The Moringa, Moringa Olivera or rather, is a plant native to the Himalayan Mountains of India, although nowadays it is cultivated mainly in South America, the Philippines, and Ethiopia. These trees are easily recognizable by their long drooping pods and, when in season, their beautiful white flowers.

Since ancient times, the Moringa has been known for its beneficial properties since it is also known as the “miracle tree.” FAO promotes its cultivation because it considers it useful to combat malnutrition in the world, given that it is a food and of which all parts can be consumed: flowers, leaves, seeds, and roots. Its main wealth is contained especially in the leaves.

Moringa benefits for men

Thanks to the substances of which it is composed, Moringa is considered a real superfood. In fact, it contains:

• 9 essential amino acids;
• Vitamins including A, C, E and those of group B;
• Mineral salts, especially potassium and calcium;
• Omega 3, 6, and 9.

The high concentration of these precious elements gives Moringa its many beneficial properties:

• The antioxidant helps to counteract the harmful effects of free radicals, slowing down cellular aging;
• Anti-inflammatory, especially useful for combating cough, fever, cold;
• Strengthens the immune system, its constant use helps the body to fight viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens;
• Facilitates digestion and optimizes metabolism, thanks to the content of dietary fiber, the intake of Moringa stimulates intestinal motility, increases metabolism, and reduces the sense of hunger, facilitating weight loss;
• Promotes sleep, Moringa also contains tryptophan, an amino acid that participates in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating sleep and mood;
• Makes the skin more beautiful, helps to combat dry skin thanks to the presence of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant but also to treat acne, as it helps regulate the hormonal system;
• It is an aphrodisiac, useful for both men and women.

The Moringa can be taken in various ways. For example, the leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in soups and stews, raw flowers. Seeds are boiled is toasted.  Dried, Moringa can be taken in the form of tasty herbal teas.

The nutritional properties

Moringa has many nutrients, which differ depending on the part used. In general, Moringa contains:

• Proteins of high biological value
• Vitamins A, B, C, and E
• Many mineral salts such as calcium, iron, potassium
• Fibers
• Antioxidants such as polyphenols and fatty acids, especially omega 3.

The leaves of Moringa are considered one of the most nutritious parts of the plant. They are also rich in mineral salts such as calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, and zinc. The immature pods, which are boiled, are rich in fiber, magnesium, manganese, and potassium.

The seeds, eaten roasted or boiled, have large concentrations of vitamin C, B vitamins, and mineral salts. Furthermore, oil is extracted from the seeds, which, as we said, is rich in oleic acid, but also other acids such as behenic or behenic acid. Finally, the roots contain fiber, vitamins, and a small part of proteins.

Where to find Moringa?

Usually, in Western countries, Moringa is found in powder, a mix of leaves (mostly), and other parts such as small pieces of root or parts of the seed. Moringa powder is available in herbalist shops in organic food stores in points of sale dedicated to healthy eating. In addition to the classic moringa powder, you can also find this plant in the form of natural tablets.

Moringa treatment: when to do it?

If you feel dull, low in energy, stressed, or need to strengthen your immune system, Moringa can help. A powder or tablet-based treatment, especially during seasonal changes, can give you that extra energy and nutrients you need. The dosages differ depending on brand choice, so it is necessary to ask your herbalist for confidence.

Contraindications

Moringa has no particular contraindications. The only part that can cause problems is the roots, which must be taken in moderation due to the spiroquine interfering with nerve transmission. Generally, in the powder or tablet preparations, you find on the market, the root user is very low.

Moringa root extracts are attributed abortive properties (source: PDR for Herbal Medicines, Fourth Edition). For this reason, the use of the root and its derivatives or preparations is not recommended during pregnancy.

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Diet, stress, environmental pollution, and chemicals in hair products can lead to hair thinning, damage and graying. Excessive consumption of caffeinated and sugar-containing beverages also contributes to hair loss. Unfortunately, we forget too often that our body’s fuel is food, which also affects our hair’s health. Stress and anxiety can then lead to a hormonal imbalance that leads to hair loss. Let’s find out more about the herbs for hair growth.

Herbs for hair growth

1. Almond oil:

In South Asia, one of the most popular hair oils is almond oil. Almond oil contains various hair nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids, vitamin E and magnesium. Almond oil nourishes, moisturizes and strengthens the hair. Due to the nutrient density is optimal for treating hair loss (or controlling hair loss) and treating damaged hair. However, almond oil does not increase hair volume, but it can increase hair length and shine, reduce split ends, eliminate dandruff, and reduce inflammation of the scalp.

2. Aloe Vera:

There are only a few natural ingredients known to help with hair growth and Aloe Vera is one of them, along with castor oil, fenugreek and cedar essential oil. Aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12 and folic acid. It is also rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and selenium. It is a natural moisturizer that reduces dryness and dandruff (by removing dead cells) and maintains the pH balance of the scalp, detangles curly hair and is great for oily hair. Aloe Vera is rich in antioxidants and contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it ideal for treating hair loss. Aloe vera can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment.

TIP: Apply aloe vera gel on the scalp 15 minutes before showering.

 3. Castor oil:

Castor oil is an age-old remedy for preventing hair loss or promoting hair regrowth. This is because castor oil can improve circulation and increase blood flow. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Castor oil is one of the few natural ingredients that stimulate hair growth, moisturizes it, adds shine and prevents hair loss by thickening the hair. It also makes them grow faster and fights dryness and dandruff. Castor oil contains Omega 9 essential fatty acids, Vitamin E, oleic acid, enzymes, and minerals, making it an amazing remedy. Cold-pressed, unrefined and extra virgin is best for hair health.

TIP: Castor oil is very thick so you need to apply it together with another oil of your choice (e.g., 3 tablespoons of castor oil, 1 tablespoon of almond oil, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil). Heat the mixture in a double boiler, apply it to the hair from root to tip and let it sit for at least thirty minutes. Then rinse thoroughly.

4.  Coconut oil:

Oils are “food” for hair … Coconut oil is one of the best as it is refreshing and rich in vitamins E and K, lauric acid, and minerals Coconut oil contains anti-fungal, anti-viral and antibacterial properties and is rich in antioxidants. Coconut oil promotes hair growth, fights with dryness, dandruff, scalp infections and fungi, protects hair from sun damage, as well as brightens it.

Better to buy organic, cold-pressed, extra virgin coconut oil.

TIP:  apply it as a  moisturizing and restructuring pack by heating about 50ml of oil and massaging it into the hair, starting from the scalp and then continuing along the entire length as a normal conditioner. Leave it on for at least half an hour, depending on the dryness of your hair and wash it normally, possibly with a  mild shampoo.

5. Brahmi:

A true Ayurvedic gem… Brahmi is used in Ayurveda to nourish and prevent hair loss. Massaging the head with Brahmi oil increases blood circulation in the scalp and makes the hair roots stronger. Brahmi oil is used to treat scalp dry and flaky dandruff. Brahmi used as a powder for a mask or as oil can reduce premature graying, hair loss, promote hair density, shine and treat scalp irritation.

6. Bhringraj:

Another Ayurvedic hair herb is Bhringraj used in many popular hair oils. It is an amazing remedy for graying. Bhringraj is used to control hair loss, encourage new hair growth, strengthen hair follicles, fight dandruff, improve hair color and texture. It also improves sleep and fights skin allergies. Bhringraj can be used as hair oil or as a powder in hair masks.

7. Fenugreek:

Fenugreek or Methi is a well-kept secret in natural medicine for hair growth. Fenugreek or methi prevents hair loss, promotes hair growth, eliminates dandruff and soothes dry, itchy scalp. Methi contains protein, vitamin C, iron, potassium and lecithin, all of which are great for strong hair follicles, improve hair growth and make hair shiny.

8. Tulsi:

Contains many vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins A, K, C, folate, copper, iron, calcium and manganese. Tulsi has many antioxidant properties and improves circulation by increasing blood flow. Tulsi takes care of dry, brittle and damaged hair, fights dry, itchy, graying scalp, strengthens hair and promotes hair growth.

TIP: Apply dried powdered leaves mixed with yogurt for a great hair mask.

9. Amla:

One of the most popular herbs in Ayurveda is an amazing hair tonic. Amla can be squeezed or dried in the hair mask. Amla oil is extremely popular in India or Southeast Asian countries as hair oil. Amla contains several vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Amla can prevent hair loss, hair graying, fight dry scalp, dandruff, strengthen hair follicles, and increase circulation, promoting hair growth. Amla possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties and has a cooling effect. Amla oil relieves irritation and infections of the scalp. The high nutrient content in Amla increases shine and nourishes the hair.

10. Jatamansi:

It is an Ayurvedic herb that can calm the nerves and mind required for strong hair follicles and prevent hair loss. Add Jatamansi powder for hair masks. Jatamansi also promotes relaxing and blissful sleep. Jatamansi is also known to prevent premature graying. Jatamansi oil is available in Ayurvedic stores and almond oil, making it a great hair care product.

11. Curry Leaves:

In Ayurvedic medicine curry infused oil is very popular for hair growth, strong, shiny, thick hair. Curry leaves soften hair, reduce scalp infections, block premature graying, and have antibacterial effects. It is high in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, E, folic acid and minerals such as iron.

12. Ritha:

Southeast Asians use Ritha, or Reetha, as a natural shampoo, cleanser, and conditioner. Ritha helps prevent hair loss, adds volume and shine. Ritha can be used as a totally natural shampoo. Ritha also fights dandruff and dry scalp contains antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties that help fight lice.

TIP: Ritha is available in powdered form, as amla and shikakai (100 grams of each herb) can be boiled in two liters of water. Boil until the water in the saucepan is halved. Water can be used as a shampoo. For dark hair, make a paste with water and equal parts of henna and Ritha.

13. Shikakai:

Shikakai, an Indian word, literally means fruit for the hair and offers numerous specific benefits for hair health. Shikakai is used for hair cleansing, promoting hair growth, preventing dandruff and strengthening hair follicles. Powdered shikakai is generally mixed with water to make a paste and applied to the scalp and hair to use as a conditioner. Shikakai has a low pH level, so when you use it to clean your hair, it doesn’t damage your hair or deprive it of its natural oils.

14. Hibiscus Flower:

This is an amazing flower for hair health when used fresh or dried. Hibiscus contains many vitamin C and A, iron and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Making herbal hair masks with hibiscus flower paste or infused hibiscus oil can cure hair loss, dandruff, improve hair shine, hair and promote hair regrowth. Note that both the flower and the leaves can make a paste for a hair mask, but the flowers can contain more than just nutrients. Hibiscus is also known to stop graying.

TIP: Add fenugreek (methi) or yogurt in the same paste for a mask to combat dandruff.

15. Neem:

Known and widespread above all as oil, neem oil is the best remedy to combat dandruff, dryness and lice (antimicrobial properties). Neem oil prevents hair loss and promotes hair growth.

TIP: Add powdered neem, tulsi and amla to fight dry hair and eliminate dandruff problems.

16. Apple cider vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar has many known benefits for treating hair and scalp. Many people use apple cider to rinse their hair for stronger, shinier hair. Apple cider vinegar is used to prevent split ends, stimulate hair growth, reduce frizz, detangle and clean hair. There are many natural shampoos, hair rinse, or hair mask recipes that use apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar that contains natural culture (also known as mother) is best to use. It has antibacterial, anti-fungal and acetic acid properties, which help balance the pH level of our scalp.

Smelling or aromatic herbs and spices are used in all the kitchens of the world since they are the ones that color, flavor and decorate culinary dishes.

Both herbs and spices were considered treasures in ancient times. In addition to providing flavors and smells, aromatic herbs are the perfect substitute to reduce salt and are good for health since many of them have therapeutic and pharmacological properties.

What is the difference between herb and spices?

The herbs

It is a group of aromatic plants or herbs whose main characteristic is that they are always fresh and generally complete in stem, leaf and occasionally in the root. Some examples are bay leaf, coriander, rosemary or tarragon, among others. They are also freshly cut or almost freshly cut.

The herbs are also often leave a fragrant plant or tree.

Uses in the kitchen: Aromatic herbs are frequently used in cooking to flavor and flavor meats, marinades, sauces, salads, soups, rice and other ** dishes *.

The spices

The term spices refer to the hard parts such as seeds, barks or roots, and even to aromatic but dry herbs. They can be pulverized, chopped or complete, because in this way, they are better preserved.

Uses in the Kitchen: The way you use spices when cooking differs somewhat from aromatic herbs. Usually, spices need a little fat to develop their flavor and fully spread in our dish. However, you have to be very careful, as they can burn easily if left at high temperatures too long.

The herbs are often the fragrant leaves of a plant or tree, while the term spice is usually applied to the hard parts like seeds, bark or roots of plants.

It is very interesting to know that spices, and aromatic herbs in general, are important ingredients of medicine and, also of magic, which is born from knowing, touching, smelling and feeling them and thereby learning their essence so that it results easier to combine them.

Plants offering herbs and spices

You can find herbs and seeds of the same name, for example, coriander. The leaves of the Coriandrum sativum plant are called coriander. They are an herb. At the same time, the seeds are a spice. So in the kitchen, the herbs are the leaves, while the spices come from the rest of the plant. Botanically, herbs are whole plants that do not have wooden parts like trees and shrubs.

Sage, basil, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf are some of the most commonly used Mediterranean herbs and that anyone can grow in pots to later enjoy their magical virtues.

Likewise, each region of the world has the herbs and spices that are best adapted to its cuisine, to its own flavors, meats and tastes, such as the case of Mexican cuisine that has very special condiments and that distinguish it in the world. For example, oregano, epazote, coriander, holy leaf (acuyo), avocado leaf, papa, parsley.

Now that you know the differences between herbs and spices, it will be much easier to learn how to use them in the kitchen and incorporate them into your dishes. Now, to enjoy its delicious properties.

A well-known aromatic plant is spearmint, which is often confused with mint. Peppermint can be used to flavor dishes and prepare drinks and cocktails, such as the mojito. But we can also use this herb for therapeutic purposes, taking advantage of its many benefits, and you can also plant peppermint at home. In this article, I explain what the Can i have a peppermint and the properties of peppermint are.