om living
Cinnamon: for immunity and
normalising blood sugar
USES: Good for balancing blood sugar levels
as well as relieving cold and flu symptoms.
Not many people are aware of the uses of
cinnamon as a healing potion. Because this
is seen as the sweeter of spices, it allows
you to experience its pleasant taste, just
without the sugar rush part. As the body
naturally ages, the threat of diabetes and
other health-related problems arise due
to sugar flowing through the blood. As a
herb, cinnamon is exceptionally effective
at normalising the body’s insulin sensitivity.
This means that it may help bring blood
sugar levels back into line, with regular use.
HOW TO USE: Cinnamon can be taken in
tea form, as cinnamon-lemon tea. Using
two cinnamon sticks and a couple of cloves,
place them into a pot of boiling water and
let it cool. Add a dash of lemon juice and
organic honey to sweeten.
Triphala: for healthy skin
and digestion
USES: Good for improving
the digestive system and
encouraging younger
looking skin.
Triphala is a herb that is
packed with the nutrients of
three diced and grounded berries. The
properties of this herb were traditionally
used as a healing tonic for the digestive
system.
Suitable for anyone looking to develop a healthier and happier
gut-to-brain connection, it works at restoring immunity, tackling
acidity and preventing further gastric troubles.
Most impressive is how modern science is finally beginning to
acknowledge the wide-ranging properties of this fruit tree herb. With
its antioxidant benefits believed to work at both protecting the skin
and rebuilding it, Triphala is undoubtedly the herb to look out for
over the coming years.
HOW TO USE: Triphala is traditionally taken as a tea. Often added
to many detox programmes, all you need is a mixture of half a
teaspoon of the powdered form in a cup of hot water and stir well,
enjoying a cup every day.
Turmeric: for inflammation control
USES: Works at reducing inflammation in
the body as well as helping prevent and fight
specific diseases.
Used for thousands of years, this is a
highly sought-after herb which can be taken
daily to promote a healthier body and mind.
Turmeric is proven to offer several health
benefits but is most effective at working on
reducing inflammation. The beautiful thing
about this herb is that everyone can benefit
in some way when taking it on a regular
basis.
HOW TO USE: Though it is available in
powdered form or raw juicing, turmeric is
recommended as a 1000mg supplement,
taken daily for maximum effect. As this
is one of the harder herbs to absorb, an
additional 4mg of black pepper extract may
increase absorption.
Ashwagandha: great against stress
USES: Great at alleviating the signs of stress
and anxiety, it works to help fight depression.
The herb Ashwagandha is proven to build
the body’s resistance to stress. Living in a
fast-paced modern society, the effects of
continual stress are practically everyday
occurrences for most of us. However, when
we’re under pressure too often, this build-
up is dangerous to our health, ultimately
leading to what is known as chronic stress.
The herb Ashwagandha works at lowering
the body’s cortisol levels. When broken down
into powder form, its properties combine to
enable the body to regulate its response to
stressful situations.
HOW TO USE: Though still building in
popularity, Ashwagandha hasn’t quite made
tea form just yet with its root proving to be
a bitter taste for many. However, by adding
two teaspoons of this herb grounded into
two cups of nuts, you immediately balance
this bitterness as a nut butter, while enjoying
its many benefits.
Guggulu: for joint repair
USES: Helps protect against several diseases as well as
reducing pain.
Guggulu is another herb that has existed for thousands of years
but only recently has scientific studies proving it to be a successful
choice to help prevent diseases. This herb is a pain analgesic,
meaning it can be used by those suffering from inflammation and
joint pain. Claimed to be among one of the more active ingredients
when it comes to joint repair, guggulu supports the joints that need
that little bit of extra help. Additionally, it is also useful for boosting
metabolism. It encourages control over weight, suppressing the
appetite and any cravings. This makes it an excellent choice for
those wanting to maintain a healthy weight, as well as those looking
to detox.
HOW TO USE: An easy herb to absorb
in powdered form, just half a teaspoon
a day is sufficient. This powder
mixes well with water, milk,
and honey, so it is
ideal for use with
breakfast.