4.09.2007

Dandelion Root

The dandelion is a perennial plant found almost everywhere though not
occurring in the Southern Hemisphere. Having a leaf the shape of a
lion's tooth, the name is taken from the French "dent-de-lion" meaning
"tooth-of-the-lion". It increases bile production and stimulates its
flow to the gallbladder, where it also causes contractions and the
release of bile from there. The polysaccharide insulin found in this
root is respected for its white blood cell and immuliver,detoxne-boosting
properties.

This root is also higher in beta-carotene (a powerful antioxidant and
precursor to Vitamin A) than what is found in carrots. The leaf of the
plant is a powerful diuretic and a delicious salad green eaten in the
spring. Dandelion is a very nutritive herb with medicinal benefits; it
stimulates the liver and kidneys while absorbing toxins and soothes the
digestive tract while promoting healing.

Uses: liver, kidneys, gall bladder, stomach, pancreas, intestines, and
blood. Abscesses, age spots, anemia, boils, blood pressure (high),
blood purifier, breast tumors, cancer, cholesterol, constipation,
cirrhosis, cramps, dermatitis, diabetes, eczema, endurance, fatigue,
fever, fluid retention, gout, jaundice, hypoglycemia, all liver
problems, psoriasis, rheumatism, spleen, stomach, uric acid, warts,
stimulates metabolism.

Constituents: High in A, C, E, Calcium, Iron, and Potassium. Moderate
in Magnesium, Phosphorus, Manganese, Selenium, Silicon, Sodium and
Vitamin A, C, and E. With some B-complex including Biotin, Inositol,
Niacin, PABA, B-1, B-2, B5, B-6, B-9, B-12; Vitamin P, Fats, Gluten,
Gum, Linolenic Acid, Proteins. Small amounts of Sulfur, Zinc, Inulin,
Lactupicrine, Potash, Resin.

4.07.2007

AVOCADOS

Some very compelling reasons (especially the glutathione) to eat an avocado or two a day.

The compound profile of the avocado includes a cholesterol-lowering by a phytosterol called beta-sitosterol and the anti-acid glutathione, according to Dr. David Heber, director of the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition. Evidence suggests phytosterol and glutathione found in avocados may help prevent certain types of cancers and heart disease in
humans.

"The avocado has long been known for its special taste enhancing properties," Heber said. "However, new research demonstrates that avocados provide favorable phytochemicals that work in combination with biochemicals from other foods in the diet to enhance overall health."

"The California avocado is an excellent dietary source of glutathione and phytosterol providing micronutrients that may have unique roles in the body and the potential to improve overall health and prevent chronic disease," Heber said.

According to Heber, he has discovered that avocados contain a biochemical called lutien, which is a carotenoid recently discovered in avocados and found in green vegetables to help protect against cancer, including Prostate Cancer.

Traditionally, lutein has been found in green vegetables such as parsley, celery and spinach, but was recently discovered in avocados. In fact, research shows that avocados are the highest fruit source of lutein among the 20 most frequently consumed fruits.

Heber states, "avocados are recognized as an excellent source of monounsaturated fat which is known to lower cholesterol levels, but the antioxidant and biochemical properties of avocados are less well-recognized. These plant nutrients naturally found in fruits and vegetables work together to reduce oxidative stress and prevent disease.

The avocado contains fourteen minerals, all of which regulate body functions and stimulate growth. Especially, noteworthy are its iron and copper contents, which aid in red blood cell regeneration and the prevention of nutritional anemia. It also contains a higher source of potassium than bananas. The avocado is also a great source of protein at 10 to 15%.

Asparagus, avocado, and walnuts are particularly rich dietary sources of glutathione.