Did you know that a number of the fruits and vegetables that we use almost daily in the kitchen have natural curative properties?
This is no doubt fruit and vegetables have been used continually over the centuries as both a food source and natural medicine.
For this reason, they deserve a place amongst the other natural remedies and cures, as they too contribute to the well-being of the body system.
Lemons are well known for their antiseptic properties, and its juice makes a natural and soothing gargle for a sore throat. As a fruity tingle, especially when it is included in flu and cold preparations, the mild sedative action will help to reduce fever as well as promoting bile to ease any indigestion.
Oranges will stop embarrassing wind, as will eating two teaspoons of sugar-free, chunky marmalade with breakfast and main meals.
Snacking on mandarins will calm irritated intestines, apples and pears will also soothe the system when suffering from diarrhoea, and figs and prunes act as a mild laxative for constipation.
In fact, without doubt, there is no better remedy than raw grated apple for general stomach upset and gastric disturbances.
Watermelon is by far the most effective diuretic fruit! It is ideal for easing water retention and that 'bloated feeling' often associated with the menstrual cycle.
Carrot is rich in carotene and numerous other beneficial substances. It will regulate the digestive process and aid in rectifying constipation and diarrhoea. However, it must be taken in moderation as an excess of carotene will kill vitamin D in the body. One glass of the juice on rising is sufficient - in fact, limit your intake of carrot juice to one glass per day to enable the digestive juices to act upon the complex materials.
Onion is an excellent disinfectant, a natural antibiotic and is rich in vitamin B1. A regular intake ensures that the nervous system remains healthy. And garlic is unsurpassed in its effectiveness as a natural antibiotic if taken in large enough doses. It contains vitamins A, B and C, and copper, sulphur, manganese, iron and calcium. Garlic cleanses cholesterol and toxins from the bloodstream and stale mucus from the tissues, nourishes the nerves and increases glandular secretions.
Ginger is a natural antacid and aids in the elimination of colon gas. When added to bath water it will open the pores of the skin and help rid the body of toxins.
French beans are beneficial to the heart and peas, which are rich in chlorophyll, will sweeten the blood and improve circulation, while celery will exert a beneficial effect on the liver, kidneys, bladder, heart, and nerves.
Food is the oldest form of medicine.
Today it is still the backbone of Chinese healing.
So the next time that you are feeling out of sorts, check out your pantry for a natural medicine.
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