In Japanese, maitake literally translates to dancing mushroom. Legend has it that this beneficial mushroom received its name because people danced with happiness after finding it in the wild. Maitakes are adaptogens that exhibit impressive healing properties. Researchers note that adaptogens help the body fight mental or physical difficulties, regulating systems in the body that are out of balance. 

What Are Maitake Mushrooms?

These edible mushrooms are native to China, but they also grow in Japan, Europe, North America, and other parts of Asia. You may also know maitake mushrooms as hen of the woods or sheep’s head mushrooms. They exhibit a tasty umami flavor, making it a sought after culinary ingredient, but they also offer an impressive nutritional profile. Maitakes are naturally rich in antioxidants, beta-glucans, potassium, fiber, vitamins B, C, and D, copper, amino acids, and other minerals. They are also low-calorie, low-sodium, fat-free, and cholesterol-free. 

Maitake mushrooms are of great interest to scientists because of their unique antioxidant profile. Existing research points to the fact that these mushrooms have a unique way of supporting overall health and fighting certain illnesses. They have many bioactive compounds, which likely contribute to their many medicinal properties. Continue reading to learn more about the health benefits of maitake mushrooms. 

They Provide Cancer Support

According to research, the beta-glucans in maitake mushrooms have an anti-tumor immune response. Some scientific studies on mice found that maitakes blocked tumor growth. Additional research found that beta-glucans potentially enhanced the activity of certain immune cells, including natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages. These cells help to identify and destroy cancer cells. Maitake mushrooms also promote apoptosis, which is programmed cell death that eliminates abnormal (cancerous) or damaged cells. Some studies suggest that maitake mushroom extracts may induce apoptosis in breast cancer and bladder cancer cells. One such extract, which is available in supplement form, is maitake D-fraction. Vitamin C helps to enhance this extract’s function to make it more effective in the body. 

They May Support Healthy Blood Sugar

A study from 2015 found that maitake mushrooms had a positive effect on rats with type 2 diabetes. Over the course of the study, the rats consumed maitake mushrooms, which had a positive effect on blood glucose levels. Study authors were able to conclude that the bioactive compounds in maitake mushrooms helped improve glucose tolerance. A separate study on diabetic mice found that maitake mushroom powder exhibited anti-diabetic properties, improving the condition of the mice over four months. Human research is necessary, but initial studies on animals are promising. 

They Promote Fertility

Before we explain how maitake mushrooms promote fertility, it’s crucial to understand that research is limited. Additionally, the research was specifically focused on how they affected women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This is a condition that causes the ovaries to develop fluid-filled cysts around their outer edges. These cysts contain follicles, but don’t release eggs, resulting in infrequent periods, excess hair growth, and lack of ovulation. A Japanese study from 2010 monitored women with PCOS who either took a maitake mushroom extract or the clomiphene citrate drug. At the end of the study, the maitake extract induced ovulation in 77% of PCOS participants, showing a very similar result to the prescription drug. 

They May Reduce Blood Pressure

Earlier in the article, we discussed the D-fraction maitake extract, which can induce apoptosis. In an animal study, researchers gave that D-fraction extract to rats and found that it reduced age-related high blood pressure. The extract also improved insulin sensitivity, which could help explain why maitake can aid with cholesterol reduction. In an older study from 1989, researchers fed maitake mushrooms to rats for eight weeks. At the end of the study, the rats had lower blood pressure, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels. The ability to lower all of these markers suggests that maitake mushrooms may be able to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and heart disease. 

They Support Immune Function

The beta-glucans in maitake mushrooms work to encourage optimal immune function. The polysaccharides work to optimize immune response, enhancing the body’s overall resilience towards foreign invaders. The bioactive polysaccharides support humoral and cellular immunity, two actions that ward off pathogens. This is particularly useful whether a virus is going around the office, or you are stressed and have a weakened immune system. When compared to shiitake mushrooms in a 2014 animal study, maitake mushrooms stimulated a more intense immune response. 

They May Balance Cholesterol Levels

If you have higher levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, you have a higher risk of heart disease. Although high cholesterol can result from poor diet and genetics, health experts suggest that insulin resistance plays a role in cholesterol levels. As it turns out, the antioxidants in maitake mushrooms work to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. When inflammatory markers reduce, less cholesterol accumulates in the arteries. That ultimately helps protect you from heart disease.

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Some people are more prone to body odor (BO) than others. Excessive perspiration or particular foods you eat can cause an unbearable stench. Sometimes, the root cause of your BO is poor gut health, i.e. a gut that doesn’t have a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria. Whatever the cause of your stinky pits, you don’t want to be the one smelly person. Why not detox your armpits, then?

What’s Wrong With Commercial Deodorants?

Commercial deodorants, especially anti-perspirant deodorants, are replete with chemicals that can harm the nervous and endocrine systems. Those chemicals can actually cause you to sweat and stink more than a natural deodorant can. Some common ingredients that are problematic are detailed below:

• Phthalates: These endocrine disruptors are found in plastic and can cause hormonal imbalance, or even infertility, especially in men.
• Formaldehyde: This known carcinogen may kill germs, but it can seriously harm the body. 
• Parabens: These hormone disruptors have unfortunately been found in biopsied tissue with breast cancer. 
• Aluminum: There is some evidence that links aluminum to cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, but more research is necessary to confirm this. 
• Propylene glycol: The common name for this toxin is antifreeze. The Environmental Working Group reports that it carries a moderate risk of immunotoxicity and allergies. It is a highly controversial ingredient in personal care products. 
• Antibacterial Substances: Antibacterial substances are bad? Well, some of these substances are known endocrine disruptors and can negatively affect immune function. 

Does Armpit Detoxification Work?

We’ll say this up front: there is no concrete medical or scientific evidence that supports the concept of armpit detoxing. A person’s body does not simply detox via the armpits. The liver, kidneys, lymph nodes, and spleen filter toxins that enter the body. The body then eliminates toxins via sweat, urine, and feces. The skin does not typically filter toxins, as armpit detox proponents claim. 

Some ingredients that people use to detox their pits can often cause irritation or other problems. Apple cider vinegar, for example, can irritate the skin, especially if the person has dry or sensitive skin. However, there are some supporters of armpit detoxification, but they stress that you should not use a scrub if you notice a rash under the arms. Additionally, if you use the underarm scrub in this article and find that it causes irritation or burning, stop the use. 

Whether or not an armpit detox works may be entirely personal. Some people swear that a regular armpit detox helps eliminate odor, even without wearing any deodorant. Other people notice that they sweat less after trying the armpit detox. All of this is completely personal and not based on scientific evidence. However, should you want to experiment with an odor removing underarm scrub, consider the recipe below. 

Odor Removing Underarm Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup sea salt
• 1 tablespoon each: lemon juice and lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon each: melted coconut oil and honey

Instructions:

• Mix the sugar and salt together in a large mixing bowl and then add the lemon juice and lemon zest. Mix well to combine. 
• Drizzle in the coconut oil and honey and mix well before scooping into a glass container. Make sure to store in a cool, dry place and use one to two times per week for fresh underarms and smoother skin.

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This week, we’ll be learning the history behind Sage. Allow History of Herbs to take you on an educational journey to explore the secrets of our most precious herbs and plants. Dive into a world where herbs reign supreme, and learn about the historical importance of popular herbs that exhibit powerful health benefits.

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Portobello mushrooms, also called portabella, offer a rich flavor profile and meaty texture. For this reason, people regularly use them as meat substitutes. They are less spongy than button mushrooms and easily take on a variety of flavors. You can grill, stuff, broil, bake, or saute portobellos, but this recipe showcases how delicious they can be after dehydrating them.

Portobellos are naturally rich in riboflavin (vitamin B2), which is essential for energy production. It assists the body with breaking down carbohydrates into sugar for fuel. Portobellos are also high in selenium, a mineral that helps support healthy immune function, fertility, and cognition. It also plays a key role in maintaining thyroid hormone metabolism and DNA synthesis, in addition to protecting the body from infection and oxidative stress.

The key to making this mushroom jerky is just to let it take the time it needs in the dehydrator. It will most likely take about 10-12 hours, which is why it can be convenient to dehydrate overnight. Before you place the thinly sliced portobello in the dehydrator, make sure that all of the slices are liberally coated in the marinade. There are many seasonings and flavors that give this mushroom jerky depth of flavor, making it a tasty snack for anyone on a raw vegan diet. Try it out and let us know how you like it in the comments below.

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Researchers say that fertility issues affect about 15% of couples. The road to parenthood is never easy, as you may encounter unforeseen challenges or obstacles along the way. Please understand that if you are experiencing fertility issues, you are not alone. Many couples face similar issues, and the good news is that there are natural ways to help increase fertility. One of the easiest places to start is by eating the right foods that will make you fertile.

You don’t want to wait until you are nearing pregnancy to start eating the right foods. The minute you think about having a child, you want to add certain foods to your diet. Focus on specific nutrients like folate, calcium, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Although many foods contain those aforementioned nutrients, you should eat the following foods to help make the body more fertile. 

Foods That Make You Fertile

Eat More Fiber

Fiber works to help improve digestion and keep you full between meals. It also aids the body with the elimination of excess hormones and helps to regulate blood sugar. One study linked soluble fiber from avocados, sweet potatoes, oats, and fruits to lower levels of estrogen and progesterone. If you have high estrogen and progesterone levels, it can be more difficult to get pregnant. Eating high fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables, and beans can help lower concentrations of these hormones. In fact, health experts say that women trying to increase fertility should increase their fiber intake by five grams per day.

Complex Carbohydrates 

Carbs are beneficial when you eat the right ones. You can learn more about the difference between simple and complex carbs by clicking here. Complex carbs are whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits, all of which help to keep blood levels stable. Simple or refined carbs tend to increase insulin levels, which can negatively affect reproductive hormones and the menstrual cycle. This is not a good scenario if you are trying to conceive. When you eat complex carbs, you can avoid insulin spikes and promote regular ovulation. 

Berries

Think red, blue, pink, and beyond! Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries contain high concentrations of antioxidants, which work to protect cells from damage and aging. That includes the cells in your reproductive system, i.e your eggs. Antioxidants like folate and zinc work to improve fertility in both men and women. In one study, women who consumed more folate experienced higher rates of clinical pregnancy, live birth, and implantation. 

Iron-Rich

A recent 2019 study found that heme iron (from animal sources) had no effect on fertility, whereas non-heme iron had mild benefits for women with iron deficiency. Consuming iron from plant-based foods may reduce the risk of ovulatory infertility. More studies are necessary in order to confirm whether or not iron supplements can help women increase fertility. Make a doctor’s appointment to check if your iron levels are solid if you want to conceive. Great non-heme iron sources are harder for the body to absorb, so consume these foods with vitamin C to increase bioavailability. Click here for great sources of plant-based iron. 

Folate-Rich Foods

Vitamin B9, also known as folate, is one of the most nutrients to consume before and during pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that women consume 400 micrograms of folic acid daily at least one month before getting pregnant. Folic acid is the synthesized version of folate, which you can get from consuming leafy green vegetables, including kale, bok choy, Swiss chard, broccoli, spinach, and more. Strawberries and oranges are also great sources of folate.

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There are many nutrients that play pivotal roles, which keep the body functioning at an optimum level. Of those nutrients, many people focus on vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, potassium, and even vitamin D. As it turns out, vitamin A is necessary for many bodily functions, including a healthy immune system, metabolism, proper vision, good skin care, and more. It also exhibits antioxidant properties that may protect cells from damaging free radicals. 

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that exists in two forms: performed vitamin A and provitamin A. The former is known as retinol and you can typically find it in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. The latter comes from carotenoids in plant foods, including red, green, yellow, and orange fruits and vegetables, which the body converts to vitamin A. Although vitamin A deficiency is rare in developed countries, it is still possible for people to be deficient in this nutrient. Those at highest risk of deficiency are pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, infants, and children. People with chronic diarrhea or cystic fibrosis may also experience vitamin A deficiency. The following signs may indicate if you are deficient in vitamin A.

Dry Eyes

One of the most common and first signs of vitamin A deficiency is dry eyes, or the inability to produce tears. A layer of fluid called tear film works to lubricate the eyes and keep the surface of the eyes clean. Tear film that is healthy is necessary for clear vision, while irregular tear film will scatter light after light hits the cornea. One study found that high doses of vitamin A decreased the prevalence of dry eyes by 63% among infants and children who supplemented for 16 months. 

Infertility And Trouble Conceiving

Vitamin A contributes to healthy reproductive function in both men and women. It also happens to be necessary for healthy development in infants. If you are having difficulty conceiving, low vitamin A levels may be the root of the problem, for either the man or the woman. Research suggests that infertile men may have a higher need for antioxidants because of higher levels of oxidative stress in the body. Vitamin A acts as an antioxidant that works to combat oxidative stress and free radicals. Other studies found that female rats with vitamin A deficiency had difficulty getting pregnant and may have embryos with birth defects. 

Increase In Chest and Respiratory Infections

Research is still preliminary in this area, but the initial research shows that vitamin A deficiency may be associated with throat, respiratory tract, and chest infections. Don’t reach for supplements just yet, as over-supplementing can have pretty serious side effects if you aren’t deficient. Vitamin A does offer protective properties against excessive inflammation that contributes to colds and infections. Because of that, vitamin A may protect via regulation of inflammation. 

Dry Skin

Although vitamin A deficiency isn’t the primary reason for dry skin or other skin-related issues, it may play a role. Retinol is commonly on the ingredient lists of many skin care products, and retinol is a derived form of vitamin A. According to research, the skin has retinoid receptors and getting sufficient vitamin A can create healthier new skin cells. This works to reduce inflammation, prevent dryness, and may even reduce wrinkles or improve skin texture.

Night Blindness

This symptom will only happen with severe vitamin A deficiency. Several observational studies reported a high prevalence of night blindness in developing nations. Because of this existing data, health professionals examined the link between low vitamin A levels and a higher risk of night blindness. One study monitored women with night blindness who received vitamin A in the form of food or supplements. Both the supplements and vitamin A-rich foods were able to improve the condition. The women’s ability to adapt to darkness also increased by 50% over six weeks of treatment. 

Problems With Wound Healing

Vitamin A plays a unique role in moderating the body’s inflammatory response. Because of this, it may work to control excessive inflammation. If you have high levels of inflammation in the body, it may take longer for wounds to heal, or they may not heal properly. Vitamin A also works to nourish the skin, helping you avoid dryness and cracking. According to researchers, insufficient vitamin A in the body makes it difficult for wounds to heal properly.

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The Male Cleanse – 20 day cleanse and regimen that helps to provide essential nutrients to benefit male and sexual reproductive health.

• 20 day cleanse and regimen designed to benefit the health of men
• Includes botanicals conducive to male sexual reproductive health
• May aid in necessary weight release along with diet and exercise
• Works to maintain natural testosterone levels and support sexual health
• Helps to maintain healthy urinary tract and prostate
• Helps maintain normal sperm count
• Promotes better sex drive and libido
• Helps nourish, rejuvenate and cleanse male sexual organs

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To make a fertility-enhancing infusion, I take one ounce by weight of the dried blossoms (fresh won’t work for this application) and put them in a quart size canning jar. I fill the jar with boiling water, screw on a tight lid, and let it steep at room temperature overnight (or for at least four hours). Dozens of women have told me that they had successful pregnancies after drinking a cup or more (up to four cups) a day of red clover infusion… Read more about fertility herbs.

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Pumpkins get all the attention during the fall, and the seeds are either thrown away or an afterthought. The reason people discard pumpkin seeds is because they are entangled in the stringy, slimy pumpkin flesh that you remove from the pumpkins when you carve them. As it turns out, the seeds offer healthy fats, magnesium, zinc, and other nutrients that can improve heart health and fight back against some cancers. 

Nutritional Value Of Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds, often times referred to as pepitas, pack a diverse nutritional punch. Now, if you buy pumpkin seeds at the store, you’ll notice that they are green, flat, and oval. They are not the white, hard seeds that you scoop out of a pumpkin. The white part is actually the shell and the green seed is inside. A one-ounce serving of shell-free pumpkin seeds contains:

• 151 calories
• 7 grams of protein
• 13 grams of fat
• 1.7 grams of fiber
• 5 grams of carbohydrates
• 18% of the RDI of vitamin K
• 42% of the RDI of manganese
• 37% of the RDI of magnesium
• 33% of the RDI of phosphorus
• 14% of the RDI of zinc
• 19% of the RDI of copper
• 23% of the RDI of iron

May Reduce Risk Of Breast Cancer

Pumpkin seeds contain a high concentration of antioxidants, including carotenoids and vitamin E, both of which help to reduce free radical damage and inflammation. One study found that regularly consuming pumpkin seeds helped reduce breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women. Another study found that they provided some protection for premenopausal women as well. Other studies suggest that the lignans in pumpkin seeds play a large role in reducing breast cancer risk, but more studies are needed to determine their effectiveness against cancerous cells. 

May Improve Heart Health

As we mentioned earlier in the article, pumpkin seeds are rich in unsaturated fats, including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This acid may play a role in a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly when added to a balanced diet. Several studies found that pumpkin seeds help to increase nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide helps to improve blood flow by expanding blood vessels. It also reduces the risk of plaque build-up in the arteries. 

May Improve Quality Of Sperm

Men who have low levels of zinc typically have reduced sperm quality and an increased risk of infertility. According to a study on mice, zinc may protect male sperm from chemotherapy damage and autoimmune disorders. Other research points to the fact that pumpkin seed oil benefits the prostate. Finally, The concentration of antioxidants and other nutrients can help improve testosterone levels, which may have a positive impact on fertility and reproductive health in men. 

May Improve Sleep Quality

Normally, we advise against eating close to bedtime, but pumpkin seeds happen to be a great late night snack. They are naturally rich in tryptophan, which is an amino acid that promotes sleep. The downside is that you have to eat seven ounces of pumpkin seeds to obtain one gram of tryptophan, which is the suggested amount to improve sleep. That amount of pumpkin seeds racks up more than 1,000 calories. The zinc in pumpkin seeds helps convert tryptophan to serotonin, which the body converts to melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body’s sleep cycle. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium, another mineral that encourages more restful sleep. 

May Improve Blood Sugar Levels

Pumpkin seeds have hypoglycemic properties, which may help balance blood sugar levels. Several studies revealed that consuming pumpkin seed powder or pumpkin juice can reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. One observational study with 127,000 people found that men who consumed more magnesium had a 33% lower risk of type 2 diabetes and women had a 34% lower risk. Pumpkin seeds are naturally rich in magnesium so eat up!

May Optimize Immune Function

We’ve covered the fact that pumpkin seeds are excellent sources zinc and iron. What we didn’t cover is that the body needs both of these minerals for optimal immune function. Additionally, pumpkin seeds have antiviral and anti-fungal properties, which help the immune system fight foreign invaders or infections in the body. 

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If you aren’t already naked while reading this, you’ve made mistakes one, two and three. Strip down and get comfy while you peruse this article.

Yes, there really is such a thing as National Nude Day, which occurs annually on July 14^th. While being naked in public is frowned upon, according to societal norms, stripping down to your birthday suit is surprisingly beneficial for your health. People get frustrated when their children decide to take off their clothes and run around. As it turns out, children are on to something.

While 2020 has been less than an ideal year, the safer-at-home laws work in your favor for National Nude Day. If you are working from home, chilling at home, sunbathing in your backyard, or napping at home, take those clothes off and be free. Let the free love spirit of the 1960s wash over your being and celebrate your body, including all the imperfections because they make you beautiful and unique.

Nude Fact: Benjamin Franklin liked to enjoy time in his birthday suit. He supposedly took baths by his open window and air-dried to connect with the elements.

According to research, time spent in the nude is associated with an increase in self-confidence. The body likes being naked, which must be why going nude has a variety of health benefits. While you shouldn’t need a reason to let it all out, a few benefits of being nude are detailed below.

Increased Fertility For Men

A 2015 study found that men, who wore boxer shorts during the day and went to bed in the nude, had lower levels of damaged DNA in sperm compared to men who wore tight underwear all day and at night. Don’t keep your junk under wraps, gentlemen. Let it all hang out…and down.

Better Sleep

Speaking of sleeping naked, being in the nude helps to lower your body temperature, which helps you fall asleep. A slightly lower body temperature can reduce the amount of times you wake up at night, and eases you into a healthier night’s sleep. Given that it is hot during the summer, try shedding those nighttime layers and sleep naked.

Healthier Private Parts

Whether you are a man or woman, being naked allows your privates the chance breathe. Tight clothing and synthetic fabric can lead to rashes, clogged pores, or irritated skin. Sleeping with underwear on, for instance, can create a moist environment in your private area. This can lead to jock itch or yeast infections because the sweat can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Air out your downstairs by sleeping naked.

Better Bond With Your Partner

Upon entering the world, babies crave skin-to-skin contact. According to Newborn and Infant Nursing Reviews, newborns that have skin-to-skin contact with their mothers directly after birth have a better transition from fetal to newborn life. They have better glucose stability, they cry less, and their breathing is better. Adults can also have skin-to-skin contact to help decrease stress levels. This action also releases oxytocin, which is a chemical that helps to maintain intimate relationships.

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