What is Stroke

 A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This disruption in blood flow can occur either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke) in the brain.

1. Ischemic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery that supplies blood to the brain. Ischemic strokes are the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. There are two main subtypes of ischemic stroke:

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   • Thrombotic stroke: Caused by a clot forming in one of the arteries supplying blood to the brain.
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   • Embolic stroke: Caused by a clot that forms elsewhere in the body (usually the heart) and travels through the bloodstream to the brain, blocking a blood vessel.

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3. Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding brain tissue, causing damage and pressure on nearby brain cells. Hemorrhagic strokes can result from conditions such as high blood pressure, aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), or trauma.

Common symptoms of stroke include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden severe headache with no known cause; and difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.

Prompt medical attention is crucial in treating stroke to minimize brain damage and improve outcomes. Treatment options depend on the type of stroke and may include medications such as clot-busting drugs (thrombolytics) for ischemic strokes, surgical procedures to remove blood clots or repair blood vessels, and rehabilitation therapy to regain lost functions and prevent complications.

Preventive measures for stroke include controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Leading a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing stress, can also help reduce the risk of stroke.

What is Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus, commonly referred to as diabetes, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period. It occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.

There are several types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes: This type occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Consequently, the body produces little to no insulin. Type 1 diabetes usually develops during childhood or adolescence, although it can occur at any age.

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3. Type 2 Diabetes: This is the most common type of diabetes, usually occurring in adults. In type 2 diabetes, the body either resists the effects of insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain normal glucose levels. It is often associated with obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and genetic factors.

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5. Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. However, women who develop gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

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7. Other Specific Types: There are other specific types of diabetes, such as genetic defects in insulin action or secretion, diseases of the pancreas, and drug-induced diabetes.

Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow wound healing. If left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.

Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, regular exercise, monitoring blood sugar levels, and medication. In type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is necessary to control blood sugar levels. In type 2 diabetes, treatment may involve oral medications, insulin injections, or other injectable medications. Early detection, proper management, and lifestyle changes are crucial in preventing complications associated with diabetes.

Completeherbs: Moringa Olefeira.

 

Health Benefits of Moringa

 Source Article: https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-moringa-powder

The moringa tree is native to the south of the Himalayan Mountains in northern India and grown around the world. It is widely used as food and medicine.

Nearly every part of the moringa tree is edible. It is rich in antioxidants and other nutrients which are commonly missing in the diets of people living in undeveloped countries.

When dried, its leaves can be ground into a fine powder that will keep many months without refrigeration.

For thousands of years the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans grew moringa trees. In addition to calcium, iron and potassium, moringa leaves contain several important vitamins:

Vitamin A which helps maintain healthy vision, immunity, and fetal growth

Vitamin C which protects the body from pollutants and toxins

Vitamin E which acts as an antioxidant

Moringa powder can be used as an antiseptic to sterilize contaminated surfaces. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi, including those that cause gastric ulcers and gastric cancer.

Moringa powder is also used for treating various other diseases, from malaria and typhoid fever to hypertension and diabetes. Its broad variety of compounds are thought responsible for its beneficial effects.

Moringa powder is used as a medicine in multiple ways. It can help prevent and treat chronic diseases like inflammatory diseases, diabetes, and cancer. The benefits of moringa powder stem from its many plant-based compounds.

Hyperglycemia is an early warning sign of diabetes, while hyperglycemia is a risk factor for heart disease. Based on scientific data, moringa powder holds healing potential for both these ailments.

Health Benefits

Many health benefits of moringa powder are due to its rich proteins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, and flavonoids. Moringa powder can be used to protect tissue (liver, kidneys, heart, and lungs), and to reduce pain.

Other health benefits of moringa include:

Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants help protect cells against free radicals, which are produced by digesting food, smoking, and exposure to radiation. Antioxidants from plant-based sources such as moringa powder are considered best.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Approximately 1 million women each year are diagnosed with benign breast disease, putting them at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Research shows these women may benefit from anti-inflammatory treatment. Taking an anti-inflammatory such as moringa powder on a regular basis has shown to offer women greater protection from breast cancer.

Lower Blood Glucose Levels

Diabetes is a growing health concern in the United States. In human studies, moringa powder reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic patients by a significant amount.

High Levels of Bioactive Compounds

Bioactive compounds, including vitamins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and other vital dietary components, can be found in significant amounts in moringa powder.

These compounds are beneficial in treating chronic conditions like high blood pressure (which can lead to a number of heart and other conditions), diabetes, insulin resistance, non-alcoholic liver disease, cancer, and overall inflammation.

Treatment of Tumors

Other tumors may be treated with moringa powder. A recent study found it to be effective in treating skin cancer.

Health Risks

No bad side effects have been linked to high doses of flavonoids from plant-based food. This may be explained by the relatively low portion that goes into the blood circulation and fast rate at which it is absorbed by the body, as well as flavonoids being purged.

Moringa leaves, seeds, bark, roots, sap, and flowers are commonly used in traditional medicine. The leaves and seed pods are used as food. Safety studies involving leaf extracts indicate moringa is very safe. No harmful effects were reported in association with human studies.

Amounts and Dosage

Consuming moringa powder is proven to be safe, even at higher levels. Daily dosage should be limited to the equivalent of 70 grams of moringa leaves per day or 11 teaspoons of moringa powder.

Top 10 Benefits of Moringa

Nutrient-Rich Superfood: Moringa is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and E, calcium, potassium, and iron, providing comprehensive nutritional support.

Boosts Energy Levels: The natural properties of Moringa help combat fatigue and enhance energy levels, promoting a sustained and revitalized sense of well-being.

Rich in Antioxidants: Moringa is packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals, supporting a strong immune system and protecting the body from oxidative stress.

Balances Blood Sugar Levels: Studies suggest that Moringa may contribute to maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for those concerned about glucose balance.

Supports Healthy Digestion: Moringa has been linked to improved digestive health, helping to soothe the stomach and promote a healthy gastrointestinal system.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Moringa contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially easing discomfort associated with various conditions.

Promotes Heart Health: The antioxidants and heart-healthy nutrients in Moringa support cardiovascular health by helping to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Aids Weight Management: Moringa can assist in weight management by providing essential nutrients while being low in calories, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Enhances Skin Health: The vitamins and antioxidants in Moringa contribute to healthy skin by promoting collagen production and protecting against oxidative damage, leading to a more radiant complexion.

Adaptable and Convenient: Moringa supplements offer the benefits of this superfood in a convenient and easily consumable form, making it simple to incorporate into a busy lifestyle.

MORINGA IS EFFECTIVE TOWARDS THESE DISEASES:

Antioxidant Support: Moringa is rich in antioxidants, which may help combat oxidative stress and support a healthy immune system. This can be beneficial in preventing various chronic diseases.

Diabetes Management: Some studies suggest that Moringa may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it potentially supportive for individuals managing diabetes. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Moringa contains compounds with anti-inflammatory effects, which could be helpful for conditions involving inflammation, such as arthritis. Again, individual responses may vary.

Heart Health: The antioxidants and nutrients in Moringa may contribute to cardiovascular health by helping regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Herbs (by: Better Health channel)

Photo by: Nothing Ahead

 What are herbs?

Herbs are the leaf part of a plant that is used in cooking - these can be used fresh or dried.

Any other part of the plant, which is usually dried, is referred to as a spice. These include, for example, barks (cinnamon), berries (peppercorns), seeds (cumin), roots (turmeric), flowers (chamomile), buds (cloves) and stigmas of flowers (saffron).

Herbs are a fantastic way to add flavour and colour to any sort of dish or drink, whether sweet or savoury, without adding fat, salt or sugars. In addition to flavour and colour, they each also tend to have their own set of health-promoting properties.

Generally, fresh herbs are delicately flavoured, so if adding them to your cooking, do so in the last few minutes.

Tasting your dish as you go along will help you tell if you’ve added enough. If not enough herbs are used, then little difference will be made to the flavour of the dish, but if too many herbs are added, their flavour will overpower other ingredients.

Health benefits of herbs

Consuming herbs may help to prevent and manage heart disease, cancer and diabetes. It may also help to reduce blood clots and provide anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties. Research is ongoing but studies have shown that:

Garlic, linseed, fenugreek and lemongrass may help lower cholesterol.

Garlic is useful for people with mildly elevated blood pressure.

Fenugreek can help control blood sugar and insulin activity (as can linseed, flaxseed and cinnamon).

Garlic, onions, chives, leeks, mint, basil, oregano, sage and many other herbs can help protect against cancer.

Herbs are rich in antioxidants, especially cloves, cinnamon, sage, oregano and thyme.

Fresh herbs often contain higher antioxidant levels compared to processed or dried herbs. If you are using herbs in order to harness their health-promoting aspects first and foremost, aim to add your fresh herbs at the end of cooking or as you serve to preserve these properties.

Cooking with herbs

You are only limited by your imagination with it comes to using herbs in the kitchen - they can be added to virtually any recipe. Try adding herbs to:

stews and casseroles

soups

breads

mustards

marinades

butters

sauces

salad dressings

stocks

vinegars

vinaigrettes

yoghurts

custards

desserts

drinks.

They don’t always have to be added into a dish either - herbs added once a dish has been served is another great way of enhancing the flavour, smell and visual appeal of your dish. For example, spaghetti Bolognese with some fresh basil leaves on top or a pumpkin or chicken dish with fresh sage leaves.

Good herb and food combinations

There are unlimited ways to use herbs in your cooking. Here are some traditional pairings to get you started:

basil – pesto, tomato sauce, tomato soup, tomato juice, potato dishes, prawns, meat, chicken and poultry, pasta, rice, egg dishes, strawberries

bay leaves – soups, stews, casseroles, meat and poultry marinades, stocks

chilli – meat, chicken and poultry, shellfish, tomato dishes, curries

chives – salads, chicken, soups, cheese dishes, egg dishes, mayonnaise, vinaigrettes

coriander – Asian dishes, stir fries, curries, soups, salads, seafood, guacamole

dill – salads, sauces, fish, sour cream, cheese and potato dishes

fennel – stuffings, sauces, seafood, salads

garlic – soups, sauces, pasta, meat, chicken, shellfish, pesto, salad dressings, bread

ginger – cakes, biscuits, Asian dishes

lemongrass – Asian dishes, stir fries, curries, seafood, soups, tea

marjoram – meat, fish, egg dishes, cheese dishes, pizza

mint – drinks, confectionery, meat, chicken, yoghurt, desserts, sauces, vegetable dishes

oregano – cheese dishes, egg dishes, tomato sauce, pizza, meat, stuffing, bread, pasta

parsley – pesto, egg dishes, pasta, rice dishes, salads, butter, sauces, seafood, vegetable dishes

rosemary – fish, poultry, meat, bread, sauces, soups

sage – stuffings, tomato dishes, cheese dishes, pumpkin dishes, chicken dishes

tarragon – salad dressing, egg dishes

thyme – chowders, bread, chicken and poultry, soups, stock, stews, stuffings, butter, cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar.

Just remember that for health benefits, butters and creams are best saved for sometimes rather than everyday foods.

Tips for cooking with herbs

Suggestions for cooking with herbs include:

Dried herbs are more strongly flavoured than fresh. As a general rule, one teaspoon of dried herbs equals 4 teaspoons of fresh.

If you regularly use herbs, you might like to create a ‘bouquet garni’ by tying chopped and mixed herbs in little muslin bags - these can be added to your cooking for flavour but removed before serving.

Some herbs are hardier than others (like rosemary and parsley) and will retain their flavour during the cooking process - these can be added at the start of your cooking.

Some herbs are used only to flavour a dish but are not eaten - bay leaves for example.

The flavour of herbs fades with time, so discard dried herbs after 12 months.

Dried whole herbs, where the leaves are still attached to their stalk, tend to have a stronger flavour than loose leaves sold in packets or jars.

Herb combinations

Although you can use one type of herb at a time, there are many great combinations that work well too.

Some traditional combinations are:

basil – with chives, chilli, garlic, oregano

bay – with parsley, thyme, garlic, oregano, marjoram

chilli – with coriander, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, mint, oregano

chives – with basil, garlic, tarragon

dill – with chives, garlic, parsley, tarragon

garlic – with basil, rosemary, sage, fennel, chilli, coriander

oregano – with basil, parsley, chives, thyme, bay, chilli

sage – with rosemary, garlic, marjoram

thyme – with bay, parsley, garlic, rosemary.

As our food landscape is ever-evolving, particularly with the influence new migrant groups bring with them, so does the availability of herbs that previously were uncommon in Australia. For example, Vietnamese food is known for using herbs with such abundance that, at times, there are more herbs than salad leaves in a Vietnamese salad.

Native ingredients like lemon myrtle, river mint and pepperberry, for example, are also starting to become more widely available.

Be adventurous with herbs

Herbs can be used in an unlimited number of ways. The more you use herbs, the more adventurous you will become.

Not sure where to start?

Follow a recipe that calls for one or 2 herbs you haven’t used before.

Experiment with using other herbs in place of herbs called for in a recipe to see how the dish turns out.

Make your own bouquet garni.

Grow some herbs in pots on your windowsill or in the garden for use in your cooking.

Visit an Asian market (for example) to try experimenting with some new flavours.

Besides boosting the flavours, smells, looks and textures in your meals, the more herbs you try, the wider the variety of potential health benefits you are likely to receive.

Source: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/herbs

Photo by Nothing Ahead:

Is Moringa Good for Kidneys -

 

Moringa is good for your kidney. 

Moringa Leaves – 16 Health Benefits That You Should Know

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikita Toshi 

Moringa tree is also known a
s the ‘miracle tree’ and there is a good reason why. The leaves, fruit, sap, oil, roots, bark, seeds, pod and flowers of the tree have medicinal properties. The products from the tree have many uses. It is also known as the ‘drumstick tree’. It is found mostly in Asia, Africa, and South America.

Moringa Leaves Nutrition

The drumstick leaves commonly known as moringa leaves are nutritionally very rich, leaving behind carrots, oranges and even milk in terms of nutrition value. The leaves find many uses in Indian cuisine as they are versatile and can be incorporated into the diet in many ways. Adding them to juices and using them as stir-fry vegetables are the most common ways in which they are eaten. When consumed in their natural form, the moringa leaves have no side effects.

Amazing health benefits of moringa leaves:

1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 and Folate. They are also rich in magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.

One cup of moringa leaves will contain 2 grams of protein, magnesium (8 per cent of the RDA), Vitamin B6 (19 per cent of the RDA), Iron (11 per cent of the RDA), Riboflavin (11 per cent of the RDA)  and Vitamin A (9 per cent of the RDA).

2. Rich in Amino Acids

Moringa leaves are rich in amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. 18 types of amino acids are found in them and each of them makes an important contribution to our wellbeing.

3. Fight Inflammation

Inflammation is how a body naturally responds to pain and injury. Moringa leaves are anti-inflammatory in nature due to the presence of isothiocyanates. They have niazimicin that is known to reign in the development of cancer cells. Inflammation is the root cause of many diseases like cancer, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and many autoimmune diseases. When we suffer an injury or infection, the body suffers increased inflammation.

Basically, it is a protective mechanism against trauma but because of a wrong lifestyle and an unhealthy diet, inflammation can increase in the body. Long-term inflammation leads to chronic health issues. Eating moringa leaves helps to reduce inflammation.

4. Rich in Antioxidants

Moringa leaves have anti-oxidative properties and protect against the damaging effects of free radicals present in the environment. The damage caused by free radicals is responsible for many chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart problems and Alzheimer’s.

Moringa leaves are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene that act against free radicals.

They also have Quercetin which is an antioxidant that helps to lower blood pressure. Another antioxidant that is present in moringa leaves is Chlorogenic acid which helps to stabilize blood sugar levels post meals.

A study in women showed that taking 1.5 teaspoons of moringa leaf powder regularly for three months had shown a significant increase in blood antioxidant levels.

5. Lower Blood Sugar Levels

Sustained high blood sugar levels lead to the development of diabetes in individuals. Diabetes, in turn, can cause heart problems and organ damage in the body. To avoid this, it is good to keep the blood sugar levels in check. Moringa leaves are a perfect resource for that as they stabilize the blood sugar levels due to the presence of isothiocyanates.

6. Lowers Cholesterol

Apart from oats, flaxseeds, and almonds, moringa leaves are a dependable remedy against high cholesterol. Cholesterol is the major reason why people suffer from heart diseases and eating moringa leaves has known to show considerable improvement against high cholesterol levels. Moringa oleifera can lower those levels and protect against the risk of heart disease. Pregnant women usually experience higher levels of cholesterol, which can in turn increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes during their term. What is gestational diabetes? It is a type of diabetes that is first detected in pregnant women who did not have diabetes before they were pregnant. Moringa leaves can certainly be included in the diet for gestational diabetes. 

7. Protects the Liver

Those who have tuberculosis can benefit greatly from moringa leaves as they reduce the negative effects of anti-tubercular drugs. The leaves accelerate the repair of the liver cells. The leaves have a high concentration of polyphenols that protect against oxidative damage to the liver and may even reduce it. They increase the protein levels in the liver.

The liver is the site of blood detoxification, fat metabolism and nutrient absorption and it can function properly only if the liver enzymes are normal. Moringa leaves stabilize these liver enzymes.

8. Protects Against Arsenic Toxicity

In many parts of the world, arsenic contamination is a common problem. Arsenic has found its way in our systems through many food items, particularly rice.

Long-term exposure to this element can lead to the development of cancer and heart disease. Research on lab animals has shown that moringa leaves to combat the effects of arsenic toxicity.

9. Good for the Stomach

Moringa leaves are beneficial against digestive disorders. Those who suffer from constipation, bloating, gas, gastritis and ulcerative colitis should add Moringa leaves to their diet.

The leaves have antibiotic and antimicrobial properties which make them an ideal remedy against digestive disorders. Even the high amount of B vitamins in the leaves helps in improving digestion.

10. Improves Bone Health

Moringa leaves are rich sources of calcium and phosphorus. Both of these elements are needed for good bone health. Since moringa leaves have an anti-inflammatory nature, they help combat arthritis and may even heal bones that are damaged.

Moringa oleifera also fights against osteoporosis and keeps bone and teeth strong

11. An Antiseptic

Moringa leaves are antiseptic and fight off many bacterial infections. They are even beneficial towards wound healing and help to heal bruises, minor cuts, and burns quickly as they reduce the clotting time.

12. Improve Lactation

Moringa leaves for pregnancy can be beneficial due to their nutrient-rich composition, potentially supporting the health of both the expectant mother and the developing baby. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, moringa leaves were used to increase lactation in nursing mothers. Since they are a rich source of protein, important vitamins, and essential nutrients, consuming moringa leaves is very good for the health of the mother and the baby.

13. Helps in Weight Management

Moringa leaves increase fat burning in the body. They slim down the person without depleting energy reserves. This keeps the person feeling buoyant and nourished. They reduce cravings for food and boost metabolism. They also lower cholesterol.

14. Good for Skin and Hair

Due to an abundance of antioxidants and nutrients, moringa leaves improve the health and appearance of skin and hair. They add suppleness to the skin and shine to the hair. The antioxidants present in moringa leaves reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin. They have about 30 antioxidants present. Not just this, a paste of moringa leaves for hair. when applied to the scalp reduces dandruff and adds life and bounce to dull, lifeless hair. The leaves also strengthen the hair follicles. Moringa leaves for skin also has proven to be beneficial for acne-prone skin, however, more research is required. This is why moringa leaves are part of many cosmetics. They improve the skin tone and add a glow due to their purifying nature and therapeutic properties

15. Good for Nervous System

Many nervous disorders have been known to show positive results with the moringa leaves uses. They support brain health and work as neuro-enhancers. The high concentration of vitamins E and C combat neural degeneration and help improve brain function. Those who have a migraine or suffer from recurring headaches must eat moringa leaves regularly. These leaves also work as mood balancers as they stabilize the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline which are important for memory, mood, and for stimulus-response.

16. Good for Detoxification

Moringa leaves are natural cleansers and help to detoxify the system. This helps to keep the body and increases immunity against various infections. They also increase the energy levels in the body.

Potential Downsides

Moringa and its leaves may not be for everyone. While generally considered safe and healthy for most, there are some minor moringa side effects to watch out for. In large doses, the leaves, bark, roots, and moringa fruit may have laxative properties.  

In pregnant women, the roots, bark, and extract of Moringa may cause uterine contractions. Pregnant women should take the advice of their doctors before including Moringa leaves or products into their diets.  

Similarly, breastfeeding women should avoid Moringa leaves since it is unknown whether any of the chemicals or substances present can pass through the milk to the child.  

In some cases, Moringa leaf powder has been found to contain higher than the recommended tolerable amounts of lead, please source any extracts you use only from reputable companies.  

Lastly, it is recommended that people on blood thinners should also avoid Moringa unless you consult your doctor first. As with all things, when taken in moderation it can be safe for most people, so always use it with caution.

Conclusion

Moringa leaves provide a powerful punch of nutrition and have an anti-inflammatory nature. Their antioxidative properties combined with their cellular-health protective properties make them a new ‘superfood’. They suppress the production of inflammatory enzymes and lower sugar levels. Make these a regular part of your diet to reap rich health benefits.

Source article: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/16-health-benefits-of-moringa-leaves/

Source Photo by William Greaves Brown: https://www.pexels.com/photo/stainless-spoon-with-green-powder-7149595/