5 Benefits Of Honey Water You Never Knew

5 Benefits Of Honey Water You Never Knew

 

5 Benefits Of Honey Water You Never Knew

Most of us know that honey provides multiple beauty benefits. But there is more to it that we never knew. Research shows that combining water and honey creates wonders in our overall health. Read on and find out the five benefits of honey water you never knew.


1. Aids Weight Loss

The nutritionist Mike Mc Innes believes that honey is a natural cure for food craving or hunger, which helps aid weight loss. His study showed that the brain’s mechanism that causes sugar craving can be shut down by drinking honey water before bed. It also helps in body repair and burning fats.

 

2. Helps Relieve or Treat Arthritis

A recent study done at Copenhagen University, doctors found that patients drinking the honey water mixture show noticeable pain relief within one to two minutes. And they claim that drinking it regularly may even help treat chronic arthritis.

 

3. Helps Beat Fatigue

Regularly taking half tablespoon of honey added to a glass of water, helps increase the body’s vitality within a week. Dr. Milton’s recent research shows that senior citizens taking the honey water are more flexible and alert. He believes that the sugar content in honey helps in improving the body’s strength.

 

4. Makes a Great Energy Booster

Most athletes depend heavily on sports drinks, which are sugar loaded, and carb gels to fuel their bodies during sports events and for muscle recovery. A tablespoon of honey contains 17 grams of carbs, making it an excellent source of natural energy with added nutrients. Hence, the National Honey Board highly recommends adding honey to a bottle of water as an energy booster during workouts or sports events.

 

5. Reduces Cholesterol Levels

Studies also show that high cholesterol patients who took two tablespoons of honey combined with 16 ounces of tea water have 10 percent reduction on their cholesterol levels within 2 hours.

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10 Unique Uses For Used Tea Bags

10 Unique Uses For Used Tea Bags

10 Unique Uses For Used Tea Bags

Tea has been a valued resource for thousands of years. It’s been used in ancient systems of medicine, and we know today that it has numerous health benefits. However, many people think that the benefits of tea are limited to drinking it. As it turns out, there are a variety of uses for the goodness that remains in your used tea bags.


1. Soothing Burns

Place a cooled tea bag on burns for about 20 minutes. The tannins and cooling properties of the tea will help reduce pain and speed healing.

2. Bug Bites and Contact Dermatitis

Tea possesses anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that soothe these bites and help to reduce itching, redness and swelling. Place a used bag over the areas for ten minutes.

3. Bleeding or Painful Gums

Bleeding and painful gums can be treated by placing a used tea bag on the affected area in your mouth. Tannins, natural chemicals found in tea, have styptic and analgesic effects.

4. Eye Styes

To minimize swelling and encourage drainage and healing, place a warm tea bag over the stye for about 15 minutes three times daily. The tannins have an antibacterial effect that help kill the infection.

5. Dying Cloth

Did you know you can use your spent tea bags to give white cloth than antique look? Just drop them into some boiling water to extract the remaining tea and soak the cloth in it for a few hours.

6. Shinier Hair

If you’re tired of dull, lifeless hair, try using tea bags. Re-brew them to make a weak tea, let it cool and pour it over your hair as a post-shampoo rinse.

7. Chemical-Free Highlights

Your used tea bags are an ideal way to achieve chemical-free highlights if you have light-colored hair. Simply make a tea from re-brewed bags and soak your hair with it regularly.

8. Malodorous Feet

To beat smelly feet, steep your old tea bags in warm water and soak your feet in it for 20 minutes daily. The tannins kill odor-causing bacteria and fungi.

9. Natural Toner

Just like a store-bought facial toner, tea is an astringent. Wet a used tea bag, wipe down your problem areas and pat your face dry.

10. Super Compost

Tea super-charges compost by accelerating the breakdown of plant matter. Just tear the bags open and dump the contents into your compost heap.

Tea makes a great beverage, but it’s also great for a wealth of health and beauty purposes, too. Try using old tea bags for any of the above purposes and discover what a difference they can make.

6 Ways To Create A Non Toxic Home

6 Ways To Create A Non Toxic Home

6 Ways To Create A Non Toxic Home


I had a health scare a few years ago. In a nutshell, my liver basically stopped working. So everything else in my body started to shut down as well. I couldn’t eat. I couldn’t function.

The funny thing was, I thought I was super healthy. I had been dairy free almost my entire life and gluten free for at least seven years. I had weaned myself off sugar. I practiced yoga daily. So what gave? I was doing all the right things. Or so I thought.

What I had neglected to think about was the products I was using in my home. Some of them were still toxic and I didn’t even realize it.

When I decided to make the switch and make my home environment less toxic, there were six major essentials I had to tackle. I’m going to share them with you.

1. Switch out your toxic cleaning products for non-toxic cleaning products.

I began with changing all my toxic products out for non-toxic cleaning products. Instead of using Tide, Windex, Clorox, and Ajax, I switched all of my products over to Seventh Generation. You can use whatever organic non-toxic product that speaks to you. I chose Seventh Generation, because I like the scents and I feel that the products work effectively (not all non-toxic products are created equal).

 

2. Maintain your house.

It’s so easy to be lazy, but if you go through your house with the intention of maintaining it, it will make your life a whole heck of a lot easier than letting everything pile up and become overwhelming. A clean environment can make the difference in the world between how you feel emotionally and what you’re able to get done. A clean house also keeps you healthier, germs are cleaned up and you’re less likely to get sick.

 

3. Use non-toxic hand soaps and skin care.

You might not think of it, but everything you put on your body matters. If you’re going to make the jump to live a non-toxic lifestyle, you have to change everything. It doesn’t stop at what you wash your clothes and dishes with; it goes all the way to what you put on and in your body.

In addition to changing out the basics, I went in and overhauled my skin care regimen. I now own a completely organic, mostly vegan, non GMO, mostly gluten-free skin care line. I don’t know how I ever compromised before!

 

4. Get rid of plastic and switch to glass.

Glass is better than plastic, period, for leftovers, water bottles, kid containers and pantry items. Plastic leaks, and unless it’s BPA free, it will leach chemicals you don’t want in your water or food.

 

5. Eat organic foods.

Even on a budget, eating organic foods costs less than the price of illness or cancer. It doesn’t take much to make the shift. Organic means safe. It means standards, so whenever you can, buy local organic produce and fruits. Try to eat very little packaged and processed foods. If you’re going to join the non-toxic movement, you have to think of your body as your house. Create a non-toxic environment for both your outer life and inner life, and let the two mirror each other in harmony.

 

6. Switch to holistic medicine.

I’m not saying there’s no place for Western medicine. Luckily, we live in a very sophisticated society with many options in the palms of our hands. However, we all know the pharmaceutical companies are making a pretty penny on drugs that are actually breaking us down in the long run.

Wipe out those over-the-counter drugs, or at the very least let them be a last resort. Arm yourself with the power of natural medicine, like essential oils and herbs. Essential Oils may be more effective and better natural medicine for various moods, illness, pain, aches, ailments, ointments, remedies than over the counter drugs created in chemical labs.

Source: http://www.mindbodygreen.com

7 Ways To Boost Testosterone Naturally

7 Ways To Boost Testosterone Naturally

7 Ways To Boost Testosterone Naturally

Need to boost your testosterone levels? Welcome to the right page. To enhance the production of testosterone in your body, you first need to look at your daily habits. “I never prescribe testosterone alone without talking to men about their lifestyle,” says Martin Miner, MD, co-director of the Men’s Health Center at the Miriam Hospital in Providence, R.I.

It takes time to improve production of testosterone; however, there are some ways to boost it more quickly. Here is what you should do:

 

Drink enough water

One major cause of lower production of testosterone is dehydration, so drink enough water every day. If you don’t drink enough water, your hormonal system slows down, which decreases testosterone and dopamine production. Drink 8 glasses of water each day to stay hydrated and boost your testosterone level, more if you exercise a lot or are bigger than average in height and/or weight.

 

Keep active

Testosterone behaves according to your body’s behavior. If you sit on the couch all day, then your brain gets the message that there is no need to bolster muscle and bone. On the other hand, when you are physically active, your brain understands that you need more hormones and will begin to make more testosterone and more muscle. Start today with a brisk 10-20 minute walk and add other exercise as tolerated. The recommendations are to get about 150 minutes of moderate to brisk exercise every week. It doesn’t have to be done all at the same time.

 

Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for staying healthy and mentally sound. Studies show that low quality sleep or sleeping less than 7 hours per day cut testosterone production by 10-15%. It also hampers the growth of hormones and restricts the potential of muscle building. Keep 8 hours reserved for good quality sleep.

 

Eat eggs

Eating at least one egg daily improves good cholesterol, an important building block needed in the production of testosterone. Eggs are also rich in protein and contain zinc that boosts testosterone levels. Cholesterol in itself isn’t always bad for you and you need cholesterol to act as a precursor to sex hormones like testosterone.

 

Control stress

A stressed body cannot create testosterone. Stress alters the body’s functional capability, which adversely affects hormone production. Decrease stress, and try practicing meditation or qi gong. Miner advises men to reduce working hours to 10 hours or less per day if possible. Spend at least 2 hours daily doing things you enjoy, doing sports, art, music, games, or anything other than work.

 

Reduce alcohol use

There are many reasons to reduce your use of alcohol and hormonal performance is a major one. When you drink alcohol, the production of testosterone decreases for up to 24 hours. It’s also responsible for increased cortisol and lowers levels of growth hormones so your muscle strength will be just as affected as your testosterone levels.

 

Eat healthy

Adopt healthy eating habits and welcome foods like spinach, nuts, lean protein, avocados, olive oil, broccoli, and Balsamic vinegar to your daily diet. These foods help increase the production of testosterone. Avoid the use of supplements that claim to boost testosterone, as they do little for the amount of money you’ll pay for them. Natural is better.

Source Source

4 Natural Ways To Regrow Hair In 10 Days

4 Natural Ways To Regrow Hair In 10 Days

4 Natural Ways To Regrow Hair In 10 Days



Losing your hair can be a nightmare. Whether it’s for medical reasons or the result of your genetics, it can be devastating to see skin where you used to see hair.Here are some remedies to regrow your hair starting in about 10 days:

Many people ask friends or their doctors about treatments for hair loss without success, because none of the suggested treatments work. So what’s the solution? Part of the problem is that there are several different causes of hair loss. The first thing to figure out is the root cause of the hair loss.

There are several causes of hair loss including hormonal imbalance, vitamin deficiencies, stress, insomnia, thyroid issues, smoking, genetics, and menopause. The hair products you use and the way you care for your hair can also cause hair loss.

There is no solution for menopause or genetics but you can slow the hair loss caused by these problems. For other causes of hair loss try these natural remedies:

Meditate

If you want your hair back relatively quickly, you can take 10 minutes from your busy schedule to meditate. Meditation will lower your stress and will improve your overall health. Put your phone on airplane mode or silent and set it aside, sit straight with crossed legs and close your eyes, focusing on your breath. Feel it go in and out. Let thoughts come and go. Relax through them and keep breathing. If you can’t meditate on your own, think about using a meditation tape or DVD that delivers soothing music.

 

Food you should eat

If you are getting enough sleep and are not stressed, your diet could be a main factor in hair loss. Combat this problem by trying to explore your eating habits. Make sure you are getting enough iron, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3s. Your daily diet should contain the following:

• 10 servings of vegetables
• 2-4 servings of fruits
• 4-5 total servings of beans and dairy
• Eggs, fish, nuts, walnuts, avocado, and seeds
• Don’t eat the same thing every day. Plan some variety into your menu to keep you satisfied and to get different nutrients.


Massage

Head massage is necessary to promote hair growth. Use your fingertips and massage your scalp slowly to stimulate the circulation and to help drain toxins from the scalp. Finish the massage by running your fingers through your hair. You can do this with or without oil, but it’s suggested to use coconut, castor, olive, almond, or sesame oil. Massage for 10 minutes each day to see improvement within a few weeks.  Your hair needs the extra oil to keep the hair root well-lubricated and  healthy.

 

Homemade recipe

Try the following recipe made with three key ingredients; licorice, burdock root, and dandelion root to regain hair growth:

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces water
• Licorice root
• Burdock root
• Dandelion root

 

Directions:

  1. Rub the licorice root in a glass to release the contents of the root. Then fill the glass halfway with water.
  2. Rub the dandelion and burdock root with a stone or blend them in a food processor to make a fine paste.
  3. Blend the paste with licorice water and apply to your scalp.
  4. Leave it on your head for 24 hours then wash it off; it will stick to your scalp like white cement and will stimulate the growth of the hair.

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7 Ways To Relieve Acidity Fast Without Using Pills

7 Ways To Relieve Acidity Fast Without Using Pills

 

7 Ways To Relieve Acidity Fast Without Using Pills

Almost all adults will experience heartburn at some point in their lives. For those who encounter it regularly, it can make life really unpleasant. Most people who suffer from heartburn look to prescription or over-the-counter medications to treat it. However, it is better for your health if you instead use a natural method to get rid of your heartburn. To that end, here are seven natural ways that you can get rid of your acidity next time you feel heartburn coming on.


1. Baking Soda

One of the most time-honored and effective ways to treat heartburn naturally is by placing a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water. When you mix it up and drink it down, the baking soda will neutralize the stomach acid immediately.


2. Aloe Juice

The aloe vera plant is one of the most powerful natural medicines in existence. Lots of people know the benefits of aloe vera for the skin, but it can also be used to treat acidity. If you drink half a cup of aloe juice before you eat a spicy meal, it will prevent you from developing acid reflux.


3. Chew Gum

People who suffer from chronic heartburn can find relief simply from chewing a piece of sugar-free gum for 30 minutes after they eat a meal. Chewing the gum causes your mouth to produce more saliva, and this dilutes and washes away the excess acid.


4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an acid, and it seems counterintuitive to treat acidity with more acid. However, this is a case of fighting fire with fire. When you drink a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed into a glass of water, it will help to prevent acid reflux. You can do this before meals or before bedtime to keep acidity from bothering you.


5. An Apple a Day

Most people have heard the expression, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Well, an apple a day can also keep heartburn away. If you suffer from regular heartburn, try eating an apple every day to eliminate it. If you do not care for apples, bananas will work just as well.

 

6. Gingerroot Tea

Gingerroot tea is one of the best natural remedies for any kind of stomach discomfort, including acidity. You can make gingerroot tea by simmering three quarter-sized gingerroot slices in two cups of water for 30 minutes. You can use this to treat heartburn or to prevent it by drinking it 20 minutes before a meal.

 

7. Mustard

If you experience an episode of heartburn, one of the best ways to stop it in its tracks naturally is to simply eat a teaspoon of quality mustard. Make sure that you use a natural mustard rather than one of the cheap yellow mustards.

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Golden Honey: This Powerful Antibiotic Does Wonders For Your Immune System

Golden Honey: This Powerful Antibiotic Does Wonders For Your Immune System

Golden Honey: This Powerful Antibiotic Does Wonders For Your Immune System

The Golden Honey Mixture is claimed to be the strongest natural antibiotic. It stimulates the body’s natural immune defense without the use of prescription antibiotics. It is composed of turmeric and raw, natural honey. Turmeric is a plant belonging to the ginger family and is most commonly cultivated in Asia and India. Turmeric has over one hundred uses in addition to those it has when combined with the raw honey. There are ongoing clinical trials utilizing turmeric for the treatment and cure of Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease. It can be used as an antioxidant and also has certain properties that are known to reduce the risks of cancer. When these two ingredients are mixed together, it can be used as an anti-inflammatory and aids in building a strong immune system as well. It can be consumed for bacterial infections, as well as viral infections with no side effects. Golden Honey may also help lower blood pressure and can help with digestion.


The most known use for the Golden Honey mixture is as a cold remedy. To make this golden mixture, you will need 3.5 ounces of all natural raw honey and 1 tablespoon of turmeric. Mix well and store in a container.

 

When taken at the first symptoms of a cold, you must follow these instructions:

Take half of a teaspoon every hour the first day. Take half of a teaspoon every two hours the following day. On the third day you must take half of a teaspoon three times. Let the mixture sit in your mouth until dissolved.

 

For treatments in respiratory diseases:

Take half a teaspoon three times daily during the week. This may be added to tea or milk if desired.

 

Helpful Tips for using Golden Honey Mixture:

This mixture is most helpful for the throat and lungs if taken before meals. If taken while eating, it is most effective on the digestive system. Consuming after meals is best for the colon and kidneys. Using local honey may increase the effects of this mixture.

This Golden Honey mixture is a great alternative for prescription antibiotics. In addition to being an all natural substance, you may also be saving money by trying this home remedy as a substitute. If you are taking any medications, or have severe health problems, consult your doctor before trying this alternative method as it may have adverse affects on some individuals.

See What Happens When You Put An Ice Cube On This Point

See What Happens When You Put An Ice Cube On This Point

See What Happens When You Put An Ice Cube On This Point



Did you know there is a place on your body that, when iced for twenty minutes, can relieve many ailments including headaches, dizziness, and head colds? This magic spot, known as Feng Fu, is found on your neck and is a special point highly regarded in the practice of acupuncture. To understand how it works and how you can treat yourself, you need a basic idea of the theory behind the magic.

Acupuncture is a component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), one of the oldest medical systems in the world. Today, TCM and acupuncture are considered safe alternatives to modern medicine and are commonly used in conjunction with modern treatments. It is a practice based on the idea that the body is full of energy. In much the same way that we have circulatory systems with veins and arteries, the body has a life force system with energy pathways (meridians) that run throughout the body. These pathways can experience blockages and imbalance just like other systems in our body. According to TCM, these blockages and imbalances are the root cause of our ailments. Points on the body that run along the meridians are manipulated using pressure, needles, heat, or cold to change the way the energy flows internally. With repeated treatments, a blockage or imbalance can be completely eradicated.

Acupuncture with needles is something that is best left to professionals, but you can treat yourself for small ailments by applying pressure, heat, or ice to certain meridian points. One of the easiest points to treat, and one of the most beneficial, is the magical Feng Fu (GV16) point mentioned earlier.

Feng Fu is part of the “Governing Vessel” meridian pathway, a very fiery and energetic pathway, and is one of the most powerful points on the body. The point is found on the back of the neck, just under the occipital protuberance of the skull, in the indent where the spine and skull meet. It is a point that is associated with headaches, head colds, low energy, dizziness, and earaches, amongst other ailments. Placing pressure, heat, or ice on the point stimulates the flow of energy through the meridian and starts the healing process. Ice however, is the best treatment because it helps to regulate the fiery, energetic nature of Feng Fu.

Take an ice cube and place it directly on Feng Fu for twenty minutes every day for a week. Try to do it in the morning or at night, on an empty stomach. The cold of the ice helps to balance the yang energy that flows through the point. Regulating and balancing the energy flow through Feng Fu will not only aid in reducing headaches but also help improve mood, sleep, energy, and digestion. It really is magic.

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8 Home Remedies For Asthma Symptoms

8 Home Remedies For Asthma Symptoms

 

8 Home Remedies For Asthma Symptoms

Asthma is a common health problem for more people all the time. Often asthmatics depend on medications to treat their symptoms, but following a healthy routine can help you ease symptoms with less medication. Try the following home remedies and see if you can reduce the number and severity of your attacks:


Use an Air Conditioner

Air conditioners reduce the amount of pollen that comes from trees, grasses, and weeds and make their way into your home. A/C eliminates humidity and reduces dust mites. If you don’t have an air conditioner you should try to keep your windows and doors closed during pollen season.

 

Breathe

Breathing is vital during an asthma attack. Try not to panic. Close your eyes and inhale slowly. Visualize your lungs as you inhale and feel your breathing. Do this three times then open your eyes. Try having a cup of coffee, caffeine is chemically related to the standard asthma medication theophylline, it opens airways, and the heat is soothing to your throat.

 

Ginger

A recent study shows that ginger is linked to improved asthma symptoms. It reduces inflammation, and asthma is an inflammatory disease. The study didn’t prove that it’s actually good for your lungs, Anju Peters, MD, Associate Professor in the Division of Allergies at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, and an allergy and asthma specialist in the division of allergy/immunology at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, warns about inferring too much into this until more studies have been done.

 

Omega-3s

Omega-3 fatty acids that are often used to treat and prevent heart disease can help treat asthma. Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids decrease airway inflammation and boost lung function. “There is some literature to say that [fish oil] supplements may also be beneficial in people with asthma, but as of right now, more research needs to be done,” Peters cautions.

 

Turmeric

Turmeric has anti-allergen properties, it affects histamines that cause inflammation, more research needs to be done to back this fact, however.

 

Regular exercise

Exercise is a vital factor in asthma. Some may believe that people with asthma should go easy but that is not so. Regular exercise makes your heart and lungs stronger and healthier. Healthier lungs perform better and can help reduce symptoms of asthma. Make sure to cover your face in colder temperatures to warm the air you breathe if you exercise outside.

 

Fruits and vegetables

A healthy diet can help almost every disease, for asthma and a healthy lifestyle. Eat foods that have protective nutrients (antioxidants) that help boost the immune system. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

 

Eucalyptus oil

Pure eucalyptus oil is effective for the treatment of asthma due to its decongestant properties. Research shows the oil contains the chemical eucalyptol that can break up mucus. Just spray some oil on a paper towel, tissue, or handkerchief, and keep it near your head so that you breathe in the aroma. You can also place a few drops in a bowl of boiling water and breathe in the steam. Take deep breaths for better, faster results.

To treat asthma it is important to know what triggers your attacks and try to avoid them. Prevent mold spores, clean your home regularly, cover your nose when its cold outside, and avoid contact with furry animals are a few more common ones. Maintaining a healthy weight is also important to stay healthy, being under or over is harder on every body system.

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Rainforest Plants Used In Medical Treatments

Rainforest Plants Used In Medical Treatments

 

Rainforest Plants Used In Medical Treatments

In addition to playing a major role in balancing the global ecosystem, many rain forest plants also have huge medicinal value. Twenty-five percent of all current western medicines are derived from plants found in the rain forest. It is estimated that medical researchers have tested just 1% of the flora and fauna of the rain forests for medically active compounds, but at the current rate of destruction, there will be no rain forests left in just 40 years.


The following are just a few of the many medicinal plants found in the rainforests:

1. Curare
Found in the canopy of the South American forest, curare is a poisonous plant that grows as a large vine. Measuring about four inches at its base, this woody vine is capable of climbing a considerable height of about 30 metres high into the tree canopy.

Traditionally, curare was used by the Indians of South America to make poison for hunting animals in the forests. With its numerous pharmaceutical properties, curare is capable of treating testicular inflammation, enlarged prostate, kidney stones, and fever. Externally, it is used for treating bruises and poisonous snake bites. Due to the fact that its strong muscle-reluctant chemicals cannot be absorbed in the stomach, the roots and oral extracts are generally considered safe for human consumption.

 

2. Cat’s Claw (Uncaria Tomentoosa)
Cat’s claw is a woody vine found in the Peruvian Amazonian forests and the tropical jungles of Central America. Because of its claw-shaped thorns, it is also called hawk’s claw, sparrowhawk nail, and pot hook. It is thought that this plant may help in the treatment of conditions such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and AIDS, though research is still ongoing and its efficacy has yet to be proven in clinical trials.

 

3. Cinchona Tree
Cinchona tree, commonly known as quina, is a native to the tropical Andes forests of the western region of South America. It is mainly used to make quinine, one of the most effective and reliable cures of malaria. On top of that, it is used for stimulating appetite and treating stomach problems as well as treating blood disorders such as haemorrhoids, leg cramps, and varicose veins. It is also used in eye lotions to kill bacteria and relieve itching. Some people use it to treat minor ailments such as the common cold, headaches, and mild fever.

 

4. Cocoa Tree

Due to its great medicinal value, the cocoa tree stands out as one of the most important rainforest plants. This tropical tree is unique in that it produces more than 155 chemicals that can be extracted from its bark, fruits, seeds, and leaves. The extracts are used to treat coughs, kidney stones, anxiety, fever, and external cuts and bruises.

Cocoa butter, which is obtained from the cocoa tree, is used in fine soaps and skin creams to reduce stretch marks, fight off free radicals, and treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and dermatitis.

 

5. Rosy Periwinkle
Originally found in Madagascar, Rosy Periwinkle was traditionally used for treating diabetes. It is used in the preparation of two of the most effective tools against childhood leukaemia that western medicine has, Vincristine, and Vinblastine. These drugs are responsible for increasing the prospects of surviving childhood leukaemia from just ten percent to around ninety five percent. If one plant highlights the true potential of the rainforests with regards to medical science, that plant is surely Rosy Periwinkle.

 

6. Ceiba Pentandra
Capable of growing up to an amazing height of about 85 metres, the kapok tree, also called the ceiba tree or the silk cotton tree, is the tallest tree in the Amazon Jungle. The trunk and branches are crowded with several thorns and the palmate leaves comprise of 6 to 10 leaflets, each measuring up to about 20 centimetres long.
There are many species of Kapok tree, and Ceiba Pentandra is just one such species. Ceiba Pentandra bark extracts are used by inhabitants of the Amazon not only as a treatment for headaches, but also to treat type two diabetes.

 

7. Annatto Tree
The annatto tree, also referred to as achiote or roucou, is a medicinal rainforest tree found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Central America and South America. The oil extract of this tree contains carotenoids, which offer protection against the harmful effects of UV rays. In addition, it serves as a powerful insect repellent and helps reduce blood pressure.

 

8. Pacific Bleeding Heart

The Pacific bleeding heart is a native to the forests of the Pacific north-west in western North America. It is a herbaceous rhizomatous perennial plant growing to a height of 45 centimetres and a width of 25 centimetres. It has deeply divided grey-green leaves and deep pink flowers.

Tincture, which is extracted from the roots of the Pacific bleeding heart, is used for various purposes such as alleviating anxiety. Externally, it is used to provide relief from sprains and bruises.

 

9. Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is a species of the holly family and is the primary source of the beverage called mate, which is traditionally consumed in subtropical South America, particularly in Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, north-eastern Argentina, and Uruguay. The tea is made by steeping the ground stems and leaves of the plant.

Yerba mate contains three xanthines: theophylline, theobromine, and caffeine, which combine to produce stimulant and relaxant effects. Yerba Mate has a stimulating effect on heart tissue, while relaxing the smooth muscle tissue found in blood vessels. It is therefore easy to see why many claim that Yerba Mate supports cardiovascular health.

 

10. Guarana
Featuring clusters of beautiful flowers, large leaves, and hard fruit, this climbing plant is a native to the Amazon basin. Guarana is widely used in sports energy drinks, it is a natural source of caffeine, and reputed to ease the pain of strained muscles. Guarana also contains Catechin, a natural antioxidant.