Herbal tea, natural remedies

From today we know that we have an extra ally against flu, coughs and colds, the Icelandic lichen! This remedy has in fact shown an emollient, expectorant and antiviral action, as demonstrated by various scientific research, such as the latest published in the journal Bulletin of experimental biolog

Today we talk about the properties of rosemary, one of the most loved and easy to find aromatic plants on balconies and in gardens. A pair of scissors, a jump out and here we have a precious sprig of rosemary in our hands, to give flavor to our preparations but also to enrich them with healthy benef

Anxiety, stress, sadness and depression are conditions that, perhaps more than others, are typical of our time. But help to face and contrast them comes from a well-known spice, saffron! In fact, saffron has been shown to reduce stress levels and to improve mood. This emerges from two very recent sc

Cinnamon is a spice that is obtained from the bark of trees of the genus Cinnamomum. Cinnamon sticks are just pieces of bark that are rolled up and dried. Cinnamon can also be found in powder form, easier to add to desserts, smoothies, fruit salads and yogurt, or in the form of essential oil to inha

Stinging nettle, scientific name Urtica dioica, is a perennial plant that has always been known throughout the world for its medicinal properties. In fact, nettle leaves, even if known for their stinging power, are amply forgiven as they are a concentrate of beneficial substances that can be exploit

At night, when the jasmine flowers are most fragrant, skilled hands pick the buds of this plant. Then, these same hands mix fresh jasmine flowers with already dried green tea leaves. The flowers release their aroma until they dry. Then, the incredible preparation of this infusion continues and fores

In spring, it is known, some ailments can get worse. As can happen with allergic asthma, with tiredness, but also with gastrointestinal problems, such as acid reflux, which was the subject of an article published recently, or intestinal disorders, which we will discuss today. During this period, dis

Inflammation is like a fire within us. It flares up, creates heat in the affected area, redness, also causes swelling and pain. But it's a good fire because it activates the immune system, drives white blood cells into damaged tissue to remove pathogens, repairs tissue again, and restores balance. T

With spring, the warmest and longest days not only flowers appear but, unfortunately, also some disorders that can be observed for the first time or worsen if already existing. Among these ailments we mention allergies, asthma but also, and above all, acid reflux and heartburn, which are today's top

We've all woken up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat with images of a scary nightmare still in our minds. And sometimes we even had to take a few moments to calm down and remind ourselves that it was all just a bad dream, that it wasn't real, already dissolved in the dark of the room. Ni

Short-term memory, attention and cognitive functionality are fueled by the water we drink and introduce with drinks and foods. Conversely, a state of dehydration has been shown to worsen these processes and pave the way for cognitive decline as age progresses. What has been stated emerges from vario

According to an ancient Chinese legend, a long time ago, in a small village, there lived two boys, a brother and a sister. One day the boy became very ill and there seemed to be no cure. But the wise old woman of the village explained that it was necessary to ask for help from the dragon, who lived

Its name is Aspalathus linearis and perhaps this term can tell us little, but from the leaves of this plant of the Fabaceae family and native to South Africa, a well-known infusion is obtained, rooibos tea! Rooibos tea is a drink that, nowadays, is widespread all over the world. Its fame is due to t

You are what you eat, it is true, but you are also how you sleep. This could be the synthesis of two very recent scientific studies, which show that the duration of sleep and its quality are of vital importance in determining health over the years, reducing or increasing the risk of developing cardi

Constipation can be a problem that impairs quality of life, but beware of laxatives used to relieve this condition. In fact, if used in excess and regularly, laxatives can even increase the risk of developing dementia over the years. This emerges from a very recent scientific research that appeared

Honey brings energy, satisfies the desire for sweets and is emollient, especially useful when we have hoarseness or sore throat. And from today we know that a particular type of honey, citrus honey, is antioxidant, anticancer, cardioprotective, useful for eye health and even capable of protecting th

Ginger is a remedy that is gaining considerable fame and more and more people are choosing it to prepare fragrant infusions capable of stimulating the immune system. But is it really so? Can ginger really strengthen our defenses and protect us from attacks by viruses and bacteria? The study we are t

According to the myth, lavender was the perfume that the goddess of love Aphrodite used to attract men and make them fall madly in love with her. But, as legend has it, lavender was also used by Cleopatra to perfume her body and create a sort of love potion to break through the hearts of Caesar and

A burdock root tea can be a valid ally for liver health but also, unexpectedly, for the brain! We are used to thinking of burdock as a remedy with a diuretic action and useful in case of acne and blackheads, but burdock is much more. Oh yes, in fact it has been proven by science that burdock root su

Nature always comes to our aid, even when it comes to counteracting neurodegeneration, but also poor concentration, poor memory, anxiety, stress and headaches. In particular, some herbs have been found to be particularly powerful for this purpose, such as rosemary, lavender and sage. This emerges fr

The ancient legend tells that, when little Buddah started walking, a magnificent lotus flower was born in the ground from every step he took. Lotus flowers grew everywhere, and the more muddy the ground was, almost inhospitable to other flowers, the more the lotus flower took root and showed itself

A good quality sleep is essential to ensure health of body and mind, concentration, attention and energy during the day and a good mood. However, more and more often there is an increase in sleep-related problems, such as difficulty falling asleep, disturbed sleep and night awakenings. Music can hel

Corn silk is often considered a waste material to be thrown away, but corn silk has been a remedy known for centuries by popular medicine and, nowadays, also by science. In fact, there are several studies dedicated to the properties of corn silk. Today we are talking about this, focusing on the bene

Yerba Mate, or simply mate, is a tea obtained from the dried leaves of the evergreen bush Ilex paraguariensi, a plant from South America, where drinking mate is still a real ritual. Year after year the fame of mate is overcoming the borders of South America to spread throughout the world thanks to i

What makes some people age faster than others? And why do some people live to a very old age perfectly healthy while others develop chronic diseases? Is it just genetics or is there some other explanation? Well, a very recent scientific research seems to have found the answer to these questions and

Ginger tea is fragrant, warming and pleasantly spicy, but freshly grated ginger on salads, fish or vegetable side dishes is also a delicious, fresh and appetizing note! The strength of ginger, however, is that this slightly bizarre root is also a concentrate of active ingredients, beneficial for hea

Against overweight, obesity, impaired blood sugar and overworked liver we have a new ally, rooibos! In fact, this plant from whose leaves a delicious tea is obtained to sip in the evening, since it is theine-free, has been shown to act on the metabolism, to improve the use of glucose by the cells an

Against gastritis, colitis and anxiety we have a new ally, moringa oleifera! In fact, both the seeds and the leaves of this miraculous plant, which is not called the tree of life for nothing, have been shown to counteract gastric ulcers, to protect the mucous membranes of the stomach and colon and t

Parties and large meals leave pleasant memories of joyful laughs but also ... a few extra pounds and an increase in cholesterol and triglycerides. How to counteract the effects of delicious dishes, really tasty but, alas, often too rich in fat and sugar? To do this, however, it is certainly not nece

The Christmas holidays, and not only, often lead to meeting with family and friends and eating very large meals. You know, a laugh in company, one bite leads to another and what can happen is to eat too much, especially foods very rich in fat and sugar. The result is indigestion, slow and difficult

During the Christmas period it is easy to see sprigs of mistletoe hanging from doors and windows as a symbol of Christmas and as a wish for good luck and love. Yet, mistletoe, scientific name Viscum album, should enter homes all year round, given its important health properties, as emerges from two

Not all sweets are the same. The proof is that honey, if consumed with some precautions, can help reduce cardiovascular risk factors, can counteract fatty liver and support the immune system. This emerges from a very recent review appearing in Nutrition Reviews by a Canadian team from the University

After the flowering of the dog rose, or Rosa Canina, when the petals fall, the rose hips appear. These berries are fleshy, with a slightly elongated shape and a beautiful bright orange color. These fruits, in dried form, are the basis of delicious herbal teas but also extracts to which they give the

A new ally in the fight against Alzheimer's is making its way and it is hops! Yes, the very ingredient used to prepare relaxing herbal teas and to give the bitter note to the beer seems to be a valuable remedy for preventing and counteracting the processes that would lead to the development of Alzhe

Tension-type headache is one of the most common forms of headache and from today we know that we have a new ally to counteract it, valerian. This emerges from a recent scientific research published in the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine thanks to the work of an Iranian team (Azizi et al, Avicenna

Against stress? A good book. In fact, reading is the most effective remedy ever, even better than a cup of tea, music or a walk, to reduce stress levels in the body. And 6 minutes of reading are enough to see the benefits! This emerges from an English research from the University of Sussex (Lewis et

Cabbage is a vegetable that can be grown and found on supermarket shelves practically all year round. Very versatile in the kitchen and suitable for both raw and cooked preparations, however, among other vegetables such as pumpkins, salads and carrots, cabbage is often overlooked. Instead, cabbage,

A good sleep is the basis for an active and healthy life. This statement is known and is commonly accepted, also because we can all experience it. Have you ever tried to skip a night's sleep or sleep only for a few hours? In the morning you certainly weren't so fit ... But what exactly does a restfu

With the arrival of cold weather, the turning on of the radiators and an increase in the time spent in closed and crowded places, sore throat becomes one of the most common ailments. Whether sore throat can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, pollution, allergens or drier air, today we see w

The drink is delicious, with fresh and tasty notes, the scent is enveloping, we are talking about the herbal tea prepared with ginger and lemon. But this decoction is not only pleasant to taste, it is also a source of health properties. Indeed, in recent months several scientific researches have bee

Rosehip extracts are characterized by important antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, also useful to support the immune system. Not only that, as emerges from the research we are talking about today, rosehip also has an antitumor action, helping, in particular, in the prevention o

The shorter and cooler days immediately make you want spicy, warm and fascinating aromas, reminiscent of home and love, like cinnamon! And then cinnamon is also the ingredient of various preparations typical of this period, such as apple strudel or pumpkin pies. But cinnamon doesn't just give dishes

In autumn, our best ally for health is undoubtedly honey, which can reduce inflammation, protect the upper respiratory tract, the heart, the immune system and the gut microbiota. So let's see the beneficial properties of honey, the advice on how to take it and the warnings, based, as always, on the

Constipation is a condition that affects, according to estimates, almost 30% of the adult population, with a worsening of physical and psychological conditions and quality of life. Are there any natural remedies to combat constipation without side effects? Of course there are, on our side we have se

To take care of our liver it is not enough to limit the consumption of alcohol. In fact, there are other lifestyles that can damage this vital gland. So let's try to understand two habits that can save the liver from tumors, fibrosis and cirrhosis, based on two recent scientific studies. The first r

The Covid 19 pandemic has certainly highlighted the importance of two organs that we often thought little about, mistreating them and exposing them to pollutants, the lungs. Healthy lungs support us, guarantee breath and energy, in short, they are life. So let's see how to take care of our lungs, al

An ancient legend tells of Myrisine, a very beautiful young girl with incredible athletic skills. The girl loved to challenge, and win, her male peers in sports competitions. One day, however, a boy, envious of being defeated by Myrisine, killed her. But here came the goddess Athena, who decided to

Against the more severe effects of Covid 19, keep your blood pressure under control. In fact, as emerges from a very recent scientific research published by an American team of the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in the journal Hypertension, hypertension increases the risk of hospitalizat

We hear a lot about detox programs to rid the body of toxins. But what exactly are these toxins, how do we find them inside of us and, above all, do these programs work? We try to clarify based, as always, on scientific studies. Toxins, what they are and how they enter our body - Pollution leaves

Hypertension is one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Not only that, prolonged long-term hypertension has an impact on cognitive function and on the risk of developing dementia over the years. Unfortunately, high blood pressure is a problem that will grow and affect more and more

The new coronavirus is a new virus for us, about which little is known yet. But one thing seems clear, according to the latest scientific research, the major problems both during acute infection and in the months following the infection, the so-called Long Covid, are linked to an excessive increase

Close your eyes while the aroma envelops your nostrils, spreading all around you, the scent of lavender. And in a moment you feel like you are in the middle of a wonderful lavender field of Provence. In fact, maybe you are sitting comfortably on the sofa at home, sipping lavender tea. But this speci

Tulsi is the sacred plant of the Indian tradition. Suffice it to say that the god Vishnu, one of the main deities of Hinduism and part of the trimurti, is depicted with a necklace of tulsi leaves and wood. And given the important properties of tulsi, this plant should have the same consideration eve

Not being able to sleep well causes us to wake up tired, exhausted and irritable with repercussions on everyday life. The California poppy is a well-known remedy for counteracting insomnia. Today we will therefore talk about its calming properties and in addition we will also try to understand its s

There are remedies that are often little known, whose fame has been lost over the centuries but which are small concentrates of beneficial properties for the entire body. Such as fenugreek, or Trigonella foenum-graecum. Fenugreek, in fact, as we will see in the course of the article, comes to the re

Spring coincides with the awakening of nature, the climate becomes more and more pleasant and the hours of light increase. However, it is this last factor that can cause, in predisposed people, alterations in the circadian rhythm, which is our biological clock that manages the alternation between sl

Hops, scientific name Humulus lupulus, is a climbing plant that needs support to grow. The female inflorescences are the cones, with the characteristic shape of pine cones. Often, when we talk about hops, we refer to the cones. Hops is one of the ingredients of beer, to which it gives the typical bi

Rhodiola helps against the accumulation of visceral fat! In fact, this plant, which has already been shown to strengthen the body, making it more resistant to stress, and to improve memory, also helps to dissolve abdominal fat and to inhibit the formation of visceral fat cells, which are the cells t

Do you feel exhausted since the morning at the idea of facing the day? Don't feel like doing the things you've always enjoyed anymore? Do you find it hard to stay focused on work and only the idea of having to apply yourself more makes you lose your energy? Do you happen to experience sudden bouts o

With its trunk that seems to knot, its branches reaching out to seek some light and the whole plant that can withstand even the driest climates, the olive tree is the symbol of resilience. And this survival force can also become a valuable ally for our health. In fact, olive leaves are a powerful re

It is called the tree of life and it really is. We are talking about Moringa Oleifera, a plant well known and appreciated all over the world for its antioxidant, antibacterial, antidiabetic, antiulcer, antispasmodic, hepatoprotective, antitumor and, as emerges according to the most recent scientific

A long time ago, in a Korean village, an extraordinary event took place. It happened that the villagers began to hear a strange moan coming from the woods, but, no matter how deep they searched, they could not find the cause. But the lament continued, for days and nights, until the inhabitants reali

Sleep is necessary for life, as is eating and breathing. But sleeping is not enough, it is important to sleep well and ensure healthy sleep, the basis for optimal functioning of cerebral processes, memory, attention and learning. Not only that, when sleep is restorative then the whole body also work

A steaming cup, a scent that goes up to the nostrils and incredible benefits for the heart, brain, mood and even the immune system. Today we are talking about health teas, prepared with leaves and flowers that nature offers us to take care of us and our well-being. For each infusion different proper

The legend has it that the nymph Ida, during a walk in the woods of the wonderful Crete, heard the cry of a child. But it was not just any child, but Zeus, hidden right on that island by her mother Rhea to save him from the fury of his father Cronus. The nymph, intrigued, approached the child who wa

Lemon balm has a calming action, is diuretic, carminative and antispasmodic, useful in case of cramps and stomach ache. And from today we know that lemon balm is also an ally in cases of anxiety, depression and insomnia. This emerges in fact from two recent scientific studies, both published by two

How many times, after large meals, especially if repeated such as during the holidays, it happens to feel heavy, with a feeling of nausea and bloating. All signs that you have overloaded your digestive system. Here are some ideas on herbal teas to make in order to get back fit, to detoxify the body,

During the holidays it is easy to exceed with large meals, desserts and snacks between meals. The results, however, are coming really fast, with digestive problems, heartburn, heaviness and overworked liver. Thankfully, we have valuable natural allies at our disposal that can help rebalance blood su

Ginger has a proven anti-inflammatory and pain relieving action, useful, for example, in case of arthritis and muscle pain. From today we know that ginger can also become a precious ally in case of migraines, both with and without aura. This emerges from a very recent review published in The America

Few ingredients, but simple and beneficial and above all that you can find in the kitchen or at the supermarket. These are the face masks of the month of December that take care of both mature skin with dark spots and impure, oily and acne-prone skin. These masks recall the festive air you breathe i

Pine extracts help against inflammation and protect the lungs and stomach. This is what emerges from a very recent scientific research published in the journal Molecules by a team of Korean scientists (Kim et al, Molecules, 2021). The two faces of inflammation - In our body there is a defense me

The plant that should never be missing in the garden or in pots? Definitely the laurel. In fact, laurel, with its leaves rich in precious essential oils and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances, is a powerful remedy capable of improving digestion, counteracting common digestive problems but

Do you drink little water? Memory and mood could be affected. The effects of dehydration, in fact, do not only affect the body but also the brain and cognitive function, as emerges from a very recent scientific research published in the journal Nutrients (Zhang et al, Nutrients, 2021). Why it is

Fragrant and tantalizing, spices enrich our dishes. But they are also a valuable source of health-promoting properties. Until now, the action of spices has always been studied individually and for short periods, but what happens when several spices are consumed together for a long period of time, as

Sweet and with a delicious amber color, it can be enjoyed alone, spread on bread or added to herbal teas and yogurt. In short, honey is a real treat. But it's not just this. Honey is also a valuable source of beneficial substances for the health of the body and mind. Let's try to understand better b

Breathing is an action that accompanies all of us in every moment of the day and night, since our birth. Perhaps this is why, taken by the stress of everyday life, we often do not give to breathing much importance. But let's try to stop for a moment and pay attention to our breathing. How many times

When it comes to the immune system it is important to emphasize that there is no magic drink capable of wiping out viruses and bacteria. Rather, it is the synergy of food and drinks, which, if taken regularly, counteract inflammation, free radical damage and support the body's natural defenses. Afte

Can a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime really help with insomnia? And what about valerian, is it useful for relaxing and thus improving the quality of sleep? Tradition has handed down various plant and flower remedies to treat sleep disorders. Is it just a matter of beliefs or is there a scientif

What is essential to our body? The water. In fact, our body is made up of 50-55% water, water is essential for regulating body temperature and the transit of nutrients inside the cell. Not only that, water promotes digestion and the work of the kidneys and proper hydration makes the brain work well.

Urinary tract infections, including cystitis, are very common infections, especially in women. It is estimated that one in two women will experience an infection of this type at least once in her life. Treatment is usually antibiotic, however, the ever-increasing resistance to cures of bacterial str

When we think of raspberry, Rubus idaeus, our mind immediately goes to its fruits, delicious, fragrant and a small, but powerful, source of antioxidants. But raspberry is a truly extraordinary plant, capable of coming to the rescue of our health even with its leaves! And this remedy is widely recogn

Rosemary helps with work stress, mental fatigue and insomnia. In fact, this aromatic plant is able to provide antioxidants that counteract the damage of free radicals, support memory and concentration, relax the mind and soothe it, even in the case of great stress that could cause mood disorders and

Stress, anxiety, drugs and a sedentary lifestyle, also related to the situation we have lived and are experiencing, can contribute to the accumulation of toxins in the body, which reacts by activating the inflammatory response. This inflammation, however, tends to be chronic, tires and burdens the b

In the British Library in London, one of the most important and well-known libraries in the world, under a thick glass case there is a parchment written in ancient characters. Here is contained a spell that, according to legend, was given by the god Odin to men so that they could cure infections and

It is called the tree of life or even the miraculous tree. In fact, the moringa is a powerful natural remedy, it protects and supports the health of the body since it is a plant with anti-aging, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties and, from today, also with an anti-diabetic action. In fact,

The myth comes to us thanks to the Metamorphoses, the poem written by the Roman poet Ovid. And the myth speaks of the nymph Myntha, daughter of the god of rivers and endowed with a unique beauty that made anyone who looked at her fall in love. Unfortunately, Pluto, the god of the Underworld, fell in

When they arrive in Hawaii, tourists are greeted with garlands of hibiscus flowers, the symbol of Hawaii but also as a sign of good luck. In fact, the hibiscus is considered the flower of opportunities. But hibiscus does not only bring good luck, as emerges from numerous scientific researches, in fa

It is called blue gold, this is because without water, life could not exist. Even today, in the ancient winding road that leads to Sparta, in Greece, it happens to come across water springs, which gush water from the rocks of the mountain. And, around the source, there are taverns, small markets, th

It is said that when the archaeologist Howard Carter entered Tutankhamun's tomb for the first time in 1922, there was a scent of flowers in the air. And, from what is said, it seems that the thing that released this perfume was a bouquet of red roses, which Carter found on the pharaoh's sarcophagus,

Wrinkles, skin blemishes, premature aging of tissues but also dermatitis and acne, even if these disorders affect different moments in life, they have a point in common, they are all worsened by air pollution. But, fortunately, we can fight the damage of pollution on the skin thanks to foods rich in

Of the orange tree we know above all the fruit, fragrant and juicy, with antioxidant and anticancer properties. But in fact this is such an interesting and generous plant that we can use everything from it, even the leaves, flowers and rind of the fruit for our well-being. Orange leaves - As the

According to an ancient Irish legend, a long time ago, at the origin of the world, when human beings had not yet appeared, the gnomes and fairies were free to run in the meadows and woods. But everything changed when the humans arrived. The fairy creatures, to escape man's thirst for conquest, had t

The spring brings energy, vitality, flowers and perfumes but also a possible worsening, in predisposed people, of symptoms of the gastrointestinal tract. As we have already seen in previous articles, spring can cause an increase in stomach acid and may therefore bring aerophagia and stomach cramps.

Type 2 diabetes is the typical diabetes of adulthood and is characterized by a reduced production of insulin or the insulin produced does not act satisfactorily with the result of an increase in circulating glucose. To treat this condition, it is generally required to change the lifestyle, making it

Spring has arrived bringing with it light, perfumes, flowers, warm air ... but also allergies and stomach pain. If we can all agree with regard to allergies, indeed everybody knows someone who suffers from seasonal allergies, we can be more perplexed about stomach pain. Yet this is the case, in pred

The Greek poet Hesiod laughed, in one of his poems, at those who did not know the properties of the plant, compared to real treasures. Orazio used to say that he ate only this plant, olives and chicory and Charles the Great ordered its cultivation in all the imperial gardens. We are talking about co

At the solstices, the druids, dressed in white, cut with a golden sickle mistletoe branches that were then used to prepare precious infusions, capable of curing any ailment. This ancient wisdom, in which magic and knowledge were mixed until they get confused, has passed the centuries and has arrived

The mind that continues to go to the same obsessive and continuous thoughts, the attention always focused on the search for possible solutions, which however are not found, at night a great effort to fall asleep and nocturnal awakenings and during the day anxiety and nervousness that do not let us e

Gastroesophageal reflux is a very common condition. For example, it is estimated that it can affect as many as 30% of the American population and that half of the world's adult population will have symptoms related to reflux at some point in their lifetime. Reflux can lead to pain, fatigue, a burnin

Today we are talking about mint tea, a tea that, with its fresh and fascinating scent, speaks of distant and exotic lands. But peppermint tea is also a healthy drink, let’s speak about its properties on the basis of scientific research. Peppermint tea, properties - Mint leaves, scientific na

Heavy legs, swollen ankles and orange peel skin, are there any natural remedies to counteract all of this? As always, nature also comes to our aid with infused oils and plants with a draining, diuretic, antioxidant and astringent action, also useful to improve blood circulation. Ivy - Ivy is

Celebration, lunches and dinners can leave a trail. Stomach pain, acidity, bloating, fatigue are just some of the symptoms that can accompany the after party due to the overwork of the liver and inflammation of the gastric mucosa. Herbal teas can help, for example thanks to the anti-inflammatory and

Christmas also means exception to the rules for what concerns food and diet. How to remedy in case of binge eating, poor digestion and stomach pain? The gentian herbal tea, as proven by scientific research, supports the work of the liver, counteracts inflammation of the gastric mucosa, fights abdomi

Mate is a drink obtained by infusion from the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. Nowadays, this herbal tea has spread all over the world also as an anti-obesity and anti-cholesterol remedy. But do these properties have a scientific basis? Let's talk today about yerba mate on the basis of

A clove tea, perhaps enriched with orange peel and cinnamon, here is the winter herbal tea! This drink, in fact, is not only tasty and pleasantly scented, but it is a powerful source of antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory substances, especially useful for lung health. This is what emerges

Legend says that Filira, a nymph daughter of Oceanus and Tethys, lived on an island in the Black Sea where she led a quiet life between dives in the sea and walks in the woods. One day, however, Filira was noticed by Cronus, the Titan husband of Rhea and father of Zeus, who fell madly in love with h

It was an apple that caused the war between Greeks and Trojans, it was an apple the fruit of immortality that Hercules managed to steal from the garden of the Hesperides and it was always an apple that, according to legend, fell on Newton's head, inspiring the great scientist the theory of gravitati

It has been said a lot about turmeric. Although there is a solid basis in the literature that testifies to the health properties of this spice, obtained from the rhizome of the Curcuma Longa plant, there are those who doubt them, while others use turmeric almost everywhere, in every type of recipe,

There are aromas that make you feel immediately at home, wherever you are, and that calm you and bring serenity. I think that the scent of cinnamon is one of them. Just close your eyes and smell the spice in order to bring to mind images of warmth and family. A pinch of cinnamon makes the aroma of a

Baptisia is a plant of the Fabaceae or Leguminosae family, the same as chickpeas and lentils, just to give some examples. Baptisia is considered a remedy in case of diseases of the respiratory tract for the well-being of the nose and throat. But let's see what science says about this plant and its a

Rosemary, scientific name rosmarinus officinalis, is an aromatic plant of the Lamiaceae family, native to the Mediterranean basin but nowadays widespread almost everywhere in the world. Rosemary is proudly displayed in gardens, vegetable gardens and balconies and, when rubbed between the fingers, it

Sarcopenia is an age-related disease that leads to an increasing reduction in muscle mass and strength. As we age, we tend to lose muscle and our ability to move also deteriorates. In a previous article we saw that adequate levels of vitamin C can help to counter this condition, today we see the res

The butcher's broom, scientific name Ruscus aculeatus, is a shrub of the Asparagaceae family, the same as the agave and, as the name suggests, asparagus. The butcher's broom, thanks to its beautiful red berries, is very popular as a Christmas ornament. But its applications certainly do not stop ther

Wildflower honey, also known as polyfloral honey, is a type of honey produced, the name also suggests it, from the nectar of different flowers. It can be produced in the hills, in the plains or in the mountains, has an amber yellow color and has a delicate taste compared to other types of honey, suc

Star anise, scientific name Illicium verum, is an evergreen plant characterized by woody fruits formed by 8-12 lobes arranged in a star with a seed inside each lobe. It is precisely this form that gives the name to the star anise plant. The star anise fruits are used in herbal medicine for their car

Cookies, snacks, industrial juices, packaged bread but also ready-made dishes such as soups or already seasoned pastas, all these foods hide a pitfall called added sugars. And the more foods rich in added sugar are consumed, the higher the risk of developing abdominal fat over the years. This is wha

Honey is a food produced by bees that go from flower to flower to collect nectar. In general, honey contains sugars, minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese and selenium, vitamins, such as vitamin C and group B, proteins and antioxidant substances such as polyphenols and car

We are used to give flowers as a gift, or to grow them to beautify our garden or balcony. But the flowers are not only beautiful to look at, some can be added to recipes making them even healthier thanks to their anti-aging properties. Let's understand the action of two very common flowers, chamomil

The brain should be nourished and kept in training to ensure a plastic and adaptable mind, able to regenerate itself throughout our life. Diet, moderate exercise, herbs, spices and herbal teas help to protect the brain, improve memory and connections between neurons. But also the lifestyle, namely a

In amusement parks you can always find licorice sticks among colorful and yummy candies and marshmallows. But licorice is also used to prepare candies, ice cream or to give a sweet scent to herbal teas. However, considering the licorice only as an aroma of sweets is reductive since the licorice is a

Our brain changes, adapts and regenerates from the time we are born until old age, that's what emerges from the most recent scientific studies. So the idea that sees the brain as something static has been abandoned. But in order to allow the brain to put all its plasticity into play, also we are cal

Healthy and shiny hair, do you know that there is a little natural remedy for the beauty of the hair? The secret is the final acid rinse. Let's see what it consists of, how it acts and how it may be carried out. Acid rinse for bright hair, what it is - As a last step, after washing the hair

The myth tells that Aphrodite was born from the sea foam. The goddess of love and beauty emerged on a shell of mother of pearl in the waves and was carried by the spring wind, Zephyrus, to the shores of the island of Cyprus. When the goddess set foot on the ground, immediately around her, green and

A long period of inactivity, a situation that has forced us home for weeks and maybe a diet low in fruit and vegetables and rich, instead, in processed foods full of salt ... here are some reasons why many of us may be struggling with an increased water retention especially in the legs and ankles. I

Working the soil, pruning plants, giving them water, these actions not only represent a cure for the garden but also for ourselves. They help us to get away from problems and to stop dwelling on things. This does not mean, of course, to escape from one's responsibilities or from the present time, on

Nature is beauty. Do you know that plants and herbs can also help revive a dull hair color and cover the first white hair? This can be very useful when we are unable to go to the hairdresser and we don’t feel comfortable experimenting with chemical dyes on our hair. So let's see the dyeing and refle

Taking care of ourselves is a little attention, a cuddle that we can dedicate to our person. What to do when the hairdresser is closed and our hair requires treatments because there is a regrowth, the hair appears dull or we see some white or grey hairs? Natural remedies can be helpful also in this

Sleeping is essential for the well-being of the body and mind. However, in some particularly stressful situations it may happen that sleep loses quality, it is more difficult to fall asleep and frequent awakenings do not make it a restful sleep. As always, nature could be a help. We will therefore s

Taking care of the garden counteracts stress and induces relaxation, science says it, too (Hassan et al, Geriatr Gerontol Int, 2018)! For this reason, especially in particularly difficult periods such as the one we are experiencing, surrounding yourself with plants to grow can be truly therapeutic a

Tiredness, anxiety and insomnia, here are some causes of a dull skin. But there are some very effective remedies for a bright skin, without dark spots and that looks rejuvenated. And these remedies come directly ... from the kitchen! Let’s see how to prepare at home with the ingredients that are ava

Taking care of the garden is good, for health and mood, it helps remove anxiety, keeps the mind occupied making it free and creative, able to follow its potential and talents. That's why we decided to start this section dedicated to properties, uses and ways of growing herbs, flowers and plants that

What to do in case of anxiety? Especially now, in this difficult period, it can happen that you have worries, you may experience difficulty sleeping and poor concentration, but you can also notice symptoms such as an increase in heart rate or stomach problems. Chronic stress has been triggered and t

A strong and healthy immune system protects us from external attacks by viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi. That's why it's important to take care of it. How? With lifestyle, therefore not smoking, limiting alcohol intake, reducing chronic stress, practicing moderate physical activity, yoga and

Stinging nettle, scientific name urtica dioica of the Urticaceae family, is a plant known and appreciated for centuries for its nutritional and medicinal properties. In our previous articles we have always focused on the use of nettle as a herbal remedy, in the form of herbal teas useful to purify t

Lingonberry, scientific name Vaccinium vitis idaea, also known as mountain cranberry or cowberry, is an evergreen shrub belonging to the Ericaceae family. Each part of the plant represents a valid remedy to treat different urinary and digestive tract disorders, but let's understand better. F

Elderberry, scientific name sambucus nigra, is a plant of the Caprifoliaceae family. Known since ancient times, nowadays several scientific studies have shown the properties of elderberry thanks to the mucilage, antioxidant and diuretic substances contained in this remedy. Elderberry, proper

The dandelion, scientific name taraxum officinale, commonly known as dandelion, is a spontaneous herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. This plant grows in gardens and meadows and blooms in early spring presenting itself with a beautiful flower of an intense yellow color. The dandelion is a plan

The blackcurrant, scientific name ribes nigrum, is a shrub of the Grossulariaceae family, can reach 2 meters in height and is characterized by very dark fruits or berries. In herbal medicine, different parts of blackcurrant are used, for example its young buds are used to prepare glycerine macerate,

Chamomile, scientific name chamomilla vulgaris or Matricaria chamomilla of the Compositae family, is probably one of the oldest remedies known to humans. From this plant various herbal products are obtained such as essential oils or herbal teas but also a mother tincture, a beneficial and practical

Sense of fullness, stomach cramps and nausea can be the unpleasant consequences of Christmas’s and New Year’s day dinners and lunches, sometimes too abundant and rich in fatty foods. Fortunately, we can count on good natural remedies to deal with these symptoms. The plants that are the most benefici

On the southern coast of South Africa grows a bush with flowers that smell of honey, this is honeybush, scientific name Cyclopia of the Fabaceae family, and from its leaves a wonderful anti-wrinkle remedy is obtained. This remedy has been used for centuries by African women to take care of their ski

Fennel, scientific name Feoniculum vulgare, is an aromatic plant of the Apiaceae family. There are two variants of fennel, the first, of which we will speak in the post, is wild fennel, a spontaneous variety, while the second is the sweet or cultivated fennel. Fennel, properties - Compared t

Ginger, scientific name Zingiber officinale, is a very appreciated officinal plant thanks to its rhizome, scented and rich in active substances. The rhizome can be grated fresh on vegetables, salads, fruit and fish or it can be used to prepare healthy herbal teas. Moreover, from its distillation an

Wind, cold, temperature changes and humidity may also bring cold, flu and sore throat. However, we have a very powerful natural remedy, beneficial and really easy to find or make, ginger honey. Ginger honey, properties - Ginger honey is obtained by infusing pieces of fresh ginger in honey in

Ginger, scientific name Zingiber officinale, is a plant of the Zingiberaceae family native to the Far East but nowadays widely known all over the world. The part of ginger that we use is the fleshy and fragrant rhizome, fresh, sliced or grated, in the dried form as a powder or even in the form of ca

The prunum mume, also called the Japanese plum, is a fruit tree halfway between the plum tree and the apricot tree. The plant is native to China and produces fruits that, in shape and appearance, remind of an apricot. The fruits are dried and pickled for several months together with shiso leaves, or

Bay tree, or bay laurel, scientific name laurus nobilis, is a plant belonging to the Lauraceae family. The leaves of this plant are often used in cooking to flavor meat dishes or soups, but the properties of the laurel do not end there. Indeed, bay leaf has important healthy properties, it helps kee

Curry leaves … no, we are not speaking about the famous spice to season rice and sauces but about real leaves of a plant called curry, scientific name Murraya koenigii. The plant belongs to the Rutaceae family, the same as bergamot, oranges, lemons and rue, and is native to India where it is a very

Sweating is a physiological process by which the body regulates its temperature and expels toxic substances such as lead, arsenic and cadmium (Sears et al, J Environ Public Health, Feb 2012). However, it can happen that in some situations, such as periods of great stress made worse by intense heat,

The peppermint, scientific name Mentha piperita of the Lamiaceae family, is an aromatic herb widely used in cooking to give more flavor to salads and vegetables but also to prepare digestive and scented herbal teas. In addition to this, through steam distillation of the mint, a hydrolat, or floral w

Linden honey? Wild flower honey? Acacia or eucalyptus honey? No, buckwheat honey! Although it may seem strange, there is also buckwheat honey, and what a honey! Based on scientific research, this type of honey is a powerful source of beneficial properties, but let's see better in detail. Buc

The peony, scientific name peonia officinalis, of the Peoniaceae family, is a plant that is characterized by large flowers and bright colors. The peony is also called the queen of the flowers of the Celestial Empire since, it is said, the Chinese emperor loved this plant and considered it a symbol o

It is a small perennial plant with a beautiful bright purple flower and red stigmas, we are talking about the crocus sativus, family of the Iridaceae, from which the famous saffron spice is obtained. Saffron, however, does not only give to the recipes a unique and exotic taste, but also has importan

Moroccan mint, scientific name Mentha spicata var crispa, is a perennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family and is a cousin of the well known peppermint. Moroccan mint has a sweeter taste than peppermint and, for this reason, can be used for cooking as a scented and healthy dressing but also to

Cherries are so delicious, juicy, tasty and healthy, rich in vitamins, mineral salts and antioxidant substances. And the great thing of cherries is that nothing is thrown away, neither the stems nor the stones, both interesting natural remedies! But let's see better in detail. Cherry stems -

Common medlar, scientific name Mespilus germanica, is a tree of the Rosaceae family. Its fruits are the medlars, important source of vitamin A and characterized by anti inflammatory properties. In this post we’ll speak about the medlar leaves and their interesting applications in case of diabetes, p

Stinging nettle, scientific name urtica dioica, is a plant belonging to the Urtica genus well known for its action that causes stinging and itching on the skin. The leaves, indeed, are covered by hair that, when breaks, releases a substance that causes the rash. However, it is in fact this substance

Okinawa is a Japanese archipelago composed by 161 lush islands surrounded by a crystal-clear sea. But Okinawa is also the country of centenarians with people that show one of the longest lifespan all over the world. The interesting thing is that in Okinawa the people live so long but also healthy,

Lavender, scientific name Lavandula officinalis, is a plant belonging to the Labiate family. It is characterized by a blue-violet inflorescence organized in spikes and by an intense aroma that makes lavender a nice ornamental plant for gardens and balconies. But lavender also has an interesting heal

It’s not the first time that the benefits and effectiveness of traditional remedies have been demonstrated by scientific studies that focus their attention on herbs, plants, seeds and berries in order to test the properties already known by ancient wisdom. This has happened also with the research (M

Wintersweet, scientific name Chimonanthus praecox, is a plant native to China. The shrub is very resistant to cold and is characterized by yellow, very scented flowers that bloom in the middle of winter until march and appear as a prelude to spring. It is precisely for this reason that the name of w

Ginger, scientific name Zingiber officinale, is a root with important beneficial properties. It is in fact anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and digestive, protects the heart and the immune system. But how can ginger be taken to maximize these properties? In today's post we see the most important food

Thyme honey is an amber-colored honey with interesting anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial and antispasmodic properties. Thanks to these characteristics, this type of honey is considered useful to counteract respiratory tract infections, cough but also to perform a healing action on open wo

Parietaria officinalis, also known as pellitory of the wall, upright pellitory or lichwort, is a plant of the Urticaceae family that includes also the nettle. The people who suffer from seasonal allergies surely have heard of the pellitory since its pollen can cause sneezing, rhinitis and asthma. Ho

The Swedish bitter is a preparation obtained by maceration of various medicinal herbs and characterized by several and interesting properties and applications. Its formulation is attributed to Paracelsus, a Swiss doctor, alchemist and astrologer of the sixteenth century who called this powerful and,

The onion, family of the Liliaceae, is eaten and appreciated both for its taste, sweet and strong at the same time, and for its beneficial properties for millennia. As often happens with traditional foods, remedies and herbal teas, also in case of onion the scientific studies are now confirming its

Eucalyptus is a plant native to Oceania belonging to the Mirtaceae family. It is also a melliferous plant from which a special, dense, thick and amber-colored honey is obtained. This honey is characterized by balsamic, antiseptic and antibacterial properties and is a powerful source of antioxidant a

Grindelia, also known as gumweed, scientific name Grindelia robusta, is a plant native to California and Mexico belonging to the Asteraceae family, just like chamomile, marigold or arnica. Grindelia is a remedy with proven anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, moreover, it is also expector

Nefertari was a queen of Ancient Egypt, the wife of Ramses the Great, who dedicated her a temple that still fascinates all the people who have the opportunity to admire it, majestic and timeless, able to defy the centuries and the works of humans, Abu Simbel, set in the southernmost part of Egypt, i

The mandarin, citrus reticulata, is a juicy, scented and very yummy fruit, it is also very healthy. But the properties of the mandarin aren’t limited to the pulp, in fact also the peel of mandarin is arousing plenty of interest thanks to several scientific researches that are studying its benefits.

In the latest posts we have focused the attention on the fat burning foods because, according to scientific researches, the adipose tissue, especially if localized on the waistline, may result a problem for health since it has been shown to worsen the chronic inflammations (You et al, Curr Diabetes

In our posts we always try to understand how the natural remedies may be useful to improve our quality of life. From natural cosmetics for our beauty to herbal teas for the wellbeing of body and mind, there are several little tips and tricks that we can carry out for a healthier lifestyle. Also for

Today we will see a new chapter dedicated to that foods that, with different mechanisms, may help us fight obesity and abdominal fat. These conditions indeed can be really dangerous because they feed chronic inflammations in the body thus creating the ideal environment for several illnesses. In this

The pulmonaria, also called lungwort, scientific name Pulmonaria officinalis, is a plant of the Boraginaceae family used for centuries as a remedy to counteract coughs and bronchitis thanks to its expectorant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect on the bronchi and the lungs. Scientists are al

In the previous post dedicated to the fat burning diet we have introduced that an excess of fat, especially localized around the waistline, may be a dangerous enemy for our health. The adipose tissue indeed, and in particular when it accumulates on the belly, isn’t inert but a true organ that produc

Clover or trefoil is an herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae or Leguminosae family and owes its name to the fact that it is characterized by three leaflets. From the clover you get a special honey, which is very light in color and has a delicate flavor. The clover honey is energizing, prebioti

The caraway, also called cumin, scientific name carum carvi, is a plant of the Apiaceae family whose seeds are widely used, especially for cooking in northern Europe, to flavor different dishes thanks to the taste that reminds that of anise and fennel. These seeds are also characterized by interesti

Cistus, scientific name Cistus incanus, is a plant belonging to the Cistaceae family and is characterized by leaves with a rough surface similar to sage and beautiful violet pink flowers. This plant was well known and appreciated for its healthful properties since ancient times. However, over the ye

Common centaury, scientific name Centaurium erythraea, is a plant belonging to the Genzianaceae family. Its name comes from the centaur Chiron, a figure of Greek mythology skilled in medicinal herbs. According to myth, Chiron used the Centaurea to treat a wound caused by a poisoned arrow shot by Her

It is important to dedicate time to yourself, if only for a few minutes, but with all your attention in order to give importance to every gesture. In previous posts, we have already seen how to treat facial skin, and what about hair? A lot of products, shampoo, masks or conditioners, that you can fi

It is essential to be conscious of what you are applying on your face. We go further in this world and we focus our attention on how to correct hydrate facial skin. In a previous post, we’ve seen that it is possible to use plant based oils in order to nourish the skin and give it essential fatty aci

Hydrastis canadensis, or goldenseal, also called orangeroot or yellow puccoon, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Ranuncolaceae family native to the wooded areas of the United States and Canada. The remedy was already known to the Native Americans who used the dried root of goldenseal to treat d

Malva, scientific name Malva sylvestris, also known as common mallow, is a generous and very beneficial plant. It is indeed an ingredient for herbal teas very useful to calm coughs, bronchitis and colds or to soothe inflammations of the digestive tract such as gastritis or even to counteract constip

The common comfrey, scientific name Symphytum officinale, is a plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family characterized by hanging flowers with a color ranging from white to violet. This plant is also known as cultivated comfrey, knitbone, consound or slippery-root. The common comfrey is very useful

Mace is a spice native to the Moluccas obtained from the internal part of the fruit of a tree, Myristica fragrans. From the same tree is obtained also nutmeg that comes, on the contrary, from the seed and has a more intense and less sweet taste than mace. Mace has vitamins, such as A, C and group B,

The cleavers, also known as goosegrass or bedstraw, scientific name Gallium Aparine, is a plant belonging to the Rubiaceae family, that includes also the asperula, and is characterized by hooked hairs that grow out of the stem and leaves. As a remedy the cleavers has purifying, anti-inflammatory and

Robinia pseudoacacia, commonly known as black locust or false acacia, is a tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Thanks to this plant one of the best known and well appreciated honey is obtained. This honey is characterized by a light yellow color and a liquid consistency, it has a delicate tast

Cichorium intybus, or common chicory, is a medicinal plant of the family of the Compositae or Asteraceae. The plant has been already appreciated and used for therapeutic purposes to bring benefits to the liver since the time of ancient Egypt while St. Hildegard, a German naturalist lived in the 12th

Buchu, Agathosma betulina but previously known as Barosma betulina, is a medicinal plant belonging to the Rutaceae family native to South Africa. The remedy has an antiseptic action on the urinary tract, it is diuretic and disinfectant with similar properties to those of bearberry. You can use buchu

Hoary willowherb, scientific name Epilobium parviflorum, is a plant of the Onagracee family characterized by antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The remedy is used specially to treat problems related to prostate, to the urinary tract and to the skin. Hoary willowherb is useful in case of

Prunella, scientific name prunella vulgaris, also known as common self-heal or woundwort, is a plant of the Lamiaceae family, which is characterized by anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, astringent, healing and purifying properties. For internal use, the remedy can bring relief in case of m

The white horehound, scientific name Marrubium vulgare, is a medicinal plant of the Labiate or Lamiaceae family. The remedy was already known to the ancient Egyptians, who used it to treat respiratory affections. Nowadays it is possible to take the mother tincture or to prepare an herbal tea with th

Speedwell, scientific name Veronica officinalis, is a plant of the Plantaginaceae family already known by the ancient Germanic peoples thanks to its beneficial properties. In addition to this, speedwell is also described by the well known herbalist Maria Treben. Speedwell grows spontaneously on drie

Rue, common rue or herb-of-grace, scientific name Ruta graveolens, is a plant of the Rutaceae family, well known and appreciated for its aroma so much that it is used as an ingredient for liqueurs and to flavor different dishes, but also for its beneficial properties. This plant, very useful in gard

Viola odorata, commonly known as sweet violet, common violet or garden violet, is a small perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Violaceae family. For the ancients, besides the fact that it was a sacred flower, violet was also very appreciated as a remedy able to treat headache caused by a very

Muira puama is one of the names given to the Ptychopetalum Ovata, a medicinal plant that belongs to the Olacacee family and is native to Brazil. Muira puama, that translated means wood of power, refers to the tonic, rejuvenating and aphrodisiac properties of the remedy. Muira puama is therefore used

Frangula alnus, commonly known as alder buckthorn, glossy buckthorn or breaking buckthorn, is a medicinal plant of the Ramnacee family. In order to obtain the remedy from the plant, the bark, especially the second layer once the first, darker, has been removed, is used. The bark is then subjected to

diuretic properties, depurative, remedy in case of cystitis, gout, rheumatism, water retention, edema, kidney stones

The Coltsfoot, scientific name Tussilago farfara, is a plant belonging to the family of Asteraceae that grows on clayey soils and is characterized by yellow flowers very similar to daisies. Known since ancient times, this remedy has expectorant, anti-catarrhal and anti-inflammatory properties and is

Common mullein, scientific name Verbascum thapsus, is a plant of the Scrofulariaceae family. Already known to the ancients, Pliny indeed prescribed mullein for the respiratory tract infections while Saint Hildegard used, in case of laryngotracheitis, a decoction of flowers of mullein and mauve, toda

Combretum micranthum G. Don, or combreto, is a plant originating from African and belonging to the Combretaceae family. The combreto has variable shapes depending on the region in which the plant lives, it may therefore be a shrub or a tree but can also looks like a vine. The plant is rich in polyph

Black cumin, scientific name Nigella sativa, is an Asian plant belonging to the Ranuncolaceae family. From black cumin seeds through cold pressing an oil with interesting anti-inflammatory, soothing, calming and regenerating properties is obtained. Known since ancient times, in fact a small bottle o

Natural remedies are not just herbal teas or preparations, sometimes they are gestures or small exercises that can bring big benefits. This is the case of breathing, a process that is so simple and automatic that we do not care about and, as a consequence, it is often penalized. Stress, difficult si

Cassia Angustifolia, also known as Alexandrian Senna, is a plant of the Leguminose or Fabaceae family. The senna has laxative properties, which are useful in case of constipation and hemorrhoids. This effect has been proven by scientific studies and the senna is reported among the remedies against c

Valerian, scientific name Valeriana officinalis, also known as garden valerian or setwall, is a plant belonging to the Valerianaceae family with relaxing and sedative properties that are useful against anxiety, agitation, insomnia or tachycardia, headache or menstrual cramps and even irritated bowel

Hordeum vulgare, or barley, is a plant belonging to the Graminaceae family that has been cultivated and known since prehistoric times. Barley has very interesting nutritional properties, it is, in fact, rich in minerals such as phosphorus, important for memory and cognitive functions, iron, potassiu

The radish, raphanus sativus, belongs to the Brassicaceae family, the same as cabbage, turnip and mustard. Radish was used by the ancient Egyptians who gave it to eat, together with garlic and onions, to those people who worked to build the Pyramids. There are mainly two varieties, one wild also cal

Iceland moss, scientific name of Cetraria Island, is a plant belonging to the Cetrariacee-Parmeliaceae family with tonic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antacid, antiemetic, fluidizing and antispasmodic properties. As a remedy can be used both internally and externally. Internally, it can be useful in c

Hop or common hop, humulus lupulus, is a medicinal plant of the Cannabaceae family. Hops, indicated by Saint Hildegard as a remedy against melancholy, are a basic ingredient of beer, they give it in fact the bitter taste, but in addition to this hops have also interesting draining, sedative, antibac

Melilotus, scientific name Melilotus officinalis, also known as yellow sweet clover or common melilot, is a plant of the Fabaceae family with sedative, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, able to protect the microcirculation and to facilitate lymphatic drainage. The flower buds are used as a

Cassia fistula, also known as golden rain tree, is a plant of the Fabaceae family. The remedy is obtained from the pulp of the fruits, that are legumes with a woody pods and 30-60 cm long. The cassia fistula acts as mild laxative by promoting the intestinal peristalsis thanks to substances contained

The lycopodium, scientific name Lycopodium clavatum, also known as ground pines or creeping cedar, is an evergreen plant belonging to the Lycopodyaceae family, it can be found in forests and mountainous areas. This remedy, used in herbal teas, has diuretic and laxative properties, useful in case of

The benefits of the bilberry, scientific name Vaccinium myrtillus, are not limited to the fruits, but also leaves and roots are helpful. The leaves have hypoglycemic, diuretic, antiseptic and antibacterial properties, disinfect the urinary tract, are particularly useful against cough, vomiting but a

Natural remedies that bring benefits to our body are herbal teas, essential oils but also foods, ways to prepare dishes or the choose of particular ingredients. The sourdough belongs to the last one. The sourdough, or mother yeast, natural yeast, sourdough starter, is a yeast for the preparation of

The bilberry, scientific name Vaccinium myrtillus, is a plant of the Ericaceae family. The bilberry was already known to Dioscorides, a greek physician of the first century AD, who used it as a remedy for dysentery. The bilberry fruits are rich in flavonoids, help to strengthen capillaries and to im

Ortosiphon, or Java tea, is a perennial plant native to tropical Asia. The leaves, used to prepare herbal teas or other herbal preparations such as capsules, have diuretic and cleansing properties, can promote the expulsion of sodium chloride which accumulates in body tissues, they also have a mild

Dill, Anethum graveolens, is an aromatic and medicinal plant of the Umbelliferae or Apiaceae family, it has an aroma similar to that of fennel and contains nitrogen and aromatic compounds and mucilage that give to this remedy carminative, antispasmodic and analgesic properties. Dill helps cleanse th

Rhubarb, genus Rheum, is a perennial plant of the Polygonaceae family. Already used as a remedy in China in 2700 BC, we now know that rhubarb has purifying properties, a protective action on the liver, a digestive effect thanks to its action on the secretion of gastric juices and bile, laxative prop

The Gallic Rose, also known as rose of Provins or French rose, is admired for its beauty and color but has also important healing properties. You can collect the petals of the rose, let them dry in a cool place and then store them in a paper bag. In this way you will be able to prepare herbal teas w

Thymus serpyllum, also known as Breckland thyme, wild thyme or creeping thyme, grows naturally in very sunny areas at the edge of woods or meadows. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and has very similar properties to those of the thymus but it differs for a more delicate aroma due to the fact that

Spearmint, also known as Mentha viridis, is a plant of the Lamiaceae family. It has tonic, antiseptic, anesthetic, refreshing, decongestant, digestive and carminative properties. The spearmint is therefore useful to treat bronchitis, catarrh, flatulence and digestive problems but also joint pain and

Kava or kava kava, also known as Piper methysticum, is a plant that grows in the regions of Polynesia and Oceania. Kava kava has anxiolytic and sedative properties known for more than 3000 years. Given the anti-stress action, the kava kava is useful in case of anxiety and sleep problems, by promotin

Cardamom is a spice whose scientific name is Elettaria, we know two varieties: green cardamom and black cardamom. Known since the time of Ancient Greeks and Romans, cardamom looks like a capsule containing the seeds, that are very fragrant. To use this spice the capsule should be broken and the seed

The shepherd's purse, scientific name Capsella bursa-pastoris, is a medicinal plant of the family Brassicaceae. The name is due to the shape of the flowers, very similar to the bag used by shepherds. The plant can be used to treat bleeding, even nasal and uterine, prolonged or heavy menstrual perio

Chervil, Anthriscus Cerefolium, is also called garden chervil and is an annual plant with anti-inflammatory, purifying and diuretic properties, it results helpful in case of constipation, gout, rheumatism, water retention, skin problems and insect bites but also in case of eye diseases, red and infl

The Scutellaria baicalensis, also known as Baical skullcap, comes from Russia and China and is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat allergies, inflammation, flu, liver and lung diseases and headaches. The herbaceous plant has in fact anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-allergic, antis

Mate, also known as yerba mate, is a South American traditional infused drink. This herbal tea is rich in caffeine, for this reason it results a good choice in case of tiredness or if you need high concentration. In addition to this, mate has also antioxidant properties, it has a diuretic effect by

The fennel is a plant belonging to the Umbelliferae or carrot family, it comes from the Mediterranean basin but now you can find it everywhere. As a remedy, it has been known since the time of Assyro-Babylonian that used the seeds of fennel to treat stomach pain, nowadays we know that fennel has ant

Passiflora, also known as the passion flower, so called because it recalls the crown of thorns, is a medicinal plant already known by the Aztecs, it was brought to Europe in the seventeenth century and used for its antispasmodic and sedative properties. This plant calms the central nervous system an

Rooibos is a member of the Fabaceae family and comes from South Africa. The leaves of this plant are used to prepare an herbal tea, called rooibos or redbush tea, with important healthy properties for the body. Rooibos doesn’t contain caffeine, for this reason you can drink it also in the evening,

Thyme is an aromatic plant that has tonic properties for the body, therefore it is ideal in case of tiredness or exhaustion, it strengthens the immune system and has a digestive and antispasmodic effect in case of stomach cramps. Thyme has also a diuretic effect, thus it is a remedy in case of water

The dittany of Crete, or Origanum dictamnus, is a perennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family and native of Crete island. Known since the days of the ancients, is sung by Homer and Virgil. It can grow in the ground or in vase and is characterized by gray-green leaves covered by fluff and delic

Equisetum, or horsetail, is a plant which grows wild in fields, however, it is better to buy the herb in specialized shops since there are different species of horsetail and some of these are toxic. Equisetum has an anti-inflammatory, healing and diuretic action. It has beneficial and curative prope

Galega is one of the Faboideae plant family. Galega increases milk production and the milk nutritional quality, for this reason it can be used during lactation. A substance contained in the plant, the galeina, has also an hypoglycemic action and is able to reduce the amount of sugar in the blood. Be

The hamamelis, also known as common or American witch-hazel, is a plant with astringent, anti-inflammatory and anti-hemorrhagic properties. The witch-hazel protects blood vessels and can be used to treat diarrhea, it helps also in case of sore throat and gum inflammations, but especially it is a re

Erica is an antiseptic of the urinary tract, it is therefore a valid remedy in case of cystitis and other infections that affect this part of the body. Erica ha also diuretic properties, try it if you suffer from water retention, kidney stones or if you want to purify the body from toxins and from t

The oak, thanks to the high content of tannins, has healing and soothing properties, useful in case of wounds, ulcers and to treat hemorrhoids and fissures. The oak ha also antioxidant and astringent properties and results useful in case of diarrhea. This remedy can also be used to protect the skin

Artemisia has calming, digestive, expectorant and antiseptic properties and is a remedy to treat cough. Artemisia is able to relax the nervous system, has antispasmodic properties, is used against menstrual pain and can be helpful in case of irregularities of menstrual cycles. Moreover it has a diu

Cumin is an ingredient of curry, but it can be used also as a spice in order to give more flavor to dishes. Cumin contains antioxidants, it protects the stomach and the liver with an anti-cancer effect and it has important digestive and carminative properties against abdominal bloating and to stimul

The onion can be eaten raw or cooked, you can also drink its herbal tea or prepare compresses. Onion stimulates digestion, is able to purify the intestine and it has a diuretic action, for this reason it is recommended if you suffer from kidney or bladder stones, water retention, gout or rheumatism.

There are different types of gentian, here we will speak about yellow gentian. Gentian stimulates the digestive functions, has diuretic properties, is a tonic for the body and is a remedy against fever and infections by increasing white blood cells. Herbal tea against infections - In case o

Like the raspberry, also in case of strawberry it is possible to use leaves, roots and fruits thanks to the healthy properties of this plant. Some people are allergic to strawberries with symptoms such as hives, itching, rash, but these effects are often due to the powerful detox property of strawbe

Helycrisum has antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and expectorant properties. It can be used in order to treat all the issues related to the respiratory tract. Helycrisum helps to get rid of catarrh, treats cough and the inflammations in the nasal mucosa. Helycrisum is also a remedy in

Echinacea stimulates the immune system and has antiviral properties, for this reason it results very helpful to fortify the immune system , to prevent and to heal flu, cold, fever, cough but also infections of the urinary tract such as cystitis. Mother tincture – To heal try to take 30 drops

Calendula has antispasmodic properties, for this reason it can be used to treat palpitations, insomnia, and stress. In addition to this calendula has also diuretic, laxative and detox properties and protects the liver. This plant is also useful to regulate menstruation. For external use calendula ha

Verbena is a tonic for the body and has antispasmodic properties, for this reason it is very helpful in case of insomnia, anxiety and stress. In addition to this, verbena has also febrifuge properties, speeds up the healing process of wounds, burns, sunburns and infections and it is used in case of

Chamomile is a well known natural remedy. There are different types of chamomile but the most used are common chamomile and Roman chamomile, with very similar properties but Roman chamomile is very rich in essential oils. Let’s see the possible applications of chamomile. Herbal tea – In case

You can use all parts of raspberry: fruits, flowers and leaves. Each part of the plant has indeed healthy properties: let’s see them in detail. Fruits – Raspberries are rich in minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, zinc, but also vitamins, especially vitamin C with anti-in

Oregano is not just a very tasty spice, but it has also antioxidant, antiseptic and antifungal properties. For this reason oregano is very helpful in case of skin infections or athlete’s foot. In addition to this properties, oregano gives also calm in case of stress, anxiety and tachycardia. The s

Devil’s claw is a painkiller with anti-inflammatory properties. For this reason this remedy is very helpful in case of pain and inflammations such as tendinitis, arthritis, sciatica, back and cervical pain, rheumatism. However, you should be very careful with devil’s claw, avoid it if you suffer fro

Angelica is a plant with umbrella-like flowers rich in healthy properties. Angelica has antispasmodic properties, it is tonic, anti-inflammatory, and has also detox and carminative effects. Thanks to these properties angelica is able to soothe menstrual and abdominal cramps and prevents the forma

Manna is a sugary sap extracted from some types of ash and it is a typical product of Sicily. You can find manna in the specialized shops or online shops but be sure it is pure manna and not synthesized in laboratory. Manna is rich in healthy properties: first of all manna can regulate the intestine

Tulsi, or holy basil, is very useful in order to fortify the immune system, it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help in case of fever or flu. In addition to this, tulsi is also able to control the level of cholesterol and to lower blood sugar. Tulsi has also adaptogen properties, because it

Dandelion has detoxifying and diuretic properties. Dandelion is useful to stimulate the liver, the kidneys and the skin and help eliminate toxins. It is also a helpful remedy to treat rheumatism thanks to the detoxifying action. It helps also decrease cholesterol and can be used in case of water r

Schisandra contains lignans, substances very important in order to protect and purify the liver. In addition to this schisandra can help increase memory, reflexes, concentration and brain efficiency and is useful against insomnia caused by stress. Schisandra can be found as dried berries, that can

Savoy cabbage belongs to cabbage family and contains iron, potassium , selenium as well as vitamins such as vitamin C, K, E and carotenoids. These features make savoy cabbage a very important vegetable for the daily diet, since, according to studies, it has anti-cancer properties. So, add raw savoy

Fenugreek seeds used as herbal tea offers a lot of interesting healthy properties. Fenugreek indeed is able to lower cholesterol by regulating its quantity in blood and by limiting the absorption of that part of cholesterol introduced with nutrition. Fenugreek is also useful to decrease blood sugar

Hedge mustard is a plant also known as singer’s plant. It is a valid remedy indeed in case of all the inflammations of the throat that cause hoarseness, loss of voice, laryngitis, pharyngitis and tracheitis. It can also be used in case of irritation of throat caused by smoking. Try this herbal tea o

Marjoram is a spice that can make your dishes tastier. Add a pinch of marjoram for example to vegetables or omelets. Fresh marjoram - Marjoram is not only a tasty spice but has also healthy properties, in fact marjoram is able to aid digestion and can reduce fat metabolism. Add marjoram t

As herbal tea – Infuse 1,5 tablespoon of jasmine flowers in one liter of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain and drink. Jasmine is a powerful painkiller so jasmine tea can be a remedy in case of headache or other types of pain. Jasmine tea is also useful in case of anxiety, stress and insomnia. Try

Hyssop is a plant very helpful in case of cough or bronchitis because it is a cough reliever and expectorant. It has also anti-inflammatory properties and can be used in case of skin irritations and acne. Useful also in case of poor digestion. As herbal tea– infuse one tablespoon of hyssop

Yarrow is a very helpful plant in case of hemorrhoids but it can also be useful in case of constipation and abdominal bloating. Yarrow can be taken as herbal tea as well as sitz-bath. As herbal tea- infuse one tablespoon of dried yarrow in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and

as Herbal tea - Prepare a herbal tea with peppermint or pennyroyal. Take two tablespoons of fresh leaves in one liter of boiling water. Infuse for 5 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day. You can also use dried mint leaves. Long-term use or too high quantity can be related to insomnia.

Maple syrup is a syrup obtained from sap of sugar maple or black maple. It is used as a sweetener spread on the bread or added to herbal teas or yogurt. Maple syrup is rich in vitamins, especially those of B group, minerals such as potassium, calcium, zinc and manganese and antioxidants. Maple syr

As herbal tea – use a pinch of powder of butcher’s broom and boil it for 5 minutes in a cup of water. Drink before meals . Avoid in case of high blood pressure. In cream - you can use the butcher’s broom cream in case of couperose.

The Lapacho bark is a natural antibiotic, it improves the body defense against bacteria, viruses and fungi and it is used in case of candida and cystitis. It contains also iron, copper, silver and boron. You can prepare a herbal tea with Lapacho bark in this way: take one teaspoon of Lapacho bark,

Syderitis syriaca is a plant used to prepare a tea, that in Greece is called tsai vounisio, mountain tea. You can find this plant in the best herbalist’s shops or, if you are so lucky to visit Greece, in all supermarkets . In order to prepare a wonderful herbal tea bring some water to boil, remove

As herbal tea – In case of sore throat, toothache and aphthae prepare a herbal tea with sage and chamomile against inflammation. Boil 250 ml of water, then low the heat and add one tablespoon of chamomile flowers and one tablespoon of dried sage. Cover and let boil for 10 minutes, remove from heat

Eucalyptus, thanks to its balsamic anti-inflammatory, expectorant and antibacterial action, is able to reduce inflammation in mouth, throat and tonsils. As herbal tea - take one teaspoon of dry eucalyptus leaves and infuse them for 10 minutes in a cup of boiling water. Filter and drink. <b

As herbal tea – Heat a cup of water to boiling, remove it from heat. Infuse some artichoke leaves for 15 minutes, filter and drink. Drink 2 - if you ‘ve eaten too much you can add to the artichoke tea also some sage leaves and gymnema that controls blood sugar levels, infuse them for 10 m