Mulberry Leaf Extract Tested on Diabetic Rats

Based on the hypoglycemia and hypolipidemia of mulberry leaf extract and its extracts, we investigated the effect of a novel formula, Sang Tong Jian (STJ), from mulberry leaf on rats with diabetic nephropathy (DN).
The DN rats were induced by a long-term high-fat diet and a single streptozotocin injection.

STJ was introduced for 12 weeks from the presence of hyperglycemia. The fasting blood glucose of DN rats was determined at weeks 5, 7, 9, and 11 respectively. The serum GSP, GHb and lipid profiles were analyzed by using a colorimetric method and ELISA kits. The kidney function of DN rats was demonstrated through the analysis of urine creatinine, urine albumin, serum urea nitrogen, serum creatinine and the creatinine clearance rate.

The H-E (haematoxylin and eosin) and PAS (Periodic Acid-Schiff) staining were adopted to exhibit the morphology of the kidney. The TGF-β1 and p-smad2/3, smad2/3, collagen IV, connexin 43 and E-cadherin were assayed via immunohistochemistry and western blot.

STJ significantly decreased the fasting blood glucose (p < 0.01) and the glycation end product (p < 0.05), and regulated dyslipidemia. Inhibition of the thickening of the glomerular basement membrane and amelioration of the kidney function were shown in STJ-treated DN rats. Moreover, STJ decreased the levels of TGF-β1, collagen IV, connexin 43 and activation of smad2/3 (p < 0.01), and enhanced E-cadherin (p < 0.01) in the kidney of DN rats.

12 Week administration of STJ improved the metabolic parameters associated with blood glucose and lipid and inhibited the TGF-β1 signaling pathway, which positively contributed to the amelioration of chronic diabetic kidney disease.

Uses For Organic Fruit Powder

A few years ago a caterer from CNN called wanting to order some organic fruit powder from us. We were already selling our freeze dried fruit at that point, but this was a specific request not for the fruit, but for the powder.

When a caterer from CNN calls wanting to buy fruit powder, what do you do? You sell fruit powder! Now we can’t keep fruit powder in stock. As soon as it comes in, it’s gone again. (Don’t worry though: with just a couple clicks you can be added to our waiting list so you’ll be the first to know when it’s available.)

So why is our fruit powder so popular? Well, for several reasons, actually. Chefs, like that caterer from CNN, love fruit powder because it imparts amazing, fruit-rich flavor, and it doesn’t weigh desserts down with extra moisture. You can achieve amazing culinary results with fruit powder that you simply can’t with fresh fruit. But that’s not the only reason.

Saves Time

To make your own fruit powder, you need special equipment and / or a lot of time to spare. Dehydrating fruit takes time and requires the use of a dehydrator, which can be a costly investment. Alternatively, you can set your oven on low and bake fresh fruit for hours on end in order to dehydrate it, but this isn’t a very energy efficient way to go. In either case, prepping the fruit can be time consuming: not only do you have to wash, peel, and in some cases, de-seed fruit, but, in order to dehydrate, you need to cut it up into small pieces. In sum: freeze dried fruit can end up saving you time and money.

Packs a Punch

Freeze dried organic fruit powder packs a punch of flavor, as well as valuable vitamins and minerals. Look for fruit powder that doesn’t have any added sugar or preservatives, so you can get all the natural goodness from fruit and berries without unnecessary additives.

Always in Season

Who says you can’t enjoy sweet strawberries in the dead of winter? With freeze dried fruit powder, even sunny, tropical fruits are always in season. In powder form, it’s lightweight and ready to use by the spoonful for whatever fresh flavor you’re craving, anytime of year.  

Natural Food Coloring

Have you ever read the ingredients on artificial coloring? It may make your iced cookies or cakes look vibrant and eye-catching, but artificial food coloring is anything but natural. With freeze dried fruit powder you can decorate cakes, cupcakes, and more with bright, beautiful colors the natural way. Go ahead and just fold it into your buttercream frosting – it’s that easy! (Just sift out the bits – you can sprinkle those atop your dessert for a decorative effect.)

Natural Flavoring

Freeze dried fruit powder can be added for a tang of sweetness without the need for artificial sweeteners. Substitute it in low-calorie, low-fat recipes calling for artificial sweeteners, for a healthier alternative that tastes naturally delicious.

Need more convincing that organic fruit powder is the way to go? Here are some tips for how you can use fruit powder to make your day more delicious and bright. Have some ideas for using fruit powder that you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments.

Could Switching to Organic Fruit and Veg Could Double Sperm Count

Pesticides on organic fruit powder may be damaging sperm counts and men should consider going organic if they want to have children, scientists have suggested.
Although eating large amounts of fruit and vegetables might seem the healthy option, Harvard researchers found that those containing high levels of pesticides may have a damaging impact on semen quality and quantity.
Strawberries, apples, pears, peppers and spinach are just some of the crops which are intensively sprayed by farmers to eradicate pests and boost production.
The study found that men who ate at least one and half portions of fruit and vegetables containing high levels of pesticide residue had sperm counts which were 49 per cent lower than usual. Their semen quality was also reduced by 32 per cent.
However those who ate large quantities of fruit and vegetables with little or no residue saw their sperm quality increase by 37 per cent.
"These findings should not discourage the consumption of fruit and vegetables in general,” said Jorge Chavarro, Assistant Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston
“In fact, we found that total intake of fruit and vegetables was completely unrelated to semen quality.
“This suggests that implementing strategies specifically targeted at avoiding pesticide residues, such as consuming organically-grown produce or avoiding produce known to have large amounts of residues, may be the way to go."
However the researchers say that the results could be skewed by the fact that men attending the clinic had fertility problems.
Prof Allan Pacey, Professor of Andrology at the University of Sheffield, said: “This is a very interesting paper that raises the possibility that pesticide residues in our food may be a contributory factor in male infertility, at least in some men.
“There is also no evidence at present that switching to organic fruit powder will improve semen quality, although it will obviously do no harm.
“But I hope that this paper will encourage other studies to take place in this area, so that we might be able to answer the question once and for all.”
Dr Jackson Kirkman-Brown, Science Lead, at Birmingham Women's Fertility Centre, added: “The paper highlights a growing body of evidence that diet can affect male fertility and sperm quality.
“Men wishing to optimise their sperm quality should still eat a healthy balanced diet until more data is available.”
Prof Sheena Lewis, Professor of Reproductive Medicine at Queen's University Belfast, said men suffering from fertility problems could be more vulenrable to pesticides.
Organic fruit powder was published in the journal Human Reproduction.

Health Benefits of the Mulberry Leaf

In China, Mulberry Leaves have been treasured as an herbal medicine since ancient times. China’s oldest book of remedies, “Huang Di Ba Shi Yi Nan Jing” or “The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of the Difficulties”, a book devoted to Chinese Medical Practice is the bible for all herbal medicine and records the plant’s first use. It refers to the dry Mulberry leaf tea, “Sang ye cha” or godly hermits’ tea, “Qian cheng de yin shi cha” as a miracle remedy, an immortality medicine. Stating it was used as a cure for coughs, nutritional fortification and paralysis. Interesting enough the Chinese character for Mulberry Tree is ?. The symbol means “tree for the silk worm”. It also has the same meaning in Japanese.

The implication of this Asiatic linguistic symbol referencing the Mulberry tree can be found in the advent of the contemporary textile industry. For example, in 1848 the Mulberry tree was introduced in Hawaii in connection with silkworm production. Its leaves were cultivated as a food source for raising silkworms and the epistemology of this Chinese character is no less significant.

Active Ingredient in Mulberry Leaves , the mulberry leaf extract have some obvious benefits for humans. They contain various minerals and extracts, such as beta-carotene, GABA-1, amino acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, chlorophyll, vitamin C, B1, B2, B6, A and they are rich in fiber.

From this you can see Mulberry is very fortified with minerals and due to the high levels of active ingredients it has prompted a bevy of research. For example the leaves contain six times more calcium than green tea, 25 times more than milk and 40 times more than cabbage. With respect to iron it contains 2.5 times more than green tea and 10 times more than spinach.

In addition, Mulberry leaves are a great source of fiber. They contain the same level of fiber as burdock roots and osmunda (“zenmai” in Japanese). The ingestion ratio of the leaves’ fiber is 8 soluble to 45 insoluble. Furthermore, in 100g of Mulberry dried leaves you can find 230mg of gamma-amino acid, which is believed to lower blood pressure. 100g of the leaves also contains 46mg of sitosterol which controls the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, while the same amount of green tea provides 14mg of sitosterol. Because of the high source of mineral content Mulberry leaves are expected to become a super food material in the near future with preventative effects against adult diseases such as hypertension.

What Is DNJ (1-Deoxynojirimycin)?Of particularly interest is an ingredient called 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) presumably it can only be found in mulberry leaf extract. The chemical structure of 1-deoxynojirimycin is very similar to glucose. If the oxygen portion in the chemical structure of glucose were to be replaced with nitrogen, the composition would be exactly the same as the chemical makeup of DNJ. For this reason DNJ inhibits disaccharides (alpha-glucosidase) and can reduce the intestinal absorption of the amount in the body essentially helping to stabilize the level of sugar in the blood.

Plainly speaking the intake of disaccharides, (alpha-glucosidase / sugar) is immediately dissolved and broken down and absorbed by the body. But if DNJ is introduced into the body and because of its similarities to glucose, the DNJ preferentially gets absorbed. During the process, the excess glucose moves to the colon without being broken down into monosaccharide and does not get absorbed into the blood. Instead it gets discharged. In effect this maximizes the body’s absorption of any remaining nutrition because disaccharides tend to displace or inhibit the body’s ability to absorb needed nutrients. This is why mulberry leaf extract particularly the substrate DNJ is now highly recognized as a promising herb which may help controls carbohydrate absorption.

Mulberry Leaf Makes You Have a Good Skincare Effect

Mulberry leaves of mulberry plants Sankoh. Chinese medicine believes that mulberry leaves of bitter, sweet, cold, with scattered wind in addition to heat, Liver eyesight. However, recent studies have shown that mulberry leaf extract has a good skin care effect, especially for facial acne, brown spots with good effect.

Acne, commonly known as acne, is common in young people an inflammatory skin disease. Young men and women after puberty, increased levels of sex hormone, to promote sebaceous gland hypertrophy, an increase in sebaceous glands, resulting in deposition of sebum, clogging the hair follicles, increased sebum can not be discharged on the formation of acne. Production of acne, although mainly due to changes in endocrine puberty, the male hormone than female hormone secretion caused by the relative increase. However, the high-fat, high sugar diet-induced long-term constipation is an important cause of acne. Chinese medicine, over-eating greasy spicy food, stomach heat to raw wet, evils acne affects the skin is raw. Because the efficacy of mulberry leaves with detoxification, mulberry leaf decoction of the trial was two hundred fifty-eight cases of acne, its effective 80% of more than nine. The specific method is to take fresh mulberry leaf extract fifty grams per day, taking three times Jianshui generally effective fifteen days. Also with the amount of fresh mulberry leaves, pounded, apply acne to a daily thirty minutes, also achieved satisfactory results.

As for the treatment of facial brown spots mulberry leaves, the specific method is: use commercially available five hundred grams of mulberry leaves, cooked by steam sterilization, removal of impurities, dry spare. Fifteen grams per day, made after tea with boiling water, and even served thirty days for a course of treatment. Experts believe that taking the mulberry leaves so brown spots on the skin have a good effect may be related to the improvement of the secretory function of the body. Meanwhile, according to pharmacological studies have shown that mulberry leaves are rich in flavonoids Intuit, phenols, amino acids, organic acids, carotene, vitamins and many essential trace elements, which is to improve and regulate the metabolism of skin tissue, especially inhibition of pigmentation the occurrence and development have a positive effect. If the mulberry leaf dextrose, extract its active ingredients and additives by adding concentrated beauty as a cosmetic cream, while long-term topical and oral, will undoubtedly face brown spots will have better results.

Thus, do not underestimate the mulberry leaf extract, both economical and convenient, in fact, the rare beauty medicine. There are brown spots and facial acne patients may wish to try, usually without side effects.

Mulberry Leaf Recipes on Herbal Remedies

The Chinese Materia Medica believes that it is bitter and sweet in flavor and cold in nature. It goes to meridians of lung and liver. Common functions are dispelling wind and heat, clearing lung heat, and improving eyesight. Primary mulberry leaf uses and indications include wind-heat cold, beginning stage of wind-warm syndrome, fever and headache, sweating and aversion to wind, cough and chest pain, dry cough but with no phlegm due to lung dryness, dry throat and thirst, wind-heat and liver-yang flaming syndrome, and red, painful, and swollen eyes. Recommended mulberry leaf extract dosage is from 4.5 to 9 grams in decoction. Besides, it can be still used in the forms of mulberry leaf supplement, powder, tea, oil, juice, extract, pills, etc.

1) Sang Xing Tang (mulberry leaf extract and apricot seed decoction) from Wen Bing Tiao Bian (Detailed Analysis of Warm Diseases). It is combined with Xing Ren (apricot seed), Sha Shen (Glehnia), Xiang Bei Mu (Fritillaria Bulb), Xiang Chi (Fermented Soy), etc. to clear dryness-heat and moisten lung to arrest cough.

2) Sang Ju Yin from Wen Bing Tiao Bian. It is formulated with apricot, Lian Qiao (Forsythia), Bo He (Mint Herb), Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum Morifolium), etc. to cure Tai-yin wind-warm syndrome, cough only, mild fever, and slight thirst.

3) Sang Ma Wan from Yi Ji Bao Jian (Precious Mirror for the Advancement of Medicine). It is coupled with Hei Zhi Ma (Black sesame seeds) to heal deficient liver-yin, cloudy vision, chronic cough, scaly dry skin, and paralysis.

4) Du Sheng San from Sheng Ji Zong Lu (Complete Record of Holy Benevolence). It is matched with La Cha (literally wax tea) and She Xiang (musk) for spitting blood.

Medicinal Uses of the Mulberry Species

Beyond its use in sericulture, the Mulberry tree and its various parts have been used for an array of human products. As previously mentioned, the berries can be eaten raw or cooked to make jams or jellies as well as implemented into assorted dishes. They can be processed to make a sweet vinegar or wine. Its wood is known to be hard and heavy which contributes to its long-lasting value (Rafinesque, 1839). The wood can be used for making various sporting instruments or boating materials (Moore). Not only are the leaves a primary source for the silk worm (Bombyx mori), they also can be a nutritious food for farm animals around the world. It is considered preferred feeding for “mini-livestock,” such as guinea pigs and birds (Sánchez).

The exterior of the tree is more than just a pleasant ornamental mulberry leaf extract. The tree wards off most pests, as the sap is known to be quite bitter, yet another reason why it can function as a decorative tree near one’s home (Cobb, 1833). It was noted that Native Americans used the fibrous bark of the red mulberry in making many items such as baskets and ropes (Rafinesque, 1839).

Medicinally, the tree has been studied and found to produce health benefits for animals and humans. In terms of ethno pharmacological evidence, there are also reports from indigenous cultures around the world using the berries for health benefits. For example, some Native American tribes were known to use the red mulberry bark for digestive health (Stone, 2009).

The berries have been studied and found to have antioxidant properties. The berries also seem to have positive and potential effects in inhibiting the production of fat and protein containing plaque in one’s arteries (Katsube, 2006). Some research indicates the berries’ great effect of stimulating one’s immune response by activating one’s macrophage activity.

The leaves of the white mulberry in particular have been extensively studied for useful properties in medicine. They can be ingested to help cure a sore throat (Moore). There has even been research on a specific chemical compound within the leaves that may induce cell death for some types of cancer cells (Deepa M, 2012). All in all, the white mulberry leaf extract has shown to be very useful for human health, and its remedial properties have yet to be fully understood.

Organic Fruit Powder for Toddler

Have you ever tasted jarred baby food? It isn’t that good. So why feed it to your little one?

That was the quandary facing new mom Caroline Freedman when she was pregnant with her first child. She couldn’t believe that nothing had changed since she had been a baby, and moms everywhere were still feeding their new babies the jarred stuff. Sure, some moms have opted to make their own baby food but there was still no other option out there for ready-made food. Often discussing the quandary with her pal, Lauren McCullough, in their happy hour conversations after work, (Freedman worked in mergers and acquisitions at Dell, McCullough as a culinary arts teacher at the Texas School for the Deaf) the two decided to turn the idea into a reality.

Freedman knew that organic fruit powder, as opposed to cooking them, keeps them healthier, locking in essential phytochemicals (plant chemicals that help fight off disease) and nutrients. “When you don’t expose food to heat,” McCullough explained on a recent phone call with MNN, “you maintain more of the food’s freshness and flavor.” They took that concept to Freedman’s condo, where they tried to dehydrate a sweet potato in Freedman’s oven. Needless to say, the experiment was a less-than-rousing success. “We just expected it to magically dehydrate into powder,” McCullough recalls with a laugh. “What we got was basically a sweet potato fruit roll up.” Yummy, yes, but not what they were going for.

With that, Freedman and McCullough turned to the experts – after doing extensive research, they enlisted the help of a few organic farms across the country that specialize in drying produce and set to work. And so NurturMe was born.

Another thing that’s unique about NurturMe singles? “You can actually mix our fruit and vegetable powder with breastmilk or formula,” says McCullough, packing them with even more nutrients. And another plus: For moms struggling to get their mac-and-cheese loving toddler to eat their veggies, you can mix the powder into your kids’ favorite meals to give them a nutritional boost.

McCullough and Freedman credit their mentors in the Austin community with helping them get off the ground. “Austin is a growing mecca of natural products,” says McCullough. “There were so many cool people that were willing to support and help us, telling us that it was possible.” Indeed, Whole Foods started out in Austin and the company was one of the first to give McCullough and Freedman a shot at selling their products. Today, you can find organic fruit powder in retailers like Whole Foods, Target and Babies R Us, and online at Amazon and Diapers.com.

Thanks to Freedman and McCullough’s ingenuity and perseverance, NurturMe has quickly gone from a failed sweet potato experiment to an award-winning line of organic baby foods, generating buzz across the country, all while giving moms and babies a great reason to feel good about feeding time.

Can Mulberry Leaf Extract Used for Weight Loss

I don’t normally read the freebie newspapers in Toronto as their content is the journalistic equivalent of the lead in the Toronto water supply: both slowly sap your intellect away.

But I ride public transit and those papers are littered everywhere, rolling around the TTC. So against my better judgment I picked up the paper on May 20,  skipped past the article from the “holistic nutritionist” (a topic for another day) and stumbled across this advertisement:

“The Man Who Made the Whole Town Lose Weight”

Impressive headline.  Reading further it turns out that “Johnny Petterson”, a local health food store owner in Alesund, Norway, had started selling mulberry leaf extract leaf tablets to his customers, and they lost weight – after only 10 days.  According to the advertising copy, Johnny has helped over 1500 customers lose weight. Apparently this product is for sale at major pharmacies in Canada. So it’s time to do a bit of digging into this scientific breakthrough unearthed by a health food store owner.

Here’s excerpts from the ad (here is a similar PDF) – and my comments.

“When blood sugar is stable, sugar cravings disappear” – This statement is contradicted by the American Heart Association, which summarizes the evidence as, “We don’t really know enough about all the factors that cause specific food cravings.”

“I studied the effects of mulberries on blood sugar, insulin and fat burning” – There is one very small trial that evaluated mulberry leaf extract on blood sugar levels and observed that it reduced the initial increase in blood sugar after eating sugar. There is one unblinded evaluation of an ingredient extracted from mulberry leaves (1-deoxynojirimycin)  that suggests it may slow the rise in blood sugar after a meal. But there is no data to demonstrate that mulberry has any influence on “fat burning” or, most importantly, weight. The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, the most credible and evidence-based summary of information on “natural” products, has almost no information on this item – because no evidence has been published that meets its strict quality requirements.

“Mulberry leaves lead to lower insulin secretion, which makes you able to burn stored fat better and also reduce fat storage from excess calories” –  The very preliminary evidence that exists does suggest that mulberry leaves may have some sort of biological effect. The active ingredient may be the chemical 1-deoxynojirimycin, which appears to be an alphi (α)-glucosidase inhibitor. It may act to blunt the spike in blood sugar after a meal, by interfering with carbohydrate absorption.  The prescription diabetes drug acarbose (Prandase/Glucobay) is also an α-glucosidase inhibitor, so this ingredient from mulberry may have a similar effect.

The terms “burn stored fat better” is clinically meaningless. There is no evidence that mulberry reduces fat storage.

“Taking mulberry leaves, my customers changed to a healthier diet without even noticing it” – Wait, didn’t he just say that the mulberry affects insulin secretion? How did diet come into the picture? If it’s affecting insulin levels, why is the diet changing? Based on the very preliminary research with mulberry leaves, all we can propose is that mulberry leaves might affect how quickly sugars are absorbed. There is no evidence that this will have any impact on dietary choices. Further, this has not been observed with prescription drugs with the same action.

“We now know from clinical studies how mulberry leaf extract regulate blood sugar levels.” Ummm, no we don’t. Where’s the randomized clinical trials in human subjects that demonstrate this product is safe and effective?

The website makes even more questionable claims:

“You will experience that you ar no longer as tempted by foods and especially sugar. You will more easily stay on a healthy diet. Gradually you will lose weight (especially abdominal) and any retained water.” Again, there is absolutely no published evidence that the product will do this. No references are provided.

“Mulberry leaves contain phytosterols, which are cholesterol-lowering agents. While most studies have been done on mulberry’s effect on blood sugar, the studies found that serum cholesterol levels  also dropped by about 12% on average.” Yet again, there is no persuasive evidence to demonstrate this is the case.  Another unsubstantiated, unreferenced claim.

“Mulberry is safe and natural. But do not use mulberry during pregnancy or when breastfeeding” There is zero published evidence that demonstrates short-term or long-term mulberry leaf consumption is safe. No research has been conducted to determine what its side effects are. Based on the very preliminary evidence noted above, mulberry could potentially be dangerous if consumed by diabetics. Most importantly, studies have been done with mulberry leaves, or isolated ingredients. There is no published information or research with Mulberry zuccarin to demonstrate that it has the same effects.

Bottom Line

This is an interesting product. Mulberry leaves do seem to have some sort of biological activity and may contain chemicals that could be useful in the treatment of diabetes. But to claim that this product is a diabetes treatment is premature. Not enough information is known about the risk, benefits, or even what an appropriate dose might be. Moreover, if it actually works, this supplement could put diabetics at risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).  So instead, the product is marketed as a weight loss support supplement – a completely unsubstantiated claim. There is no published to demonstrate that mulberry will help with short-term or long-term weight loss.

If mulberry leaf extract was considered a drug product, there is zero likelihood it would be currently permitted for sale in Canada, the US, or any other jurisdiction.  Why? Because with drugs, conclusive evidence of efficacy and safety is required before sale is allowed.  But call it a natural health product, and all the barrier to sale disappear. It seems any manufacturer can take a unevaluated product, make unsubstantiated health claims, provide no  direct evidence of safety or efficacy, and yet secure shelf space in pharmacies.  As for Canadians,  Heath Canada’s Natural Health Products Directorate is missing in action (again) – failing to regulate health products, and failing to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

The Possible Benefits of Cinnamon in Managing Diabetes

It’s fine to sprinkle cinnamon powder on your oatmeal or use it in baking. Go

ahead and enjoy it if you like its taste. But if you hope that it will

help you manage your diabetes, you might want to pause before you head

to your spice rack.

It's not yet clear if cinnamon is good for diabetes. Research findings

have been mixed, and the American Diabetes Association dismisses

cinnamon’s use in diabetes treatment.

Several small studies have linked cinnamon to better blood sugar levels.

Some of this work shows it may curb blood sugar by lowering insulin

resistance.

In one study, volunteers ate from 1 to 6 grams of cinnamon for 40 days.

(One gram of ground cinnamon powder is about half a teaspoon.) The researchers

found that cinnamon cut cholesterol by about 18% and blood sugar levels

by 24%. But in other studies, the spice did not lower blood sugar or

cholesterol levels.

Is Cinnamon Safe for People With Diabetes?
Unless you have liver damage, it should be OK for you to enjoy it in

food. If you do have liver problems, be careful, because large amounts

of cinnamon may make them worse.

If you are considering cinnamon supplements, talk with your doctor

first, especially if you take any medication. Also, look for brands

labeled with a quality seal. These include the NSF International, US

Pharmacopeia, or Consumerlab seal. This helps assure that the supplement

actually has the ingredients stated on the label and doesn't have any

contaminants or potentially harmful ingredients.

Unlike medications, supplement makers don't have to prove their products

are safe or effective. But the FDA can order a supplement off the market

if it proves it's unsafe.

Does Cinnamon Interact With Other Herbs or Drugs?
Use caution if you also take other supplements that lower blood sugar

levels, including:

Alpha lipoic acid
Bitter melon
Chromium
Devil's claw
Fenugreek
Garlic
Horse chestnut
Panax
Siberian ginseng
Psyllium
The same holds true with diabetes medications. If you and your doctor

decide it's OK for you to try cinnamon powder, pay close attention to your

blood sugar levels. Tell your doctor if your levels fall too low.

Taking cinnamon with drugs that affect the liver may make liver problems

more likely.

6 Health Benefits of Mulberry Leaf Extract

Mulberry leaf extract is delicious and nutritious, people all over the world enjoy it. Mulberry leaf extracts are a product of the Morus alba tree. Its leaves, which also contain nutrients and are even used as food for silkworms, are thin, glossy and light green; the fruit, like grapes, is red or white and grows in bunches called “drupes.”

1. Source of Antioxidants
Antioxidants help lessen the damage caused by free radicals and the entire mulberry plant- leaves, stems, and fruit, contains antioxidants. [1] [2] One antioxidant in particular, resveratrol, has gotten much attention. Research published by the University of Texas Health Science Center credits resveratrol for positive effects on age and longevity. [3]

2. Immune System Support
Mulberries contain alkaloids that activate macrophages. Macrophages are white blood cells that stimulate the immune system, putting it on high active alert against health threats. [4]


3. Supports Healthy Blood Sugar
More formal research is appropriate, but mulberry leaf extract is thought to contain compounds that support balanced blood sugar levels. [5] Traditional medicine in China, Trinidad and Tobago have all used mulberry leaves to promote balanced blood sugar levels. [6] [7]

4. Healthy Food!
Dried mulberries are a great source of protein, vitamin C and K, fiber, and iron. Best of all, they’re available in health food stores everywhere! Enjoy them as a great snack all by themselves or add them to your favorite trail mix. If you live in a warm climate and are lucky enough to have mulberry trees nearby, you can enjoy the fruit fresh off the tree. Not as tasty as the fruit, even the leaves contain protein, fiber, and nutrients! [8]

5. Resists Redness
Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine have used mulberry as a remedy for swelling and redness. [9] A recent Romanian study discovered that a curcumin and mulberry leaf combination may be a new lead into natural remedies for this sort of irritation. [10]


6. Brain Protection?
Do mulberry leaf extract offer anything to the brain? Researchers at Khon Kaen University in Thailand set out to answer that question by evaluating the effect of mulberry on male rats with memory impairment and brain damage. Although further investigation is required before mulberries can be declared a cognitive enhancer and neuroprotectant, rats that consumed mulberries had better memories and less oxidative stress.

Things about Reishi Mushro​oms You Should Know

Cancer

Reishi mushroom extract contain beta-glucan polysaccharides, triterpenes, and other natural biological compounds. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, these components may help support the immune system in cancer patients, alleviate nausea brought on by chemotherapy, and enhance the effects of radiation therapy.

A small 2003 study in Immunological Investigation found that 12 weeks of treatment with reishi extract did improve the immune response of patients with advanced cancer, and a 2010 review published in Clinical and Experimental Metastasis found that reishi may help prevent cancer from spreading.

Immunity Booster

The same compounds that support immune function in cancer patients help boost immunity in others as well. Reishi's antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties all help to support the immune system.

Liver Disease

Reishi is a traditional remedy for liver disease in Asian cultures. The polysaccharides in reishi may help to protect liver cells, and the antioxidant properties of reishi help support liver function. Reishi is believed to improve liver detoxification, liver cell regeneration, and overall liver function.

Asthma and Respiratory Complaints

An article published in Herbs for Health in 1997 described a 1970s study in which more than 2,000 Chinese patients with chronic bronchitis reported feeling better and having increased appetite after two weeks of treatment with reishi mushroom extract, and a 1990 study at the University of Texas Health Center found that reishi could be used to treat bronchitis, among other complaints. This may be because of reishi's anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects.

These effects are also beneficial for asthma sufferers, as are the the antihistmine properties of the oleic acid and cyclooctasulfur found in reishi.

Heart Disease

The many biological compounds in reishi mushrooms may also help prevent heart disease, both by lowering blood pressure (a traditional use of the mushroom) and potentially by lowering cholesterol.

Insomnia

Treatment of insomnia is another traditional use of reishi mushroom extract, and I personally take reishi to help me stay asleep through the night. Long-term use may help promote slow-wave sleep.

Cinnamon Can Aid Weight Loss

Weight loss is one of the most popular topics in modern day health news due to the expanding waistlines of people around the world. People like to cling to the thought of a miracle food or super pill like cinnamon powder in order to lose weight. But the reality is that a balanced diet and exercise regimen is the best way to lose and maintain a healthy weight.

While there is no magic bullet or overnight cure, there are some foods, herbs and spices that can help assist you in your weight loss journey. One of these weight loss aids is cinnamon. Today, we will be exploring six ways in which this common spice can help. First, though, you should know you that cinnamon is a substance that has been given the GRAS designation (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the US Food Drug Administration.

How Cinnamon Helps Aid in Weight Loss

Controls insulin levels
Cinnamon powder has the unique ability to imitate the activity of insulin in the body. For those who are unfamiliar with the process of glucose metabolism, insulin is the chemical that helps your body regulate its levels of blood sugar (glucose). People who are more familiar with conditions like diabetes know that maintaining a blood sugar level is important as spikes that are either too high or too low can be dangerous for patients, especially. Even within non-diabetics, increased blood sugar levels can be problematic because they cause excess fat to be stored, making it harder for people to maintain or lose weight. Cinnamon helps regulate your levels so this excess fat does not build up.

Decreases blood sugar
For the reasons mentioned above, maintaining a regulated blood sugar level is important for weight loss. Cinnamon can help do this by controlling insulin quantities as well as directly act on the blood sugar itself. A study has even shown that adding cinnamon to a meal can lower its glycemic index by 18-29%. Eating lower glycemic foods is important to avoiding spikes in your blood sugar levels.

Speeds metabolism
As mentioned in the discussion of how cinnamon helps control insulin levels, the spice has the ability to alter the metabolism of not only sugar, but of carbohydrates as well. Your body is better able to use your carbohydrate storage, so that they do not turn into excess fat. The consumption of cinnamon itself, also causes a metabolic reaction. Similar to when you eat hot peppers, the presence of the cinnamon in your body allows your metabolism to speed up just because it takes a little extra energy to metabolize. This boost in metabolism allows you to burn more calories and assists with weight loss in this way.

Lowers LDL cholesterol
Research has also supported the idea that cinnamon can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, which is great for your heart health. Diabetic participants in a recent study showed lower LDL among other weight loss indicators like BMI when taking the given dose of cinnamon during the study period.

Helps to burn belly fat
The consumption of cinnamon is said to impact abdominal fat more so than fat found in other parts of your body. This is often a problem area for many, so this is good news for those who have struggled to lose body fat. Not only does it benefit your dress or pants size, but abdominal fat is actually the most dangerous type of fat as it surrounds some of our most vital organs. For this reason, less belly fat is good for your overall health.

Suppresses appetite
Cinnamon powder can actually slow down the process of moving food into your stomach. This is a good thing for those attempting to lose weight because this activity will help you feel full for a longer period of time. In addition, the sweet nature of cinnamon can help alleviate a sweet craving. Many times when you are on a weight loss diet, sweets are off limits, so the cinnamon can fill this void so that you do not feel tempted to reach for high calorie desserts.

Best Way to Flavor Coffee with Cinnamon

Saving calories can often be accomplished with a little creativity. For example, swapping the cream and sugar (roughly an ounce or 2 tablespoons) with a teaspoon of cinnamon powder could save up to 70 calories per cup-o-Joe. Looks like this special spice may change the standard coffee routine.

One study found just half a teaspoon of cinnamon per day can significantly reduce blood sugar levels, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes  . But for those who don't have to worry so seriously about insulin levels, cinnamon has also been shown to have many other benefits:

Cinnamon can slow the speed at which the stomach empties following a meal, which can help control sharp rises and falls in blood sugar levels.Softening these sugar spikes can theoretically reduce cravings. Cinnamon powder can enhance the way antioxidants from other foods help the body defend itself, strengthening the immune system.

Additional suggested health benefits include relieving congestion, reducing stiffness in muscles and joints, counteracting inflammation, supporting digestive health, and even boosting brain function. This super spice has also been shown to stimulate good circulation with its blood-thinning properties.

Want another reason to sprinkle some cinnamon in coffee? That other coffee sweetener—sugar—has been linked to weight gain, diabetes, and may even be "toxic"  . Just another reason for cinnamon powder and coffee to band together! Still, there are some reasons to be wary. Many of the studies on the subject were conducted on mice, not humans, so it's unclear how well their benefits carry over. And while it might be nice to try something new in that morning cup of coffee, a teaspoon of cinnamon doesn't exactly taste the same as cream and sugar. Some may like it more and others less, but this (quite picky) Greatist taste-tester and coffee-lover actually enjoyed mixing it up a bit. With no sugar and a pinch of spice, my cup of coffee was still everything nice.

Is Organic Produce Healthier Than Conventional?

There are at least two good arguments for eating organic fruit powder: fewer pesticides and more nutrients. Let’s start with pesticides. Pesticides can be absorbed into fruits and vegetables, and leave trace residues. The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, pored over the results of nearly 51,000 USDA and FDA tests for pesticides on 44 popular produce items and identified the types of fruits and vegetables that were most likely to have higher trace amounts. Most people have no problems eating conventionally grown produce but if you feel strongly about pesticide residues, the EWG’s list below should help you shop.

As for nutrients, in 2007 a study out of Newcastle University in the United Kingdom reported that organic fruit powder boasted up to 40 percent higher levels of some nutrients (including vitamin C, zinc and iron) than its conventional counterparts. Additionally, a 2003 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that organically grown berries and corn contained 58 percent more polyphenols—antioxidants that help prevent cardiovascular disease—and up to 52 percent higher levels of vitamin C than those conventionally grown. Recent research by that study’s lead author, Alyson Mitchell, Ph.D., an associate professor of food science and technology at the University of California, Davis, pinpoints a potential mechanism to explain why organic techniques may sometimes yield superior produce.

It’s a difference in soil fertility, says Mitchell: “With organic methods, the nitrogen present in composted soil is released slowly and therefore plants grow at a normal rate, with their nutrients in balance. Vegetables fertilized with conventional fertilizers grow very rapidly and allocate less energy to develop nutrients.” Buying conventional produce from local farmers also has benefits. Nutrient values in produce peak at prime ripeness, just after harvest. As a general rule, the less produce has to travel, the fresher and more nutrient-rich it remains.

A 2008 review by the Organic Center of almost 100 studies on the nutritional quality of organic produce compared the effects conventional and organic farming methods have on specific nutrients. The report’s conclusion: “Yes, organic plant-based foods are, on average, more nutritious.”

Bottom line: “Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables in general is the point,” says Mitchell. If buying all organic isn’t a priority—or a financial reality for you—you might opt to buy organic fruit powder specifically when you’re selecting foods that are most heavily contaminated with pesticide and insecticide residues. See next page for a handy chart for common fruits and vegetables.

Amazing Health Benefits of Cinnamon Powder

When it comes to honey it’s hard to know which one to use even if you are just going to add it to a cup of tea. Anyways, you should use only raw one which means it has not been heated up!

Cinnamon powder by any other name would certainly taste as sweet… Or so the saying goes.

There is some confusion concerning cinnamon, as the common name refers to several different species of cinnamon that are similar but not the same.

In the United States, if you buy ground cinnamon from the store you are most likely buying Cinnamomum cassia (Cassia cinnamon). This cinnamon is native to Indonesia and now grows in tropical climates all around the world.

In other parts of the world, Cinnamomum zeylanicum is considered the “true cinnamon” and is also called Ceylon cinnamon.

Ceylon cinnamon is considered to have a sweeter and lighter flavor, while cassia cinnamon is considered to be spicier and more pungent. Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, or Ceylon. Referring to the difference in taste between these two spices, chefs prefer Cassia cinnamon in savory dishes such as meats and soups and prefer the sweeter Ceylon cinnamon in dessert dishes.

If you are wanting to take large doses of cinnamon regularly then it is probably best to choose Ceylon cinnamon powder(Cinnamomum zeylanicum).

There are actually over a 100 different varieties of cinnamon trees out in the world, but these two are the most commercially available. When it’s necessary to distinguish between these two kinds of cinnamon, I’ll refer to them as either Cassia cinnamon or cinnamon powder.

Fennel Seed Extract / Foeniculum Vulgare Powder

Foeniculum Vulgare Powder has been used for many, many years.  Roman warriers were said to use it to keep them in good health while the Roman ladies used it to prevent obesity!  This is one of the herbs held sacred by the Anglo Saxons for the power against evil.

Every part of the plant (from the seed to the root) is edible! It has a very pungent smell.

A member of the carrot family.

Recognised to be an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects.

• Reaches 6 feet 6" (2 metre tall).
• Hardy perennial.
• Prefers full sun, well drained soil (which helps the seed to ripen), will tolerate some shade.  Avoid clay soil.
• Has fern like leaves.
• Large umbels of yellow flowers July - October.
• Sow late Spring / early Summer. in 1/4" (0.6 cm) deep drills, in rows 18" (45 cm) apart.
• Thin to 18 - 24" (45 - 60 cm) apart.
• Will self seed.
• Can be divided in Spring every few years.
• May require staking.
• Flowers will attract bees and pollinating insects.

• Top Tips.
• Do not plant near Dill as they cross pollinate.
• Leaves are better used fresh (as they loose their potency when dried).
• It is not recommended that you gather in the wild as other poisonous varieties look very similar.

• Culinary Uses.
• The seeds are good in sauces, curries, biscuits and bread and a good accompaniment to fish.
• Seeds can be dried and used for an aniseed flavouring.
• Leaves are nice in salad or use in soups.
• Flowers are edible.

• Medicinal Uses.
• Seeds can reduce inflammation.
• Can aid digestion, constipation, wind, colic, intestinal cramps and menopausal symptoms.
• Can reduce the toxic effect of alcohol in the body (as it is a liver tonic).
• Can ease coughs.
• Chewing the seeds can relieve hunger.
• Can be used to treat conjunctivitis (snakes use it in the wild when they have shed their skin!)
• It is a relaxant.
• Increases milk flow in breast feeding Mothers.
• The root can be used for urinary disorders.
• Can be gargled to ease sore throats.
• Can compliment prostate cancer treatments (always check with your doctor first).
• The oil from the seed can be use to massage muscular and rheumatic pains.
• Crushed leaves and stems can be used to treat sore or swollen breasts (due to breast feeding).

• Other Uses.
• Can sweeten breath.
• Can be used for deep cleansing in baths or facial steamers.
• Rubbed on dogs and cats coats (or their beds) can deter fleas.
• Sometimes used to flavour liquers and toothpaste.

DisclaimerAs with all alternative medicines and plants of Fennel Seed Extract with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using. Do not take excessive doses. Avoid during pregnancy or if you suffer from epilepsy.  

Cinnamon Can Benefit Your Skin

Cinnamon grows abundantly in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, India and other Asian countries and people out there have been using cinnamon powder for various medicinal purposes including for skin disorders.

One great thing about cinnamon is there are so many ways to use it – cinnamon oil, powder, mask, etc.

Cinnamon is proving to be a spice that not only adds flavor to various dishes but can also cure many infections and diseases.

There are several researches being conducted all over the world about the benefits of cinnamon for diabetes, hair loss, cholesterol, memory, arthritis, skin and more.

A topical application of cinnamon with honey is said to get rid of pimples, ringworms, eczema and other skin infections.

Cinnamon essential oil is often used in aromatherapy and it combines well with lemon, lavender, cardamom, geranium and rosemary essential oils. Cinnamon essential oil can be used as a massage oil to cure arthritis, general pain and such.

Cinnamon Benefits for the Skin

Cinnamon has been used for centuries in traditional medicines  in Asian cultures-Chinese and Indian. Among the various benefits which cinnamon offers, one of the most important is its role in maintaining healthy skin.

In addition to this, it can also help remedy various skin related diseases and infections. Thus, cinnamon can be used in multifarious various to improve your skin.

Here are some of the benefits of cinnamon for skin –

9 ways cinnamon will benefit your skin

1. Plumps Skin

Cinnamon is said to improve fine lines by plumping the skin.

This means that using cinnamon can stimulate blood vessels and bring blood to the surface of the skin. Use a mixture of 3 drops essential oil of cinnamon and 2 tbsp olive oil or petroleum jelly. Apply this mixture to fine lines on the skin, taking care to avoid the eyes.

The skin soon plumps out and fine lines become less visible. This can even be done to plump up lips and can be used as an alternate to lip gloss.

2. Cleanses the Scalp

Cinnamon can also be used to nourish the scalp. Make a paste using 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp warm olive oil and 1 tbsp honey. Massage this into the scalp and leave on for 15 minutes.

Wash off after this using a normal shampoo. Cinnamon acts like an exfoliating agent to stimulate the scalp and provide nourishment to hair follicles.

3. Treatment for Eczema

Eczema is a condition in which skin gets  inflamed and irritated. A large number of medical conditions are grouped under the term ‘eczema’. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis, which is an inherited condition. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but the most important cause is an overactive response by the body’s immune system against an irritant or allergen.

Eczema can be a very irritating skin condition that leaves behind light colored patches.

Some people have found that using 1 tsp cinnamon powder and 1 tsp honey on these patches could provide relief.

However, this paste must not be used on the face for it can cause irritation. You are advised to perform a skin test before using cinnamon paste on the skin.

4. Treatment for Acne

Cinnamon is said to help with treatment of acne and pimples. Mix 1 tbsp cinnamon powder and 3 tbsp honey and apply this on pimples. Leave this paste overnight or for 20 minutes before washing with warm water.

Acne scars could dry out and skin could get rejuvenated.

This paste can also declog pores and bring oxygen and blood to the surface. However, this must not be used more than once a week since it could cause skin irritation.cinnamon for skin care

5. Antiseptic

Cinnamon has antiseptic properties. If you have an open cut or wound, just dust a pinch of cinnamon over it. Bacteria will be killed and the wound heals faster.

A large number of studies have determined the anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of cinnamon.

As far back as 1978, a study reported the anti-fungal effects of o-methoxycinnamaldehyde from cinnamon. It was reported that this compound inhibited the growth and toxin production by the mycotoxin producing fungii.

It completely inhibited the growth of Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus at 100 microgram/ml and Aspergillus ochraceus and Aspergillus versicolor at 200 microgram/ml.

A comparative analysis of the bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity of 13 essential oils showed that the True Cinnamon bark oil had the highest anti-microbial activity.

It was particularly effective against resistant strains. The study was exhaustive and analysed the effect of the oils against 55 different bacterial strains. Thus, cinnamon can effectively be used to eliminate various bacterial strains.

Another study has shown that Cinnamon essential oils can help combat the infectious agents which are resistant to the traditional antibiotics, e.g. Staphylococcus aureus. In this study, it was found that Cinnamon oils are much more effective as compared to olive and paraffin oils in fighting Multi-Drug Resistant S. aureus.

Thus, cinnamon oils can be used to fight Staphylococcus infections.

Thus, the anti-microbial properties of cinnamon powder and its oils have been definitively proven in numerous studies. Since sepsis is an inflammation caused by infection, it can be inhibited by using Cinnamon extracts and oils. Sepsis is a potentially fatal condition which might result in septic shock and multi-organ failure.

Medicinal Properties of Foeniculum Vulgare Powder

Foeniculum Vulgare Powder, commonly known as Fennel, is a popular medicinal plant with various pharmacological activities mentioned in traditional Iranian medicine (TIM) and modern phytotherapy such as antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, bronchodilatory, estrogenic, diuretic, lithontripic, galactogogue, emmenagogue, antithrombotic, hypotensive, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, memory enhancing, and antimutagenic activities. No serious adverse events were recorded after ingestion of F. vulgare except some cases of allergic reactions. 

The estrogenic activity of F. vulgare brings some side effects such as decrease in protein concentration and acid and alkaline phosphatase in male genital organs, increase in weight of mammary glands and reproductive organs in women and premature thelarche in girls. However, no evidence of teratogenicity was recorded, it is better not to use F. vulgare during pregnancy due to its estrogenic activity. Because of inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), the pharmacokinetic parameters of drugs mainly metabolized by this isozyme may be affected by Foeniculum Vulgare Powder. In addition, a significant interaction between cyprofloxacin and F. vulgare was demonstrated. The aim of current paper is to review pharmacological properties, toxicity and adverse events, and drug interactions of vulgare and brings conclusive results about the use of this plant in men, women and during pregnancy.

Foeniculum Vulgare Powder for Your Health

Anemia: Iron and histidine, an amino acid found in fennel seed extract, are both
helpful in treatment of anemia. Whereas iron is the chief constituent of
hemoglobin, histidine stimulates production of hemoglobin and also helps
in the formation of various other components of the blood.

Indigestion: It is a common practice, particularly on the Indian
Subcontinent, to chew fennel seeds after meals. This is done to
facilitate digestion and to eliminate bad breath.

Some of the components of the essential oils in fennel are stimulants
and they stimulate secretion of digestive and gastric juices, while
reducing inflammation of the stomach and intestines, and facilitating
proper absorption of nutrients from the food. Furthermore, it can
eliminate constipation and thereby protect the body from a wide range of
intestinal troubles that can stem from being blocked up. It also has
antiacidic (basic) properties and is extensively used in antacid
preparations. In culinary applications, it is also used as an ingredient
of focal point of many appetizers.

Flatulence: Fennel is very popular as an antiflatulent, due to the
carminative properties of the aspartic acid found in fennel. Its extract
can be used by everyone, from infants to the elderly, as a way to reduce
flatulence and to expel excess gas from the stomach. It is commonly used
in medicines to reduce symptoms of non-ulcer dyspepsia and flatulence in
infants and young children.

Fennel11Constipation: Fennel seeds, particularly in powdered form, can
act as a laxative. The roughage helps clear the bowels, whereas its
stimulating effect helps maintain the proper peristaltic motion of the
intestines, thereby helping promote proper excretion through the
stimulation of gastric juices and bile production. Fennel is also
commonly found in medicines that treat abdominal pain, diarrhea,
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and other intestinal issues.
Heart Disease: Fennel is a great source of fiber, as mentioned above,
but besides the advantages to digestion that fiber provides, it also
helps to maintain healthy levels of cholesterol in the blood stream.
This means that it can stimulate the elimination damaging LDL
cholesterol, which is a major factor in heart disease, artherosclerosis,
and strokes.

Cancer: The raw vegetable itself hasn’t been extensively studied in
regards to cancer protection, but the fennel seed extract has, and the
findings regarding cancer protection are quite impressive. It shows that
the extract can not only inhibit the growth of tumors, thanks to its
concentrations of flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenols, but that it can
even be somewhat chemo-protective against the harmful effects of
radiation during cancer treatment. Foeniculum Vulgare Powder has been found to
be preventative of various breast cancer and liver cancer strains.
Blood Pressure: Fennel is a very rich source of potassium, which is an
essential nutrient in our bodies and is vital for a number of important
processes. One of the attributes of potassium is its quality as a
vasodilator, which means that it relaxes the tension of blood vessels,
thereby reducing blood pressure. High blood pressure is connected to a
wide range of health issues, including heart attack, stroke, and
artherosclerosis. Also, for diabetic patients, blood pressure issues can
make management of their insulin and glucose levels very difficult, and
can be the cause of many potentially lethal complications. A cup of
fennel bulb in your daily diet will pump you full of potassium and all
the benefits that come along with it.

Brain Function: Potassium, found in high levels in fennel bulbs and
seeds, is an electrolyte, which means that it facilitates increased
electrical conduction throughout the body. This includes connections
within the brain, which is a veritable switchboard of electric currents.
Potassium can help increase brain function and cognitive abilities
through this quality. Also, fennel is a vasodilator, which means more
oxygen reaches the brain and neural activity can work at optimal
functionality.

Diarrhea: Fennel is helpful in curing diarrhea if it is caused by
bacterial infection, because some components of the essential oil in
fennel such as anetol and cineole have disinfectant and antibacterial
properties. Some amino acids, such as histidine, can aid in digestion
and the proper functioning of the digestive system, thereby helping to
eliminate diarrhea due to indigestion. Fennel has long been used by
indigenous cultures as a way to eliminate diarrhea.

Colic: Polymeric and heavy molecules are useful in the treatment of
Renal Colic. Such polymers, also called Phytoestrogens, are found in
Anethole, a component of the essential oil in fennel. This attribute of
fennel makes it quite helpful in the treatment of Renal Colic. Fennel
has certain antispasmodic qualities which also help it relax smooth
muscles and reduce the discomfort associated with the condition.
Immune System: 1 cup of fennel bulb contains almost 20% of the daily
requirement of vitamin-C, which makes fennel quite a rich source of this
beneficial element of our diet. Vitamin-C improves general immune system
health, produces and repairs skin tissue, helps to form collagen, and
also protects the blood vessel walls as an antioxidant against the
harmful effects of free radicals that can frequently lead to heart
disease!

Menstrual Disorders: Fennel is also an Emenagogue, meaning that it eases
and regulates menstruation by properly regulating hormonal action in the
body. Furthermore, fennel is used in a number of products to reduce the
effects of PMS, and it is also used traditionally as a soothing pain
reliever and relaxing agent for menopausal women.

Breast Enlargement: The flavonoids present in fennel seeds increase the
amount of estrogen thereby acting as a stimulant and tonic. Fennel seeds
helps increase the size of the breasts as they increase the formation of
new cells and tissues in the breast.

fennelEye Care: Using fennel in food helps protect the eyes from
inflammation, as well as helping to reduce disorders related to
premature aging and macular degeneration. This is due to the high
abundance of antioxidants (vitamin-C and amino acids like Arginine which
are very beneficial for rejuvenation of tissues and the prevention of
aging), detoxifiers and stimulants. They are more specifically in fennel
essential oil, as well as minerals like cobalt and magnesium. Finally,
the juice of fennel leaves and the plant itself can be externally
applied on the eyes to reduce irritation and eye fatigue.
Fennel is also a rich source of flavonoids, which are very useful in
protecting against pigment cells dying due to oxidative-stress-induced
death. By protecting against this destruction of the pigment cells,
fennel can safely be classified as effective in eye health for numerous
reasons.

Respiratory Disorders: Fennel is useful in respiratory disorders such
congestion, bronchitis, and cough due to the presence of Cineole and
Anetol which are expectorant in nature, among their many other virtues.
Fennel seeds and powder can help to break up phlegm and prompt loosening
of the toxins and buildup of the throat and nasal passages for
elimination from the body and quicker recovery from respiratory
conditions.

Other Benefits: Fennel is diuretic, which means that it increases the
amount and frequency of urination, thereby helping the removal of toxic
substances from the body and helping in rheumatism and swelling. Fennel
also increases production and secretion of milk in lactating mothers and
since this milk contains some properties of fennel, it is an anti-
flatulent for the baby as well. It strengthens hair, prevents hair loss,
relaxes the body, sharpens memory and has a marvelous cooling effect in
summer. This can be achieved if the pale, greenish-yellow water, in
which it fennel is soaked, is ingested with a bit of sugar and black
salt.

A Few Words of Caution: You must remember that there are two sides to
any story and too much of anything is harmful. This is obviously true
for Foeniculum Vulgare Powder as well. Certain components of the fennel essential oil such as Anethol, and a few chemicals present in the plant itself, besides being beneficial, can be dangerous if ingested in too large of a
quantity. You must remember that the compounds which can kill bacteria
and microbes in low doses can be harmful for you too. Excess use of
fennel can cause difficulty breathing, increased palpitations, irregular
heart beat, and various neural problems.

Are Mulberry Leaves Safe or Not?

I’ve been in the herbal tea business for 11 years now. I’ve researched the herbs we sell extensively, interviewed some of the top experts, walked miles in farm furrows in countries all over the world, written hundreds of articles and consumed a LOT of tea. I think, in my admittedly tiny niche, I’m a legitimate expert. But when it comes to people’s health, my policy is, check and double-check.

After my last blog post I received an email from a reader that concerned me. This reader had found a discussion on a popular urban foraging website that said Mulberry Leaf Extract were toxic. Since my last post was on White Mulberry Matcha French Toast I was concerned. We’re the leading retailer in the USA of White Mulberry Leaf Tea. We sell white mulberry leaf capsules and we offer culinary grade white mulberry matcha. Had I missed something? Was I selling a product that would make people sick?

I had a lot of evidence and experience to the contrary. Most livestock, especially pigs, absolutely love white mulberry leaves. White mulberry leaves are used in cuisines around the world. I’ve eaten lamb stuffed mulberry leaves in Lebanon and chicken stuffed white mulberry leaves in China (with a fried silk worms as a garnish, but I digress!).
White mulberry leaf matcha is second only to green tea matcha in Japan and is available in many tea shops. The way a traditional Japanese matcha is prepared there is no way to not consume a lot of the leaf itself. In fact, that’s one of the benefits of this style of preparation.

So, what gives? Why would a respected forager and herbalist say white mulberry leaves were toxic and warn his readers against them? I started my research with the most obvious first step, I googled, “Are white mulberry leaves toxic?” If you don’t actually read the resulting web entries and just scanned the headings quickly, the results are pretty scary. White mulberry appears up on several state agriculture website’s under the heading “Poisonous Plants”. There’s even a research study (on page one of the search results no less) on the toxicity of Mulberry Leaf Extract to makers of traditional lutes in Iran. That was enough to clue me in that the toxicity concern was not totally unfounded. Time to dig deeper.

I came up for air several hours later. I especially enjoyed the research study on traditional lute making. Who knew they were made out of white mulberry wood? But I also ended my research much relieved. The bottom line with white mulberry wood and leaves is that the sap, the same sap that makes the silk from silk worms such a wonder, is indeed mildly toxic. If you get it on your skin it will cause a rash and if you eat a handful of raw leaves you may get nauseous. But once cooked or dried, white mulberry leave are not only perfectly safe but, as you’ve heard me say many times already, very good for you.

White mulberry leaves have been shown to not only be rich in nutrients and anti-oxidants but also contain DNJ. DNJ has been found to help your body block the absorption of dietary sugars and so can be beneficial for helping to manage blood sugar or as part of a weight loss regimen.

So what’s the moral of the story? 1) Science is fun! (at least for nerds like me) 2) the internet can be a confusing place, check and double check, and most importantly, 3) You can continue enjoyingMulberry Leaf Extract from The Immortalitea Company. They are not only perfectly safe, they are good for you.