8 Natural Remedies that Make You Poop

The frequency of bowel movement varies from person to person but a range of three times a week to three times a day is healthy. You should see a physician if you haven’t passed stool in three days. Lack of bowel movement can have unpleasant and dangerous side effects.

If you’re not passing stool regularly it means you’re constipated, and chances are you’re experiencing bloating, abdominal pain and pain when going to the bathroom. Before you opt for laxatives to ease your constipation, try the natural remedies below. They will treat your constipation and make you poop.

1. COFFEE

If you drink coffee regularly, you know that it can send you to the bathroom right away. Researchers explain that when you drink coffee it stimulates digestive muscles, which makes you want to poop.

Keep in mind that caffeinated coffee is 23 percent more effective at stimulating your gut than decaffeinated coffee.

2. SOLUBLE FIBER

You’ve probably seen me recommend soluble fiber to those who want to lose weight. It fills your stomach and reduces your chances of overeating.

High intake of soluble fiber has also been shown to improve bowel movement. Unfortunately, one study found that fiber might not ease other constipation symptoms, despite increasing bowel movement frequency.

Get soluble fiber from nuts and seeds, barley, lentils, fruits, vegetables, beans, and peas.

3. PRUNE JUICE

Prune juice or prunes will send you to the bathroom more often.  Some sources say that prunes are more effective than other sources of fiber. They work because they contain sorbitol, a substance that works as a laxative by drawing water into the large intestines, which allows stool to pass.

4. FLAXSEED OR OLIVE OIL

One study found that taking 4 ml of flax oil or olive oil helped ease constipation in patients. It’s worth noting that only the flaxseed oil group saw improvement in bowel movement.

5. WATER

You probably know that inadequate water intake causes constipation. Therefore, increasing your water intake to two liters a day will make you poop regularly.

Remember that water only eases constipation for those who are dehydrated. It may not be helpful if you usually drink enough water every day.

6. GINGER TEA

Ginger is probably the most popular herb for digestive problems. It will stimulate your digestion and help ease your constipation. You may also want to try dandelion and peppermint tea, since both of these also improve digestion.

7. EXERCISE

Did you know that exercise stimulates your digestive muscles, which makes it easier for stool to pass?

Any exercise will help, but I’ve found crunches to be very effective at promoting bowel movement. 

8. KIWIFRUIT

Kiwifruit is a good source of fiber and research shows it can help get your digestive tract moving.

20 Amazing Benefits Of Cauliflower

The health benefits of cauliflower include a reduced risk of cancer, heart and brain disorders, relief from indigestion, detoxification of the body, increased iron absorption, and weight loss. This superfood also helps boost eye health, maintain hormonal balance, and prevents diabetes, colitis, respiratory papillomatosis, hypertension, and the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. It is packed with nutrients and antioxidant power which helps in strengthening the immune system, maintaining bone and cellular health, electrolyte balance, and optimum cholesterol levels.

What is Cauliflower?

Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes broccoli, kale, and cabbage. [1] It derives its name from the Latin word ‘caulis‘ which means cabbage with a flower. The florets on the head of the cauliflower, also known as curd, are tightly clustered and consist of immature flower buds attached to a central stalk. To protect the flavor and softness of the cauliflower heads, they are kept away from sunlight to prevent the development of chlorophyll pigment and over-maturity.

It is considered to be ancient Asia but it re-emerged in the Mediterranean region, Turkey, and Italy in 600 BC. Around the mid-16th century, this vegetable achieved recognition in France and Northern Europe. Today, India, China, Italy, France, and the United States are among the top producers of cauliflower throughout the world.

Cauliflower Nutrition Facts

Cauliflower is a rich source of vitamin C, folate, vitamin K, B complex vitamins and vitamin E. It provides vital minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, zinc, sodiumand iron without adding any harmful cholesterol. It is a good source of protein, a substantial amount of phytochemicals, unsaturated fats, and essential omega-3 fatty acids and contains a very of fat. [3] It also provides dietary fiber and contains smaller amounts of natural sugars as compared to the other members of its botanical relatives, such as broccoli.

Types of Cauliflower

Cauliflower is available in four major groups: Asian, Italian, northwest European biennial, and northern European annuals, represented by more than a hundred varieties. Apart from white, it also comes in several other colors mentioned below. [3]

• Green: Green cauliflower is referred to as broccoflower. It can be found in a normal curd-shaped form as well as in a spiky variant called Romanesco broccoli.
• Purple: The antioxidant group, anthocyanins, present in the purple cauliflower provides the color of this variety.
• Orange: Orange cauliflower is highly nutritious and contains an immense amount of vitamin A, as compared to the white variety.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

Let us look at some of the important health benefits of cauliflower in detail:

Prevents Oxidative Stress

Cauliflower contains vitamin C, manganese, and other potent antioxidants that help in imparting nourishment to the body. [4] It also contains phytochemicals, called indoles and glucosinates, namely glucobrassicin, glucoraphanin, and gluconasturtiin. [5] These components stimulate cancer-blocking enzymes and protect the body cells from the oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.

Improves Cardiovascular Health

Regular consumption of cauliflower ensures blood circulation and helps in maintaining proper functioning of the blood vessels, which can be attributed to the presence of glucoraphanin and vitamin K. Glucoraphanin is converted into isothiocyanates that activate anti-inflammatory activities and prevent the accumulation of lipids in the blood vessels. This aids in the unobstructed flow of blood, which reduces the risk of conditions like atherosclerosis and promotes cardiovascular health. [6] Research has also proved that the antithrombotic and antiplatelet function of Indole-3-carbinol, found in abundance in cauliflower, contributes significantly towards a healthy heart. [7]

Prevents Cancer

Studies have shown that indole-3-carbinol present in cauliflower has chemopreventive and anti-estrogen effects that help in hampering the growth of cancer cells. [8] Research has provided supporting evidence for the fact that consumption of brassica vegetables such as cauliflower assists in reducing the risk of various types of cancers such as lung, bladder, breast, prostate, ovarian, and cervical cancer. [9]

Prevents Stomach Disorders

Cauliflower is a source of dietary fiber that aids in digestion and promotes the elimination of toxins from the body. The presence of glucosinolate, glucoraphanin, and sulforaphane in this vegetable protects the stomach lining and helps in resisting the growth of Heliobacter pylori bacteria. [10] In addition to this defense mechanism, dietary isothiocyanates in cauliflower prevent the risk of various abdominal disorders such as stomach ulcers and colon cancer.

Iron Absorption

Vitamin C present in cauliflower helps to better absorb iron in the blood. [11] This helps to increase the hemoglobin count in the body.

Treats Respiratory Problems

Respiratory papillomatosis is caused by the human papillomavirus that affects the vocal cords in the larynx, trachea, lungs, and bronchi. Studies have shown that increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, aids in reducing the severity of respiratory papillomatosis.

Improves Bone Health

Cauliflower contains vitamin C, which plays an important role in the production of collagen that protects the joints and bones from inflammatory damage. [12] Also, it contains vitamin K, which may help in preventing bone loss in both men and women.

Macular Degeneration

It is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and thus, is effective in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration which can lead to blindness, particularly in the elderly. [13] The sulforaphane protects the retinal tissues from damage caused by oxidative stress, prevents vision impairment, and various eye ailments such as cataracts.

Detoxifies the Body

Cauliflower contains indole-3-carbinol, a phytonutrient that, along with sulforaphane, helps in activating and regulating the function of detoxifying enzymes. [14]

Skin Care

Studies have shown that sulforaphane present in cauliflower is effective in protecting the skin against the damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. [15] The protective action of sulforaphane defends the body against inflammations, skin cancer, UV-induced erythema, and cellular damage. [16]

Hair Care

Cauliflower, along with healthy skin, also promotes hair growth due to the presence of sulfur and silicon.

Treats Nervous Disorders

The sulforaphane and indoles present in cauliflower play a key role in reducing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. They activate the detoxification enzymes, which elevate the glutathione level and help in treating neuronal injuries caused by inflammation and oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

Reduces Hypertension

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the glucoraphanin and sulforaphane present in cauliflower help in reducing oxidative stress, along with the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol. It also promotes the stimulation of HDL (good) cholesterol and lowers blood pressure. In addition to this, the fiber and omega-3 fatty acids present in cauliflower also prevent hardening of the arteries.

Maintains Electrolyte Balance

The potassium content in cauliflower helps in maintaining the electrolyte balance in the body, which is essential for the functioning of the nervous system in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contractions. [17]

Boosts Immunity

Cauliflower is rich in antioxidants and immune-strengthening nutrients. [18] Along with other healthy components, the presence of vitamin C in it inhibits various infections and strengthens the defense mechanisms of the body by hampering the growth of disease-causing inflammation.

Prevents Obesity

Cauliflower contains indoles, which possess anti-obesity effects. Studies have supported the fact that consumption of cauliflower is beneficial in preventing various inflammatory and metabolic disorders in the body. [19] It also helps in the stimulation of fat-burning thermogenesis, aids in weight loss and prevents obesity.

Helps Foetal Growth

The inclusion of cauliflower in your diet is beneficial during pregnancy due to the presence of essential folate, which helps in a healthy neural development of the baby. [20]

Improves Brain Health

Cauliflower contains choline and phosphorous, which are both effective in repairing cell membranes. [21] This is essential for the efficient functioning of the brain and nervous system for transmitting nerve signals. In addition to this, the presence of potassium and vitamin B6 in cauliflower plays an important role in maintaining brain health and promoting proper communication in the nerves. [22]

Controls Diabetes

Regular intake of cauliflower helps in reducing the risk of diabetes due to the presence of vitamin C and potassium. The potassium content in cauliflower helps in regulating glucose metabolism. It is also utilized by the pancreas for secreting the insulin hormone that combats high blood sugar in the body. [23] In addition to this, studies have supported that the vitamin B6 present in cauliflower is also effective in enhancing the tolerance of glucose in patients with gestational diabetes. [24]

Heals Colitis

Studies have suggested that extracts from cauliflower exert anti-inflammatory effects on the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. [25] This protective effect can be attributed to the presence of phenethyl isothiocyanate, which exerts a healing effect on the damage occurred in colon tissues and the colon epithelium.

Prevents Stroke

The consumption of white flesh fruits and vegetables such as cauliflower helps in reducing the risk of stroke, due to the presence of a compound allicin, which also aids in the cleansing of the liver and the blood.

How To Select And Store A Cauliflower?

Cauliflower with clean, tightly bundled, creamy white florets with bright green leaves are the best ones to pick. Yellow, spotted florets with saggy leaves are the ones devoid of nutrition and freshness. Dark-colored patches on the cauliflower may also indicate the presence of a mold disease known as downy mildew. [26] [27]

Cauliflower can be stored in the refrigerator for 5 days. Cut florets needs to be consumed within 4 days as it doesn’t last long.

Healthy Cauliflower Recipes

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that has become a favorite in health circles. Here are different ways to serve it:

• Side Dish: The florets can be steamed or roasted with spices, or can be made fancier into garlic parmesan roasted cauliflower.
• Cauliflower rice: When grated and roasted, it can be used as a low-carb substitute for rice.
• Cauliflower crust or wraps: Pizzas and wraps can be made healthy with a crust made of this cruciferous vegetable.
• Vegetable and dips: Cauliflower florets, salted and blanched, can be served with hummus or yogurt-based dips as a healthy alternative to chips.
• Meat substitute: The vegetable is roasted whole with spices and served as a steak. It can also be dipped in a batter of eggs and fried can be served with rice or as nuggets.
• Mashed cauliflower: Mash boiled cauliflower with yogurt to get an antioxidant-packed and lighter substitute for buttery mashed potatoes.

Side Effects

Cauliflower can cause side effects such as allergies, kidney stones, and excess gas. Avoid excess intake and also avoid its use if taking medications such as warfarin and coumadin.

Gas: Cauliflower contains complex carbohydrates that do not get broken down entirely in the digestive tract. These carbohydrates are then fed upon by the intestinal bacteria. This can sometimes result in bloating and the release of odorous gases such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

Uric acid: Cauliflower contains purines which can cause various health concerns if consumed in excess. [28] Purines break down to form uric acid and the excessive intake of purine-rich foods can lead to a build-up of uric acid in the body. [29] This can further pave the way for uric acid-related problems such as kidney stones and gout. [30]

Anaphylaxis: Cauliflower may prompt anaphylaxis in some people, which means it can cause a severe bodily allergic reaction to a substance. [31] Warning signs of such allergic reactions include swelling of certain body parts, itching, dyspnea, and breathing complications. It is always advisable to discontinue the intake of cauliflower in the occurrence of such critical symptoms and seek medical attention immediately.

Drug Interactions

Warfarin: Cauliflower is rich in vitamin K, which is utilized by the body for normal blood clotting. It can interact and reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants like warfarin and coumadin which are prescribed to prevent the clotting of blood in the body. [32] If you are taking anticoagulant drugs, it is always advisable to discuss the dietary intake of foods rich in vitamin K such as cauliflower with a health professional.

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that brings a pleasant flavor along with low-calorie nutrition to the diet. The inclusion of cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower in the diet would go a long way in providing ample benefits for almost any lifestyle!

How Can You Protect Yourself from Electromagnetic Radiation?

Research has shown that electromagnetic radiation can pose various health risks, such as an increased risk of cancer, miscarriage and depression. And we’re surrounded by electromagnetic radiation on a daily basis.

Electromagnetic radiation refers to energy produced from a source, such as light from the sun, microwaves from an oven, or your cell phone’s signal.

You’re likely exposed to some form of electromagnetic radiation almost constantly, but you can still do a lot to protect yourself from any potentially negative effects. Let’s take a closer look at this issue.

WHAT IS ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION?

Electromagnetic radiation is a type of energy that travels and spreads out as it moves. It’s composed of a stream of particles called photons that move in wave-like patterns at the speed of light. Each photon has a certain amount of energy, but no physical mass.

The photons of radio waves are fairly low-energy and move in long wavelengths, which puts them at the low end of the electromagnetic spectrum. As you move up the spectrum, microwaves have more energy, then visible and ultraviolet light from the sun, and x-rays and gamma rays have the highest amounts of energy.

Electromagnetic radiation is classified into two different types:

• Ionizing radiation – includes mid- to high-frequency types of radiation, such as ultraviolet radiation, x-rays and gamma rays. Ionizing radiation has enough energy that it can remove electrons from atoms and molecules of air, water and living tissue as it passes through them.
• Non-ionizing radiation – includes low- to mid-frequency types of radiation, such as radio waves, microwaves and cell phone signals. These are not able to remove electrons from atoms or molecules, but they are strong enough to heat up substancesand are proven to have a biological effect on human cells.

HOW CAN ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION HARM YOUR HEALTH?

It’s well-established that prolonged exposure to ionizing electromagnetic radiation can cause cellular changes that can lead to health risks such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, radiation sickness and genetic damage.

Because non-ionizing radiation is weaker than ionizing radiation, its effects tend to take place over longer periods. But it can still be just as damaging after many years of exposure.

A large volume of research over the past three decades has linked non-ionizing radiation to an increased risk of developing certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, immune system dysfunction and free radical damage to DNA.

Even the World Health Organization has stated that technology that emits low-level electromagnetic fields (EMFs), such as cell phones, “is too recent to rule out possible long-term effects”.

In their publication Establishing a Dialogue on Risks from Electromagnetic Fields, the WHO goes on to say that, “Given the widespread use of technology, the degree of scientific uncertainly, and the levels of public apprehension, rigorous scientific studies [of EMFs] and clear communication with the public are needed.”

WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION

1. Keep Your Distance

Electromagnetic radiation is strongest at its source. For example, cell phones, microwave ovens, baby monitors, smart meters and Wi-Fi modems all actively create and emit electromagnetic radiation. So, the farther away you are from these active sources, the less radiation you’ll receive.

Try some of these suggestions for keeping your electronic devices at a distance:

• Hold your cell phone or cordless phone away from your head when talking. Most cell phone manuals state that you should keep your phone at least 15 millimeters (5/8 inch) away from your head when using it. Also, use speakerphone or text when you can.
• Avoid putting your laptop on your lap. Try to use a secondary keyboard and mouse to give yourself some distance.
• Keep your modem away from your living spaces. When possible, have your modem installed in the least-travelled corner of your home.
• Stand back from your microwave when it’s operating. Some microwaves can leak a small amount of radiation when they’re on, so it’s best to give them some space until your food is done.

2. Get Wired

Wireless signals provide a constant source of electromagnetic radiation, so try using wired devices as much as possible. Yes, using wires is annoying. But if you’re on your devices for many hours a day, it will significantly cut down your exposure to electromagnetic fields.

Try using a wired headset when talking on your cell phone, using an ethernet cable for your computer, or wired headphones for your MP3 player.

3. Watch Your Time

More time spent around electronic equipment will mean more exposure to electromagnetic radiation. Working around electronics is hard to avoid, but consider some unplugged activities in your free time.

Instead of watching a video on your computer or television, try going for a walk or getting together with friends instead. Chances are you’ll have more fun than watching that video anyway.

4. Unplug

Even when you’re not using many electronic devices, they’re still producing electromagnetic radiation. Wi-Fi modems emit signals continuously, and even computers will still have a weak electromagnetic field around them when they’re in “sleep” mode.

Get in the habit of turning your modem off at night when possible. Also try having as many of your electronic devices on power bars that you can switch off when they’re not in use. This will also help you conserve energy and save money on your power bills.

5. Remove Electronics from Your Bedroom

You spend a lot of time in your bedroom, so keeping it as clear as possible from electronics will greatly reduce your exposure. Electromagnetic radiation is also shown to disrupt melatonin and sleep, which makes it especially important to keep it out of your sleeping space.

Remove any unnecessary wireless devices, unplug any screens for the night and above all, don’t take your cell phone to bed with you.

6. Stay Healthy

It’s known that electromagnetic radiation causes oxidative stress on your cells and increases free radical concentrations in your body. Under normal circumstances, your body should be able to repair this damage.

But, if your health is compromised, your body won’t be able to deal with the effects of prolonged electromagnetic radiation exposure. Over time, this oxidative stress can take a toll on your health.

Maintaining your health and eating a diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients will support your body and naturally protect against any potential damage from electromagnetic radiation. Try including these antioxidant rich foods in your diet or spending more time in nature to naturally boost your health.

7 Ways to Recover from a Bad Night’s Sleep

We’ve all been there. You’re lying in bed eyes wide open, you’ve barely gotten any sleep, and the alarm is about to go off. You desperately close your eyes hoping to catch some last-minute Zs, but it’s too late. You drag yourself out of bed thinking you’re going to have a bad day.

If this happens to you regularly, I have good news for you. You can turn things around and have a great day using these effective ways to recover from a bad night’s sleep.

1. START YOUR DAY WITH A COLD SHOWER.

This may sound like torture, but it actually helps. A cold shower forces you to breathe deeply, which increases your oxygen intake.

Getting more oxygen increases your blood flow and alertness. Research also shows that exposure to cold helps lower uric acid levels. This is important, since there’s a link between stress and uric acid levels. 

2. EAT A NUTRIENT-PACKED BREAKFAST.

Many of us know that what we eat for breakfast determines our mood throughout the day.

Therefore, after a bad night’s sleep, start your day with a breakfast centered on unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods. An ideal vegan breakfast, for example, would be sweet potatoes, quinoa and avocado.

3. DON’T DRINK TOO MUCH COFFEE.

A cup of coffee in the morning can set your day off on the right foot, but it’s not a good idea to fight your afternoon slump with coffee.

It takes an average of six hours for caffeine to leave your system, which means drinking coffee in the afternoon can prevent you from falling asleep at night.

4. AVOID HITTING THE SNOOZE BUTTON.

You may be tempted to sleep in for a few minutes, but that won’t make up for the lost sleep. It can actually throw off your body clock and cause sleepless again at night.

Get up at your normal waking time, and go about your business.

5. GET OUT AND EXPOSE YOURSELF TO SUNLIGHT.

Sunlight exposure will help boost your mood, since it triggers the release of endorphins, which make us feel good.

Go for a 20-minute walk as early as possible. The light from the sun will stop the release of melatonin, making you feel more awake.

6. AVOID TAKING LONG NAPS.

If you read this article, you know that long naps can be disastrous for your health. One of their biggest disadvantages is that they interfere with your nighttime sleep.

Keep your naps short, between 10 and 30 minutes. You may want to skip them altogether, if you’re struggling with sleeplessness every other night.

7. DO NOT GO TO BED EARLIER THAN USUAL.

Avoid going to bed earlier than usual, even if you’re sleepy. Sleeping longer hours won’t help you recover, it’ll only make you wake up feeling tired. As long as you get the recommended eight hours of sleep the next night, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed.

Dharam Sabha: Dates for Ram temple construction will be announced in 2019 Kumbh, says Ramji Das

Ramji Das said, "The date for construction of the Ram temple will be declared in the 2019 Kumbh which will be held in Prayagraj."

Amidst growing demand for construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya without any further delay, Ramji Das of Nirmohi Akhara told VHP's Dharam Sabha on Sunday that dates for the same will be announced early next year during Kumbh in Prayagraj.

Addressing the Sabha after the inauguration marked by chanting of mantras at the Badey Bhaktmaal ki Bagia, Ramji Das said, "The date for construction of the Ram temple will be declared in the 2019 Kumbh which will be held in Prayagraj. It is only a matter of few days, and I request you all to show some patience," the seer remarked.

The Dharam Sabha, the biggest congregation of Ram bhakts in the temple town convened to discuss the way forward for temple construction, witnessed seer after seer stressing the need for construction of the temple at the earliest.

Nritya Gopaldas, President of the Ram Janmbhoomi Nyas, in his address said: "Such a large attendance shows that how much people from different walks of life are attached to the Ram temple.

"We respect the courts. We have great hopes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. I request Adityanath to pave the way for construction of Ram temple", he said making a call to the government to do the needful in this regard at the earliest.

The Dharam sabha venue, which witnessed saffron hue all the way with flags, banners, buntings and head gear in the same colour, also saw the Ram Bhakts taking a pledge for construction of Ram temple, vowing by taking the soil of Ayodhya in their hands.

Religious leader Ram Bhadracharya said: "On November 23, I had called a senior union minister who assured that after the model code of conduct comes to an end on December 11, the PM is likely to sit with them and take such a decision so that Ram temple could be built."

"We were also told we will not be cheated and I feel that ordinance route may be opted in the winter session of Parliament. We should exercise patience... We have been saddened by the court (nyayalaya se niraash ho chuke hai). The court of people will not deceive us" he stressed.

Once Ram temple is built it will become a "ghoshit Hindu raashtra", he told the gathering.

Earlier senior leader Champat Rai declared that no formula dividing the disputed land will be acceptable for temple construction. "We want the entire land for temple construction ... No formula dividing the land is acceptable."

Though Rai did not spell out the details, his assertions are considered to be in reference to the Allahabad High court verdict dividing the land into three parts.

12 Anti-Aging Herbs and Nutrients

Trying to maintain a youthful appearance but don’t want to undergo the knife, Botox or some other invasive procedure?

Natural herbs and nutrients can help. Here are 11 of the best ones for anti-aging:

1. ALPHA LIPOIC ACID (ALA)

ALA is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your body from free radical damage. It also helps to recycle other antioxidants like vitamins E and C, giving you greater protection against free radicals. Free radicals are to blame for aging and disease, including skin damage and wrinkling.

Research in the European medical journal Inflammation Research found that alpha lipoic acid not only protects the cells and tissues against free radical damage linked to aging, it also prevents the destruction of the cellular energy centers, known as mitochondria, which tend to become damaged as we age. Preventing damage to these critical cellular components helps to ensure adequate energy for cellular and tissue repair over time.

2. BILBERRY

Packed with antioxidants, bilberry is potent medicine against many age-related concerns. It is especially helpful to preserve vision and prevent degenerative eye diseases. Researchin the online medical journal PLoS One found that bilberry can help protect against damage to the retina and nerves of the eye.

3. GABA (GAMMA-AMINOBUTYRIC ACID)

Declining levels of HGH are linked with many of the symptoms linked with aging: fat gain, muscle loss, loss of energy, poor sleep, skin changes, bone density loss and a decline in libido. Supplementing with GABA, a natural amino acid may help to maintain levels of HGH naturally, lessening these unwanted symptoms. Avoid GABA if you are prone to seizures. 

4. GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM)

Garlic is renowned for its potent effects on viruses and bacteria, but it also reduces cholesterol levels, helps lower blood pressure and prevents excessive blood vessel clumping, all of which can contribute to heart disease. The sulphur compounds found in garlic have been found in research published in the journal Molecules to have significant antioxidant activity against free radicals.

5. GINKGO (GINKGO BILOBA)

While we attribute memory loss, reduced cognitive function and dementia to age, the use of natural medicines like the herb ginkgo biloba may help to protect the brain from age-related damage or impairment. A growing body of research that supports the use of ginkgo to increase blood flow to the brain and to protect brain cells and blood vessels in the brain.

In a recent study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research, scientists assessed the existing studies showcasing the role of ginkgo on brain health and found that ginkgo may be helpful in the treatment of vascular dementia. A typical dose varies between 60 to 240 mg of standardized ginkgo extract per day. Follow package instructions for the product you choose.

6. GINSENG (PANAX GINSENG)

Among the Chinese, ginseng is considered the Fountain of Youth. According to renowned late herbalist Dr. James Duke, it tones the skin and muscles, improves appetite and digestion, and restores sexual energy. Ginseng comes in many forms including: raw herb, tea, liquid extract, tincture, tablets and capsules. Follow package directions for the product you choose.

7. GOTU KOLA (CENTELLA ASIATICA)

Frequently used in India to improve memory and extend longevity, gotu kola is excellent when made into an herbal tea. It has been shown in research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology to demonstrate significant antioxidant ability, as well as to improve cognitive function and mitochondria health.

8. HORSETAIL (EQUISETUM ARVENSE)

Loaded with the mineral silicon that often declines with age, horsetail plays a role in increasing the silicon in arteries, skin, bones, cartilage and connective tissues. Researchers studied the effectiveness of horsetail in building bone and preventing infections that can be linked to fractures and osteoporosis. Published in the journal Cell Proliferation, the study showed that horsetail improved the bone-building ability of osteoblasts—cells that make bone by laying down a matrix to which minerals bind to form bone. Horsetail is also available as a tea., tincture and in capsules.

9. MILK THISTLE (SILYBUM MARIANUM)

Since the liver has more than five hundred functions, including processing and filtering medications and environmental toxins, it can suffer from the stresses of the modern world, particularly over time as we age. Silymarin, an active ingredient in milk thistle stimulates liver cell regeneration to help the liver rebuild after it has been damaged. A standardized extract of 140 mg of silymarin per day is suitable to help protect and repair the liver.

10. PEPPERMINT (METHA PEPERITA)

In addition to helping with digestion and gastrointestinal problems linked with aging, peppermint contains antioxidants that help prevent cancer, heart disease and other age-related disorders. It is readily available as an herbal tea.

11. TURMERIC (CURCUMA LONGA)

Turmeric is powerful against many types of pain and inflammation associated with aging. A spice, commonly used in Indian curries, you can add it to your soups, stews and curries to benefit from this valuable spice. Research published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology showed that within only one hour after taking a supplement containing one of turmeric’s active ingredients, curcumin, study participants had a significant improvement in memory and attention tasks compared to the placebo group.

12. VITAMIN D

Vitamin D helps protect against bone loss linked with aging, as well as many chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Staying free of these diseases can certainly help you live a longer, healthier life. Additionally, even the flu can become increasingly dangerous as we age.

Fortunately, in a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers assessed vitamin D’s ability to reduce the incidence of flu. After assessing the 167 study participants, scientists concluded that vitamin D3 supplementation reduced the incidence of flu. While the study was conducted on children, the results most likely extend to adults. Additionally, in a study of 1739 people published in the medical journal Circulation, researchers found that a vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Correcting the deficiency may help prevent heart disease and premature death due to heart attacks or stroke.

It isn’t necessary to take all of the above herbs and nutrients to benefit from their anti-aging properties. Even one or two taken consistently can help. Start by drinking horsetail, gotu kola or peppermint tea regularly and eating more curries with garlic and turmeric. Follow the manufacturer’s suggested dose for tinctures, capsules or tea. Consult a qualified health professional before taking any herbs or combining them with medications or for the treatment of health conditions.