Valerie Lull Book Author

Tarragon

9/1/2018

By,
Valerie Lull MH

Tarragon, Artemisia dracunculus, is a herb that is often used in French cooking. There is also a Russian version of the herb but the French variety is more flavorful. In France tarragon is known as the "King of Herbs". Most people consider tarragon as a culinary herb, and some folks even call it a spice. It is used in fish, soups, stews, egg dishes, meat, tomato and sauces. The flavor of tarragon is similar to anise.

Tarragon was not used in ancient societies and the first mention of human use was more than 600 years ago. It was imported to Italy in the 10th century by the Mongols who used it for sleep and seasoning in foods. From there the use of the herb eventually spread to France.

Besides culinary uses, tarragon has health benefits. Some of them include digestive issues, appetite problems, toothache, to start menstruation and as a tea for insomnia. Tarragon contains the minerals calcium, Iron, magnesium, manganese and zinc. It also has vitamins A, C and several of the B vitamins.

Tarragon can be used fresh, or dried. It can be used to make a tea which some sources say can be used for weight loss. Tarragon can be used as an essential oil that can be diffused as a deodorizer, it can be added to bath water or used as a compress. It is also available in capsules or as an extract.

Tarragon use has a down side if used in excess. Children and pregnant women should not use it. Be sure to consult your health care provider before using tarragon for medicinal purposes. It might be a good idea to do the skin patch test to test for allergies. Simply put a diluted drop of tarragon essential oil on your skin. Wait awhile to see if there is a reaction.

Sources
http://www.spiceadvice.com/encyclopedia/Tarragon.html
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-661/tarragon
https://www.nutrition-and-you.com/tarragon-herb.html
https://articles.mercola.com/herbs-spices/tarragon.aspx

What is nutrition?

7/27/2018

By
Valerie Lull

There are many people who don't know about good nutrition. A typical meal is a burger, fries and a soft drink. The burger might provide some protein, but the rest is empty calories that add to your waistline and don't do much for your body. In today's blog I will talk about what good nutrition is. Nutrition is the study of foods and beverages and the components that make them up and how they effect the human body.

Nutrition starts with food. Not just any food, good food. It includes foods that help you grow and maintain a healthy body. Nutrition is important because it supplies the body with nutrients like vitamins and minerals that are important for sustaining life. Nutrition is a science that studies how foods are broken down to create cells and tissues in the body. Nutrition shows how various conditions and diseases can be prevented by a healthy diet. It also identifies things like malnutrition from a poor diet, and food allergies.

Nutritional supplements are substances in pill, capsule or liquid form that are meant to supplement the diet. While most of the diet should be made up of healthy foods, supplementation is sometimes desirable or even necessary. Supplements are meant to supply nutritional deficiencies. For example, someone who lives in a damp, rainy environment may be lacking Vitamin D because of inadequate sun exposure. For that person a vitamin D supplement may be necessary.

A big problem is soil erosion, pesticides and GMO products. Folks might want to get organic foods or go to farmer's markets. Some folks feel that the food is not of adequate to supply all the nutrients they need. Supplements may be desirable to make up lack. One way to deal with this is to grow your own food. DO NOT start a supplement without first discussing it with your health care provider. Supplements may be great but some of them do not mix with prescription drugs.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com

Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160774.php
https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4602

Green Tea and Your Brain

2/2/2018

By
Valerie Lull

Green tea is a beverage from ancient times that has had an impact on human health and healing. Folklore is full of anecdotes and remedies. In modern times the use of green tea for brain health has become more researched. Alzheimer's Disease seems to be happening these days in record numbers. Is there anything that will help this disease?

Some fascinating research has been done on green tea and Alzheimer's. A researcher from McMaster University in Canada, named Melacini, thinks that the best way to avoid Alzheimer's is to prevent it in the first place. He feels green tea used as much as 15 -25 years before the onset of Alzheimer's is one way to prevent it. (1)

The key substance in green tea that seems to be working, are the catechins. We've talked about catechins in the last two blogs. Another study from 2002 in the Journal of Biological Chemistry indicates that green tea can do more than prevent dementia, but helps brain function, memory and decreases damage done by metal toxicity. (2)

I feel that while drinking green tea is definitely an asset to one's brain, other good health practices should be used along with green tea. There seems to be a synergy between multiple approaches as opposed to doing just one thing. These things include nutritious diet, exercise, and social and spiritual aspects of life.

Remember, if you want to use green tea for medicinal purposes be sure to discuss it with your health care provider.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com

REFERENCES
(1) Medical News Today, October 13, 2017
(2) Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2002, Sept.20:277(38):34933-40

Five Spices for Anti-aging

1/12/2018

By,
Valerie Lull

While we all know that someday we will die, there are things that can be done to slow down the aging process and have a better quality of life right up to the end. Nature has provided a great many things that can help us achieve these goals. Who wants to be sitting in a wheelchair in a nursing home, and who wants to be a burden to their families? By adding these simple things to your diet you can help maintain your independence and have a quality life.

Oregano - has the highest antioxidant level of all herbs. Antioxidants are important for fighting free radicals which speed up the aging process. Oregano is also anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is a definite part of the ageing process and slowing it down is a good preventative measure. Oregano is also antibiotic and antiviral, which means it helps keep these nasty microbes under control.

Ginger - A little sliced ginger with honey in hot water makes a delicious tea. This anti aging secret comes form India and helps reduce inflammation and reduces collagen breakdown. Sipping a cup of ginger tea on a cold fall or winter morning also has a calming effect. This is one of my personal favorites.

Turmeric - Another anti aging secret from India is Turmeric. The people in India have a much lower rate of Alzheimer's disease than other countries. This is thought to be because of the extensive use of turmeric in their diet. Turmeric contains high levels of antioxidants and inflammatory substances. Turmeric contains curcumin which many people have found can relieve arthritis pain.

Chili - can help with circulation problems and coughs and colds. It is great for clearing your sinuses. Chili contains capsaicin, which is an antiinflammatory that relieves pain. It can be obtained in ointments and patch form and is popular for relieving minor aches and pains in the body.

Cinnamon - This is a spice that was popular among the ancients for its health benefits. In recent times it has been studied for it's use in controlling blood sugar levels. A half teaspoon per day can improve insulin sensitivity which can help control weight and prevent heart disease

It is so easy to just add a little spice to your diet. It makes your food taste good and it is good nutrition when used in moderation. If you desire to use it as a medicinal be sure to consult your health care provider because some spices may not mix well with your medications. Expert advice is always important.

Sources

http://www.worldhealth.net/forum/thread/733/highly-recommended-anti-aging-spices-to/?page=1
http://www.worldhealth.net/forum/thread/99334/oregano-one-of-the-most-beneficial-spi/?page=1
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/09/anti-aging-secrets_n_4234137.html
http://www.agein.com/use-this-anti-aging-spice-to-fight-disease-3338

To access my web site and learn about teas go to www.valerielull.com

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Valerie@valerielull.com

Foods for Clear Thinking

12/2/2017

By
Valerie Lull

There are many junk foods out there that can cause brain fog and unclear thinking. There are also a number of good foods that help to clear up and prevent foggy thinking. They are literally “food for thought”. Food can effect your moods as well as your ability to think clearly. Food can contribute to the state of your mental health. Here are a few healthy foods that can help clear up your thinking.

Yogurt
Yogurt contains probiotics which are healthy bacteria. The mix of bacteria in your digestive system can have a direct effect on your thinking processes. Fermented foods like yogurt can help provide the right bacteria to keep you functioning at your best. Probiotics affect neurotransmitters, and oxidative stress. which can be helpful in treating depression. Be careful about what kind of yogurt you get. Many popular brands are laden with sugar and artificial color and additives. Be sure you get a reputable brand.

Fish
Many kinds of fish contain omega-3’s. These fatty acids can play a large role in assisting with anxiety and depression. They are important for mental health and can be easily obtained by eating fish two or more times a week. You can also get omega-3’s in fish oil supplements. Another popular way to get omega-3’s is by taking krill oil capsules.

Berries
There are many kinds of berries that are truly delicious and readily available both fresh and frozen. Of course organic are best, if they are available. Berries contain huge amounts of antioxidants and these can fight free radicals which can help with depression problems.

Greens
Just about everyone knows that veggies are good for you; especially green leafy veggies. Spinach, broccoli, and beet greens are loaded with vitamins that all contribute to clear thinking. They are a great source of folate (vitamin B-9) which may help depression. They also contain carotenoids which boost brain power. and antioxidants which may help depression.

References
Mateljan, George, The World’s Healthiest Foods, Second edition, 2015
http://www.whfoods.org
http://alifeofproductivity.com/9-brain-foods-that-will-boost-your-ability-to-focus/

White Tea Has Antioxidants

10/20/2017

By

Valerie Lull

There are four teas that come from the Camellia sinensis plant. They are black tea, green tea, oolong, and white tea. White tea has an exotic past. It comes from China and historically was only available to the royal court of the emperor, not the masses. There was one emperor who nearly lost his empire over white tea.

The difference between the four teas mentioned above is that black tea is oxidized, oolong tea is less oxidized, green tea leaves are withered, and white tea leaves uncured and unfermented. The tea leaves for white tea are the very young leaves and buds. They are harvested at a much earlier stage in growth than the leaves for the other teas. The leaves have very fine silver hairs on them giving rise to the variety of white tea variety called Silver Needle.

Because white tea is the least processed, it has the highest levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals that are generated as a result of cell metabolism. Free radicals can damage DNA and speed up the ageing process. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals.

White tea ranges from pale yellow to almost clear in the cup. The tea has a very delicate taste. People who have compromised taste buds will probably think it is water. Adding lemon to white tea causes more antioxidants to be released. The action of the antioxidants help to slow down ageing and help to prevent diseases like cancer, and heart disease. White tea appears to be good for one’s skin and for oral health. People use it for weight loss.

White tea can be found blended with other things like green tea, rooibos tea, and fruits like raspberry, pomegranate, mango and pear. White tea is becoming more and more popular and so is more and more available. For people who are watching their caffeine intake white tea has less caffeine than black or green tea and a lot less than coffee. The caffeine content can also vary depending on how long it steeps and how hot the water is.

http://www.whiteteaguide.com/whiteteahistory.htm
http://www.whiteteaguide.com/whiteteahealthbenefits.htm
http://www.webmd.com/diet/tea-types-and-their-health-benefits
http://nutritionfacts.org/video/green-tea-vs-white/
http://www.caffeine-content.com/caffeine-in-tea/caffeine-in-white-tea/

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com Your comments are welcome. Any requests for future blogs?

Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerie@valerielull.com

Herbs for Liver Health

10/1/2017

By,
Valerie Lull

One of the hardest working organs in your body is your liver. It plays a huge role in elimination from cleansing the blood to flushing out waste. The liver’s function is to purify the body. It is important to take care of your liver because without a liver we could not live. There are several important herbs that help keep you in tip-top shape. Among them are dandelion, yellow dock, burdock, red clover and milk thistle.
Dandelion
Dandelion is commonly considered a weed, but this weed is loaded with health benefits. It is high in vitamins and minerals, particularly potassium and grows just about anywhere. It is a natural diuretic which is helpful to your kidneys and your whole digestive system. Dandelion helps your liver to eliminate toxins by purifying the blood. Dandelion is available as a tea in both loose and teabag forms. It is also available as a delicious dandelion coffee.
Yellow Dock
Yellow dock has been historically used as a blood purifier; which helps to clear skin conditions and to assist elimination. This herb also has diuretic properties and stimulates bile production This helps both the liver and the gall bladder. Yellow dock aids in digestion and works as a mild laxative.
Burdock
Burdock root has been used since ancient times as a blood purifier. It strengthens a weak liver. Burdock is also a diaphoretic. That means it promotes sweating. This helps remove toxins through the skin.
Milk Thistle
Perhaps the most well-known herb for the liver is milk thistle. It contains silymarin which is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This helps the liver function better. Some studies show that milk thistle may be helpful for cirrhosis. Milk thistle is available in capsules or as a tea.
Red Clover
Red clover helps the liver to process fats by causing it to produce bile. Red clover is also anti-inflammatory which helps to reduce inflammation in the liver. Red clover works to cleanse the liver. It is available in capsules and as a tea.
Remember before starting any herbal regimen to talk it over with your health care provider. Some herbs and medications do not mix well and can cause unwanted side effects.
Check out my website at www.valerielull.com
References
https://draxe.com/dandelion-tea/
http://www.webmd.com/men/features/liver-detoxification—-fact-fad#1
https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/benefits-of-yellow-dock-root/
http://www.naturallifeenergy.com/top-liver-detox-herbs-quality-quantity/
http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/milk-thistle

Herbs for Tired Adrenals

9/15/2017

By,
Valerie Lull

The adrenal glands are two endocrine glands. There is one above each kidney. The cortex, or outer part of the adrenal gland, secretes hormones and the inner part, the medulla, secretes epinephrine and norepinephrine. Scientists are split on the concept of adrenal fatigue. Conventional doctors don’t think it exists. Natural medicine providers think it does. For this blog I’m going on the assumption that it exists and that there are herbs that can assist the situation.

Adrenal fatigue occurs when people are under mental, physical and emotional stress. One of the hormones that the adrenals make is cortisol. This hormone helps the body deal with stress. Too much stress causes the adrenals to release less of the hormone. Some of the symptoms include chronic tiredness, mild depression or anxiety, lethargy, and brain fog.

There are a number of vitamins, minerals and herbs that help. Among them are the B vitamins and vitamin C. There are herbs that are helpful for adrenal fatigue. They are called adaptogens. Let’s look at some of these herbs.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
A little known fact about ginkgo is that it can affect stress levels. In a study published in Clinical Nutrition, it lowered cortisol levels in healthy individuals being tested for glucose tolerance.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha comes from India and is useful for insomnia due to stress. It is said to improve DHEA-S levels. It also benefits the thyroid and adrenals and boosts energy levels. It is available as a tablet and a capsule.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)
Rhodiola comes from Siberia and is traditionally used for stress and and fatigiue. It is also used for enhancing mental performance and mild depression.

Astragalus (Astragalus membraneceus)
Astragalus comes from Chinese medicine and is usually used with other herbs. It can be used as a tonic or for adrenal support. It gives a boost to the immune system and helps control blood sugar levels.

Herbs for tired adrenals are usually best as a combination. There are herbal formulas available with the combined herbs. These herbs are available in capsule and tablet form and many of them can be made into a tea or infusion and sipped throughout the day.

Remember to always consult with your health care practitioner before starting a herbal regimen for any disorder.
Check out my website at www.valerielull.com.

http://www.dictionary.com/browse/adrenal-gland
http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/adrenal-fatigue-is-it-real#1
https://holisticprimarycare.net/topics/topics-a-g/chronic-disease/1241-herbal-options-for-managing-adrenal-fatigue.html
Kudolo, G.B., Wang W., Javors, M Blodgett J., Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, MSC 6246, University of Texas HSC at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, 78229-3900, USA. Kudolo@uthscsa.edu
https://www.naturalproductsinsider.com/articles/2016/12/herbs-for-adrenal-fatigue.aspx

Butcher's Broom and Circulation

7/30/2017

By
Valerie Lull

Butcher’s broom, Ruscus aculeatus, was used by the Scottish clan Forbes. They wore it in their bonnets to arouse the heroism of their chieftains. In Gaelic it was called bealadh. Historically Butchers Broom was made into brooms and used by butchers. It isn’t used for that now but it does have some properties that may help venous circulation.

The medicinal use of Butcher’s broom goes back to ancient times. Butcher’s broom was used by Discorides. It is mentioned in the earliest herbals. It was used in Europe for the last 2,000 years. Some of the things they used butcher’s broom for were abdominal problems, as a laxative and as a diuretic. It was also used for kidney stones and fractured bones.

The herbalist Mrs. M. Grieve in her famous book, A Modern Herbal, describes the plant as being tough and erect, with rigid leaves. It has small greenish-white flowers. This herb is an evergreen which means it stays green all year round. The rhizome and the aerial shoots are the parts that are used.

In modern times butcher’s broom is primarily used for venous disorders, namely varicose veins and hemorrhoids. In a case report by Deborah A. Redman, Ph.D, herbal treatment reduces capacity for pooling of blood in the legs and has a protective effect.

I personally use this herb for my varicose veins and find it does help to reduce the swelling, itching and soreness. This herb does not cure these things, but it does help. Butcher’s broom is available in capsules and as an extract. Butcher’s broom is also available as a tea, both loose and in tea bags.

Butcher’s broom is readily available at most places that sell herbs and is inexpensive. If you want to use it be sure to consult your healthcare provider first.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com
References:
https://www.mdidea.com/products/proper/proper08704.html
http://cms.herbalgram.org/herbalgram/issue85/article3499.html?ts=150112720
http://cms.herbalgram.org/herbalgram/issue85/article3499.html?ts=150112720
http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_butchers_broom.htm
Deborah A. Redman. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. September 2007, 6(6): 539-549.https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2000.6.539

Turmeric and Inflammation

7/8/2017

By,
Valerie Lull, MH

There are many spices that come from India. One very popular spice is turmeric, Curcuma longa. It is used extensively in Indian cooking and healing. Turmeric has been used in Indian culture for thousands of years and is called “holy powder”. Old legends tell us that the ancient Polynesians sailed with it to Hawaii where it is known as `olena.

Turmeric is used for both culinary and healing purposes. Turmeric is best known as an anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is a beneficial occurrence that happens when bacteria and viruses enter the body. This is good as long as the inflammation does not get out of control. When the inflammation is triggered and there is not a real threat it forms excessive low-grade inflammation in the body and this can contribute to allergies, autoimmune disease, heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. This irritates the tissues and can cause chronic pain, swelling and redness.

Studies have been done in India regarding the consumption of turmeric. India has a low rate of Alzheimer’s disease and this is thought to be because of the high amount of turmeric they use in their diets.
Turmeric contains a number of constituents. Perhaps the best known constituent is curcumin. There is a controversy over whether it is better to use turmeric and get the full benefit of all its constituents or if it is better to separate the curcumin from the turmeric and use that alone.

Turmeric has 71% carbs, 23% fat, and 6% protein. it contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Turmeric has 1.76 mg of vitamin C, 2.6 mcg of folate and traces of other B vitamins. It also contains g-3 and omega 6 fatty acids.

Here is a recipe for hot turmeric milk from our friends at allrecipes.

1/4 t ground turmeric
1/4 t ground cardamom
1/8 t black pepper
1 pinch ginger
1 pinch cloves
1 pinch allspice
1 C milk
3/4 t honey or sweetener of choice
1/8 t vanilla extract
Heat milk 3-4 minutes
Wisk turmeric, cardamon, black pepper, ginger, cloves and allspice together. Add sweetener and vanilla to milk and stir. Wisk in spice mixture. Reduce heat to low and cook till the flavors blend, 2-3 minutes. Pour through a strainer and serve. If you are vegan you can use soy milk or almond milk.

http://www.thealternativedailly.com/99-reasons-why-turmeric-is-the-best-spice-ever/
https://www.drweil.com/vitamins-supplements-herbs/herbs/curcumin-or-turmeric/
allrecipes.com/recipe/236294/haldi-ka-doodh-hot-turmeric-milk/
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-662-turmeric.aspx?activeingredientid=662

About Valerie Lull

Valerie is a graduate from the American College of Healthcare Sciences. She has always had a passion for good health and the health benefits of herbal preparations. At the age of 45 Valerie was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and became interested in natural ways to maintain health. She has a desire to share this information and show people how easy it is to stay healthy.

About Valerie's Books

Valerie has written a book called Ten Healthy Teas. Sometimes staying healthy is as simple as drinking a cup of tea. Valerie just published her second book Ten Spices for Health and Longevity. Valerie also writes a weekly blog called "Simple Ways to Stay Healthy".