusion: 1-2 g in 150 ml boiled water, two to three times daily.

Cold maceration: 1-2 g in 150 ml cold water for 60 minutes stirring occasionally; strain and warm before drinking, two to three times daily.

Fluidextract 1:1 (g/ml): 1-2 ml, two to three times daily.

Tincture 1:5 (g/ml): 5-10 ml, two to three times daily.

For Adults (18 years and older) in skin inflammatory conditions (eczema, psoriasis): Applied, 5-10 grams of marshmallow in ointment or cream base or 5% powdered marshmallow leaf to the skin three times daily. Daily oral doses of 5 grams of marshmallow leaf, or 6 grams of marshmallow root have been suggested by mouth. Oral and pharyngeal irritation: A dose of 2 grams of marshmallow in 1 cup of cold water, soaked for 2 hours then gargled has been used.

Children (younger than 18 years) There is not enough record scientific data to prescribe marshmallow for use in children.

Drug Interactions

Don't take marshmallow along with other herbs or medications because it may interfere with the absorption of certain medications .So it is important to take marshmallow several hours before or after ingesting .

Marshmallow is generally safe with only rare allergic reactions reported.

Oral marshmallow preparations may interfere with the absorption of drugs or other herbals in the body. Because it coats the gastrointestinal tract.

Fenugreek - Uses and Benefits

Alternative Names:

Fenugreek,Greek hay, Foenugreek, 

Herb Description

Fenugreek is an annual herbaceous plant deep-rooted to Asia & southern Europe . It is one of the oldest cultivated herb, fenugreek is widely found presently in the Mediterranean countries, Argentina, France, India, North Africa, & the United States as a medicinal, food, condiment, dye, & eat age plant. Fenugreek is normally famous as safe for human consumption as a spice and as a plant extract . It is also known as Methi or Classical Fenugreek , is a crop plant produced as a potherb . It is an erect herb, mature to be about 2 feet tall. It White flowers blooms in the summer and develop into long slender green pods. Mature brown pods have 20 tiny yellow aromatic seeds.The fenugreek seeds contain high amount of the polysaccharide galactomannan . The diamond like seeds are irregularly rounded, about 3 -5 mm long and 2-3 mm thick and wide.

It is a food that has been used safely for thousands of years as a common ingredient of curry.The fenugreek seed is usually taken in the preparation of curry powders , pickles, & pastes, and is generally used in the cuisine of the Thailand & Indian subcontinent. Egyptians use fenugreek roasted seeds and use them as coffee. The fresh leaves and sprouts of fenugreek are consumed as greens & the fresh or dried leaves are used to flavor other dishes. The dried leaves have a bitter taste and peculiar, not unlike lovage or celery and a strong characteristic odor which means they need to be taken sparingly. Fenugreek is normally used in the food industry as an artificial maple flavoring.

Uses and Benefits

Externally fenugreek is used for boils, eczema ,skin inflammations, ulcers, and cellulite . Internally fenugreek is used to treat numerous problems such as gastric inflammation,diabetes in adults , poor digestion, digestive disorders & tuberculosis. It is also beneficial for painful menstruation, labor pains and insufficient lactation. It is also efficacious treatment for painful testicles and premature ejaculation . It is generally taken for weight loss, anorexia & for appetite loss. Young fenugreek leaves are cooked as a vegetable curry and are also dried and used to flavor vegetable dishes. The roasted seeds are use in curry powder, pickles, stews and fried foods. The seed sprouts are also used as a salad.

In Ayurvedic medicine it is commonly used for digestive,rejuvenation ,bronchial complaints, gout ,arthritis and as an aphrodisiac. In Chinese medicine it is widely used for the treatment of kidney related pain such as premature ejaculation,back ache, as well as loss of libido, painful testicles, hernia, painful menstruation & edema of the legs

Now a days ,The fenugreek seeds are used to large extent in the manufactures of condition powders for cattle & horses . It has a powerful smell of coumarin and is widely used for flavoring cattle foods and to make damaged hay palatable.

Its seed has been taken to enhance milk production since biblical periods. The plant retains phytoestrogens, which are herbaceous chemicals similar to the female sex hormone estrogen. Diosgenin, a main compound, has been shown experimentally to enhance milk flow .

Side Effects

The herb fenugreek has produced aggravated asthma disorders in some women and has lowered blood glucose levels in some women with diabetes. Person using oral drugs for diabetes or taking insulin should be closely monitored by a doctor while using fenugreek.

Few side effects have been reported from exposure to fenugreek, such as numbness,facial swelling, breathing difficulty and fainting are likely a cause of an allergic reaction. Some side effects may occur such as dizziness, diarrhea and gas when fenugreek is used at recommended doses.

Fenugreek may cause loose stools in some women, can produce uterine contractions ,hypoglycemia in some mothers ,sweat and urine smells like maple syrup , since it can produce lowering of blood glucose levels so it is recommended to diabetic mothers should not use fenugreek without consulting any health care professional.

Dosage

Usual daily dosage:

• 1 - 2 gm. Take three times a day.(For general health )
• 50 gm. Take twice a day.(For type 1 diabetes )
• 2.5 gm of seed powder . Take three times a day.( For type 2 diabetes)

Tea:

• Drench 0.5 gm of crushed seed in 1 cup of cold water for 3 hours. Strain 5 min before drinking. Drink 3 times a day
   

Drug Interactions

Fenugreek should be taken at least 2 hours before or after any prescription drug because it may interfere with the absorption of other drugs that are taken orally.

Fenugreek may heighten the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants (blood thinners) or antiplatelet drugs such as warfarin , heparin and clopidogrel .

Growing Fenugreek


Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum) is an annual indigenous to the Mediterranean and grown widely in Europe and Asia. It has a long medicinal history, and is recommended for cleansing the chest and lungs in Culpepper's Herbal of 1649.

Planting Fenugreek

Fenugreek grows to about two feet (60cm), with yellow/white flowers and long yellow seedpods. It likes full sun and well-drained, neutral to slightly acid soil. It doesn't like to be transplanted. In spring, after the threat of frost has passed, sow seeds to a depth of a little less than a quarter inch. The seeds sprout quickly. Unlike many other herbs that thrive on neglect, fenugreek likes fertile soil, so be generous with the compost. Space plants five to six inches apart.

In New York City recently, the aroma of fenugreek created a cloud of mysterious maple fragrance which was traced to a nearby manufacturing plant. Your garden can smell like maple too.

Harvesting Fenugreek Seed Pods

Harvest and dry seedpods in early to mid fall, and store them in an airtight container in a dry, dark spot.

Using Fenugreek as an Herbal Remedy

Fenugreek can be taken internally or used topically. It is most often used to treat coughs and sore throat, although current research suggests that it may be effective in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, can help lower blood cholesterol, and increase circulation. It is also often recommended as an herbal treatment for tinnitus. For more information on possible uses for fenugreek, visit: Fenugreek as an Herbal Remedy

Other Uses for Fenugreek

It is a common ingredient in curries and imitation maple syrup. It can also be used as a dye.

Fenugreek Aphrodisiac

Fenugreek usually makes the short list of sexual stimulant herbs, and has been used with some success in treating male impotence. It's thought that Fenugreek's ability to help improve circulation is the cause.

In women, fenugreek may also help in treating vaginal dryness.

Garlic - Uses and Benefits

Alternative Names:

Allium vineale bulbils , Bear's Garlic,   Black Garlic,  Few-flower Garlic,  Broadleaf Garlic ,Allium canadense bulbils, Allium vineale bulbils , Daffodil Garlic, Allium oleraceum .

Herb Description

Garlic ( Allium sativum ) is a perennial herb deep-rooted to Central Asia, and has long been a basic in the Mediterranean area, as well as a frequent seasoning in Asia, Africa, and Europe. It belongs to family Alliaceae and genus Allium , closely related to the shallot ,onion and leek .It is best known as a cooking constituent used for its wonderful taste.The word garlic drives from Old English garleac, meaning "spear leek.".It doesn't grow in the wild,It matures best on well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Sandy loam or loam soils have the most perfect texture for garlic. Egyptians idolized garlic and placed clay models of garlic bulbs in the tomb of king Tutankhamen.

The part of the plant most often used is an underground storage shape called a head . A head of garlic is made up of a dozen or more discretecloves , each of which is a botanical bulb .It leaves are long, narrow and flat shape grass. Each garlic clove may normally be made up of just one leaf base, unlike onions , which almost always have number of layers. The above ground parts of the garlic plant are also sometimes consumed, particularly while tender & immature .It has been used throughout all of recorded history for both medicinal & culinary uses.

Uses and Benefits

Garlic is widely used as a seasoning or a condiment. When crushed or finely mashed it produces allicin , a powerful antibiotic and anti-fungal compound . It also have alliin , ajoene , enzymes , vitamin B , minerals , and flavonoids .Garlic use as a remedy for hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure ,high cholesterol . Garlic barrier works a wonderful action of keeping birds from eating fruit crops like cherries, pears, apples, figs and berries.

It has been considered of good effect in epilepsy,If an infusion of the bruised bulbs, given before and after every meal. Bruised and mixed with lard, if rubbed on the chest and between the shoulder-blades. It has been proved to ebb whooping-cough. Studies shows a treatment of Garlica consumption is efficacious on tubercular.The freshly expressed juice, diluted with same amount of water, or dilute spirit of wine, being inhaled antiseptically.

Externally it is used as an ointments and lotions, and as an antiseptic, to disperse hard swellings .To treat scrofulous sores it employed as a poultice. It is said to prevent anthrax in cattle, being widely used for the purpose. Garlic is most often used in many types of cooking for its strong flavor, which is believed to increase many other flavors. Depending on the type of cooking and the desired result, the flavor is either mellow or intense.

Garlic cloves commonly used by aficionados as a treatment for infections , digestive symptoms, and fungal infections such as thrush . Garlic is also regulate sugar levels in the blood, and so can be woekful in late-onset diabetes.

Side Effects

Raw garlic is very strong, so eating excess could cause problems, for example irritation of or even damage to the digestive tract. While culinary amounts are generally safe, during pregnancy and lactation garlic can produce digestive disorders such as heartburn , and babies may not like the taste in breast milk.

Side effects caused from garlic include stomach upset , foul breath ,bloating, body odor, and a stinging sensation on the skin from handling too much fresh or dried garlic. Cases of botulism have been produced by using garlic-in-oil preparations.

There are a few individuals who are allergic to garlic . Symptoms of garlic allergy include skin rash, temperature and headaches.

Some studies shown that garlic supplements can cause a potentially harmful side effect when taken with a kind of medication used to cure HIV/AIDS in the same time.

Garlic has blood thinning actions so people with bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia or platelet problems, should not take medicinal doses of garlic or garlic supplements .

Dosage

• Garlic clove:

2 - 4 gm , minced garlic clove per day .

• Capsules:

300 - 450 mg . Use two times a day.

• Infusion:

4 gm in 150 ml of water per day .

• Fluid extract:

1:1 (g/mL) solution: 4 ml per day.

• Tincture :

1:5 (g/mL) solution: 20 ml per day.

• Oil:

Mash the cloves using a garlic press & stir into same amounts of fatty oil and let stand for 48 hours. When finished, filter the oil preparation.

Drug Interactions

Garlic may lower cholesterol .Using garlic with cholesterol lowering drugs may further decrease levels of cholesterol.

There have been reports of a possible interaction between warfarin & garlic that could heighten the risk of bleeding in individuals using this blood thinning medication.

Garlic may alter blood sugar levels. Individuals using oral drugs for diabetes or using insulin should be monitored closely by a health care professional while using garlic.

Tips on Growing Chamomile and its Benefits

An erect annual (Matricaria recutita),with small, daisylike flowers, is used to make chamomile tea and posessing a number of medicinal qualities.

German Chamomile seeds are one of the few seeds that need light to germinate, so starting them by seed is a delicate process. It is best planted outdoors in August by broadcasting the seed and mixing very lightly with the soil. Alternatively, they can be started indoors in propagation flats in March and transplanted outdoors after a hardening off period. In most cases, direct planting in the garden after all chance of frost has passed are successful, as well. Once they are firmly established, German Chamomile is extremely hardy.

Chamomile tea can be sprayed on propagation flats to prevent damping off. It is also believed to increase the absorption of calcium when added to a compost pile.


Growing German Chamomile

Growing CulturesOutdoors, containers, landscaping, mass plantings. German chamomile not recommended for containers.
Plant HeightChamomile grows to a height of 20 to 30 inches (50 - 70cm).
Plant SpacingChamomile plants should be spaced 6 inches (15 cm) apart.
Preferred pH Range
Chamomile will grow in a relatively wide pH range between 5.6 (acidic) and 7.5 (neutral).
Propagation
From seed. Direct sow in spring or fall. Fall sown seeds germinate following spring. Seeds need light to germinate.
Seed Germination Period7 to 14 days.
Seeds Per Gram (Approximate)10,000 to 18.000.
Soil Requirements
Well drained, poor to average soil.
Alternative Growing Media
Soilless potting mixes, perlite, vermiculite, rockwool, coco peat, Oasis foam.
Time From Seed to Saleable PlantSeeds to finished plugs, 6 weeks; plugs to saleable plants, 6 to 6 weeks.
Sun & Lighting RequirementsChamomile grown outdoors prefers full sun but will tolerate some shade.
Chives will grow indoors satisfactorily under standard fluorescent lamps, and exceptionally well under high output fluorescent , compact fluorescent, or high intensity discharge (metal halide or high pressure sodium) plant growing lights. Keep standard fluorescent lamps between 2 and 4 inches from the tops of the plants, high output and compact fluorescents approximately one foot above the plants, and HID lights between 2 and 4 feet above the plants, depending on wattage. Have an oscillating fan gently stir seedlings for at least 2 hours per day to stimulate shorter, sturdier, and more natural plant habit.
USDA HardinessAnnual.
Water RequirementsWater on a regular schedule, taking care to not overwater.
Potential Pests & DiseasesAphids, mealybug. Minimal disease issues.
Special NotesChamomile may be considered a noxious weed or invasive plant in some areas. Chamomile is known to attract bees, butterflies or birds and has fragrant blossoms. Chamomile self-sows freely; remove flowers (deadhead) if you do not want volunteer seedlings the following season.

Chamomile - Uses and Benefits

Alternative Names:

Feldkamille,Camomile, Chamomile,Fleurs de petite camomille, Wild Chamomile, Sweet Chamomile, German Chamomile, Hungarian Chamomile, Mayweed, Scented Mayweed, Pineapple Weed , Fleur de camomile, Flores Anthemidis.

Herb Description

Chamomile ( Anthemis nobilis ) is an annual herb originally from Europe which has escaped to the wild and is now grow on almost every part of world.The chamomile word is derived from the Greek chamos "ground" and melos "apple", referring to the low growing plant and the fact that the fresh flowers are somewhat apple like aroma.It can now be found maturation along fence rows, roadsides & fully sun light open areas from Southern Canada to Northern U.S. west to Minnesota.

It is a low height plant, crawling or trailing, its tufts of leaves and flowers are one foot high.The root of this small herb are jointed and fibrous, the stems, hairy & freely branching, are covered with leaves which are dichotomy into thread-like segments, the fineness of which gives the whole plant a feathery appearance.It flowers in July to September and are borne solitary on long, erect stalks, drooping when in bud.The leafage is feathery with an apple aroma , and it is accented by white, daisy-like flowers with down-turned petals.

Chamomile is considered one of the oldest garden herbs with medicinal property & used by the ancient Egyptians as a universal remedy for the treatment to promote calm and relieve anxiety at bedtime. Chamomile is naturally caffeine-free & used as a herbal tea in many parts of the world.It flowers are eatable and quite tasty in salads or used into a refreshing cold or warm beverage. It is useful in the treatment of asthma and hay fever as it contains anti-allergenic property.

Properties

• Analgesic.
• Antibacterial.
• Antiseptic.
• Digestive Stimulant.
• Anti-inflammatory.
• Sspasmolytic.
• Vulnerary.
• Antimicrobial.
• Mild sedative.
• Carminative.
• Anticatarrhal.

Uses and Benefits

Chamomilla  are widely used to alleviate morning sickness, mastitis, menopausal symptoms, dysmenorrhoea, amenorrhoea with a psychological component & hysteria .Internally it is used to treat to treat inflammation & spasms of the digestive tract. As a mouth rinse, it's taken for sore gums and oral inflammation.  

As a remedy chamomile is used for various disorders such as Bronchitis ,Colds ,Cough ,Fever ,Skin inflammation ,Sore throat ,Tendency to infection ,Wounds and burns . Chamomile is use to ebb & relaxes at bedtime,relieves restlessness, teething problems, and colic in children,relieves allergies, relieves morning sickness during pregnancy,speeds healing of skin ulcers, wounds, or burns,treats gastritis and ulcerative colitis.

Products made from chamomile are widely used as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antispasmodic, and sedative property.Its extracts are used to ease pain and irritation, clean wounds and ulcers, and aid irradiated skin injuries, as well as cure cystitis & dental afflictions . The tea has anti-inflammatory actions,beneficial for rheumatism, arthritis, and other painful swellings.

Scientist recommended chamomile as medicine or therapy to treat various problems such as allergies, arthritis, boils, colic, cuts, cystitis, dermatitis, dysmenorrhea, earache, flatulence, hair, headache, inflamed skin, insect bites, insomnia, nausea, neuralgia, PMS, rheumatism, sores, sprains, strains, stress, wounds,acne ,blisters ,depression ,digestive problems ,gout ,indigestion ,irritable bowel syndrome ,nervous tension, eczema & psoriasis.

Dosage

• Tea:

Take 1 cup boiling water add 2 teaspoon of dried flowers & steep covered for 10 to 15 minutes. Use three times in a day.

• Liquid Extract:

1:1 in 45% alcohol, 1-4ml . Use three times in a day.

• Tincture:

1:5 in 45% alcohol, 3-10ml. Use three times in a day.

Drug Interactions

Chamomile have tranquilizing properties which could add to the blood-thinning effect of Coumadin & similar drugs.It is recommended not to use with alcohol & anti-anxiety drugs such as Valium,Ativan, and Xanax.

Chamomile may heighten the level of drowsiness caused by some drugs such as benzodiazepines, ativan, barbiturates & phenobarbital.