Why Fucose?Written by Karen Walker
Haven't heard of fucose? Think it's latest teen dance craze? Think again, because fucose could make a huge difference in your quality of life. Fucose is a rare sugar, one of eight known bioactive sugars essential for proper cell to cell communication. Found in many plants, marine algae is purported to be one of best sources of fucose and has long been used by naturopathic physicians to support immune function in patients. Those concerned with optimal health should have a basic understanding of role fucose plays in our bodies. Fucose molecules are found throughout body and are involved in many functions. For example, fucose is found in photoreceptor layer of retina of eye. Fucose is also found in skin, brain cells, and kidneys. Fucose is also excreted in breast milk and may play a part in transfer of immunity to newborn. In addition, fucose has an active role in immune system and in red blood cell function. According to research, fucose is important in regulation of immune system, which may affect activity of inflammatory diseases in body. Fucose has also been found to inhibit ability of bacteria to adhere to cells, without which infection cannot occur. In addition, research has also shown fucose to inhibit growth and spread of cancer cells. Still think fucose is new to you? One abundant source of marine algae which fucose is derived from is seaweed. Even if you are not a fan of Asian foods, you have likely consumed some seaweed today in form of carrageenan, agar or other algae derivatives. Check labels of some of your favorite foods and you'll find seaweed in cheese, instant puddings, chocolate milk, mayonnaise, ice cream and sherbet, for example. Unfortunately for you, commercially processed seaweed products do not contain active fucose.
| | Insomnia Fighters – Tea Recipe And Home Made Sachet Instruction To Relieve Anxiety And Help You Sleep BetterWritten by www.sleepsecrets.info
Insomnia Fighters – Tea Recipe And Home Made Sachet Instruction To Relieve Anxiety And Help You Sleep Better Excerpt from "...Healthy Sleep: A Guide To Natural Sleep Remedies!" http://www.sleepsecrets.infoLavender Lavender (L. angustifolia and others) is a shrubby flowering bush indigenous to mountainous regions of western Mediterranean and is considered have been first domesticated by Arabians, then later spread across Europe by Romans. Lavender was brought to North America by Pilgrims and was one of first garden plants imported to Australia in 19th century. It can be found in abundance in wild in many parts of world as well as being garden grown in a sunny, well-drained area, preferably in mildly alkaline soil. The smaller species will also grow quite easily in well-drained pots. This popular flowering herb’s essential oil has been demonstrated to depress central nervous system in a manner comparable to pharmaceutical tranquilizers. Lavender is very useful and effective in its usage as a sleep aid. In addition to use of lavender flowers in a brewed tea, it may also used in form of an essential oil distilled from leaves, flowers and stems of plant. Lavender oil can be applied topically to relax muscles or its aroma can be inhaled for a calming effect. Rubbing lavender essential oil on feet is a particularly effective method for application, as anything on feet is absorbed quickly. It is widely used in aromatherapy and can be added to bathwater, dispersed in a vaporizer or simply dabbed on a tissue and breathed in. The essential oil leaves and flowers can also be employed in a sachet underneath pillow. It should be noted that allergic contact dermatitis has been documented in some individuals applying lavender products externally. To safely detect an allergic reaction it is always a good idea to do a spot test before administering a full application. Also note that not all varieties of lavender are tranquilizing — some, such as Spanish lavender, can have just opposite effect. Lavender Mint Tea (One serving) Ingredients: * 1 teaspoon fresh lavender flowers (or 1/2 teaspoon dried lavender flowers) * 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried mint) * 1 cup boiling water * Rosemary, lemon balm or lemon verbena, and rose geranium may also be added for an interesting multi-herb herbal tea. Preparation: In a teapot or saucepan combine lavender flowers and mint (either loose or using a tea infuser). Pour boiling water over mixture; steep 5 minutes. The infuser can then be taken out or leaves removed with a strainer. Homemade Lavender Sachet You will need: * Lavender plant (stems, leaves or buds) * Lavender essential oil * A handkerchief * 2 needles (1 large to fit 1/4" ribbon and 1 regular size) * Thread * Ribbon (1/4" wide) It should be easy to find all necessary items listed above from your local craft or floral supply store. You may use lavender harvested from your own plants or order lavender buds online (just enter “lavender” or “lavender buds” into your favorite search engine to find an online retailer). Instructions: 1. Fold handkerchief in half, and then fold it in half again. You can iron handkerchief for a crisper look, or simply leave it as is. 2. Now, sew three sides together using needle and thread (or a sewing machine). 3. Open unsown side of handkerchief and proceed to fill it (like a pillow) with lavender plant pieces and/or buds. Be sure to use a lot of plant material, but don’t stuff it too tight. The end result will be a lot like a beanbag. Sprinkle pieces with lavender essential oil. 8 to 10 drops should be more than enough. 4. Thread your large needle with 1/4" ribbon and loosely thread to keep plant materials inside your homemade sachet. 5. Tie whole thing off with a knot. 6. Enjoy your new sachet Valerian Root
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