30 Foods & Herbs with Natural Antibiotic Properties

In herbology, antibiotic-like foods are called astringent—meaning natural blood cleansers. The word anti (against)-biotic (life) refers to a list of pharmaceutical antimicrobials designed to kill harmful bacteria in the host body. The problem is these synthetic forms of antibiotics kill off both the good and bad bacteria leaving the body depleted of living microflora that supports immune function.

Including foods and herbs that contain antibiotic properties in your diet can support your immune system and help to defend you from certain infectious bacteria, such as the Lymes spirochete and Candida Albicans, an overgrowth of yeast. With an increased resistance to pharmaceutical antibiotics in people today, it is wise to eat foods that work in your defense on a daily basis. 

This is not to imply that you should not take antibiotics when deemed necessary by your medical doctor. However, knowing how to use certain foods as medicine can help you to cut down on over-using synthetic antibiotics for minor health conditions. Naturally, consult your physician before proceeding.

ONIONS AND GARLIC

Close relatives, onions and garlic contain antibacterial properties. Both foods have been used to treat everything from minor illness to major disease and inflammation, both internally and externally. The sulfur compounds in onions and garlic are the key elements for use as an antibiotic. In one study, garlic was tested on mice against an antibiotic-resistant strain of Staphylococci. The results showed the garlic had protected the mice against the pathogen and significantly reduced any inflammation. Both have been used to help fight off the residual effects of colds and flu, while garlic’s antifungal properties help prevent yeast infections and combat viral conditions, onion’s high phytonutrient content are known to “mop up” free radicals that can lead to cancer in the body.

 
HONEY

Honey was used as an antibacterial treatment long before synthetic antibiotics were developed, in cultures all over the world, for wounds and illness. Honey contains an enzyme, antimicrobial in nature, which releases hydrogen peroxide and prohibits the growth of certain bacteria. In Chinese medicine honey is thought to harmonize the liver, neutralize toxins and relieve pain. Its antibacterial properties are also effective in the treatment of the bacterium Heliobacter pylori or stomach ulcer. 

CABBAGE

A member of the cruciferous vegetable family, along with broccoli, kale, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, cabbage has long been recognized for its healing powers. One reason is the cancer fighting sulfur compounds. Another is that fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C are considered a natural antibiotic and a one-cup serving of cabbage provides about 75 percent of your daily adult allowance. Cabbage juice is highly recommended in the treatment of stomach ulcers. Drink half a cup of fresh cabbage juice 2-3 times a day, between meals for two weeks. Add half a teaspoon of raw, unfiltered honey and sip slowly, even chewing a bit to get the enzymes going. Topically, raw cabbage leaves applied to tender breasts can relieve inflammation from mastitis, fibro cysts and menstrual breast tenderness. 

 
FERMENTED FOODS

Today more and more doctors recommend you take a probiotic in conjunction with antibiotic treatment to replace the good bacteria, microflora, that is also being destroyed in the digestive system. Fermented foods loaded with microorganisms may prove to be superior to taking a capsule from the health food store. Raw, unpasteurized sauerkraut (there’s that cabbage again), raw pickles, cultured vegetables, and kimchi are all excellent ways to introduce probiotics back into your intestines. Begin with a few teaspoons and increase as desired.
 

HERBS

There are many herbs with antibiotic properties, so listed here are the culinary herbs you might use to cook with on a daily or weekly basis. Continue to enjoy them for their taste, knowing they are supporting your immune functions as well.

• Allspice
• Thyme
• Mints
• Basil
• Cinnamon
• Sage
• Chervil
• Rosemary
• Lemon balm
• Oregano
• Cumin
• Tarragon
• Cloves
• Bay leaf
• Chili peppers
• Marjoram
• Caraway seed
• Coriander
• Dill
• Nutmeg
• Cardamom
• Pepper
• Ginger
• Anise
• Fennel
• Mustard
• Parsley

5 Best Essential Oils for Spring Allergies

The snow is gone (in most places in North America), the birds are chirping and spring is officially here. While it is wonderful to get outdoors to garden, hike or cycle, it is good to have some natural remedies on hand if you are an allergy sufferer.

There are many essential oils that are effective for allergy symptoms and for alleviating sinus congestion, sneezing, respiratory problems and so forth. The following list is not exhaustive but includes some of the oils that are readily available and highly effective for allergies. It’s not necessary to use all of the oils; actually it is preferable to stick to one or two individual oils or a blend of a few. I’ve included the Latin names of the preferred varieties of essential oil to help ensure that you obtain the correct oils and avoid using any varieties that may lack therapeutic properties, or worse, be harmful.

Some of my favorite essential oils for allergies include: 

Blue Tansy (also known as Moroccan chamomile, Tanacetum annum) contains a unique compound known as chamazulene that has anti-allergic and anti-histamine properties, thereby reducing allergy symptoms while also preventing more allergic reactions. Do not use other varieties know as tansy as they can be toxic.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiate and Eucalyptus globulus) is an excellent expectorant that helps to clear sinus and lung congestion. Eucalyptus is highly effective at alleviating stuffed nasal passageways. Place a few drops on a tissue and inhale deeply for 5 to ten 10 minutes. Alternativelsy, simply placing this oil in an aromatherapy diffuser (a small device that diffuses the essential oil into the air) can help alleviate the congestion of allergies. Some people, but not all, can handle one drop of this oil “neat,” which means undiluted on the palms of the hands. Dilute it in a carrier oil if you have sensitive skin.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) works as a natural decongestant to alleviate nasal and sinus congestion. Unlike most essential oils, peppermint can be used neat to help reduce congestion and sinus headaches that often accompany allergies. A little goes a long way, as this oil leaves an intensely cooling sensation to the skin. Use only one drop under your nose to help sinuses drain or a couple of drops on your temples to alleviate sinus headaches. Wash your hands immediately and avoid eye contact as peppermint oil can irritate the eyes.

Tarragon (Artemesia dracunculus) has antiallergic properties that halt, reduce and treat allergic reactions.

Thyme (Thymus satureioides and Thymus vulgaris) Both of these types of thyme balance the immune system to prevent overworking, which happens in the case of allergies.

As I mentioned, it is not necessary to use all of these oils. Choose the ones that best fit your typical allergy symptoms or that fall within your price range. Remember, however, that it is better to get one high quality essential oil than to get several cheap oils. Most of the essential oils sold in pharmacies, grocery stores and department stores are made of cheap imitation ingredients or are synthesized so they have little or no therapeutic properties, or worse, they may be harmful. Some have been obtained using harsh solvents and contain these toxic solvents in the final product. Sadly, there’s no good way to tell if the product you are considering is harmful or low quality. Like anything, it is best to choose essential oils made by a reputable company.

Other than peppermint and possibly eucalyptus, do not use the oils undiluted; they need to be diluted in a carrier oil to prevent skin or respiratory reaction and to obtain the best results. Dilute in a small amount of sweet almond or fractionated coconut oil before applying to the skin and remember: a little goes a long way.

6 'healthy' foods that are actually packed with sugar — and what to eat instead

Sugar can be sneaky, lurking inside even healthy-sounding foods, from sauces to breakfast items.

If you’re watching your sugar intake, which “healthy” foods are you better off avoiding? Fox News spoke to Lauren Blake, a registered dietician at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and Alexandra Miller, a dietitian at Medifast, to find out which seemingly healthy foods may be hiding excess sugar:

1. YogurtYogurt can be a bit of a “health halo,” Blake told Fox News. While it may appear healthy, many brands can have a lot of added sugar, especially brands of flavored yogurts. For a 6-ounce container of yogurt, look for total carbohydrates of 15 grams or less, she recommended. Another tip? Typically, vanilla and coconut flavors have less added sugars than other flavors, Blake said. 

2. GranolaWhile many types of granola have whole grains and nuts, they often also have lots of added sugars and oils, Blake said. Try chopping up some nuts, and tossing them together with cinnamon and berries for an easy, healthy yogurt topping, Blake recommended.  

3. Granola or other health barsSimilarly, granola bars can be just as deceptive, sugar-wise, Miller told Fox News — some can even have as much sugar as a candy bar. Look for bars with 8 grams of sugar or less, she said. 

4. Fresh-pressed juiceWhile fresh-pressed fruit juice sounds healthy, there’s no fiber in it — which means your body will absorb the sugar very quickly, Blake said. Instead, try a green juice with minimal fruit, such as a juice made from greens, cucumbers, green apples, and lemon, she suggested.

5. Packaged fruits and vegetablesFruits and vegetables are a great choice — depending on how they’re packaged. Avoid canned fruits and vegetables, including mandarin oranges, cream of corn, and canned beets, that come packed in syrup, Miller said. And beware of items like applesauce that boast “no sugar added,” as Miller noted that they may still have fruit juice concentrates that significantly up their sugar content. Check the ingredient list to be sure. 

6. Low-fat salad dressingsWhile low-fat salad dressings may sound healthy, they could be packing extra sugar, Blake said. When recipes take fat out, they add sugar in. Instead, she recommended looking for full-fat salad dressings with real ingredients. 

US House Speaker backs intelligence panel chair in Russia probe

The top Republican in Congress on Tuesday stood by Devin Nunes, an ally of President Donald Trump who heads the House of Representatives intelligence committee and is under fire for his handling of an investigation into possible Russian ties to Trump`s election campaign. 

Democrats accuse Nunes of being too close to the president to be able to head the probe. Some of Nunes` fellow Republicans have questioned his objectivity after he made a controversial announcement last week about U.S. spy agency surveillance.

House Speaker Paul Ryan, asked at a news conference whether Nunes should step aside from the investigation and if he knew the source of Nunes` claims about surveillance, said: "No and no."

At an event in the White House, Trump declined to comment on whether Nunes should step back. 

The specter of possible Russian influence on the election in Trump`s favor has cast a shadow over the president`s first two months in office. 

Nunes announced last week without providing a source that he had information Trump associates may have been ensnared in incidental intelligence collection before the president took office in January. 

The lawmaker acknowledged visiting the White House before making the announcement but has declined to say who he met there.

Critics say that Nunes` disclosure was an effort to justify Trump`s unfounded accusations this month that his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, had directed surveillance on Trump Tower during the election campaign. 

The Senate Intelligence Committee, which is also investigating Russia`s role in the election, wants to question Trump`s son-in-law and adviser, Jared Kushner, about meetings he held with the Russian ambassador and a Russian banker in December. 

Nunes, who was a member of the team that ran Trump`s transition to the presidency after the Nov. 8 election, told reporters on Tuesday the House panel`s investigation was moving forward. Asked whether he would recuse himself, he said, "The investigation continues." 

Ryan spokeswoman AshLee Strong said in an email that "Speaker Ryan has full confidence that Chairman Nunes is conducting a thorough, fair, and credible investigation." 

But Republican senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham, influential foreign policy hawks, joined Democrats in questioning Nunes` objectivity although they stopped short of calling on him to remove himself from the probe as Democrats have done. 

"I think he put his objectivity in question, at the very least," Graham said on NBC`s "Today" show.

White House on brief lockdown after suspicious package reported; one taken in custody

The Secret Service on Tuesday took a man into custody near the White Houseafter approached a Secret Service officer with a suspicious package near the presidential mansion, a spokeswoman said.

The man was taken into custody at around 10:15 am, the Secret Service said. 

The unidentified man was taken into custody and explosive disposal teams were on the scene, Secret Service spokeswoman Cathy Milhoan told reporters in the White House briefing room.
The package was being inspected, she said.

"We separated the individual and the package. He is now in Secret Service custody," she said.

"We established a security perimeter, so the media was moved in here and East Wing tours were temporarily suspended. All other activity in the White House continues as normal."

Earlier: 

The North Lawn of the White House was on Tuesday evacuated and all journalists were held inside a briefing room as the United States Secret Service investigated a suspicious package found near White House grounds.  

According to a media report, the security came into action after they received the inputs about suspected package from a tweet.  The United States Secret Service are investigating the suspicious package.

The United States Secret Service tweeted to say they were "Investigating the suspicious package near White House grounds."

They said road closures were in effect. 

A number of media persons, who were present inside the building at the time of the alert, have been taken to a safe location. 

After the President's official residence was put on a lockdown, all the media persons were locked inside a room for safety procedure. 

'China will never own Pakistan's problems'

China has its own vision, and given its issues with the US and India, Beijingwould never own Islamabad`s problems, a former envoy has said, adding that Pakistanneeds to address its issues.

Ashraf Jehangir Qazi, a former ambassador to the US, India and China, said this while speaking at a seminar titled "US Foreign Policy and Trump Presidency: A Review and Outlook" on Monday.

Qazi said that since 1979 China has been progressing. Initially, it emerged as regional power as well as second largest economy, and by 2030 it would become the largest economy of the world, "but the US and Europe, collectively, would remain the biggest economy of the world".

"Though it (China) is emerging as significant player in the entire region and Indian Ocean, it has not challenged any country. Let`s see how Trump deals with China," he said.

Former Foreign Minister Inamul Haq said US President Donald Trump wished to restore the US supremacy, bring back jobs for the people and protect the economy from the onslaught of globalisation, but it was very difficult for him to achieve all these tasks.

According to senior journalist Zahid Hussain, Trump policies towards South Asia are ambiguous, although the President spoke in a very positive manner during his telephonic talk with Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

"One thing is clear that India and Pakistan will be dealt separately, though Pakistan doesn`t like it."

"Trump`s position on China will make things more complicated and pressure will increase on Pakistan to take action against militant groups against India," he said

China able to deploy warplanes on artificial islands any time: US think tank

China appears to have largely completed major construction of military infrastructure on artificial islands it has built in the South China Sea and can now deploy combat planes and other military hardware there at any time, a U.S. think tank said on Monday.

The Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI), part of Washington`s Center for Strategic and International Studies, said the work on Fiery Cross, Subi and Mischief Reefs in the Spratly Islands included naval, air, radar and defensive facilities.

The think tank cited satellite images taken this month, which its director, Greg Poling, said showed new radar antennae on Fiery Cross and Subi.
"So look for deployments in the near future," he said.

China has denied U.S. charges that it is militarizing the South China Sea, although last week Premier Li Keqiang said defense equipment had been placed on islands in the disputed waterway to maintain "freedom of navigation."

China's Defense Ministry did not respond to a request for comment.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on Tuesday she was unaware of the details of the think tank's report, but added the Spratly Islands were China`s inherent territory.

"As for China deploying or not deploying necessary territorial defensive facilities on its own territory, this is a matter that is within the scope of Chinese sovereignty," she told a daily news briefing.

A Pentagon spokesman, Commander Gary Ross, declined to comment on the specifics of the AMTI report, saying it was not the Defense Department`s practice to comment on intelligence.

But he said that "China's continued construction in the South China Sea is part of a growing body of evidence that they continue to take unilateral actions which are increasing tensions in the region and are counterproductive to the peaceful resolution of disputes."

AMTI said China`s three air bases in the Spratlys and another on Woody Island in the Paracel chain further north would allow its military aircraft to operate over nearly the entire South China Sea, a key global trade route that Beijing claims most of.

Several neighboring states have competing claims in the sea, which is widely seen as a potential regional flashpoint.

The think tank said advanced surveillance and early-warning radar facilities at Fiery Cross, Subi and Cuarteron Reefs, as well as Woody Island, and smaller facilities elsewhere gave it similar radar coverage.

It said China had installed HQ-9 surface-to-air missiles at Woody Island more than a year ago and had deployed anti-ship cruise missiles there on at least one occasion. 

It had also constructed hardened shelters with retractable roofs for mobile missile launchers at Fiery Cross, Subi and Mischief and enough hangars at Fiery Cross for 24 combat aircraft and three larger planes, including bombers.

U.S. officials told Reuters last month that China had finished building almost two dozen structures on Subi, Mischief and Fiery Cross that appeared designed to house long-range surface-to-air missiles.

In his Senate confirmation hearing in January, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson angered China by saying it should be denied access to islands it had built up in the South China Sea.

Tillerson subsequently softened his language, saying that in the event of an unspecified "contingency," the United States and its allies "must be capable of limiting China`s access to and use of" those islands to pose a threat.

In recent years, the United States has conducted a series of what it calls freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea, raising tensions with Beijing.