When you were a child, do you remember your mother slathering your legs with pink calamine lotion to relieve bug bites? Perhaps you played outside by a pond or lake, or just amongst nature and mosquitos got you good. Those bites were itchy, no doubt! After a soothing bath, it was time to later on that pink calamine lotion. 

What Is Calamine Lotion?

Calamine lotion is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that is meant to soothe mild itchiness (pruritus). It has demonstrated an ability to soothe redness, discomfort, pain, and itchiness associated with chickenpox, bug bites, and poison ivy. You can also use calamine lotion to help dry out oozing skin irritations. Calamine lotion is only for topical use, so please do not swallow it, as it can be very dangerous. 

What Is Calamine Lotion Used For?

The primary benefit of calamine lotion is that it relieves itchiness. Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and other poisonous plants can cause skin irritation and rash. Applying calamine lotion to relieve the itch from these poisonous plants, in addition to other discomforts, can soothe the skin and aid recovery. You can also calamine lotion to help relieve the following:

• Heat rash: A heat rash is an area of the skin that becomes irritated when sweat gets trapped in your pores and ducts under the skin. Calamine may help relieve the burning or itchiness. 
• Chickenpox: You may be able to relieve the itchiness and other symptoms of this infectious condition by applying calamine lotion. The lotion may also prevent you from developing additional skin conditions. 
• Swimmer’s itch: Calamine lotion may help get rid of rashes like swimmer’s itch, which you can develop if you swim in water that contains certain parasites. 
• Scabies: A small mite can cause scabies, which can cause a rash and intense itching. In order to ease the itching from scabies, try to apply calamine lotion to relieve symptoms. Unfortunately, it will not kill the mites. 
• Shingles: In addition to antiviral medications, you may be able to use calamine lotion to help relieve shingles. Apply the lotion directly to the skin in order to get some relief.
• Acne: Unfortunately, calamine lotion will not cure acne, but it may help dry out a pimple, making it a potential spot treatment. 
• Chigger bites: Chiggers are mites that feed on human skin and their bites cause intense irritation and scratching. Apply the calamine lotion to help relieve itching, but it will not kill the mites.

Homemade Calamine Lotion

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons bentonite clay
• 1 tablespoon pink kaolin clay
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 cup water
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 1/2 teaspoon glycerin

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a glass bowl and whisk with a silicone whisk or wooden spoon. Don’t use anything metal or it will affect bentonite clay’s health properties. 
• Once you have thoroughly mixed the ingredients, transfer the mixture to a clean jar and screw on the lid. 
• Store in the refrigerator and use within two weeks. Apply liberally as needed for sunburns, poison ivy, or itchy bug bites. 

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During the summer, you likely spend more time outdoors. Perhaps you spend a day at the beach, lake, or pool, or maybe you go on a long hike. By spending so much time outside, you increase your exposure to sunlight, insects, and other things that can cause itchy or painful rashes. Sometimes, the cause of the rash may be a mystery, but this article intends to explain the unexpected causes of summer rashes. 

You can easily prevent sunburn by taking the proper precautions. How do you prevent rashes, though? From swimmer’s itch and hot tub rash to polymorphous light eruption, we give you the low-down on common yet surprising causes of rashes during summer. 

Swimmer’s Itch

Swimmer’s itch differs from seabather’s eruption (covered later) because it occurs in areas not covered by swimwear. Microscopic parasites from infected snails that live in the shallow waters of lakes, streams, or the ocean can burrow in the skin. That causes an allergic reaction that looks like tiny red bumps or large welts. The parasites ultimately die in the skin because we are dead-end hosts, but the problem is that these bumps cause intense itching. Relieve the itch by taking an Epsom salt bath or a bath with ground oatmeal. You can also apply baking soda paste to the affected area to soothe the skin.

Heat Rash

Heat rash, or miliaria or prickly heat, occurs when sweat blocks the pores in your skin and starts to build up under the skin. This is a common problem in babies, but it can occur at any age, especially in hot and humid weather. Heat rash usually stings and itches, and you can identify it by small red bumps or clear blisters that break easily. You will see a rash in areas where you sweat more, for example, the armpits, elbows, and groin. Heat rash typically clears on its own, but you can ease itchiness by wearing loose-fitting clothing and cooling off the skin.

Margarita Dermatitis 

Unfortunately, drinking this classic alcoholic beverage that is either frozen or on the rocks will not cause a skin condition. That said, a dribble of citrus juice on the skin, which has been exposed to the sun, can lead to a nasty burn. This burn is known as margarita dermatitis, or phytophotodermatitis. This happens when a photosensitizing compound (furocoumarin) in limes and other citrus fruits, parsley, dill, and celery becomes activated by UVA light. That reaction causes a burning rash that develops within hours. 

It’s possible to develop blisters or red, itchy patches on the skin. Symptoms will be at their worst within two to three days. While the blisters heal, the skin may become darker, which can take months to go away. Just be careful when you handle citrus immediately after being in the sun. 

Polymorphous Light Eruption

If you have a sensitivity to sunlight and expose your skin to UV rays in late spring and early summer, you may break out in itchy, hive-like bumps. This phenomenon is known as polymorphous light eruption (PLE). According to research, PLE affects 10% of the general population. Those affected most likely live in northern versus southern climates. Researchers note that PLE occurs about 75% of the time in females between ages 20 and 40. People with fairer skin are also more susceptible. 

PLE is a hypersensitive reaction to the sun that will typically go away within 10 days. It usually only occurs once each season, when the weather warms up and the skin gets exposed to UV light. It tends to get better over the course of summer, but be careful on beach days or sunny vacations. If you want to relieve the itch, ask your healthcare professional about an anti-itch or antihistamine cream. Severe cases may call for a topical corticosteroid. 

Seabather’s Eruption

If you notice a rash under your swimsuit after a dip in the ocean, you may have seabather’s eruption, or pica-pica (Spanish for “itchy itchy”) or sea lice. This usually occurs when tiny thimble jellyfish and sea anemones get trapped under your swimsuit. They release stinging cells that inject a toxin, which causes an allergic reaction in the skin. You may notice a prickly sensation while swimming, but you’ll notice a reaction within four to 24 hours. It will look like a patch of insect bites or hives under your swimsuit. Make sure to remove your swimsuit and shower immediately after a swim in the ocean. Rinse your suit thoroughly in hot water to remove any remaining organisms, and consider an antihistamine if you notice something. 

Hot Tub Rash

About one to two days after you soak in water contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is found in the ground and water, you can develop a skin rash: hot tub folliculitis. This skin rash gets its name because it is more common in hot tubs. The reason for that is because hot water breaks down the chlorine that kills bacteria. The rash can also occur after swimming in a contaminated lake or pool. A hot tub rash is characterized by tiny millimeter-sized red bumps that are worse in areas that were covered by the swimsuit. You may notice itchy or tender pimples around hair follicles. The rash usually gets better on its own, but a doctor visit may be necessary if it doesn’t go away within a few days.

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If you are familiar with mosquitos, then you probably know about citronella. The plant exhibits an aroma that mosquitos do not like, but the plant is so much more than a natural insect repellent. More importantly, the oil that is extracted from the plant has been used for centuries in China, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. It was primarily used to help reduce the severity of rashes, inflammation, infections, general pain, and more. 

What Is Citronella Oil?

According to research studies, pure citronella essential oil exhibits amazing antibacterial and antifungal properties. The various compounds in this oil may also exhibit the following health benefits: 

• Fights bacteria and fungi
• Helps fight free radical damage
• Naturally repels insects
• Promotes relaxation
• Reduces inflammation

Currently, there are more than 30 species of citronella plants grown widely throughout certain parts of the world. Although there are that many varieties of the plant, there are only two types of citronella used to achieve pure citronella oil. There is the Java type and the Ceylon type, both of which come from parts of Asia, especially in Sri Lanka. Of the two plant types, Java seems to be more powerful, which is why it is usually more expensive. 

Citronella exhibits a similar scent to citrus fruits, wood, and cinnamon. Researchers believe that geraniol, a major constituent of citronella oil, is the active ingredient behind the oil’s health benefits. It may exhibit anthelmintic, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, and wound-healing effects. Continue reading to learn more about the health benefits of citronella oil. 

May Help Manage Inflammation And Pain

One review published in the year 2000 examined 34 different citrus essential oils and their compounds for free radical activity. The researchers noted many citrus volatile components, including the main type, geraniol, found in citronella oil. Geraniol exhibited high antioxidant capabilities, which work to fight free radicals that can cause cell damage. The antioxidant and natural pain-relieving properties may help manage inflammation or painful symptoms like achy joints. 

Acts As A Natural Perfume

The fresh, clean aroma of citronella oil is very similar to lemon or lemongrass, making citronella oil great for soaps, candles, perfumes, and more. A lot of people like to naturally deodorize the home with citronella oil for that reason. You can use a little bit in your dishwasher, refrigerator, laundry machine, and more, placing a few drops in each appliance when you run it. 

Exhibits Natural Antifungal And Antibacterial Properties

Citronella oil may be an effective skin care aid, due to the antifungal and antibacterial properties. Because it acts as both an antifungal and antibacterial agent, citronella oil may benefit common skin complaints, such as acne or athlete’s foot. Other studies found that citronella oil may help get rid of nail fungus and candida. To make a topical citronella spray, always dilute a one to one ratio with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or sweet almond oil. 

May Help Destroy Parasites

In vitro research found that geraniol exhibits strong anthelmintic activity, meaning it helps expel worms and parasites. It does this by either stunning or killing them without damaging the host. That is why citronella essential oil is common in parasite cleanses. It may even help prevent external and internal infections from these worms or parasites. 

An All-Natural Insect Repellent

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), citronella is a biopesticide. That means that it is a natural, non-toxic ingredient against potentially harmful insects, such as mosquitos. Since 1948, citronella has been registered as a gentle bug spray repellent in the U.S. Studies found that citronella could repel Aedes aegypti mosquitos, which are capable of spreading Zika and dengue fever. Additional research notes that citronella may be effective against head lice, flies, and ticks. Using citronella oil seems to be more effective at repelling insects than lighting citronella candles or incense sticks. 

May Help Control Pets

This seems like a strange ability, but research shows that citronella oil may get dogs to stop barking. Dog owners may know that certain anti-bark collars contain citronella for that reason. Collars that contain citronella seem to be as effective as electronic collars, and may be viewed in a more positive light. You can also add several drops of citronella oil to a spray bottle full of water and spray it throughout your home. This will deter dogs from climbing or peeing on furniture. It also helps to control pests, bacteria, and odors.

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While thyme is now used as a food flavoring, it has actually been used for centuries. Ancient Egyptians used it for medical properties. While there’s only been preliminary testing, studies show that thyme contains thymol, which may neutralize bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral infections.

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Wormwood sounds like an herb that you would receive from a shaman during a medieval quest. Believe it or not, wormwood is one of the three key ingredients in absinthe, which Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, and Vincent Van Gogh used to drink. Maybe that’s why they were such incredible artists!

What Is Wormwood?  

Wormwood, known scientifically as Artemisia absinthium, helps to eliminate intestinal worms, specifically roundworms and pinworms. The plant, which is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, has a bitter taste and has been used for centuries in medicinal applications. Researchers note that wormwood is a perennial herb that exhibits a wide range of health benefits. Continue reading to learn about six of the many impressive health benefits of wormwood.

Aids Digestion

According to historical evidence, wormwood has helped treat flatulence, indigestion, gastritis, and other digestive issues. Wormwood contains bitter compounds that stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which enhance the absorption of nutrients from the foods you eat. The terpenes in wormwood also stimulate saliva, stomach mucus, and intestinal secretions, all of which may ease digestive symptoms. Wormwood may also reduce stomach acids that contribute to acid reflux and peptic ulcers. 

It Exhibits Anti-inflammatory Properties

Wormwood contains artemisinin, a compound that researchers believe to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. A few studies suggest that wormwood may also temper the actions of cytokines, which are proteins that help instigate inflammation. In doing so, wormwood may ease redness, warmth, swelling, and other symptoms of inflammation. Most of the research about wormwood’s anti-inflammatory properties have been focused on people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. A 2016 study monitored people who took 150 milligrams of wormwood extract per day for 12 weeks. The results indicated that they experienced less joint pain than the group that took a placebo. 

It Has Antimicrobial and Anti-parasitic Effects:

Wormwood has exhibited potent antimicrobial properties against many pathogens, from bacteria to fungi, and even parasites. Studies show that wormwood is most effective when it comes to eliminating pinworms and roundworms from the body. Other studies found wormwood to be effective against gut parasites like Giardia lamblia and Helicobacter pylori. For these reasons, wormwood may be a promising natural alternative to traditional anti-parasitic medications or drugs.

Enhances Liver Function

Historically, wormwood was used to help support liver function. Wormwood contains compounds that help promote the secretion of bile, aiding in the breakdown of fats and toxins. Reports suggest that regular consumption of wormwood may help detoxify the liver, which helps protect it from free radical damage.

May Fight Cancer Cells

Several studies found that the artemisinin compound in wormwood may fight against iron-enriched breast cancer cells. It actually fights these cancer cells the same way it eliminates malaria-causing parasites. Cancer cells can be rich in iron because they soak it up, which facilitates cell division. A 2012 study tested samples of breast cancer cells and normal breast cells that had been treated to maximize iron content. After that, the cells were treated with a water-soluble form of artemisinin. Results revealed that normal breast cells showed little change. Within 16 hours, however, the cancer cells were dead, with only a few normal cells killed. 

May Offer Pain Relief

In the past, wormwood was used in herbal remedies as a pain-reliever. Because it contains analgesic properties, wormwood may alleviate various forms of discomfort, including headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle pain. Researchers don’t fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects, so more research is necessary.

Precautions

Although wormwood offers a variety of health benefits, it is crucial to exercise caution when using it. Because wormwood contains thujone, a compound that can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts, there are certain people that should avoid it. Pregnant women, individuals with seizure disorders, and those with liver disease should not consume wormwood. Should you want to incorporate wormwood into your diet, consider speaking with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a health condition or take specific medications.

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On the latest episode of Vegan101, we’ll go over different parasites and eliminating parasites from your diet!

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Some of you may already be clued into the amazing food grade powder that is diatomaceous earth (DE). For everyone else, we’re about to blow your mind because DE is one of the best dietary supplements in existence. What’s even crazier is that DE is essentially crushed up rock, so it’s like eating sand. That sounds unpleasant, but it’s actually a very common practice and there are numerous proven health claims to support this practice. 

What Is Diatomaceous Earth?

Food grade diatomaceous earth (DE) is made up of the fossilized remains of diatoms, which are small aquatic organisms. Some of the remains date back anywhere form 100,000 to one million years ago. These small organisms collect the sediment from streams, rivers, oceans, and lakes, and the fossilized remains exist around the world. The deposits collect silica, which contains numerous trace minerals that may benefit heart health, improve immune function, enhance the pancreas’ release of insulin, and nourish the hair, skin, and nails. DE happens to be one of the most concentrated sources of silica. 

DE typically comes in the form of a white powder and it has many uses. Some people put it on pets to get rid of fleas, while farmers use it on plants as a natural pesticide. DE also has its place in beauty products, food manufacturing, and water filtering. Food grade DE is available in many health stores, but online retailers sell it as well. There is compelling research and proven studies on the benefits of consuming DE, and we’ve detailed some of them below. 

Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth For The Body

Improves Joint Health

The silica in DE works to enhance regular joint function and bone metabolism. A 2007 study found that dietary silicon actually worked to prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) and improved the connective tissue in joints. Since osteoporosis is considered one of the largest “silent epidemics” of the 21st century, improving bone health is paramount these days. The silica in DE helps improve bone density, but it also works to synthesize collagen, which aids with joint formation and healthy connective tissue development. 

Works To Fight Parasites

One of the benefits of consuming DE is that it helps to regulate bowel moments. In fact, the silica in DE works to detox the digestive tract and increase collagen production, which can support the digestive tract’s lining. It actually helps the body absorb more nutrients while simultaneously flushing out unnecessary waste. A 2011 study that was published in the Oxford Journal of Poultry Science found that DE is an effective treatment to control internal worms (parasites) in hens. Giving hens DE helped improve egg production and quality, and cleaned out parasites in the process. 

Helps Protect The Hair

Did you know that silica is the primary ingredient in many high-quality hair supplements? Many people with thinning hair often use these hair supplements to improve hair growth or prevent hair loss. Several studies examined people who ingested DE every day for several weeks. The results indicated that DE helped to improve fullness and enhanced scalp health. 

Purifies Water

Many filtration products use DE because of the chemical composition. From water purification to fish tank filters, DE helps to prevent tap water toxicity. The fine powder helps to filter tiny particles that regular paper filters cannot catch. One study found that DE works to kill viruses in drinking water, thereby making the water potable. This is great news when you consider that drinking contaminated water causes viral and bacterial infections. Additionally, another study examined a filter containing DE to see how effective it was at filtering tap water. The results indicated that the DE absorbed 80% of the viruses and heavy metals present in tap water. 

Detoxifies The Body

We saved the best benefit for last! As we’ve covered in this article, DE helps to regulate bowel movements and eliminate/kill parasites, which contribute to numerous health conditions. The great thing about DE is that it is inexpensive! It helps to reduce gas and bloating and boosts liver function. Researchers also found that DE works to clean the blood by absorbing harmful toxins that exist in the blood. The silica in DE behaves similarly to antioxidants, fighting free radicals in the body that contribute to oxidative stress. It does so by neutralizing the charge of free radicals and helping the body eliminate them via urine, stool, and sweat. Finally, one study indicated that DE encouraged the elimination of heavy metals from the body. 

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The use of essential oils has recently gained popularity, despite the fact that these oils have been used in healing practices for centuries. Hyssop oil has been used for thousands of years as a powerful antiseptic agent. In fact, hyssop oil is referenced in the Bible. The Romans even used hyssop as a disinfectant during the plague! That’s got to count for something, right?

What Is Hyssop Oil?

Hyssop oil is made from the flowers and leaves of the Hyssopus officinalis plant. Although it technically belongs to the mint family, hyssop looks very similar to lavender. Hyssop has a floral and minty scent that is regularly used by aromatherapy specialists.  More recently, it has been deemed one of the strongest and most potent antiviral essential oils in existence, primarily because it contains nearly every single chemical compound that is found in all essential oils.

In present day, many people use hyssop to remedy a variety of health conditions, including issues with the liver or gallbladder, intestinal problems, and various respiratory conditions. In fact, it is one of the best natural remedies for asthma. Hyssop oil contains beneficial flavonoids that provide antioxidant activity. The Advanced Pharmeceutical Bulletin indicated that there are 20 different compounds (including myrtenylacetate, camphor, spathulenol, and others) in hyssop that comprise 99.9% of the oil’s makeup. See how these compounds provide antioxidant activity and how they benefit the human body.

Fights Parasites

Parasites, including tapeworms, fleas, flukes, and hookworms, are organisms that feed off the nutrients of other organisms. Parasites live and feed on the host, disrupting nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of developing diseases or overall weakness. If you have an intestinal parasite, it is possible for it to disrupt gut health and immune function. Hyssop is beneficial for people with parasites because it is a vermifuge, meaning it is an agent that destroys or expels parasites. If you are engaging in a parasite cleanse, considering adding hyssop oil to your regimen.

Boosts Circulation

Proper circulation assists with overall heart, muscle, and arterial function. Hyssop oil works to improve circulation because it contains anti-rheumatic properties. The ability to increase circulation is great news for people with rheumatism, gout, arthritis, and overall swelling, all of which suffer from lack of blood circulation. Both hyssop oil and hyssop tea can help improve blood flow, which can alleviate pressure in clogged arteries.

Beneficial For Respiratory Conditions

Hyssop oil has antispasmodic properties, which work to relieve spasms in the respiratory system. It is also known as an expectorant, meaning it helps to loosen phlegm that can become lodged in the respiratory tracts or airways. Coughing is the body’s natural way to expel phlegm, harmful microbes, or other irritants. Now that you know about hyssop, though, you may be able to minimize coughing. The antispasmodic and expectorant properties mean that hyssop can be very beneficial for respiratory infections, including the common cold and even bronchitis.

Improves Digestion

Acting as a stimulant, hyssop oil works to increase the production of bile, acid, and digestive enzyme secretion, all of which are necessary to break down food as it enters the stomach. While everyone naturally produces these gastric juices, it is often beneficial to facilitate the process to help decompose complex carbohydrates, proteins, and nutrients. Use hyssop oil to improve digestion, or to help relieve indigestion, gas, or bloating.

Supports Immune Response

As we previously mentioned, hyssop oil works to improve circulation and digestion. Let’s not forget that it can also kill parasites and harmful bacteria. This trifecta of abilities contributes to healthier and proper immune function. One study, which was conducted at the Department of Medicine, North Shore University Hospital in New York, found that hyssop extracts contain unidentified tannins, caffeic acid, and possible unidentified molecular weight compounds that may possess strong anti-HIV activity. Since HIV is incredibly harmful to the immune system, these findings may lead to further studies on hyssop oil as a potential treatment for HIV or AIDS patients.

How To Use Hyssop

The most readily available form of hyssop is the essential oil. If using this oil or hyssop extract, you can use it in the following ways. As always, only purchase high quality essential oils for best results.

• Add 3-5 drops of hyssop oil to bath water to help lower body temperature and stimulate sweating.
• Add 2-3 drops of hyssop oil to a diffuser and inhale the vapor to help clear the respiratory system.
• If you want to use it as a fragrance, add hyssop oil to homemade soaps, body washers, or lotions. The amount you use will depend on how much you are making.
• Combine 2-3 drops of hyssop oil with equal parts carrier oil (like jojoba oil) and apply it to the skin to reduce irritations, burns, or bruising. 
• For internal use, add 1-2 drops of hyssop oil to water and mix it with a smoothie.

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Viruses exist everywhere, and they can cause health conditions like hepatitis, mononucleosis, HIV, the flu, and even the common cold. While many people commonly opt to get an annual flu shot (influenza vaccination), studies have shown that it is only 80% effective, due to the fact that this virus has mutating strains. Additionally, vaccines don’t properly educate your immune system and they can contain preservatives and chemicals. Wouldn’t it be better if you could use all natural herbs to fight off viruses without harming the body?

Facts About Viruses

A virus is a microscopic organism that can exist almost anywhere on the planet. Viruses can spread through sneezing, coughing, person-to-person contact, sexual contact, or by entering the body through food or water. More often than not, viruses infect plants, fungi, animals, humans, and bacteria. Some viruses are fatal, while others can make you feel ill for only a day or so. Consisting of genetic material, viruses cannot replicate without a host, which classifies them as parasites. Viruses are the most abundant biological entities on the planet.

So What Do Antiviral Herbs Do?

When you consume foods that keep your immune system strong, you have a better chance of fighting off viruses. Antiviral herbs can help to inhibit the development of viruses because they boost the immune system, which helps the body attack viral pathogens. Antiviral herbs also contain anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, and healthy digestive properties.

#1: Echinacea

Echinacea is an amazing herb that is loaded with antimicrobial properties, which are great for the immune system. All varieties of the echinacea herb have phenol compounds. At a base level, phenols protect plants from UV radiation damage and infections. The active substances in phenols control enzymes and cell receptors, and their active antioxidants make them great for keeping human cells healthy.

#2: Astragalus Root

Astragalus root has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for hundreds of years, primarily for enhancing immune function. Several studies have shown that astragalus’ antiviral properties help to stimulate the immune system and inhibit the development of the common cold or flu.

#3: Ginger

If you keep up with our web content, you know that we love ginger. One of our favorite things about ginger is that it helps to cleanse the lymphatic system, also known as the body’s sewage system. It also helps to flush toxins from your organs. Did we mention that ginger prevents the body from accumulating toxins that can make you sick or susceptible to bacterial infections? Well, it does that too!

#4: Oil of Oregano

While fresh oregano is tasty, the health benefits come alive when it is distilled to extract the essential oil. Oil of oregano contains carvacrol and thymol, both of which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Carvacrol is responsible for reversing viral infections, allergies, parasites, and reducing inflammation.

#5: Cat’s Claw

This herb has a lot of bark, not meow! Okay…that was terrible. People in South America have actually used the bark of cat’s claw as a natural remedy for fevers and digestive conditions, like dysentery, for centuries. Cat’s claw has powerful antiviral properties that can be used to help reduce one’s viral load, and early studies show that it may be beneficial for HIV patients, but more research needs to be conducted.

#6: Elderberry

Elderberry has been popularly used in many cultures for its ability to help fight viral infections, herpes, influenza, and bacterial infections. Almost all of the elderberry plant is usable. You can use the bark, leaves, roots, and flowers, which can be beneficial to brew into a tea when you have the flu. Make an elderberry syrup to boost immune function by clicking here.

#7: Olive Leaf

The antiviral properties of olive leaf have been known to fight back against the common cold and more serious viruses like meningitis, pneumonia, hepatitis B, malaria, gonorrhea, and candida symptoms. Recent research has shown that the extract of olive leaf can fight against viruses that cause influenza or respiratory infections. Olive leaf extract’s compounds can also kill invading organisms, making it so viruses cannot replicate to spread infection.

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Let your garlic breath be loud and proud because April 19^th is National Garlic Day! Although the origin of this day remains a mystery, we are overjoyed that there is a day to honor the magical, pungent little clove. What you should do to celebrate all that garlicky goodness is head to the kitchen and cook up a garlic feast!

Garlic can do some amazing things and we want to share what it can do with you!

Keeps You Warm

Although you may not want your breath to smell like garlic, it is certainly a powerful, immune-boosting herb with antibacterial and antiviral properties. Garlic is a natural vasoldilator, which means that it helps to widen blood vessels and prevents blood cells from clumping. In case you were wondering what else garlic does, it works to improve the health of your heart and lowers glucose metabolism in those with diabetes.

Helps With Ear Infections

This may sound a little odd, but putting a few drops of garlic oil (or an entire garlic clove) in your ear is a great natural remedy.  The compounds in garlic help to attack the bacteria or virus in the inner ear, while the antiseptic properties of garlic work to inhibit the infection from spreading.

Aids Digestion

Garlic has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, and it acts as a prebiotic, which helps to nourish beneficial gut bacteria. It also helps to cleanse the colon, making it an overall digestive helper.

Helps To Kill Parasites

Garlic has been known to treat intestinal parasites for quite some time. It works to kill harmful microorganisms and encourages the removal of heavy metals from the body.

Gets You Goin

Garlic may seem like an odd food to be on an aphrodisiac list because it has a lasting effect on your breath. If you both eat it, though, there won’t be any problems! Ancient Egyptian priests were actually forbidden to eat garlic because they feared that they wouldn’t be able to control their desires. Allicin, known for lowering cholesterol, helps to increase blood flow.

Try one of the following garlic recipes and let us know how you like it.

Raw Falafel With Lemon Garlic Aioli

If you are a fan of Mediterranean food, you are in for an absolute treat. These raw falafels are what you’ve been craving while cleansing.

Click here to make the recipe.

Baked Garlic Cilantro Fries

Baked garlic french fries tossed in fresh cilantro. A friend to your taste buds as well as waistline when you’re craving that handful of salty goodness.

Click here to make the recipe.

Zucchini Pasta With Garlic Avocado Sauce

This is a really easy and delicious recipe and it should definitely be made very soon. We hope you enjoy the incredible flavors.

Click here to make the recipe.

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