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Capsicum, aptly described as the plant that bites back, is a common condiment in certain diets. The plant grows in warm climates and has been used for decades as a catalyst for the other herbs. Its red color is partly due to its high vitamin A content. Vitamin A is essential for normal vision, growth, cellular activity, reproduction and healthy immunity. The Capsicum family includes Red Peppers, Bell Peppers, Pimento, and Paprika, but the most famous medicinal member of this family is the common Cayenne Pepper. Because Capsicum stimulates circulation and enhances blood flow, it is considered a food for the circulatory system, and a common condiment to the diet. As a cardiovascular stimulant, Capsicum assists in lowering blood pressure and breaking down cholesterol buildup. The warming properties of Capsicum are useful for people suffering from poor circulation to the hands and feet and other related conditions. Capsicum has been used as a digestive aid to ease intestinal inflammation, stimulate protective mucus membranes of the stomach, and also relieve pain caused by ulcers. Capsicum is commonly used to buffer pain from other ailments, including arthritis, varicose veins, headaches, menstrual cramps and respiratory conditions such as asthma. |
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Garlic has long been used by many cultures to support a variety of health conditions. Garlic is considered to be Nature's very own antibiotic. Unlike most antibiotics, Garlic will not deplete the body of flora, and is considered to be the cure-all herb because of its effectiveness on the entire body. Popularly used as a digestive aid , Garlic increases bile production while enhancing digestion and reducing stomach gases. Garlic's strong odor is due mostly to a sulfide called allicin. For those who like to steer clear from Garlic's odor, an encapsulated form a standardized "odorless" Garlic can eliminate any unpleasant odor and taste. Garlic is a source of selenium, which must be present in the body for proper immune response, and which acts as an antioxidant in combination with vitamin E. Rich in potassium, zinc, selenium, and Vitamins A and C, Garlic is commonly used to fight infection, increase circulation and help prevent cardiovascular disease. Garlic has been known to detoxify the body by cleansing the kidneys and increasing urine flow. Furthermore, Garlic's healing properties make it an ideal agent for fighting colds and flu, bacteria, and fungi. Garlic has also been used for lowering cholesterol, reducing high blood pressure, and treating respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma. |
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Parsley is no longer a garnish that sits on your plate - it contains vital nutrients and vitamins that support the body. Parsley is a rich source of calcium, iron, riboflavin, potassium, thiamine, vitamin A, vitamin C and trace amounts of niacin. The part of the plant used medicinally are the whole plant and the seeds, which has three main areas of usage. Firstly, it is an effective diuretic, helping the body get rid of excess water. The second area of use is as an emmenagogue - stimulating the menstrual process. And thirdly, this plant is used as a carminative, easing flatulence and the colic pains that may accompany it. The high chlorophyll content facilitates utilization of oxygen. The volatile oil increases circulation to the digestive tract. The primary chemical constituents of Parsley Seed include essential oils, coumarins, glycoside, flavonoids, chlorophyll, protein, beta carotene, vitamins C and K, iron, magnesium, histadine, and calcium. The juice has been used to treat toothache, and as a hair rinse or as a facial steam for dry skin. Other uses for Parsley have been to tone the urinary tract reducing the possibility of infections, alleviate painful menstruation, lowering blood pressure and improving asthma, allergies and bronchitis by drying excessive mucous.
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