Let plant be thy medicine


 Hippocrates said “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” Although many are convinced of the importance of food in both causing and relieving their problems, but still "food as medicine” philosophy has been largely neglected. It's a well proven fact that food we consume plays a pivotal role not only in nourishing our bodies but also in preventing and treating various conditions. With the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the importance of preventive medicine, including a healthy diet, is paramount. Specific nutrients found in natural foods can aid in the body's natural healing processes and support recovery from illness or injury.


1.Peppermint: menthol, an ingredient in peppermint is effective decongestant . Because menthol thins mucus,  loosens phlegm and acts as an expectorant .It is soothing and calming for sore throats (pharyngitis) and dry coughs. It also has antispasmodic qualities. This can ease bloating, gas and discomfort by relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract.



2. Ginger: Gingerol, a natural component of ginger root, benefits gastrointestinal motility Eating ginger can cut down on fermentation, constipation and other causes of bloating and intestinal gas . Ginger contains antioxidants ,  which help manage free radicals .Due to its  properties ; ginger fights germs , calms nausea , relieves sore muscles ,eases arthritis symptoms , curbs cancer growth ,lowers blood sugar , eases period pain , lowers bad cholesterol and eases the discomfort of the stomach. It facilitates digestion, lessens inflammation in the intestine and eases with gas and bloating.



3.Chamomile:The dried flowers of chamomile contain many terpenoids and flavonoids contributing to its medicinal properties.Chamomile preparations are commonly used for many human ailments such as hay fever, inflammation, muscle spasms, menstrual disorders, insomnia, ulcers, wounds, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatic pain, and hemorrhoids. Essential oils of chamomile are used extensively in cosmetics and aromatherapy. Because of its relaxing and anti inflammatory qualities, chamomile can aid in relaxation of the digestive tract 's muscles; which will lessen the discomfort and bloating. Drinking Chamomile tea can help soothe stomach problems.



4. Fennel seeds: Fennel seeds are a rich source of dietary fibre, vitamin C and iron ; with 100g of fennel seeds containing 39.8g of fibre ,21 mg of vitamin C & 18.5 mg of iron. Fennel seed extract has anti-inflammatory effects and protects against injury. The carminative qualities of fennel seeds can help with digestion, lessen gas and relieve bloating. It may be advantageous to chew fennel seeds or sip fennel tea.



5. Turmeric : An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin , found in turmeric; can relieve gas and bloating. Thus turmeric has healing and calming effect on the intestines. Turmeric is rich in phytonutrients that may protect the body by neutralizing free radicals (pollution, sunlight) and shielding the cells from damage . Some possible benefits of turmeric for:  Inflammation , Degenerative eye conditions , Metabolic syndrome , Arthritis ,Hyperlipidemia (cholesterol in the blood) ,Anxiety ,Muscle soreness after exercise & Kidney health



6. Coriander : Due to carminative qualities of coriander seeds, it helps in digestion, lessens bloating and gas. Coriander is frequently added to food in the form of leaves or seeds and can be taken as tea.The essential oils in coriander leaves have been shown to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties. The compounds in coriander leaves may have anti-anxiety and sleep-inducing effects. Coriander leaves have antimicrobial properties that can help fight against foodborne pathogens. Consuming coriander leaves may help lower blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. 



7. Cumin seeds: Cumin aids digestion by increasing the activity of digestive proteins. It may also reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Cumin is very dense in iron, providing almost 20% of your daily iron in one teaspoon.Cumin contains antioxidants that stabilize free radicals.Cumin supplements have improved blood cholesterol and blood sugar in multiple studies.Concentrated cumin supplements have promoted weight loss in multiple studies . One can promote digestive health by taking cumin tea or adding cumin seeds to the meals.



8. Lemon balm: Lemon balm contains substances called tannins, which may be responsible for many of the herb's antiviral effects. Lemon balm also contains eugenol, which calms muscle spasms, numbs tissues, and kills bacteria. Due to its relaxing properties, lemon balm may help lessen bloating and pain. It can be added to food or can be drunk as tea.



9. Curry leaves: Curry leaves are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and flavonoids , thereby help reducing sugar levels. These are rich in fibre, which slows down the absorption of sugar into the blood stream.



10. Neem leaves: studies have shown that extract from Neem leaves may help in blood sugar management and in reducing systemic inflammation in people with type 2 diabetes.


Azadirachtin and Nimbolide present in neem oil have radical scavenging properties and also induce cancer suppressor genes, so neem leaves, flowers and fruits act as antioxidants and anti - cancer agents 


11. Moringa leaves: 

Research suggests that Quercetin present in these leaves may have protection against gastric ulcers , antidiabetic , hypotensive and anti-inflammatory effects . It has also been shown to improve hepatic and renal functions and the regulation of thyroid hormone status . Moringa leaves also protect against oxidative stress , inflammation , hepatic fibrosis , liver damage , hypercholesterolemia , bacterial activity , cancer and liver injury .


12. Bay leaves: Research suggests that polyphenols present in bay leaves may improve the sugar and lipid profile in the patient with metabolic syndrome.



13. Betel leaves: several studies point out that Eugenol , nitric oxide and hydroxyl radicals present in betel leaves may lower the glucose levels and therefore useful for the patients with glucose impairment.



14. Tulsi leaves: As research has demonstrated that Vitamin C & A and phytonutrients present in tulsi leaves may lower the blood glucose levels and also have Anti inflammatory properties. So tulsi leaves should be consumed regularly.



15. Fenugreek leaves: Fenugreek contains a number of important, beneficial flavonoids, and polyphenol compounds & research has shown that methi has anti inflammatory as well as anti diabetic properties. It improves insulin sensitivity and is useful in patients with insulin resistance such as PCOS and metabolic syndrome.



Having awareness, understanding, insight, and knowledge about nutrition is key to inspiring positive transformations.Recognizing the healing and nourishing power of food, we can harness the potential of nutrition to promote better health and wellness for all.

pictures downloaded from Google 

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