Superfoods Blog: Recent Episodes
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What are the differences between red wine vinegar and balsamic Red wine vinegar dates back to ancient Babylon and the beginnings of vinegar fermentation utilizing different fruits and grains. This vinegar variety is believed to have been further developed in Mediterranean regions by the Greeks and Romans who were masters of the winemaking process. Balsamic vinegar has deep roots in northern Italy, specifically the Modena and Reggio Emilia provinces in what is called the Emilia-Romagna region. This is where all authentic balsamic vinegar must come from.
Oyster mushroom is a type of medicinal fungi that grows naturally on deciduous trees all over the planet. Unlike other varieties, like shiitake or maitake, which have been grown for many centuries, the oyster is a fairly new cultivated favorite with many qualities to admire. Called "oyster" mushroom, not because they taste like oysters but because of the curved, sometimes wavy, oyster-like shape of the cap itself. They are quickly becoming one of the most commercially available mushroom staples next to the standard white button or other Agaricus bisporus species, like portobello and cremini.
What is blue spirulina? Most of you up on the list of top superfoods may be familiar with the blue-green microalgae known as spirulina. Blue spirulina is extracted from this spirulina species, mostly the main one known as Arthrospira platensis. This process produces a powder with a brilliantly blue pigmentation because of its high PHYCOCYANIN content. Phycocyanin (also called C-Phycocyanin) is a water-soluble pigment-protein whose main function is to capture light energy. It serves as an accessory pigment to the green compound known as chlorophyll that's also abundant in spirulina.
Coconut oil. is an edible oil sourced from the meat (or kernel) of mature coconuts from the coconut palm or Cocos nucifera species. The specific variety of dietary coconut oil we promote using is organic virgin coconut oil that is not refined, hydrogenated or fractionated. This is an unrefined oil that's usually either cold-pressed or expeller-pressed. Here is a list of the benefits of coconut oil you may wish to ponder if you're a current coconut oil user or contemplating adding it to your pantry of oil staples. How does it compare to MCT Oil? We'll discuss that as well.
This is our list of superfoods that support healthy eyesight. We'll start off with one of the most popular foods to add to a nutritional eye care routine, carrots and especially their concentrated juice. Carrots are one of the highest plant-based food sources of provitamin A known as BETA-CAROTENE, which converts to retinol or vitamin A in the body. It is the dominant pigment responsible for its bright orange color and beneficial for protecting one's vision. As aligned with the Doctrine of Signatures, carrot roots closely resemble the human eye when sliced.
Black seeds, also known as black cumin, are a valued seed variety that have been consumed throughout human history for their nutraceutical properties. Their healing potentials, promoted by the Prophet Muhammad himself, have had great religious significance dating back to ancient Egypt. We have talked a lot about the highly prized black seed oil, a popular modern-day dietary supplement and its broad range of health benefits, but what about the tiny black seeds themselves?
Collard greens or "collards" are the large thick dark green leaves of the collard plant that are edible when raw or cooked as a green leafy vegetable. They are a common cultivar of Brassica oleracea species or Brassica family which includes cabbage, kale, broccoli and cauliflower. Interestingly, collard is simply a "non-heading" version of cabbage or a loose-leaved variety "without a head" or tightly packed core of leaves. In fact, the name "collard" is derived from the term "colewort", describing non-heading Brassica types.
Adzuki bean is a small glossy red bean from the species Vigna angularis, an annual vine native to East Asia. Pronounced 'a-zoo-kee', its name comes from the Japanese language. They are the main bean variety used to make the infamous "red bean paste", popular for use as a condiment or filling in sweet or savory foods. Although adzuki beans have been utilized alongside soybeans for centuries in East Asian cuisine, they are now becoming a more popular bean option in kitchens around the world.
Monk fruit is an alternative sweetener made from the super sweet luo han guo species (Siraitia grosvenorii), native to parts of Southern China. According to Chinese legends, Buddhist monks in the remote mountainous regions near the city of Guilin were the first to discover and use it in the 13th Century. The name "luohan" comes from the term arhat, which means "a monk that becomes enlightened". The round vine-growing fruits are from the Gourd family with the word "guo" describing their fruit-like quality.
Probably one of the world's most popular fruit varieties, raw apples are sources of key nutrients. First, they are top on the list of common fruits that are high in PECTIN. One of the main reasons for the phrase "An apple a day keeps the doctor away"? Pectin is a type of polysaccharide and soluble fiber that normalizes bowel regularity and acts as a prebiotic, providing food for beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome.
What are lectins? Lectins are types of proteins that bind to carbohydrates. The word LECTIN is derived from the Latin term 'LEGERE' which means "to select" as they are sticky and glue-like. There are literally hundreds of different lectins found in the botanical world. Their biological function in plants is to repel pests. In the human diet, lectins are most prevalent in plant-based foods. While "gluten" is one of the most well-known lectins, turns out there may be others we need to be wary of.
This dietary supplement is one that we here at Superfood Evolution both take regularly for its profound health-promoting influences. Not because of its long list of significant nutraceutical uses, but for other underlying benefits that it can offer to everyday life. What is this mysterious woody fungus? Displayed proudly on our header, it is one of our most beloved top superfoods in the world as well as on our website and YouTube channel. It is the reishi mushroom, also known as lingzhi or Ganoderma lucidum.
Manufactured oat milk is a plant-based drink known to have Swedish origins although health enthusiasts have been making it at home for many decades. The commercial variety is considered the innovation of food scientist Rickard Öste who in part produced one of the first oat milk brands in Sweden in the early 1990s. In the U.S., oat milk became the go-to dairy-free milk alternative between 2017-2019 and since then has only grown in popularity. Step aside soy milk and almond milk, oat milk is predicted to be top on the list of vegan plant milk options in 2024.
Even though it is virtually impossible to escape all the microplastics currently present in our food, water and atmosphere, it is possible to do what we can to protect ourselves by facilitating the body's own detoxification processes. When it comes to ways to remove microplastics from the body, taking a multi-faceted approach is ever so important. So, in addition to maintaining a health-promoting diet and lifestyle choices, periodic use of certain super supplements can help to achieve this goal. Here are our top favorites to consider for assisting in their removal.
Green tea comes from a very remarkable yet humble-looking shrub, the Camellia, often used as a flowering ornamental landscape variety because it's easy to grow and maintain. This is the same thick hardy-leafed plant utilized to make black tea. Black tea, however, goes through an oxidation or "fermentation" process that green tea does not. Green tea leaves are immediately heated to stop oxidation which retains the dried leaf's green chlorophyll pigment as well as many health-enhancing nutrients that this type of tea is known for.
People often get walnuts and pecans confused because they look and taste somewhat similar. While they are in the same family Juglandaceae, they come from different genus and nut tree species. The common English walnut is known as Juglans regia and the popular pecan species is Carya illinoinens, a type of hickory. Both have thick outer husks surrounding the shell and nut. Walnuts have a golden light brown color and more ridges than pecans. Pecans, pronounced either 'PEE-Can' or 'PEE-Con', are smoother and flatter with vertical grooves and more of a red-brown color.
Generally speaking, polenta can be considered a type of cornmeal which technically means milled corn or maize. The common cornmeal that most people are familiar with is steel-milled which removes most of the husk and germ of the corn. Stone-ground cornmeal is like polenta as it retains more of the whole kernel. Cornmeal types tend to have a uniform texture and are better than polenta when used as a flour for baked goods like cornbread. Polenta meal is most always a medium coarse uneven texture, but cornmeal that's labeled "coarse ground" is often used interchangeably.
Bone broth is a traditional food that dates back to prehistoric hunter-gatherers, hence why it’s often on a paleo diet protocol. Today, preparing it is still an age-old custom in many parts of the world. The current bone broth craze in the U.S. largely began many years ago in New York City by chef Marco Canora who ladled out this hearty brew from a takeout window. Now, people all over the planet have embraced it by the cupful for its many revitalizing health benefits, making it homemade or adding dehydrated bone broth protein powders to their morning rituals.
One of the great virtues of stinging nettle revered throughout the ages is its high concentration of nutrients. When nettle leaves are infused in hot water, they provide easily assimilated liquid nutrition. Dark olive-green nettle tea has a strong vegetal flavor because it's full of vitamins and minerals, especially iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin C, vitamin K and some B vitamins. Tea infusions, using either fresh or dried leaves, are therefore potent vitamineral broths and great to have on hand for adding to soups or blended smoothies for extra sustenance.
What is Sumac Spice? Sumac spice comes from the little reddish berries of the sumac bush that grow in dense clusters at the branch tips called bobs. The red berry fruit is fuzzy and sticky when ripe with a thin flesh surrounding one seed. After the whole berries are dried, they often turn a duller burgundy purple color and are ground to make the powdered spice called sumac. Sumac is known for its unusual tangy citrus-like flavor which comes primarily from its MALIC ACID content.
With plant-powered foods on the rise in the last decade, cauliflower's taste and texture have been used to transform some classic dishes into low-carb alternatives that are just as tasty. Today, many cauliflower recipes focus on this vegetable as the star of the show. That's because the cluster of florets that make up a cauliflower head are quite versatile lending themselves well to many appetizers or even as the main course. As a replacement for high-carb foods cauliflower hits the mark because of its milder taste and ability to take on flavor via any sauces and seasonings you put on it. Here are the top unusual yet creative ways to use this common cruciferous variety.
Cod liver oil is made, as the name implies, by extracting the oil from the liver of the North Atlantic cod fish (Gadus morhua) where nutrients are most concentrated. Used as a common household nutritive supplement, consuming cod liver oil has been a Nordic tradition for centuries, helping one to endure these colder Arctic climate zones. Here are the top cod liver oil benefits, some considerations about dosage, plus the major differences between cod liver oil vs fish oil as there are some advantages and disadvantages to both.
The benefits of drinking hibiscus tea, which we will shortly discuss, come from the main Hibiscus sabdariffa or "roselle" species most commonly utilized for hot water or sun tea infusions. The classic tropical-looking white, pink or red hibiscus flower has 5 broad ornate petals with an extended center pistil and many stigmas. The tea itself, however, is NOT made from these dried flowers as one might assume, but from what is called a flower calyx. Hibiscus tea can be a delicious tangy hot beverage or a thirst-quenching cold drink, but this infused liquid also offers many benefits to the body when incorporated into one's daily herbal tea regime.
A bladder infection, also called cystitis, is a type of urinary tract infection that affects the lower urinary system where the bladder is located. While antibiotics are typically prescribed to get rid of a lower urinary tract infection, if taken repeatedly over a 6-month period immune response can weaken and the bacteria involved (commonly E. coli) can increase resistance, leaving one vulnerable to future episodes. That's where some bladder infection home remedies might also come in handy to have in your arsenal of choices. Here is our list of superfoods in the form of foods, drinks, herbs and vitamins that you may wish to supplement with as a preventative as well as during the healing process.
It doesn't take much reading of ancient or modern Ayurvedic texts to discover that neem has been and continues to this day to be a very powerful species. According to Hindi mythology, the neem tree Azadirachta indica is of "divine origin", born as drops of amrita nectar (the elixir of immortality) directly to earth from the Devas. Also called "margosa" or "nimba", a term derived from Sanskrit to mean "to bestow health". There are some overlapping compounds in the leaf and oil, but neem leaves are far more suitable for internal use. They are full of active phytochemicals that make them one of the most potent leafy herbs on the planet with very strong therapeutic potentials for humans.
And Chickpea Flour
The nutritional benefits of chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans), like other beans, come from fiber but mainly their high PROTEIN content. Offering versatility across a wide spectrum of international cuisines, they are often a well-loved protein option for plant-based vegan and vegetarian diets. The use of chickpea flour is also on the rise, although it’s been a long-time staple on the Indian subcontinent. We'll share how to cook garbanzo beans as well as give you a couple of secrets to preparing them for maximum digestibility and nutritional value, two elements that we feel go side by side. Here are our personal top favorite ways to use chickpeas that can also simultaneously boost nutrient uptake.
Ashwagandha is a long slender root from the Withania somnifera species utilized as one of the top herbs in Ayurveda for well over 3,000 years. The root has a whitish center and is traditionally dried and used as a bulk powder or taken as capsules or tablets. Whole roots or pieces can also be ground or used in teas and other herbal preparations. It is likewise common these days to find it as a concentrated liquid or encapsulated supplement extract. Here are the intertwining benefits of ashwagandha and reasons you may wish to consider adding this top ayurvedic herb to your arsenal of plant-based allies.
Top 3 Benefits
What are the nutritional benefits of cherries and the difference between tart vs sweet? Each type has its own list of healthful properties. Sweet dark red cherries are usually the ones most people are familiar with as a raw fresh fruit, but sour tart cherries are also a long-time cooking favorite in some cultures. In recent times, however, cultivars from this tart species Prunus cerasus or "sour cherry" have made their way onto the worldwide health scene.
And 7 Fun Facts
Out of other nuts and seeds, macadamias are one of the highest in fat content, even next to other tree nuts like pine nuts and walnuts. This aspect gives them their savory buttery-rich texture that can be hard to stop eating. One ounce of macadamia averages about 16.5g of monounsaturated fat, 3.4g of saturated fat and 0.4g of polyunsaturated fat. Comprised mostly of the MONOUNSATURATED FATS, oleic acid and palmitoleic acid, macadamia nut consumption has been shown in research to reduce total LDL cholesterol and support cardiovascular health.
The Superfood from New Zealand
Manuka honey is made by honeybees that source their nectar from the manuka tree flowers native to New Zealand and southeastern Australia. The manuka species, Leptospermum scoparium, is a bush-like tree with prickly leaves and large seed capsules. It is one of the first plants to grow on wild land that has been cleared. However, just because honey is labeled "manuka honey" does not mean it is the real deal. New Zealand is the main producer of mānuka honey with strict guidelines on all exported manuka honey products.
List of Key Attributes
Moringa (Moringa oleifera) is a powerful tree species in today's day and age. Firstly, because of its tenacious fast-growing nature and adaptability to different terrains. Secondly, because of its multiple uses and extraordinary nutritional benefits to humans. While all parts of the Moringa tree are useful, it is the small oval-shaped leaves that are especially utilized for their very high nutrient value. They are one of those special green superfoods that exemplify the healing potential of chlorophyll-rich plants. In India, it's known as "shobhanjana" which means "very favorable tree", making reference to these respected qualities.
Essential Info on this Worldwide Favorite
Chamomile tea is probably one of the most common herbal teas known around the world for its calming qualities and tasty flavor. Utilized in ancient Egypt and extensively in England and other parts of Europe throughout the Middle Ages, chamomile was listed in some of the first botanical pharmacopeia in Western Herbalism and is a classic herb garden tradition. There are several chamomile types but the main two species used for herbal teas are Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) and German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla).
What is Teff? Eragrostis tef is an annual lovegrass species that is grown for its edible seeds called "teff" which are cooked whole or used as a flour. Native to the Horn of Africa, it's the smallest type of grain used by humans measuring about 1/100th the size of a kernel of wheat. The name in fact comes from the Amharic word "teffa" (ጠፍፋ) meaning "loss", probably making reference to the teeny tiny seeds that can tend to get lost during the harvesting process. Teff's poppy seed-like size enables the whole grain to cook rather quickly, usually taking only 15-20 minutes on a stovetop.
These are our favorite superfoods for detox options to consider adding to the diet on a periodic basis when cleansing protocols might be in order. Since we are all exposed to some form of toxins on a day-to-day basis, it is good to have a handy list of herbs, supplements and drinks that help clean them out on occasion to assist the body's own natural detoxification processes.
Hemp milk is made from hemp seeds, one of the superfoods from the hemp plant known for its many uses as a food, fiber, fuel and supplement source. Some manufacturers have coined the term "hemp hearts", which are the tiny cream-colored seeds with some green husks but the outer shells removed. These seeds are also utilized to make hemp seed oil, hemp seed butter, hemp seed flour and hemp protein powder. Hemp seeds are used to make a great tasting milk alternative with a creamy consistency close to that of cow's milk.
Have you ever wondered "why do my fingernails break so frequently?" This could be nails that tend to split, crack, tear or chip easily. Other nail signs of health problems may include vertical ridges on nails or thin nails that take a long time to grow. Nutritional deficiencies are a common cause of nail weakness, so it's good to know what superfoods, vitamins, herbs and supplements you can take if supporting strong thick nail growth is a health objective. Here are 5 home remedies for brittle nails plus the top list of nail-nourishing vitamins and minerals.
Citrus trees are quite amazing in that they can produce large bright-colored juicy sweet fruits in the peak of winter. Citrus types like oranges can likewise be a reviving treat in these colder months when many people crave their immune-nourishing nutrients. Of course, one of the most famous nutritional benefits of citrus fruit is that all are very high in VITAMIN C, but there are other amazing aspects about citrus you may be less familiar with.
What is paprika made of exactly and is it from a particular spice plant species? Paprika can technically come from any kind of Capsicum annuum red pepper. Although is it commonly made from less pungent red chili pepper varieties, the spice doesn’t originate from one particular type. Most paprika is made from the pericarp or fruit flesh of the pepper and contains little to no seeds, giving the powder its iconic bright red color. Depending on where paprika is from, it can be sourced from a number of Capsicum annuum varietals or cultivars that are indeed created for paprika production.
This is our list of natural sleep aid including foods, herbs, vitamins and supplements to select from if you're someone who has short-term or chronic insomnia. It is estimated that between 1 and 3 people worldwide have occasional short-term insomnia and 1 in 10 people have chronic insomnia or nightly sleeplessness that lasts over several weeks. There are of course certain dietary adjuncts that can also influence better sleep.
What are the health benefits of kale? Kale is a winter leafy green vegetable known for its highly nutritious large leaves. One of the most common kale types is curly kale but others like lacinato, also called cavolo nero or dinosaur kale, are also popular for their bumpy rounded leaves. Why are the many varieties of kale often called superfoods? Here are 7 reasons why you might want to eat more, plus when kale is best avoided.
The Mediterranean diet is a melting pot of shared lifestyle and food traditions developed over a period of centuries in locations around the Mediterranean Sea. The term "Mediterranean" diet is really in fact a misnomer as it implies that all people of the Mediterranean region eat the same, which is simply not the case. Generally, however, there are similar food, drink and diet patterns between the cultures of this environment. Unlike other popular diets, like the Keto diet, the Mediterranean diet is not strict about keeping track of daily calories, carbohydrates or protein and fat ratios.
Albizia julibrissin also called "silk tree", is known for its unique fuchsia pink-tipped silky thread-like flowers that burst like fireworks when in bloom. You may also recognize albizia as a variety of mimosa, frequently viewed as a favored landscape ornamental as well as invasive seed spreading species. It's not just called the "tree of happiness" because of its cheery-looking pom pom-like flowers that can make one smile. One of the things you may not be familiar with when it comes to Albizia julibrissin is its long history as an herbal species.
Kiwano melon (Cucumis metuliferus) is an unusual looking melon variety that you may have noticed in the tropical fruit section of your local market next to dragon fruit, jackfruit or star fruit. It is frequently called African horned cucumber which simultaneously identifies its place of origin. Likewise, it is jokingly referred to as "cuke-a-saurus" because of its cross resemblance to a lemon cucumber and a type of back-spiked dinosaur. Kiwano fruit, like other melons, is a vine-growing plant. The size averages about 6 inches (15 cm) long and 4 inches (10 cm) wide.
Comparison to Yellow Banana
The red banana is not a wild species but is actually cultivated and from the same AAA group as common yellow bananas, like the Cavendish. Both are considered "dessert bananas" rather than "cooking bananas". The most popular cultivar in North and Central America is the Red Dacca, but there are many others depending on the region grown. Red banana is usually short, straight and plump whereas the yellow banana is long, curved and slender. The unpeeled red banana can also have a more flattened look compared to yellow.
3 Unusual Uses
While the burning bay leaf manifestation trend is quite fascinating as a way to increase success, especially in the prosperity department which we will later discuss, there are other amazing yet unusual uses of bay leaves when prepared as a tea. This is thanks to several unique compounds and their health properties. There are different types of bay species growing worldwide, all from either the laurel or myrtle family. Being from the Western U.S., we are very familiar with the wild California Bay Umbellularia californica. However, Laurus nobilis or "bay laurel" is the one most utilized commercially and a common staple found in many kitchen spice racks.
Top Natural Favorites
Triphala powder is a specific Ayurvedic formulation composed of three dried fruits: amalaki, haritaki and bibhitaki. It is one of India's most valued and commonly utilized household herbs and supplements for constipated conditions. Used on a daily basis to improve bowel regularity, triphala powder (also called triphala churna) is viewed as a tridoshic herbal formula, considered good for many different body constitutions
Food and Folk Uses
We wouldn't be doing our wild foods list a favor if we didn't mention one of our local California favorites, the manzanita species. Many of you who happen to live in Western North America may be familiar with the thick dense grey-green leaves and beautiful smooth sometimes shedding bark of this magical shrub. Manzanita is a popular food source for bears, coyotes and various ground animals. Here, we will discuss the several folk uses of manzanita berries and leaves for humans and how to prepare them.
Which is Better?
Flax and chia are two fairly well-known superfoods that support body weight management. However, when it comes to weight loss diets, flax is the star of the show. Yes, chia is still good, but flax is even better. That's because golden and brown flax seeds are higher in soluble fiber, a mucilage or gel-like substance that occurs when the seeds are soaked in water. While chia is actually higher in total fiber compared to flax, chia seeds only contain about half as much soluble fiber.
About Nutrition and Quality
Can You Eat Sea Lettuce? Yes, sea lettuce is an edible seaweed! A commonplace staple in many coastal regions of the globe, it is prevalent worldwide along rocky marine shorelines in both colder and tropical ocean waters. Sea lettuce is used in its raw state, either fresh or dried, as well as added to cooked foods to nutritionally fortify the diet. It is available as a dried whole leaf seaweed or as flakes.
A List of 12
This is our list of foods for healthy skin. By "foods" we mean everything from everyday staples to herbs, superfoods and drinks. These are our top 12 favorites; we hope you enjoy. 1) SCHIZANDRA - Schizandra berry is one of the famous "beauty tonics" highly revered throughout East Asian history, especially by women. It is still traditionally used as an important botanical in many skin-rejuvenating formulas and is often associated with the Taoist goddess Magu, a deity representing eternal beauty.
What the Research Says
The amazing health benefits of turmeric root (Curcuma longa) come from its bright yellow-orange phenolic antioxidant known as CURCUMIN. This is the main component known to provide for turmeric's impressive array of useful properties. Here are the top two most profound science-based ways that adding turmeric spice and/or a turmeric curcumin supplement to the diet can be a medicinal helper on your healing journey. We'll also discuss how to take turmeric and the best ways to use it for optimal results.
7 Major Differences
The first difference between Himalayan salt vs sea salt is that Himalayan is considered a type of rock salt. Different than sea salt, it has to be mined from the earth rather than collected along the sea shore. Both forms occur from the evaporation of saltwater or saline lakes. However, sea salts by comparison are newly formed salt deposits that collect on the earth's surface. Himalayan salt is an ancient salt that's been compressed over millions of years. It's believed to be one of the purest unpolluted forms of salt for this reason.
The Truth About This Sugar Substitute
Yes, stevia sweetener is considered a healthier option, but not all stevia is created equal. We will further discuss the best stevia to use, plus why it was banned, any potential side effects and if stevia will break ketosis when following a keto diet. But first, why is stevia healthy? Stevia (pronounced stee-vee-ah) comes from the green leaves of the plant Stevia rebaudiana. Highly marketed as a "zero-calorie" sweetener, stevia is considered a good choice for those looking for a natural sugar substitute, replacing artificial sweeteners as well as other high-calorie sugars.
And Clove Oil for Hair Growth
What is the power of clove tea? It's been used for many things both internally and topically throughout the ages. Often valued for its most aromatic and potent antioxidant compound known as EUGENOL, this is one of the secrets to clove that give it exceptional qualities above others. Many herbs and spices, like nutmeg and allspice, also contain eugenol in smaller amounts, but cloves or the Syzygium aromaticum species is by far the #1 source. Clove tea is a traditional herbal anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, respiratory and immune supporting ally. However, the external application of clove tea and clove oil for hair growth is probably one of its most famous uses.
Top 5 Benefits Simplified
Is nutritional yeast vegan? Yes, it's an inactive dried yeast that has a unique flavor similar to Parmesan cheese but doesn't contain dairy. It is, therefore, most well-known among those adhering to a vegan or vegetarian diet, especially as a food topping. It's also a source of naturally occurring glutamic acid, which provides benefits as a taste enhancer, giving it a mouth-watering umami flavor that can make it hard to stop eating. Wondering how to make nutritional yeast?
5 Benefits for Detox
What detox drink is incredibly inexpensive to make yet comes with loads of benefits? It's plain and simple lemon water! While long-time health enthusiasts have been drinking it for decades, lemon water is now a popular way to encourage one of the fundamental basics of health... the release of accumulated wastes and toxins. We give instructions on exactly how to make lemon water below for best results, but first, let’s discuss what makes lemon juice especially beneficial when added to water from a detoxification standpoint.
Benefits for Alcohol Addiction
Kudzu root (Pueraria lobata) comes from one of the fastest growing vines on the planet. Introduced to control soil erosion, it is now considered an invasive legume species in many subtropical regions of the Southern United States. Known to completely take over and kill other neighboring plants, it is especially aggressive along country roadsides or developed suburban locations. One good thing that you can achieve by pulling up its roots, aside from stopping its growth, is to use it as an edible wild food. The starchy oblong root tuber beneath the ground has in fact been utilized as both a vegetable as well as a healthful herbal ally for many centuries.
6 Facts and Benefits
When using the term "mustard", frequently the smooth yellow paste-like condiment comes to mind. "Mustard" however can also refer to the seeds that it is made from. Mustard seed is a type of spice, used whole or as a ground powder. The three types of seeds identified by their color are yellow, brown and black. Yellow mustard seed, sometimes called white mustard, is the one most popular for use as a type of culinary seasoning. Interestingly, however, all mustard seed is yellow on the inside, despite the exterior pigmentation. When mustard seeds are soaked in liquid, they become slightly mucilaginous and the perfect consistency for making what is commonly called "prepared" mustard.
12 Things About This Lesser-Known Grain
Sorghum is a common multipurpose crop grown for its use as a fodder plant, grain and sweetener. The Sorghum bicolor species is the main one used as a minor cereal in the same grass family as sugarcane, corn, wheat and rice. Growing tall with corn-like leaves and large seed clusters, the grain has been a long-time staple in countries like Africa and India. While it is fifth on the list of grains consumed worldwide, it interestingly remains relatively unknown in many parts of the globe.
For Emergency Backstock
This is our Cheap Superfoods List Part Two created again, like our "Part One" list, with similar goals in mind. The first is to focus on the most affordable dietary essentials for those looking to offset inflation and the rising cost of living. The second is to select the most nutritive bulk food provisions to have in your emergency backstock during these seemingly unstable times. Preparing in advance when supplies are still relatively abundant can be key. As the "global collective" appears to be going through some transitions, these are decisions that can provide some peace of mind knowing you have the basics for you and your family.
Benefits as an Herbal Supplement
Olive leaf extract is an herbal preparation made from the leaves of the olive tree. The green oblong leaf is essentially considered a type of "herb" in Western herbalism and has been used in many folk traditions throughout the ages, especially in olive tree conducive climate zones like the Mediterranean and the Middle East. While making a cup of olive leaf tea from the leaves or powder was consumed for its healthful properties, today concentrated olive leaf extracts are more widely utilized for phytotherapeutic purposes.
7 Health Benefits
Sunflower seeds have the highest amount of Vitamin E out of all the nut and seed types. A one-ounce serving (about 3T of raw seeds) can offer an average of 47% of the daily recommended intake. There is so much VITAMIN E in sunflower seeds that many vitamin E supplements are in fact sourced from sunflower oil, mostly in the form of α-tocopherol. Vitamin E is well-known for its skin healing benefits and is a supportive nutrient to the eyes, brain and nerve functions.
Top 4 Common Myths
Celery juice became a worldwide trend in 2018 and since this time many people are witness to its healing potential. Over the years, however, the idea of drinking the juice of this seemingly simple vegetable has met its share of skepticism. While we have discussed the many benefits of celery juice on other pages, here we review some of the common myths we have come across regarding this still popular mono juicing variety.
The Keto Diet Superfood
Avocado is one of those foods often deemed a "superfood". Among the well-known benefits of avocado to give it such a title is that it is a concentrated source of monounsaturated good fats, making it a healthy addition to many dietary regimes. They are in fact the fattiest natural food growing on planet Earth. This is a major feature that makes them one of the #1 foods to eat on a high-fat keto diet. Here are four other top reasons to consume avocados when "keto".
For Women and Men
There are really so many things to say about the uses of fenugreek and its many forms commonly utilized. It is essentially a one-stop shop for use as seed spice, a sprout variety as well as an aromatic leafy green known as methi, widely used in Indian cuisine. Golden fenugreek seeds are used extensively in various parts of the Mediterranean and Middle East for their flavor-enhancing attributes as a seasoning added to numerous cultural dishes. While their bitter-sweet taste is considered therapeutic as a digestive aid, there are other secret uses of this long-valued herb.
For Emergency Backstock
This is our Cheap Superfoods List Part One designed with two goals in mind. The first is to save money for those on a tight budget, and the second, is to select the best emergency food provisions to have in your pantry backstock. In these unstable times, when supply chain issues, as well as inflation, appear to be more and more common worldwide, it can be a good idea to create a stash of dietary essentials. These are our top picks divided into specific categories covering some of the basic foods, herbs, condiments and supplement sources. (Not listed in order of importance.)
3 Frequently Asked Questions
Question #1 - Is Jalapeño the Same as Chipotle? Yes and No. Yes, chipotle chili peppers and spice powder come from the jalapeño Capsicum annum species, but they are very different than the green jalapeños most are familiar with. Here are the list of differences, plus Morita vs Meco and other frequently asked things about this popular smoky-sweet-spicy household spice.
Difference Explained
Wheatgrass was one of the original "green foods" that became popular in the 1970s as a type of juicing microgreen used for its nutritive benefits when juiced. Containing almost all minerals, many vitamins and amino acids, the juice is not only a nourishing drink it also supports the body's cleansing processes. For modern-day lifestyles, wheatgrass is conveniently available as a green superfood powder for making an instant wheatgrass shot. Here we will discuss the main differences between wheatgrass powder vs wheatgrass juice powder and our opinion about which form we believe to be the most nutritious.
Top 5 Assets
Lentils have been utilized as a food source by many diverse cultures ever since their domestication in the Fertile Crescent and Middle East region thousands of years ago. Still today they are a staple part of the diet in a number of countries around the world such as India, Africa, Morocco and Turkey. Valued for their high amount of PROTEIN content, the benefits of eating lentils are making a comeback in recent times as the trend for consuming plant-based protein sources continues to rise. Learn more about the top reasons to include more of them in your diet.
Is It Better?
Coffee is the second most popular drink next to water that many people drink every day all over the planet. The question of whether it is good or bad is not always an easy one to answer. Yes, traditionally prepared hot coffee is a source of antioxidants but for some, it can be too overstimulating to the nervous system and cause unwanted side effects over long-term use. Being one of the top caffeine sources, it can also be quite addictive. Since the cold brew coffee trend in recent years, avid coffee drinkers often ask us, "Is it better than regular coffee?" This is our research on the pluses and minuses of each as well as a bit of personal experimentation to compare the two.
What Makes It a Prized Superfood
Propolis (Resina propoli) is a resinous material made by honeybees (Apis mellifera) and some stingless bees to seal and protect the beehive from the elements, pests and harmful microbes. It has been highly valued by healers and herbalists alike for its many profound properties to humans when consumed or used topically. On the list with other prized bee superfoods like bee pollen, royal jelly and honey, it has been utilized in the folk tradition of apitherapy for a very long time and for several main uses we will discuss.
Is It a Source of Shikimate?
Star anise, recognizable by its unique star shape and very robust aromatic fragrance, comes from the fruit of the tree species Illicium verum. It is not actually related to anise seed (Pimpinella anisum) but does contain one major overlapping compound and that is ANETHOLE. This is one of the main flavorings in anise seed as well as licorice root and fennel seed, known for its distinctly sweet taste. Star anise is from the Schisandraceae family more closely related to schizandra than anise seed.
Truths About Bromelain
Pineapple is famous from a nutritional perspective for its reported high bromelain content. Bromelain is a "protein-digesting" proteolytic enzyme first extracted from pineapple juice in 1891. It became available on a larger scale in the late 50s as a nutritional supplement. While it is present in all parts of the Ananas comosus pineapple species, the inedible stem or the pedestal-like stalk that the fruit grows from is very concentrated. It is the primary part utilized to make bromelain dietary extracts. The question is, does eating pineapple increase dietary bromelain intake?
And What Is It Good For?
Kimchi, also spelled "kimchee" or "gimchi", is the iconic Korean side dish or "banchan" consumed for centuries as a staple condiment eaten with most meals. While unfermented kimchi called geotjeori is sometimes prepared as a type of quick-pickled coleslaw, most kimchi is aged via fermentation techniques. This is the one we are referring to here on this page because of its health-promoting potentials we discuss below. Aged kimchi, known as mugeun-ji, is created using the traditional "gimjang" wintertime preparation and vegetable preservation methods.
And Its Main Use for Men
Saw palmetto is a type of dwarf fan palm that grows in subtropical sandy soils. It is prevalent in the Southeastern U.S. especially Florida where it grows in hardy dense thickets as a long-living species. A single shrub reaching an age of 500 years is not uncommon in the Mid-Florida Ridge region. Serenoa repens (or Serenoa serrulata) gets its name "saw" due to the sharp-toothed edges of the main stalk or petiole that has a saw-like appearance. The part of the plant that has been of botanical interest to herbalists throughout the ages is the fruit. This is a single-seeded berry that ripens to a bluish-black color
Healthy Almond Attributes
The almond comes from the Prunus dulcis species which produce both sweet and bitter almonds. Sweet almonds are the common edible variety most widely used since they don't contain high amounts of the potentially toxic cyanide compound. Almonds are often considered a healthier choice over other types of nuts because, when raw and unroasted, they are higher on the alkaline side of the pH spectrum. Being much less acidic, they are a better nut option for those healing from a yeast overgrowth and/or trying to balance an overly acidic diet.
About Adulteration
Saffron is the stigma of the domesticated purple crocus flower species Crocus sativus, a member of the iris family. After harvested and dried, the long trumpet-shaped stigmas are often referred to as "threads". They are the most potent when they have reached a deep orange-red color. We will discuss more on the hot topic of saffron adulteration, how to select the best quality and what saffron is good for from a health perspective, but first, why is saffron called the "gold of spices" or "red gold"?
And Not Good For?
Bee pollen is created by one of the master pollinators of the earth, the honeybee. It has been collected from beehives and used by many ancient civilizations for its nutritive healing attributes and energizing influence on the body. In the folk tradition of apitherapy, the old-time practice of using bee products as alternative medicine, a bee's pollen is considered a "gold mine" of nutrition. Often valued the caviar of top superfoods, it is a complete and concentrated supplemental food comprised of a full spectrum of nutrients and can be one of the best natural multivitamins available, even when taken in very small doses.
For Detox Support
Whole dandelion roots have a dark brown color with a somewhat unattractive rugged appearance. When fresh they have a medicinal milky juice that gives the dried root its white center, evident sometimes in the dried root pieces. Often, the tasty bitter-sweet tea decoctions are a popular way to enjoy its many benefits. So, what's so "dandy" about dandelion root tea and supplements? They are one of the top herbs most commonly utilized because of two intertwining aspects that can assist the body's own natural cleansing processes.
Why It's Our Favorite
Dulse is a type of seaweed that grows primarily on the Northern Pacific and Atlantic coastlines, including Iceland, Canada and regions of the UK like Ireland where it has been used as a medicinal food for centuries. Dulse comes from the leaf-like fronds of the red marine algae Palmaria palmata species that's actually more of a mauve-purple than a red color. It is often acknowledged that one of the main benefits of seaweed is its high content of minerals and that is no overstatement.
Pros and Cons
Peanut butter is a spreadable paste made from grinding dry-roasted peanuts. Peanuts come from the species Arachis hypogaea, also called "groundnut" because the nut-like legume pods grow underground. The domesticated peanut we are familiar with today once came from tropical and subtropical regions of South America where many related species were first developed by ancient civilizations. Today, peanut variations are cultivated all over the world and in the Southern United States, they have a long history spanning over two centuries.
Things About Dill Weed Vs Dill Seed
Dill is one of the common herbs utilized for its feathery green leaves as well as its small flat oval seeds. The term "dill" can refer to both. Dill leaves and hollow stems, often called "dill weed", are frequently used fresh because of their wide availability. Dill weed is however also a typical dried kitchen spice rack variety. The dill plant (Anethum graveolens) comes from the celery or parsley family as do other spices such as coriander, fennel, cumin and caraway that also have umbrella-shaped lacey flowers or umbellifers that produce edible seeds.
A Top Ayurvedic Superfood
Shilajit is a thick brown-black substance that is naturally compressed over hundreds of years from plants and other organic matter trapped between rock layers at high altitudes usually over 10,000 feet (3048 meters). After this tar-like material exudes from the rocks in the warmer seasons and hardens, it is collected, purified and processed as a powder or resinous paste. While the dark resin is considered the purest form of shilajit, powders are still a very potent variety.
The Top 11 Basics
Miso (pronounced mee-so) is a type of salty fermented bean paste customarily made with soybeans, salt and a culture starter called "kōji". While it is a popular condiment staple in Japanese cuisine, it is also used extensively in all parts of East and Southeast Asia especially China, Korea, Vietnam and Indonesia. After a fermentation period, usually between several months to one year, the cooked beans develop a robust umami flavor and earthy shoyu-like aroma.
Secret Tonic for Sleep Support and Insomnia
Jujube fruit comes from the jujube tree species Zizyphus jujuba. The ripe oval fruits are a yellowish spotted red-brown color that eventually turns a deep red-mahogany with a wrinkled appearance when dried. Commonly referred to as "red dates", dried jujubes are about the size of a date and also contain a single stone pit. Jujube is sometimes pronounced joo-joob, however, many Westerners often use the name "ju-ju-bee." That's the one we are most familiar with from our own personal experiences
Top Uses and Ayurvedic Traditions
Ghee is a type of butter that has been "clarified" by simmering unsalted butter on low heat until all the water evaporates and the milk solids sink to the bottom of the cooking pot. This produces a golden yellow liquid that solidifies at cooler temperatures. The term "ghee" is often used interchangeably with the term "clarified butter" because of this "clarification process" which removes the alleged impurities. When it hardens slightly it becomes an easy-to-use spreadable condiment that is highly utilized in Indian cuisine as a type of cooking fat. It is likewise a staple must-have in almost every Ayurvedic kitchen as well as herbal apothecary for reasons we share below.
A Multipurpose Gluten-Free Grain Option
Buckwheat groats are the triangular-shaped grain-like seeds of the buckwheat plant. The two main species are Fagopyrum esculentum and Fagopyrum tataricum. Whole seeds straight from the plant have a dark brown-black hull surrounding the inner seed. While buckwheat hulls are used for a number of different industrial purposes when removed the buckwheat groat is what is cooked as a type of grain. In the U.S., they are not as popular as other types of grains and whole groats can be hard to find in many mainstream markets. You may be more likely to find buckwheat flour than the bulk groats themselves.
Its Top Benefit for Stress
Rhodiola rosea is a succulent herb with fleshy leaves and yellow flowers that naturally grows in Arctic regions of the world. Believed to be native to Siberian climates, it has been utilized for many centuries in the traditional pharmacopeia of Russia, Scandinavia and other Northern European countries. Although other parts of the rhodiola plant can be used, the hardy salmon-pink colored roots are the element most prized for its botanical qualities. Rhodiola rosea, also called "roseroot", is derived from the Greek word "rhodon" meaning "rose", likely making reference to both the rosette pattern of leaves associated with rose blossoms as well as the rose-like fragrance of the roots.
9 Facts About this Humble Fruit
Apples are one of the world's most popular fruits with over 7,500 different cultivars grown from the modern domesticated species Malus domestica. Apple trees can grow all over the globe and therefore many types have been cultivated in varied regions. For example, the Fuji apple comes from Japan, the Granny Smith from Australia and the Red Delicious from the United States. The apple has more varieties than any other fruit known.
Is It Really Psychoactive?
Nutmeg is the seed of a small fruit that grows on the Myristica fragrans evergreen tree species. When the fleshy husked fruit is mature, it splits to reveal the hard brown unshelled seed kernel wrapped within an orange aril. Nutmeg is full of essential oil compounds, channels that are visible when cut in half, which give its spice powder a very strong perfume-like fragrance and unique pungent nutty sweet taste. Trees usually grow between 16-49 feet (5–15 meters) tall but in prime nutmeg-growing habitats can reach close to 98 feet (30 meters).
Easy DIY Probiotic Drink
Rejuvelac is a drink made by infusing already-sprouted grains in pure water for about 1-3 days. The strained fermented liquid is rejuvelac. Healthwise, it is known for its "rejuvenating" properties, hence the name. It’s essentially like making a combination liquid probiotic and enzyme supplement. Rejuvelac is not commonly found in stores, like kombucha or kefir, it must be made at home. One of the best parts to making homemade rejuvelac is that it is VERY easy to do, requiring minimal supplies.
Which One Should You Take?
The benefits of spirulina and chlorella have been widely advertised and promoted in the last decade. Yes, both are nutritionally dense plant-based superfoods, but how are they different? Here we will discuss the main distinctions between spirulina and chlorella so you can make the most informed decision based on your own unique health objectives.
4 Benefits and 2 Interesting Facts
Cashew nuts are curved half moon-shaped kernels typically a light yellow or ivory color when unroasted. Native to the tropical Amazonian climates of Brazil and Venezuela, they have long been grown and utilized throughout Latin America. The cashew tree was introduced by the Portuguese colonists in the 16th Century to parts of India, especially Goa. It was then spread across the Indian Ocean to regions of Africa such as Mozambique, which was once a leading producer.
What About Vitamin D?
Shiitake mushrooms are by far one of the world's most popular edible mushrooms second only to the common white mushroom. Lentinula edodes (formerly Lentinus edodes), known for their rich and robust umami flavor and meaty texture, are utilized extensively in East Asian foods and cherished as a gourmet variety by chefs around the globe. Besides the delicious savory and earthy taste that shiitake provides to any meal, from a health perspective there are other major reasons why you might want to include them in your diet.
Potential Health Advantages
Asparagus comes from the young tender shoots of the Asparagus officinalis species harvested before the buds open and start to "fern out". After this period the asparagus shoot, commonly referred to as a "spear" will soon become too woody to eat. Asparagus species were once classified in the Lily family, along with Allium vegetables, but now find their new botanical place in the asparagus family called Asparagaceae. Agave and yucca, both of which can look like a giant asparagus stalk, are also found in this category of plants.
Why It's Called Peruvian Ginseng
Maca root (Lepidium meyenii) is a hardy turnip-like tuber native to the highlands of the Peruvian Andes in South America. As one of the world's highest altitude-growing crops, it is naturally prolific at elevations between 11,000 to 14,000 feet (3353-4267 meters). It is a type of cruciferous vegetable from the Brassica family, but is also considered a potent herbal tonic and top superfood that has earned the title "Peruvian Ginseng". Known to be one of the staple food crops dating back to the Incan Empire, Peruvians like the Quechua people traditionally prepare it as a cooked vegetable. The dried root was also frequently ground and utilized as a kind of flour.
About Allspice and Its Cultural Uses
What is allspice? Allspice, despite its name, is not a blend of herbs but is a unique spice all on its own. Typically found growing in the same tropical climate zone as coffee, it is actually a type of berry that comes from the evergreen shrub or tree species Pimenta dioica. It is native to the Caribbean and regions of Southern Mexico and Central America. The spice got its English name "allspice" in the 1600s due to its special combination of tastes that closely resemble other spices especially cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon with subtle hints of juniper and black pepper.
Wild Harvesting and Folk Traditions
Mormon tea is the term often used to describe certain wild Ephedra plant species that grow in the Southwestern U.S. It is likewise the name used when referring to the beverage made from the dried stems. The plant is said to have received its title from Mormon pioneers who harvested and used the herb for a number of purposes. One specifically was as an energizing substitute for coffee or caffeinated tea, which are technically banned in this religion. When most people make reference to "Mormon tea", or sometimes called "Brigham tea", they usually mean the varieties native to southwestern deserts of the Great Basin and Four Corners region. Some of which are locations where Mormons first settled.
And What It's Good For
What is jackfruit? Jackfruit is a unique exotic fruit known for its unusually big size and abundant bright yellow sweet fruit pods when ripe. It is in fact the world's top largest tree fruit variety. On average, whole fruits are around 1 to 1 1/2 feet (30-46 cm) long, 20-25 inches (50-64 cm) in diameter and usually weigh between 10-25 pounds (4.5-11 kg). However, they can be much much larger. The heaviest jackfruit on record, documented in the Guinness Book of World Records, weighed close to 95 pounds or 42.72 kilograms but we have also found reports of jackfruit weighing close to 120 pounds (55 kg).
#1 Health Benefit and Best Prep Hack
What are capers? A caper is a small olive-green unopened flower bud that is pickled to bring out its unique taste. Because of its strong flavor, it is used in moderation as a recipe ingredient or served as a garnish topping. Also known as flinders rose, the caper plant species (Capparis spinosa) and its culinary use is often considered indigenous to islands and countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. This is a habitat in which caper tenaciously grows wild as a vine-like shrub. Consequently, it has been utilized for centuries as a staple seasoning of many Mediterranean diets in these culturally diverse regions.
Reasons to Eat It for Breakfast
What are the benefits of oatmeal for the average person? Here we'll discuss the top reasons you might want to add this type of hot creamy cereal to your list of breakfast possibilities. Oats are traditionally utilized in many desserts like apple crisp and the famous oatmeal cookie. Baked oats are also an ingredient in muesli and granola cereals. But, by far the most popular way to consume oats is as the breakfast food called oatmeal. This is a thick type of porridge usually made by heating oats in water. Learn more about the differtent types of oats used to make it, plus the top 4 benefits.
For Respiratory Support
Black seed oil comes from black seeds (Nigella sativa), also called black cumin seed. The seeds are rich in many nutrients and unique phytochemicals which is what is proposed to give them such a wide range of uses. Nigella sativa is in fact probably one of the most highly respected nutraceutical plants, especially in communities extending from the Middle East to South Asia. The oil extracted from black seeds has become a highly prized medicinal oil and popular modern-day dietary supplement for use in small quantities.
Why It’s a Top Ayurvedic Herb
Bacopa monnieri is a creeping perennial with thick succulent oblong green leaves and white or pale purple flowers. As a water-loving species, also called water hyssop among other names, it grows in many tropical and semi-tropical locations often in marsh-like habitats around the world. It is believed to be native to India and Sri Lanka. Bacopa is one of two Ayurvedic varieties that go by the name "brahmi". The other is gotu kola which has similar but different properties.
Named Herb of 2021
Parsley leaves are a popular universal seasoning and culinary herb that comes in two main types, curly leaf and flat leaf. French or curly leaf parsley, with its ruffled course bright green leaves, is the one most commonly used as a garnish to savory meals. Italian or flat leaf usually has a stronger flavor and sometimes a darker green color. Parsley was named Herb of the Year for 2021 by the International Herb Association because of its versatile use as a culinary as well as medicinal species.
Wild Vs Cultivated
Blueberries are a small round blue berry with a white, purple to light yellow-green colored flesh and are related to cranberry, bilberry and huckleberry. The wild blueberry species is native to the colder climates of North America. Indigenous cultures in these regions used the entire blueberry plant from leaves to roots and called the berries "star berry" because of the flared five-pointed star-like pattern on the top of the fruit. This is the location where the white bell-shaped blossoms once formed.
Top 3 Common Concerns About Soy
Tofu is coagulated soymilk that is pressed into blocks, producing a firm yet soft sliceable texture that takes on the rectangular shape of the mold. Tofu is often called "bean curd" because it's made by a curdling method similar to cheese-making which involves separating the curds from the whey. However, it is not fermented, ripened or aged. Here we will cover the top 3 most frequently asked questions about tofu and soy products in general and their debated health concerns.
10 Ancient Uses
Coriander seeds are the dried fruits of the cilantro plant species Coriandrum sativum which comes from the celery, carrot and parsley family along with other popular spices such as caraway, dill, fennel and cumin. Coriander is considered one of the ancient spices cultivated by early Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations located in an area identified as the Fertile Crescent. As such it has had a long cultural history of herbal and culinary use. Here is our top 10 list of traditional coriander seed uses known throughout the ages.
Benefits Summary of Top 3 Juices
In recent times, juicing raw fruits and vegetables has gained popularity among many health seekers worldwide as a way to increase general nutrition as well as aid detoxification processes. As far as "mono juicing" goes, there have been three trend-setting juice varieties that have become especially well-known for their distinct health-enhancing potentials. These are celery juice, cucumber juice and beet juice. Here we will be discussing the main positive attributes of these three varieties.