Collagen, I think most have heard of its importance for skin, hair and nails.

However, every connective tissue is made of collagen. Not only joints need collagen to function properly, but it is also needed by our entire body. In this article I will describe, one by one, the types of collagen and where we can get it. 😊 This is quite a long, fact-heavy article, but stick with it, because there is so much to learn!

The presence of collagen can be seen in: skin, tendons, cartilage, teeth, bones 🦴, muscles 💪, walls of blood vessels, nucleus pulposus (located in the intervertebral disc), and even in the cornea of the eye, because collagen makes up about 33% of the proteins of the human body.

Until the age of 25, collagen is produced in normal amounts (that is, we produce as much as we lose). Later on, however, we produce less and less of this substance (about 1% per year we lose collagen, both in terms of quantity and quality, collagen bonds become weaker). From the age of 30 we lose more collagen than we produce. Then joints and tendons may start to degrade, which is often accompanied by unpleasant pain symptoms. Collagen contained in the skin ensures its proper elasticity. As the years go by it becomes less and less, visible in the form of wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity. In addition, after the menopause, when significant hormonal changes occur in the female body, the collagen content in the skin decreases by an average of 30%.

 

A reduction in collagen is influenced by our lifestyle, diet (rich in sugar), low physical activity (we are busy, overtired and don’t feel like exercising, p.s. exercising gives us extra energy 💪). In addition, some of you work hard physically, which has an impact on greater “wear and tear” of the joints. Not to mention such factors as stimulants or STRESS, with chronic stress producing an excess of cortisol which promotes the breakdown of collagen, (perhaps that’s why people who have a lot of stress in their lives have it “visible” on the face), and excessiveexposure to the sun.

Considering the aesthetic appearance of our skin, nails 💅 and hair 💇‍♀️can have a significant impact on our mental well-being; collagen deficiency can result in damage to the connective tissue, i.e. wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite, dryness, loss of elasticity and firmness. Dilated blood vessels 🩸, excessive blushing 😊, redness, spots, all kinds of pigment changes (freckles, hyperpigmentation) may also appear. The condition of hair, nails and neck skin is also worse. Weakening and brittleness of hair and even its loss or premature baldness are observed.

 

Another effect of lack of collagen is the deterioration of the efficiency of our locomotor system. This can manifest as a feeling of stiff legs, joints, muscles 💪, causing pain when moving, and this can be related to collagen loss. When we lose collagen, our tendons and ligaments begin to move with less ease, leading to stiffness, swollen joints, and reduced mobility throughout the body. With a gel-like, smooth structure that coats and holds our bones 🦴 together, collagen allows us to move without pain. Recent studies have shown that collagen is an effective treatment for osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal ailments. Researchers at Harvard’s Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre in Boston found that supplementation with type II collagen helped patients suffering from RA (rheumatoid arthritis). With it, they found relief from painful symptoms by reducing swelling and tenderness.

 

Another study published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences found that people suffering from joint pain due to osteoarthritis treated with type II collagen showed significant improvements in daily activities such as climbing stairs 🚶‍♀️, restful sleep 😴, and an overall improved quality of life.

 

The amino acids contained in collagen.

Proline- makes up almost 15% of collagen. Proline and glycine play an important role in keeping the body running smoothly. Proline helps protect the integrity of blood vessels, improve joint health, and provides various cardiovascular benefits.

Glycine- makes up about ⅓ of the protein found in collagen. Although it is the smallest amino acid in terms of size, glycine has important functions in the body. Glycine helps to build healthy DNA strands. It is also one of the three amino acids that make up creatine, which promotes healthy muscle growth and increases energy production during workouts.

Glutamine- Considered one of the most important and abundant amino acids in the body, it is created in our muscles and also obtained from food sources. Studies show that glutamine has shown benefits in preventing anxiety, tension, sleep disorders, lack of concentration, poor digestion, weakened immune system and low energy. According to a report printed in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, it has been shown to have a positive effect on growth hormone production, which can improve aspects of mental health, increases feelings of inner peace. The nitrogen produced in large amounts by glutamine also helps in wound healing and prevents muscle wasting and joint pain.

Arginine – also known as L-arginine, breaks down in the body into nitric oxide, which is an important compound for maintaining artery and heart health. Arginine has also been shown to improve circulation, help strengthen the immune system, and have a positive effect on male libido. It is a very common supplement in athletes.

 

WHAT ELSE COLLAGEN DOES.

 

It helps in the treatment of leaky gut.

 

The biggest benefit of consuming more collagen in this regard is that it helps to form connective tissue and therefore “seals and heals” the protective lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Today, it is already known that many diseases can result from inflammation or irritation of an unhealthy gut known as a leaky gut. Poor gut health, including changes in the microbial culture and permeability of its lining, causes toxins to enter the bloodstream where they can set off a cascade of inflammation. Studies have shown that in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, serum collagen levels are significantly reduced. Because the amino acids in collagen build the tissue that lines the colon and digestive tract, collagen supplementation can help treat gastrointestinal ailments and disorders, including leaky gut syndrome, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), gastric reflux, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. In addition to helping to treat leaky gut, collagen also helps with water absorption from digestive contents.

 

Increases metabolism, muscle mass and energy production.

Increasing collagen can help boost metabolism by building lean muscle mass faster and helping to convert essential nutrients. One of the most important jobs of the amino acid glycine is to help build muscle tissue by converting glucose into energy, which directly powers muscle cells. This has the effect of restoring proper energy and vitality.

 

Improves liver health.

The glycine in collagen helps minimize the damage of the liver when it absorbs foreign substances, toxins or alcohol. Studies have shown that glycine can be used to reduce alcohol-induced liver damage and other forms of acute or chronic liver damage. It may be an ideal adjunct to other liver therapies such as those using silymarin derived from milk thistle.

 

Protects cardiovascular health.

Proline is another amino acid in collagen that helps artery walls release fat build-up in the bloodstream, significantly reducing the amount of fat, which can prevent atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, because it helps avoid dangerous plaque build-up. Arginine helps in the production of nitric oxide, which allows for better vasodilation. This results in widening of the arteries and relaxation of the muscle cells and blood vessels, resulting in better blood circulation. 🩸

 

Additionally, research shows that arginine increases the body’s ability to make protein from other amino acids, which is important for repairing muscle tissue, healing wounds, increasing metabolism, and supporting proper growth and development. Glutamine also helps maintain adequate energy by facilitating the synthesis of many compounds in the body. This unique amino acid is the real “fuel” for our cells. Glycine, which is sequentially present in collagen, also plays an important role in key functions of the digestive system and central nervous system, both of which are important in maintaining a healthy and youthful body. Glycine appears to help slow the effects of aging by improving the body’s utilization of antioxidants, and is also used in the process of constructing healthy cells from DNA 🧬 and RNA. Proline is also needed for tissue repair in the joints and arteries and helps control normal blood pressure. As a component of the collagen found in joints, it buffers our bodies from vibration or shock and helps maintain the precious cartilage that deteriorates with age.

 

Symptoms of collagen deficiency and impaired collagen regeneration include:

– stiffness and periarticular pain

– degenerative changes in the joints

– bleeding 🩸

– muscular pains 💪

– fractures with pathological basis

– depressive states 😔

– anaemia of the haemolytic type

– systemic weakness

– gum problems, periodontitis, and tooth loss 🦷

 

Types of collagen and their main properties:

There are 29 types of collagen. The structure of collagen is characterized by the arrangement of protein chains in a triple helix. Water is an inherent structural element of this protein. It is responsible for stabilizing the structure and determines the biological activity of the protein.

 

Type 1 – This is by far the most abundant and considered the strongest type of collagen found in the human body, which form the various parts of the body including tendons, ligaments, organs and dermis. Type 1 collagen also helps with bone formation and can be found in the digestive tract. It is very important for proper wound healing, giving the skin elasticity and flexibility, and maintaining the structural integrity of tissues.

Type 2 – It primarily helps build cartilage, which is found in connective tissue. The health of our joints relies on cartilage created from type 2 collagen, so it is beneficial for preventing joint pain and inflammation.

Type 3 – This collagen is made up of reticular fibres and the main component of the extracellular matrix that makes up our organs and skin. It is usually found when type 1 collagen is present and helps to give elasticity and firmness. It also forms blood vessels and heart tissue. For these reasons, type 3 collagen deficiency is associated with a higher risk of broken blood vessels and even premature death.

Type 4 – Type 4 collagen is responsible for the important task of forming the basal lamina, which is found in endothelial cells. These form the tissues that surround organs, muscles, and fat. The basal lamina is needed for various functions of nerves and blood vessels. It determines the structure of most of our digestive organs and respiratory surfaces. The basal lamina can be found in the spaces between the top layer of skin or tissue and its deepest layer. They are a thin layer of gel-like fluid that provides a cushion – a padding for the tissue above it.

Type 5 – This type of collagen is needed to coat the surface of cells, as well as hair strands and tissues found in a woman’s placenta – an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, delivers oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby, and removes various metabolic wastes.

Type 10 – Helps with the formation of new bone and joint cartilage. It participates in the endochondral ossification process by which bone tissue is formed in mammals. It has been found to be beneficial in healing bone fractures and repairing synovial joints.       

 

Since we already know that collagen is important in our body, where to get it from?

The kitchen used to be more “conducive” to getting collagen into the body. Today’s rush has eliminated many beneficial things for us. “Old and unfashionable” cuisine was richer in collagen. Perhaps you remember when your grandmothers or parents cooked soups using bones, pork knuckles, chicken feet, etc. The longer we cook such a broth, the more collagen it contains. Collagen can also be found in gelatine found in jellies and brawn, for example.

 

⚠ Just taking collagen may not be enough, because it is also important to use products and ingredients involved in the production of collagen, including, among others, vitamin A, C and E, iron, copper, silicon, manganese, proline, products rich in anthocyanidins, such as berries🍓, cherries 🍒and blackberries. Of which the most important is vitamin C and …. physical activity. 😃 Vitamin C not only contributes to collagen biosynthesis, but also takes an active part in collagen metabolism.

💡 I’ll add that our body needs more than 80 minerals to function properly. Deficiencies or excesses cause various ailments or even disease states. To check the appropriate amount of our minerals in the body, elemental hair analysis can be used.

 

Types of collagen by source of origin.

There are various dietary sources of collagen, which are essentially animal products. Listed below are their properties.

 

Bovine Collagen – Comes from cows, specifically from their skin, bones and muscles. It mainly constitutes types 1 and 3, which is very beneficial because these are the most numerous types also present in the human body. It provides a rich supply of glycine and proline and is therefore very useful for creatine production, muscle building, and also helps the body rebuild its own collagen.

 

🐔Chicken Collagen The most abundant collagen in chicken tissue is type 2, which is best for cartilage. It is very beneficial for maintaining joint health, especially since this source also provides chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine sulphate, which have anti-aging effects. Most supplements containing collagen typically use chicken protein.

 

🐟Fish collagen Collagen derived from fish is relatively easily absorbed and provides mainly type 1, with the amino acids: glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. Consuming more fish collagen provides benefits for the joints, skin, vital organs, blood vessels, digestive system and bones. Hydroxyproline is an important component of the triple helix of collagen, and lower levels are associated with joint degradation and thus signs and symptoms of aging. Hydroxyproline is needed to maintain collagen stability and is formed by modifying the normal amino acid proline after the collagen chain is built. This reaction also requires the presence of vitamin C, so vitamin C deficiency can cause difficulty in maintaining normal collagen levels.

 

🥚Collagen from egg membranes. Egg collagen, found in eggshells and egg whites, contains mainly type 1 collagen, although types 3, 4, and 10 are also present. It also provides glucosamine sulphate, chondroitin sulphate, hyaluronic acid, and various amino acids that are involved in building connective tissue, healing wounds, building muscle mass, reducing pain, and eliminating joint stiffness.

 

 

Collagen vs gelatine. When collagen breaks down, it becomes gelatine. This process can be seen when cooking bone broth, during which gelatine is released. Gelatine was one of the first medicinal foods commonly used in medicine in ancient China. At the time, it was considered to work great for people with food allergies and or sensitivities. It also helps the body cope better with meals that are difficult to digest and has shown regenerative properties. As a rich source of gelatine, bone broth can facilitate mucosal healing, which means improved nutrient absorption and a lower risk of leaky gut syndrome. In other words, gelatine contains ingredients like collagen, just in a different form.

 

💉Injections. One of the recognized therapeutic methods used in the treatment of osteoarthritis is collagen injections. This procedure is used in patients whose joint cartilage is not completely degraded but only partially damaged. Collagen is injected into the joint space, located between the surfaces of the bones forming the joint, covered with articular cartilage. Such conditions make it possible for the administered substance to reach the target place, i.e. the articular cartilage. In order to improve the comfort of movement and the condition of the joint cartilage, it is advisable to use preparations containing collagen or products that increase collagen synthesis in the body.

 

Top ways to ensure you get more collagen: One of the best ways to increase your collagen intake is to cook homemade bone broth. This is a healthy, tasty and economical way to use parts of animals that you cannot eat directly. Bone broth is very beneficial to the body, in many different ways. Collagen supplements, such as collagen protein powder, are another easy way to increase your intake of this protein component. However, it’s worth making sure that you’re using powder from grass-fed, pasture-grazed cows, without the use of antibiotics or chemicals. Collagen supplements can be mixed into smoothies, soups, or even baked goods for more nutritional benefits from your favourite foods.

 

Collagen as a protein is digested in the gastrointestinal tract and approximately 10-20% of it is absorbed after digestion and breakdown into smaller molecules. Therefore, the substance does not enter the body from the digestive tract in the form of complete collagen, but only in the form of simple “subunits”. It is assumed that oral use of products containing collagen can cause its increased synthesis. Regular intake of collagen agents may improve the quality of joint cartilage and skin condition, but only as a result of increased synthesis in the body, not as a result of the orally taken supplements being built into these tissues. In order to see improvement, you must take the product for an extended period of time.

 

💡 However, remember that excessive use of gelatine derivatives in the diet and a lot of meat can acidify the body (acidification of the body leads to other types of diseases). It is worth starting to supplement with collagen, as it will lead to nicer skin, nails, hair and above all better physical fitness. Less pain caused by the wear and tear of our body. Of course, do not expect the WOW effect after a week of supplementation. We spend years working on our collagen “losses”. I have read that it is worth using fish collagen (of course from reliable sources) as it is the most assimilable for our body.
Finally, there are many skin care products with collagen, such as creams. However, the molecules in them are usually too large for the skin to absorb. By consuming bone broth and using supplements, you can more effectively deliver collagen from within and save a lot of money in the process. Remember that what we eat becomes visible on the outside.

 

There are many studies that have proven that regular collagen supplementation reduces pain in the joints, reduces the feeling of stiffness in the joints. In addition, it has been proven in athletes who regularly take collagen that the pain associated with micro-injuries is reduced.

⬇ You can buy Collagen here:

👉 Collagen MSM Plus

👉 Pure Collagen Type 1 & 3 Powder

👉 Collagen Type 1 & 3 with Vitamin C
Sources:

🔰J.Gawęcki,L.Hryniewiecki “Żywienie człowieka. Fundamentals of nutrition science.”,2008

🔰M.T. Murry Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements,Prima Publishing,1996

🔰V.L. Davidson,D.B.Sittman Biochemistry. Elsevier Urban & Partner,2002

🔰W. Sylwanowicz,A.Michajlik,W.Ramotowski “Anatomy and physiology of man”.

🔰M. Banach,K.Pietrucha, Collagen protein types and structure, “Zeszyty Naukowe Politechniki Łódzkiej. Food Chemistry and Biotechnology” 2009

🔰A. Noguchi,D.Djerassi, Amino acids and peptides: building blocks for skin protein, Andrews W., Nutritional Cosmetics. Beauty from within, Oxford 2009,.

🔰W., Zaborski M., Structure and properties of collagen and gelatin, “Polimery” 2000,

🔰D. Zelaszczyk,A.Waszkielewicz,H. Marona, Collagen – structure and application in cosmetology and aesthetic medicine, “Medical Estetology and Cosmetology” 2012

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23949208/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27852613/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30386805/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26353786/

https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kolagen

 

The article is quite long, but I wanted to convey as much knowledge as possible. I assure you if you make it to the end, you won’t regret it. It will be the beginning of your small changes for the better!

You’ve probably heard phrases like:

• “A diet low in salt is healthy.”
• “Foods low in salt are healthier.”
• “There is no difference between table salt and sea salt.” 

The question is, do we need to eat less salt???

YES and NO
YES, less or no refined salt

NO, unrefined, unprocessed salt

 

Unrefined salt contains over 80 essential minerals for life, these are vital nutrients, in an easily digestible form. 😊Refined salt doesn’t have that. 😢

 

Have you ever wondered what they have in common?

Adrenal diseases, bad blood pressure/improper cholesterol levels, constant fatigue, headaches, thyroid diseases

The answer can be found later in this article.

Let’s compare REFINED SALT to NON-REFINED SALT

KŁODAWSKA SALT is unrefined salt, sea salt which crystallized approximately 250 000 000 years ago, similar to the Himalayan salt. However, be careful when choosing salt. Unfortunately, the desire for profit of various companies that try to deceive our senses by colouring salt, mixing salt with other or even selling salt under the name of Himalayan, because the latter is advertised worldwide. Unfortunately I “fell for” such salt several times. I even happened to buy the salt “KŁODAWSKA” produced not in Kłodawa, so I began to buy from the source, the Kłodawa salt mine. People living in Poland can buy salt from them without any problem, the courier will deliver. If you live in the UK, you can buy salt in our shop by clicking HERE.

Salt is just as important as oxygen and water!

Dr. Brownstein, in his practice, tells people to drink plenty of water, with plenty of salt. By doing this, he noticed large recoveries because the basic minerals were lacking. This doctor refers to Celtic salt, sea salt – as he wrote this book, the Fukushima reactor explosion (2011) hadn’t yet happened, nor the disastrous effects of dumping tons of garbage, toxins into rivers, seas and oceans.

The secret to regaining health, is what salt you use. The quality of salt is important.

Did you know that the Ph level of our body, also depends on the level of minerals in our body?

But what is this Ph all about? The body will not function properly without the correct level of Ph. The correct environment in our body is 7.2Ph, anything below that will be an acidic environment, while anything above that is an alkaline environment. Acidic environments cause diseases such as: cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, overgrowth of parasitic fungus candida, hormonal disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, etc. Acidosis is more common, the sicker we are the more “acidic” we are.

And what affects our Ph?? Food has a huge impact on our environment in the body. The current food that is on most store shelves is refined food (i.e. processed, flours, oils, sugars etc. 😒), such food is deprived of mineral substances. Minerals, are alkaline substances, that is, they cause our body not to be in an acidic environment, among other things, good, unrefined salt has a huge amount of minerals.
 

 

You can do a little experiment, which I also did with my family, and see what effect salt has on Ph 🙂 For this you will need:

3x glasses filled with water, refined salt, unrefined salt, and litmus paper (can be purchased on eBay for example).

1 – a glass filled with ordinary water has a Ph of 6.6

2 – a glass of water, after adding refined salt lowers the Ph to 6.4-6.0

3 – a glass of water, after adding unrefined salt raises the Ph to 7

You will see for yourself the effects of proper salt on the body. But that’s not all, read on…

Heart attack, hypertension, high cholesterol and salt.

There was a study of 3000 people with hypertension, in the group with the lowest salt intake, the risk of heart attack increased by 430%, compared to the group with the highest salt intake. A small amount of salt depletes our reserves of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, B vitamins – the lack of which causes hypertension. Low levels of salt also cause an increase in both cholesterol >10%. There are very few scientific studies that show that low salt is effective in treating these diseases.

Unfortunately, the studies have been done with refined salt, which is devoid of minerals, and no studies have been done with unrefined salt, which is salt that contains essential minerals for life. But did you know that in the first studies that were done, 10-20x more salt was used? No wonder that after giving up so much salt, the blood pressure decreased.

Hence the equation: low salt = low blood pressure. Other studies were carried out in uncivilized nations, where they do not eat salt, have low body weight and do not consume alcohol, fast food or other processed food. Some of these nations do not live to 50 years of age. That is, there are no factors that are present in most civilized people with hypertension. Does such research make sense? One study only confirmed a drop in blood pressure of 3-6 mmHg systolic and 0-3 mmHg diastolic.

Is this a lot? People with hypertension will know for sure. Another study was carried out with a mineral salt intake and in 45% of the subjects, after 6 months, there was a decrease in blood pressure of 11 mmHg systolic and 15 mmHg diastolic. This is more than enough, the conclusion is that salt rich in minerals actually helps to lower blood pressure or a lack of minerals causes hypertension. Unfortunately, studies have also shown that a low salt intake causes a decrease in salt excretion in urine, if the body senses a deficit of salt, the kidneys start working harder to retain sodium in the body, the consequence will be kidney disease. Studies have indicated that people on a low-sodium diet have increased total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides and renin. There were also studies that indicated that low salt causes hypertension, this is linked to low mineral intake.

It has been discovered that people with hypertension are deficient in elements such as magnesium, potassium, calcium. Hm…then what about people who have been diagnosed as having hypertension? Have they had their levels of even basic minerals tested by a doctor? Another interesting fact: did you know that low salt intake increases the risk of heart attack in men by 400%, compared to a high-sodium diet? Remember, this is only a diet with unrefined salt.

What about our hormones?

Low salt increases the levels of certain hormones that help the kidneys retain water, which further causes heart disease, increased insulin, etc, salt is necessary to treat diabetes. Studies have indicated that people on a low-sodium diet have an increase in aldosterone and norepinephrine. A diet low in salt, minerals, among others, leads to adrenal exhaustion (a gland that secretes various hormones).

Adrenal fatigue is very common these days, in today’s world, stress is not scarce. Adrenal problems have further consequences i.e. fatigue, immune problems, thyroid problems, obesity, eczema, hair loss, arthritis, cancer and many more. And adrenal glands regulate the absorption of salts in the body. Magnesium is very important in the proper functioning of this gland.

I could describe the adrenal glands, but the most important thing is to remember that adrenal glands are one of the organs which keep balance in our body, and I have to tell you that if our adrenal glands stop working properly, then unfortunately the thyroid starts to fail (and vice versa).

Those who have problems with the thyroid know what it can lead to. As far as the thyroid is concerned, iodine is needed for it to function properly. Unfortunately when it comes to unrefined salt there is no iodine there, in refined salt there is iodine added, but the amounts are far too small! If it was sufficient, many thyroid diseases would not develop so quickly. The thyroid gland needs other minerals, not just iodine, to function properly.

Salt and the state of our muscles.

Magnesium is our natural muscle relaxant. It is essential to supplement with magnesium when there are spasms in the muscles. Smooth muscles lining our blood vessels, if these muscles are constantly under tension, it can raise blood pressure. Magnesium has been shown to have a direct relaxing effect on smooth muscle. Again, unrefined salt provides us with essential elements such as magnesium, potassium.

 

Water vs salt.

The human body contains about 70% water and the brain contains about 80%. The body of an adult contains about 250gr. of salt and that of a child 14gr. Water and salt are linked, they are essential for metabolism, detoxification and transport of nutrients and for the proper functioning of the nervous, immune and endocrine systems.
Water is the most important component of our bodies, water participates in energy production, distributes nutrients. As you drink more water, your intake of unprocessed salt should increase. It is recommended to use ¼ small teaspoon of salt for every litre of water drunk – in people with normal kidney function.

 

Most people don’t drink enough water, what’s more, they drink drinks that additionally flush water from their bodies, for example: coffee with caffeine, tea with caffeine, sodas with caffeine and juices rich in sugar. 😢 Unfortunately, a chronically dehydrated body means worse brain and nervous system function. Drinking water alone is not enough, our body cells need minerals.

 

Effects of salt on the nervous system.

The nervous system sends nerve impulses inside the body through electricity. Sodium ions mediate these nerve impulses. Sodium is found in salt. If the amount of sodium is too high or too low, abnormalities can occur in the electrical signals. Our brain in particular is sensitive to the amount of sodium ions.
For proper brain function, the brain needs an adequate amount of sodium and water, as well as  elements such as magnesium.

You can check the levels of these elements within the body by doing Elemental Hair Analysis

You can learn more about it here:

https://gbb-store.co.uk/blogs/news/elemental-hair-analysis

Toxins vs salt.

I don’t know if you’re aware of the toxins we’re being fed. Let me introduce you to one element, bromine. Bromine is found almost everywhere, it is a toxic element, and its consumption has increased a lot. Bromism is a poisoning with bromine, people feel sluggish, lethargic, have problems with concentration.
Depression, headaches, irritability may also occur, sound familiar? Of course, as a toxic element, it causes cancer, especially breast cancer.
And where does bromine come from? I’m not going to describe the history of bromine here, because you can also get hooked on conspiracy theories.
Facts: bromine (or bromide, of the halogen group) is used to disinfect swimming pools, baths, etc.; it is used in agriculture; as an insecticide; it is found in some carbonated beverages, especially in energy drinks; it is found in many medicines available without a prescription; it began to be used in the baking industry instead of iodine; and it is used in many other industries. We are literally surrounded by this element. Salt can speed up the detoxification, of various harmful chemicals found in our bodies.
Salt is nothing but NaCl, or sodium chloride, the chloride allows the kidneys to get rid of bromine in the urine. If your diet is low in salt, then unfortunately bromine accumulates in your body. In addition, salt supports the detoxification of the liver.

SALT BATHS

Certainly they help in effective elimination of heavy metals such as: mercury, lead, cadmium, pesticides and many others. Hot baths in a bathtub with unrefined salt will not only allow us to relax, but also to get rid of toxins from the body. Additionally, such baths stimulate our lymphatic system. It is recommended to use 1-2 cups of unrefined salt, +2 cups of oxygenated water. I personally use magnesium flakes, which you can buy here:

https://gbb-store.co.uk/products/betteryou-magnesium-flakes-1kg 

Some facts about (unrefined) salt:  

– Salt definitely does not cause hypertension. A low salt diet does not lower blood pressure, only in hypertension, it may show better effects when the salt content is reduced, but minimal.

– The blood pressure is balanced by the balance of the minerals in our body.

– Salt provides us with a minimum of 80 minerals, including magnesium and potassium.

– It improves the functioning of the immune system, endocrine system and organs.

– Magnesium and potassium is needed for the proper functioning of the immune system, should be consumed together with sodium chloride.

– There is improvement in patients with fibriomyalgia, chronic fatigue, dizziness, and people with Manier’s disease (inner ear disease), there have been improvements along with the holistic treatment program.

– People with kidney disease, may have trouble excreting salt from the body because the kidneys remove salt.

– A small amount of salt causes toxins to accumulate in Our bodies.

– Japanese living by the coast consume 2x the average salt intake in the US, the life expectancy of these Japanese exceeds the life expectancy of North America, of course there are other mortality factors.

Let’s face it, 100 years ago, our grandparents had access to completely different foods. Unprocessed food, food full of vitamins and minerals. Unfortunately, today’s food is processed. It is artificial food. Such food does not provide us with anything, and what is more, it flushes us of the remaining minerals that we still have in our bodies.

 

Sources:

“SALT YOUR WAY TO HEALT” 2005 by Dr. David Brownstein.

He noted the effects of salt. He refers to various studies confirmed or not about refined and unrefined salt. Dr. David Brownstein is a family medicine physician and medical director at the Center for Holistic Medicine in Bloomfield, Michigan.

https://drbrownstein.com/

“Your body demands water” Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidj After the 1979 Iranian Revolution, Fereydoon Batmanghelidj, a highly educated doctor, is put in prison. His only offense was that he came from a wealthy family. There, for lack of medicine, he uses water to cure his comrades in misery. Surprisingly, effectively. Fascinated, he begins to conduct research, treating over 3,000 prisoners suffering from stress-induced ulcers with water alone. When he was about to be released, he refused, arguing that further research was needed, and remained in prison for another four months – because he wanted to check how dehydration affects the human body. The report of this research, together with its conclusions, was published in the “Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology” in June 1983. In the same year (June 21) his discovery was described in the “New York Times Science Watch”.

 

“Iodine Heals” by Lynne Farrow. University lecturer and journalist. For many years she struggled with numerous ailments, such as chronic fatigue, lethargy, headaches, lack of concentration, breast cysts, obesity. Despite many tests, doctors could not find the cause of her illnesses. Finally she heard the diagnosis – breast cancer. Then she decided to reach into libraries and archives in search of forgotten, or maybe intentionally abandoned methods of treatment. Her amazement grew every day…
“Anatomy and physiology of man” W. Sylwanowicz, A.Michajlik, W.Ramotowski.

YouTube Sources:

Dr. Hubert Czerniak

Dr Jerzy Jaskowski

Jerzy Zięba

External links:
http://www.strefaangielskiego.pl/zaskakujace-pochodzenie-slow-jezyku-angielskim/

WARNING – If you are suffering with an illness, then consult with your doctor first. The above is a summary of information, but this does not replace a visit with a GP. Everyone has individual needs.

 

I have been using a natural “ashtray” flavoured herb for about two years now 😬 . Yes, the flavour is uninteresting for beginners, but I’ll describe later how it can be enhanced / varied…. What is this magical herb that I use to make an infusion and gives me POWER! It is the PARAGUAYAN HOLLY or YERBAMATE.

The Paraguayan holly, whose leaves and twigs are used to make dried yerba mate, is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 20-30 metres high in the wild.
Yerba mate, the “sacred herb” of South American Indians, is healthier than coffee and tea, gives a lot of energy and is not addictive. Yerba Mate was highly valued by Native Americans. It helped them fight fatigue, hunger, increased resistance, reduced stress and provided basic mineral elements. Yerba Mate came to Europe in the 17th century, when the Jesuits arrived in South America. Staying among the Guarani Indians, they wanted to learn their customs and become more like the inhabitants. This is how they got hold of the dried brew.

The name YERBA MATE comes from the word “hierba” (Old Spanish – yerba) meaning “herb” and the word “mati” which describes the vessel the Guarani Indians used to drink the brew. Legends say that the brew was given to an old man as a gift by the goddess Aria who repaid him for saving her life.

 

Why drink Yerba Mate? There are many reasons.

The most important reason why people reach for YERBA MATE is the stimulating effect. It is considerable and works differently than in the case of coffee or energy drinks. The energy is released gradually – there is no sudden or strong feeling of stimulation, and at the same time there is no sudden feeling of tiredness when the infusion stops working. In Yerba Mate there is mateine, which is responsible for the stimulating effect of this drink. Mateine, is the colloquial term for “another type” of caffeine, which also consists of theobromine and theophylline. It is these ingredients (and many other accompanying ingredients), that are responsible for the extra energy after drinking this dried brew, which is why it is so unique.

The inhabitants of South America have known and appreciated the positive effects of dried tea for centuries. It is impossible to list all its properties and the list of benefits of drinking yerba is constantly growing with more and more studies being published. If you start looking around on the web, you will see which well-known personalities have been drinking this brew for a long time.

The yerba mate plant, and the infusion obtained from it, have become the object of a wider scientific interest only in the last two decades, especially after 1995, when the first scientific article proving the antioxidant properties of this brew was published. Yerba mate products were granted 29 international patents between 1963 and 2007, most of them after 2000.

Properties and effects of Yerba Mate

• stimulates the body while relieving symptoms of fatigue
• aids concentration,
• eliminates symptoms of fatigue and thus improves well-being
• relieves hunger,
• cleanses the body of toxins
• improves metabolism,
• nourishes the body, provides vitamins and minerals (including magnesium, which coffee depletes us of!)
• supports the treatment of asthma thanks to xanthine content

YerbaMate has great antioxidant properties. It supports cancer prevention. The antioxidants contained in the holly leaves are present in high concentrations, higher than in green tea or red wine. The antioxidants naturally present in dried Yerba Mate include polyphenols, saponins and chlorogenic acid.

All these antioxidants are present in such large quantities that there is a strong inhibitory effect on the development of cancer cells, as well as stimulating the immune system. This makes it very helpful in the prevention of diseases like cancer, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation and liver disease. However, only regular drinking of Yerba helps to maintain its antioxidant effects in our body. It has a positive effect on the work of the circulatory system, regulates blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which is also important in the prevention of atherosclerosis.

Additionally, it has been proven that Yerba Mate has a protective effect on the heart – it alleviates its dysfunctions and rebuilds damage. It improves metabolism, regulates digestion, relieves hunger, therefore it is good for weight loss. It helps to manage diabetes, in addition, the ingredients contained in Yerba Mate protect against the complications of diabetes.

Chlorogenic acid, a component of Yerba, is involved in regulating the release of glucose from the liver, which is important in insulin-dependent diabetes.

Yerba Mate has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties. This allows it to have a supportive effect on both internal and external diseases. Natural immune support. Yerba Mate’s list of bioactive ingredients also includes beneficial flavonoids such as quercetin, rutin, kemferol and anthocyanins. These have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as removing toxins and improving blood circulation, so they naturally support the immune system. They are included in many immune-boosting medications! Additionally, some of them, in combination with calcium compounds, are an ingredient of medicines reducing the intensity of allergy symptoms.

WHO SHOULD TRY YERBA MATE?

A healthy boost:

Yerba Mate is an excellent choice for tedious studies and work, where monotonous activities make you fall asleep, e.g. it is ideal for drivers on long journeys. While caffeine dilates blood vessels and increases blood pressure, yerba also contains theobromine which balances these effects. As a result, yerba does not cause a sudden surge in blood pressure and the so-called caffeine-induced heart palpitation. The yerba stimulation is milder, more constant and long-lasting (even up to 6 hours).

MENTAL WORK SUPPORT
YERBA MATE is a fantastic drink for concentration for people who study and work. It contains magnesium which is important for our heart. Magnesium is responsible for the smooth functioning of the cardiovascular system, it also improves memory and has a positive effect on brain function.

SUPPORT FOR ACTIVE PEOPLE
YERBA MATE is good for active people. Each sip is a solid dose of vitamins and minerals. The human body strengthened with the caffeine, mineral and vitamins is ready for physical activity and advanced strength training. Yerba increases the general resistance and endurance of the body; it helps to regenerate faster after an illness or after physical effort.

 

What is in Yerba Mate? The leaves of the Paraguayan holly plant contain over 200 different components. However, not all of them are absorbed into the brew. For example, calcium and iron, which are present in the plant, do not make it into the brew and remain almost entirely in the dried tea. However, most of the precious substances are soluble in water which are delivered with every sip of mate. In 1964 the Pasteur Institute confirmed that a Yerba Mate infusion contains almost all the vitamins and minerals necessary to sustain human life. But of course we can’t live on yerba alone, it can’t replace a well-balanced diet!

To test yourself for levels of certain minerals, I invite you to check out our Elemental Hair Analysis, which you can find on my website https://gbb-store.co.uk/products/elemental-hair-analysis-1

Types of YERBA MATE can be divided according to the country of origin, which also implies a different production method. There are 4 basic types of YERBA MATE. Regardless of what type of Yerba you choose in the store, you buy the same plant. However, this does not mean that every variety of Yerba Mate is the same – quite the opposite! Some Yerba are milder, others are really strong. Some have herbal or fruit additives, some don’t. A lot depends on the production process, as well as the type of plantation the plants are grown on before they end up in the Mate packet.

The type of dried product can be divided into Yerba Mate con palo, or with twigs, and Yerba Mate sin palo/despalada, or dried without twigs.

YERBA MATE can be divided according to the country of origin:

🧉 Yerba Mate ARGENTINE – milder in taste, coarser cut, with less dust. It has a slightly more bitter taste and has the most varieties and species. The drying process is shorter, so it is not as intense as Paraguayan, and therefore good for everyone, often recommended for beginners.

🧉 Paraguayan Yerba Mate – very strong and intense flavour. The leaves are usually dried over campfire smoke, which gives it a smoky aroma. You can also find small sticks among the leaves in the dry, it is more finely cut and has a higher dust content. It is stronger in effect.

🧉 BRAZILIAN Yerba Mate – is known as Erva Mate chimarrão. This type of Yerba usually has a mild flavour. It comes in both dustless coarse-cut leaf, fine-cut leaf and very finely ground dried, even to the point of resembling flour or dust that is lusciously green. Finely ground Erva Mate forms a fairly thick brew when brewed and it is necessary to use a special bombilla. It is air-dried and not aged, so it is distinguished by its fresh, grassy taste.

🧉 URUGUAY Yerba Mate – surprisingly, it doesn’t come from Uruguay at all (yerba doesn’t grow here!), but it is the fourth important type of yerba, different from the other three and specific to the country where it is drunk. Uruguayans like to drink finely ground, dusty dried, no sticks, long aged. Of course, the above described characteristics of a given type of yerba are a large generalisation – in each case we will find exceptions.

 

Yerba Mate can also be divided by its composition:

🧉 YERBA MATE CLASSIC – is 100% dried Paraguayan holly. The taste of each yerba is influenced by the soil, sunlight and environment of the plantation, the production method,  harvest time and aging period.

🧉YERBA MATE WITH ADDITIVES – which means fruit yerba, herbal yerba, fruit-herbal yerba or yerba with spices. You will find natural dried herbs, roots, flowers and fruits, natural essential essences, nature-identical and artificial flavours.

Another dilemma when buying YERBA MATE is IN A TEABAG or LOOSE?

Before buying Yerba Mate in bags, it’s worth considering what effect we expect. If you want to take advantage of the stimulating power of Yerba Mate and its health promoting properties, it’s definitely worth choosing the traditional type of Yerba Mate. Comparing such amount with a standard tea bag, we have a ready conclusion – the amount of dried matter in case of a tea bag is much smaller. The same is true about its effect and taste. Yerba Mate in bags is much less intensive – unless we prepare the drink from a few or more bags. However, if you want a light, tasty drink that can replace tea and that you can sip both during the day and before going to bed, Yerba Mate in a bag will do just fine.

Mate – a traditional vessel for drinking Yerba Mate tea. It is made from the natural fruit of the calabash, also known as a calabash or vessel, decorated with metal. (This is the traditional way, but nothing prevents you from drinking from your favourite cup 😁 ).

Bombilla – a metal tube ending in a strainer. It is very useful, there is no need to strain our brew through a sieve or other combinations. With this “straw” we can enjoy drinking the brew without getting particles with each sip into our mouth. One remark, wait until the brew cools down a bit so as not to burn your palate, it’s then a very unpleasant feeling for a few days (I know I tested it 🤦).

 

Temperature is very important. Many people do not watch the temperature of the water used to brew Yerba Mate. The effect and taste of the drink is strongly dependent on the temperature of the water used to brew the drink! Yerba Mate can be poured in too hot water in a hurry, and often we simply don’t know that this affects not only the taste, but also the effect. Yerba Mate poured in too hot water is too strong the first time it is brewed. In addition, the high temperature also reduces the vitamins and minerals present in the plant.

 

🧉 Pour the dried food into the dish: from1/3 to 3/4 of its volume.

🧉 Cover the dish with the palm of your hand, place it upside down and shake it so that the finest part of the dry is near the top of the dish.

🧉Place the dish at a slant and pour the water into the empty space.

🧉Place the bombilla where you poured the water. The first brew absorbs most of the water – dry yerba swells, so after a while you have to add new water.

🧉After 2-3 minutes the yerba is already brewed, ready to drink.

🧉 You can pour this kind of yerba several times, even using about a litre of hot water. I recommend that you prepare yourself a larger amount of water in a thermos, so that you can easily pour again, without having to constantly go to the kitchen and heat water in the kettle

There is also Terere (cold mate) – it quenches the thirst perfectly on hot days, it is very refreshing. It is prepared in a similar way, except that you pour iced water or juice, e.g. orange or apple juice. You can even add an ice cube to the pot. It is advisable to wait a little longer after the first pouring so that the leaves can release their juice. Yerba varieties with fruit or herbs are best for tereré. You can also make your own blends, using herbs or pieces of fruit, fresh or dried, for example.

At home, I have YERBA MATE PAJARITO.

Why did we choose this yerba? Because it is one of the strongest yerba.

Additionally, I found such information as: Yerba Mate Pajarito is considered one of the best, tastiest and most popular Paraguayan yerba in the world. It owes its exceptional taste and aroma to more than 50 years of experience of Lauro Raatz and the unique climate of Paraguay, which is the homeland of the holly plant.
This yerba mate is produced in the province of Itapúa, the south-eastern part of Paraguay. The company Lauro Raatz S.A., founded in 1950 by Lauro Raatz and his wife Sara, is responsible for its production. In this already modern facility, 20 tons of yerba mate are produced daily and exported to many countries all over the world and since 2007 even to Poland. Of course, there are no discussions about taste!
That’s why I suggest to try different kinds. I tried yerba mate enriched with different flavours, and Ilex guayusa is a very interesting plant – it has both stimulating and calming effect. The plant comes from the Amazon and is called the sister of Yerba Mate. But I am still loyal to PAJARITO. You can buy this kind of YERBA MATE in our shop here:

👉 Yerba Mate

When I get bored with its taste, I add e.g. fresh/dried mint leaves, if you have at home essential oils of good quality (which can be consumed) you can diversify the taste with e.g. lime or orange oil. I use it time and again for variety.

Yerba mate PAJARITO is for people who are looking for an “energy kick” for each day, it has a tobacco aftertaste, which is due to its traditional way of drying over the fire. What distinguishes Paraguayan yerba is the presence of a large amount of dust, sticks and a natural and not very complex taste, but it has “something” in it, which is difficult to describe, but makes us return to it with pleasure.

Let me end with my story. I first came across this brew when my husband tried to convince me to give up coffee (I used to drink a lot of it, it was my main drink of the day 😫, yes yes, I wasn’t always super careful about my health). I tried it and said NO! It tastes and smells…. hm… as some say, like an ashtray. The next time the doctor tried to encourage me to swap my LOVED COFFEE for YERBA. I laughed out loud, gently saying that it was not my taste! As they say, three times is enough! The third time was sometime after the birth of my second son. This is my beloved long-awaited baby, he didn’t want to sleep at all! Yes it’s true, a second baby is always different, the first one slept through the nights from the beginning, the second one didn’t need sleep. For the first year of his life I slept a maximum of 4 hours a night (combining 20min + 20min + 30min etc…), during the day I had no opportunity to sleep. This led to my brain not comprehending what was going on (good thing we don’t have to think to breathe). I was able to make myself an egg for breakfast by making my tea with eggshells, it was a failure, another adventure … I would come out of the shower, ready to sleep, dressed in my pajamas, with foam on my head because I hadn’t remembered it needed to be rinsed off.

There have been many such comical stories. But to the point… my husband has been using Yerba Mate for a long time. And so I somehow managed to take a sip. And so for two days I sneaked a sip at a time. It wasn’t until the second day that I realized that even though I hadn’t slept, I could function and think much better. It only got to the point that Yerba saved my “motherhood” 😉 .

 

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a very common plant across Europe.
Elderberries can be found in forests, gardens, fields and on river banks. Elderberries have been used in folk medicine for centuries.

Hippocrates, in the 4th century BC, wrote about the properties of elderberry. The Roman military physician Dioskurides recommended decoction of its leaves for hard-to-heal wounds and snakebites. Pliny the Elder wrote about elderberry in his work “Naturalis historia”, Saint Hildegard in the 12th century recommended elderberry decoction for breastfeeding mothers to increase milk secretion.🍼

It is a variable species – there are several subspecies, but their classification is not established. Numerous ornamental varieties have been bred, differing mainly in colour and leaf shape. Elderberry was used in Egypt as a cure for burns, the Indians used it during the cold, while in many regions it was used not only as a medicinal plant, cosmetic but also as a talisman or part of many rituals.

In medicine, elderberry flowers 🌸, fruits 🥭, leaves 🍂, seeds 🌱, bark and even roots are used, of which the flowers and fruits are the most important.

Elderberry flowers and fruits contain flavonoids, mainly: bioflavonoid, quercetin derivatives and kaempferol. We can also find in them phenolic and organic acids – coffee, ferulic, chlorogenic, essential oils, mucilage and a small number of tannins, triterpenes, sterols, and mineral salts (potassium, calcium, iron, sodium, aluminium). In elderberry fruits there are anthocyanin glycosides, tannins, organic acids – malic, chlorogenic, and B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, biotin), provitamin A, vitamin C, sugars, and pectin.

Properties of elderberry.

Elder flowers can be dried and used in the form of tea ☕ – then they have a cleansing effect, detoxifying, acting as a diaphoretic and are anti-inflammatory. Elder fruits 🥭 can strengthen immunity (thanks to the high content of vitamin C and other antioxidants including polyphenols), also reduce inflammation, especially in the throat and larynx. Elderberries can have antibacterial, antiviral, even antifungal and anti-yeast effects. They can contribute to the regulation of the body’s lipid metabolism. Because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, elderberry can be beneficial for joint inflammation. Elderberry syrup is known as a remedy for joint and muscle pain 💪.

For colds and immunity boosting.

An infusion of the flowers 🌸 or the juice of the fruit 🥭 is a versatile cold remedy. Since it has a strong sudorific effect, it quickly lowers the elevated body temperature. It has expectorant properties, so it facilitates the clearing of bronchial secretions. It strengthens the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and seals blood vessels, which limits the spread of pathogenic microorganisms. Its mild analgesic effect helps cope with headaches and sore throats often associated with colds, while its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties make it easier to fight off infections. Elderflower infusions can be used as gargles for tonsillitis and inflammation of the mouth and throat.

To seal the blood vessels.

Bioflavonoid is a flavonoid compound found in the flowers 🌸 of elderberries. It seals blood vessels 🩸, makes them more flexible and reduces permeability of vessels. It is helpful in gum bleeding.

Black elderberry regulates digestion and kidney function.

Both the flowers and fruits contain compounds with beneficial effects on the digestive and urinary systems. First of all, they have a mild laxative effect and regulate digestion, relieve flatulence, constipation and heartburn. They have a diuretic effect, is used for kidney problems, so they are recommended for hypertension, enema, water retention in the body. Elderberry has antibacterial properties, so it can be used to treat urinary tract infections. Elderberry juice is also a good source of vitamin C, which helps fight infection.

Black elderberry has properties of cleansing toxins.

Thanks to its sudorific, diuretic and laxative properties, elderberry removes harmful products from metabolism and exogenous toxins (of external origin). It is also helpful in weight loss treatments.

Skin problems.

It has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it suitable for making poultices for eye diseases, including conjunctivitis. This raw material is also recommended for skin with eczema and hard-to-heal wounds. For these problems, warm compresses should be made.

Additionally:

• Many studies confirm the immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of elderberry, and it is the subject of experiments on its effects on cancer cells. It has a high anti-cancer potential and may especially be a good component of a cancer prevention diet.
• They have an analgesic effect and help relieve the pain of sciatica and all types of neuralgia.
• Studies conducted have shown that elderberry flower extract 🌸 significantly increases glucose uptake, oxidation, and gluconeogenesis. Furthermore, studies in animal models have shown that elderberry can increase insulin secretion.
• Elderberry juice can lower both total cholesterol and its LDL (“bad”) cholesterol fraction, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease. ❤
• Thanks to their antioxidant properties, elderberry fruits 🥭 and flowers 🌸 are a potentially valuable tool in the prevention of diseases, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Elderberry juice is used in the food industry as a natural colouring agent and to flavour food products. Infusions of dried or fresh elderberry leaves 🍂 in the form of sprays are used to control plant pests such as aphids and cabbage leafhoppers.

Elderberry in cosmetics.

• The anti-inflammatory properties of elderberry infusions are perfect for irritated and impure skin, for example when dealing with acne, blemishes or blackheads. You can use them for cleansing steams or soothing compresses. It is good after washing the face to wipe it, as a cosmetic tonic, for example, summer infusion of flowers.
• As an anti-wrinkle, skin softening and whitening agent.
• A high content of vitamin C, which strengthens connective tissue and supports the production of collagen fibres, is very useful in the fight against cellulite. Additional support is provided by anti-inflammatory flavonoids, which seal capillaries and increase the elasticity of their walls. To get rid of uneven skin, it is best to use baths with the addition of a decoction of the fruit, drink infusions of flowers, but above all regularly massage the body with elderberry oil.

💡 However, if the expedition in search of elderberry and its raw materials fails, we can always use the pharmacy or herbal supplies: flower teas, syrups, and other products containing elderberry extracts, both for adults and children.

How and when we harvest elderberries.

To benefit from the properties of elderberry, you must first be able to recognize it in nature. Fortunately, it is quite a distinctive plant. It is a shrub up to 4 meters high, characterized by small, yellow-white flowers. Between May and July, when the inflorescences are already sufficiently developed, you can harvest it. This should be done early in the morning in sunny weather ☀ and before the flowers start dropping. Cut the whole umbels (about 80% of the flowers 🌸 in the umbels should be developed), which should be later placed in a shady, well-ventilated place in a not too high temperature, so that they don’t turn yellow, and dry them in the temperature of about 45ºC. When harvesting the flowers 🌸, however, remember to leave some on the bush in order to be able to use the fruit. Properly dried elder blossoms have a yellowish-white colour, and the brown parts should be discarded.

Elderberries are harvested when they are ripe, around August-September. They are purple-black, very small and juicy. (They should not be eaten raw!). The fruits are first dried at 30ºC and then dried at 60ºC. Properly dried elderberries have a sour taste and no smell.

Elderberry bark, which is removed from 2-3 year old trees in autumn, is also used in medicine. The bark should be dried in airy and shady places or at temperatures up to 100ºC.

PRECAUTIONS.

However, it is important to note that the leaves, unripe fruits 🥭 and seeds 🌱 of elderberries contain a cyanogenic glycoside. Compounds belonging to the cyanogenic glycosides are converted in the human body to hydrogen cyanide, which blocks tissue enzymes and inhibits the transport of oxygen from the blood to the tissues. Hydrogen cyanide, or prussic acid, is toxic in large doses. In the case of elderberry raw materials, you have nothing to fear; the content of cyanogenic glycosides is low, and they are inactivated during drying and additional thermal processing. Symptoms of poisoning include sudden weakness, loss of strength, vomiting, diarrhoea, respiratory distress, chest pains. After ingestion, it is necessary to immediately induce vomiting if it does not occur naturally and to go to the emergency room of a hospital to have the stomach flushed.

Elderberry has a laxative effect, be cautious when administering to the elderly, children and pregnant women. 🤰

RECIPES.

Some of the fresh raw material can be used, for example, in the form of pancakes or syrup, recommended to strengthen the body. It is also worth mentioning that the plant is used in the kitchen as an ingredient of jellies, puddings, cakes or even liqueurs. It is also used to make homemade preserves such as jams, pickles, preserves, juices, jam, etc.

🌸 Flowers – cut whole umbels, which after collection should be left for several hours in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated place. This will help get rid of insects, which due to the characteristic smell are abundant on elder flowers.

If you do not want to wait, you can rinse the umbels with cold water. Flowers are harvested on dry days, choosing those that are good, not shrivelled. Dry them in a shady, airy place. After drying, they should have a yellow colour and unchanged fragrance. Such dried flowers can be stored for two years.

Recipe for infusion – elderflower tea ☕.

To prepare the decoction, pour a tablespoon of dried flowers 🌸 in a glass of boiling water and brew under a lid for 10 minutes, you can sweeten it with sugar or honey, you can also bring it to a boil and boil on low heat for about 5 minutes. Set aside for 15 minutes then strain. This decoction ☕ should be drunk 2-3 times a day after 1/3 glass as an antipyretic, diuretic and diaphoretic or use as compresses. This tea is very refreshing in the summer. You can drink it like ordinary tea ☕, but it also has many medicinal properties. In addition, it helps remove mucus from the respiratory tract in wet cough and sinusitis. Due to the presence of mucilage, it also provides relief from dry cough, relieves headaches and boosts the body’s immunity, which helps you recover when you are sick.

Syrup – elderberry flower juice.

Requires approximately 40 elderflowers, 1.5 litre s of water, 1 kg of sugar, one lemon 🍋. Put the elderflowers 🌸, stripped of their bitter stems, in a jar. Boil the water, sugar, and sliced lemon, then remove the lemon 🍋, pour the syrup over the flowers 🌸, and seal the jar. Set aside with the bottom up for at least two days. After that time, strain through gauze, then pour the syrup into a pot. Heat to a very high temperature, not bringing to a boil and pour again into the jar. Set aside to cool. The syrup is now corked – stored this way, it has an expiry date until the next harvest. Once opened, it can be stored for a month in the fridge. Its flavour is reminiscent of mint, so it will be perfect as a refreshing drink during the summer heat. It works well as a topping for pancakes.

Elderflowers in a pancakes.

Prepare pancake batter. Use as many elderflower stems as you would like to have pancakes. Once everything is ready, holding the stem, dip the flower 🌸 thoroughly into the batter and place on the pan. When the pancake is properly fried on one side, snip off the flower stalk with scissors and flip to the other side. Serve sprinkled with powdered sugar or drenched in any syrup.

Elderflower Vinegar Recipe.

Elder flowers can also be used to make vinegar, which is widely used in home medicine and care. Pour apple cider vinegar onto fresh flowers in the proportion of one glass of vinegar per one umbel of the flower 🌸. Stir and leave for a few days in a warm place.

Elderberry juice.

Pour water over elderberries and boil until they release juice. Then mash them to a pulp and squeeze through gauze. Next, boil the juice with a small amount of honey and pour into dark bottles or jars. Drink the juice 2-3 times a day, a glass at a time, diluted with water or tea. It is used to support the treatment of colds, neuralgia, and digestive disorders.

Antiviral elderberry decoction.

Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of fruit into 1 cup of cold water. Heat under the lid until boiling, then boil for 5 minutes. Set aside for 20 minutes and strain.

Drink 1/3 cup 2-4 times a day between meals.

Elderberry jam.

Use 1 kg of fruit, about 400 g of sugar, a little water and lemon juice – cook until the right consistency is obtained. If you don’t like seeds, you can rub through a sieve after a brief boil without sugar, and then the cook with the sugar.

Elderberry tincture.

1.5 l of syrup, juice, 1 l of spirit. After straining the syrup (or a portion of boiled fruit), add a litre of spirit to it. Set the mixture aside for a month in a dark, warm place, during this time vigorously shake it every three days and after this time, strain (for example, through a coffee filter). You can add water, possibly sugar, put it aside for about a week and then filter again. The liqueur should stand for another month in a dark and cool place to get a perfect aroma. Pour the liqueur into prepared bottles and leave for several months. It is recommended for treating colds, neuralgia and cardiovascular diseases. Elderberries can also be used to make wine, for which you need wine yeast and a little bit of citric acid.

 

You can buy products containing elderberry here⬇

👉 Elderberry Gummies for Kids 

👉 Immune Booster, containing Elderberry

 

Sources:

• Abuja PM, Murkovic M, Pfannhauser W. Antioxidant and prooxidant activities of elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract in low-density lipoprotein oxidation. J Agric Food Chem. 1998.
• Gray AAM, Abdel-Wahab Y YH, Flatt PPR. The traditional plant treatment, Sambucus nigra (elder), exhibits insulin-like and insulin-releasing actions in vitro. J Nutr, 2000.
• Murkovic M, Abuja PM, Bergmann AR, Zirngast A, Adam U, Winklhofer-Roob BM, Toplak H. Effects of elderberry juice on fasting and post-prandial serum lipids and low-density lipoprotein oxidation in healthy volunteers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2004.
• Ulbricht C, Basch E, Cheung L, Goldberg H, Hammerness P, Isaac R, Khalsa KP, Romm A, Rychlik I, Varghese M, Weissner W, Windsor RC, Wortley J. An evidence-based systematic review of elderberry and elderflower (Sambucus nigra) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. J Diet Suppl. 2014.
• Waszkiewicz-Robak B. et al: Health-promoting properties of elderberry. Probl Hig Epidemiol. 2018.
• Zielińska-Pisklak, Monika & Szeleszczuk, Łukasz & Młodzianka, Anna. (2013). Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) home remedy not only for flu and cold. Medicine in Poland.

WHY SHOULD WE DO A LITTLE GYMNASTICS FIRST THING IN THE MORNING?

Morning exercises have a different effect on our body than exercises done in the afternoon or evening.

Morning gymnastics provides:  

• 🌙 stimulation of the body after a night’s sleep 
• 😴 getting rid of drowsiness 
• ⛅ a boost of energy for the whole day 
• 😊 an improved mood 
• 📚 better concentration 
• 🍴 accelerated metabolism 

Morning gymnastics are general physical exercises performed in the morning, before breakfast. 🥐 This kind of exercise should be performed by everyone – it has a positive effect on the quality of your day. The purpose of such activity is to stimulate the body to function efficiently for the rest of the day, activate the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, increase metabolism, and also to move the joints. It has been proven that people who regularly exercise in the morning have a more positive attitude and a better mood. The exercises should be simple and their pace should be slow. Morning exercise does not have to take up a lot of time. Just 10-15 minutes is enough to activate the cardiovascular system, the respiratory system and to get the joints moving. During physical exercise endorphins, or happy hormones, are released, which improve the mood and ensure well-being for many hours. 😃 Morning exercise improves blood supply to the brain 🩸, which in turn improves concentration and long-term memory. Exercise speeds up metabolism, making the body burn calories faster, thus aiding weight loss. Studies also suggest that those who exercise in the morning have a smaller appetite during the day, which promotes weight loss. 🍴

What should I keep in mind?

• The room in which you exercise should be well ventilated, you can exercise with an open window or when the weather is good, you can exercise outdoors. This will allow additional oxygenation of the body. 🌞
• Exercising after waking up is recommended as aerobic activity, while all strength training should be done later.
• Stretch slowly and calmly before exercising (you can start while still lying in bed).
• Morning gymnastics should begin with breathing exercises and end calmly with them, and you can also intersperse them during the exercise. (depending on how long you want to exercise).
• You should also do stretching exercises.
• Spend approximately 10-15 minutes on the morning gymnastics, but you can extend this time depending on the need.

What options are there for morning activities?

• 👟Running
• 🚲 Cycling
• 🚶‍♀️ Nordic walking
• 🧘‍♀️ Yoga

Morning gymnastics stimulate the body and prepare you for the day. It should not, however, cause fatigue. Exercises should be done slowly and without hurry. Due to numerous health benefits (both physical and psychical), morning exercise in a relaxed atmosphere is recommended for everyone, and you can even put on your favourite music.

What are your ways to get going, to wake up in the morning?

Here I will try to include all the information about this plant that I have found.

Common nettle (urtica dioica l.), which grows almost all over the world (probably with the exception of tropical countries). It is found in the wild in Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America. This nettle has long been used in folk and religious rituals and had its own symbolism.
Both the leaves 🌿 and the root of nettles are used (the root is dug up in early spring or autumn), as well as the juice of fresh nettle stems. This plant has numerous medicinal properties; there are several vitamins and mineral elements in it.
Nettle has long been a valuable food plant for animals due to its high amount of digestible protein. Now I know why we were sent to harvest these nettles for animals 😉. This plant is not only used as animal food, but also works well in cosmetics, herbal medicine, pharmacotherapy and also in cooking. Nettle also provides fibre, dye (natural dye E140- and is used in horticulture as a natural fertilizer for aphids).

 

AND WHAT DOES HISTORY SAY ABOUT NETTLES?

Hippocrates in ancient times already wrote about the medicinal properties of nettle. In ancient times they already knew that nettle has the ability to stop bleeding 🩸, it was considered to be an APHRODISIAC, it was used as a remedy for poisoning and surprisingly burns. Nettle juice with added sugar was helpful for jaundice, asthma, tuberculosis, upper respiratory problems, and colic. For urinary tract problems, it was used, among others, by Nicolaus Copernicus, in ancient times and in folk medicine also for rheumatism problems (whipping with nettles), skin problems and hair care. Nettle was also used to treat cholera. In Russia and Africa, the nettle was used for oedema and diarrhoea. In the 19th century, the plant was forgotten and treated only as food for the poor. Then it returned to favour in times of crisis (e.g. during the world wars). In the twentieth century, nettle once again gained popularity with the development of knowledge about it.

 

AND WHAT DOES THIS PLANT CONTAIN THAT MAKES IT SO WIDELY USED?

Nettle provides us with vitamins such as: vitamin A, K, C and some vitamins of B group. This herb also has other nutritional substances such as tannins, amines, organic acids (e.g. pantothenic), serotonin, flavonoids, chlorophylls and many others and mineral elements such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, silicon, iodine, sodium, cobalt, zinc, chlorine, manganese, sulphur, and copper. Deficiencies of elements in our body can lead to serious diseases, and even death, if we allow ourselves to completely flush them out of our body. Some of the elements can be analysed by means of a hair analysis. You can find more details in my blog post about Elemental Hair Analysis.

 

Because nettle is so rich in various nutrients, it has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and detoxifying properties.

PROSTATE DISEASES, relieves the symptoms of prostatic hypertrophy, because it has a diuretic effect. Compounds contained in nettle improve the process of urination in men with prostatic hypertrophy, also reduces pain that occurs during urination.

 

INFLAMMATION OF THE URINE SYSTEM, thanks to its diuretic properties, it reduces the volume of the stored urine in the bladder and reduces painful urination. Due to the fact that it accelerates the excretion of urine, bacteria are more easily eliminated and mineral substances are excreted, thanks to which kidney stones do not accumulate; therefore, nettle preparations are recommended for kidney stones and oedemas.

 

DIABETES, nettle lowers blood sugar levels. Research proves that nettle extract influences insulin secretion levels, therefore it is recommended to use nettle infusion in diabetes.

 

CHOLESTEROL, studies show that nettle preparations help lower cholesterol. ⬇

 

RHEUMATIC, ARTHRITIC PAINS, Nettle extracts have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, so they bring relief to those joint disorders, muscle aches 💪, all sorts of inflammation.

 

ALLERGIES, Nettle has been shown to have anti-allergic effects despite the fact that it itself can cause hives where you touch yourself with fresh nettle 😉 . Nettle has similar effects to antihistamines. In studies, it has been shown that patients with rhinitis experienced relief after taking nettle products. Just remember, what’s too much is not healthy – because in some people with excessive use may appear an allergic reaction.

 

TUMOURS, the phytoestrogens in nettle may reduce the risk of certain cancers e.g. breast, bowel, prostate cancer.

 

LOWERED IMMUNITY, it would be strange after such a rich composition of nettle to pass by this subject indifferently. Again, the flavonoids and vitamins contained in the leaves stimulate the work of our immune system. Drinking a tea ☕  made of fresh nettle leaves every day for 2 weeks will significantly improve the immune system. In 2011, a study showed that the agglutinin produced by nettle inhibits the proliferation of the SARS coronavirus 🦠, which causes severe acute respiratory distress syndrome.

 

ANAEMIA, here nettle comes to the aid of all those who have iron deficiency, pregnant women 🤰 who have a special need for this element. Nettle supports the production of red blood cells 🩸 and haemoglobin, so it is recommended for people struggling with anaemia. It has a blood-forming effect.

 

DURING PREGNANCY IT IS ESPECIALLY RECOMMENDED, BECAUSE IT CONTAINS A LOT OF MINERALS AND VITAMINS. It is also recommended after childbirth, as it increases milk production. 🤰🍼

 

Nettle supports stomach, liver, and pancreas functions. It is helpful in gastritis, intestinal catarrh and diarrhoea problems. It supports gastric juice and bile secretion, it is good for flatulence and nausea, hyperacidity, gastric ulcers, and helicobacter.

 

OBESITY, nettle tea speeds up metabolism, improves intestinal peristalsis, thus aiding weight loss.⚖

 

BLEEDING 🩸, nettle prevents minor bleeding from capillaries in the nose, gastrointestinal tract, intestines, uterus, and lungs. This is mainly influenced by the vitamin K contained in nettle.

 

NUTRITION is recommended after the autumn-winter season to regain VITAL SUBSTANCES! 🍂❄

💡Nettle and herbs can effectively support classical pharmacotherapy. Nettle is very well combined with other medicinal herbs. For example, when there is an infection in the urinary system, it is worthwhile to additionally use such herbs as horsetail, goldenrod, birch leaf, bird’s-foot trefoil, lingonberry leaf. In case of skin diseases it is good to combine nettle with horsetail. On the other hand, in order to lower glucose, it will have a better effect when combined with: bean pericarp, corn root, bilberry leaf or cinnamon.

NETTLE COSMETICS

It has long been known that nettle products improve the condition of hair 💇‍♀️,skin and nails 💅. It has beneficial effects in fighting dandruff, greasy hair, or hair loss. Nettle rinses or alcoholic extracts of its root rubbed into the scalp strengthen and nourish hair roots and hair, accelerate hair growth. They have anti-seborrheic and antibacterial properties, therefore it is recommended for oily and acne-prone complexions. Nettle leaf compresses are also used in skin lesions (abscesses, boils, acne, nodules), found in the manufacture, creams, masks, tonics, shampoos. In some cases, people with very sensitive skin may experience allergic reactions.

Example hair rinse – 100g of chopped leaves are poured into 0.5 litres of hot water. After it cools down add 4% vinegar solution. Regular rinsing of hair with this solution will prevent hair from falling out, make it flexible and shiny. Additionally, it will help to fight dandruff.

 

💡In summary, nettle preparations are excellent for diabetics, asthmatics, rheumatics, for anaemia, allergies, coughs. It is good for the endocrine system, liver, pancreas, for prostate hypertrophy and for LIBIDO.

 

IF YOU HAVE AN EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITION, YOU ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE AND DOES NOT EXEMPT YOU FROM VISITING YOUR DOCTOR IN CASE OF ILLNESS.

 

THE UNDESIRABLE PROPERTIES OF NETTLE.

Despite the beneficial effects of nettle, there are also situations when you should be careful with it. Who should be cautious about using nettles?

In case of bleeding 🩸 due to polyps and uterine cancer. People who suffer from diabetes should first consult a doctor.

Older nettle leaves can be irritating to the kidneys. Some sources state that the use of raw nettle leaves can cause liver damage, and thus historical sources state that nettle was often eaten raw by the elderly in times of crisis.

 

☝I believe that common sense should be used with regards to everything. Even if we start abusing the healthiest products, they will start working against us.

 

 

Each of us has probably already learned that nettle “burns”, in the leaves of nettle there are stinging/burning hairs containing formic acod, which after contact with the skin causes dermatosis; burning/itching blisters appear. Nettle burns can be alleviated by rubbing the irritated area with crushed plantain leaves, sage, mint or sorrel. Alternatively, you can apply olive oil, but it is not advisable to rinse with water because the irritation may return.

 

TIME TO HARVEST

Now that we know the effects of nettle, it’s time to harvest. Nettle should be harvested young, in the period during April and May, some sources say you can harvest until September (but only cut off only the tops). Nettle should be harvested before it flowers and it is said that the first three rows, up to about 30 cm. long, are best for harvesting. Gloves should be used when harvesting so as not to burn yourself with the plant. It is best to harvest early in the morning, or where the nettle is in the shade all the time, as it will have much more juice inside.

 

Once harvested, the leaves can be peeled after the nettle is overripe or the herb dried, when it no longer stings so much. Leaves and herb are dried in the absence of light, but the plant material must be scattered loosely, as clumped together easily burns and turns brown. The dry yield is 22-23% of the harvest. The roots and rhizomes are dug up in early spring or autumn, washed and dried in an airy place or at a temperature not exceeding 40°C. The fruit is harvested when ripe, in August and September.

 

So now that we’ve harvested the NETTLES it’s time to cook them. 😍

Nettle can be purified by pouring boiling water over it. Zeolite is a good agent which removes impurities and pesticides. You can also use a solution of water with baking soda and then a solution of water with vinegar.

In olden times, nettle was used as a vegetable for soups 🍜, potatoes 🥔 and for Lenten dishes during Easter 🐰. Nettle was used similarly to spinach. In folk medicine, fresh nettle juice mixed with honey 🍯 is used as a general strengthening agent and to boost the body’s defences against flu and colds, for example.

Nettle can be used to make infusions, teas ☕, tinctures, soups, juices, as an ingredient of cocktails mixing with your favourite fruit, also we can make fresh salads, pesto and our own cosmetic products such as hair rinses, shampoos and creams.

 

And these are the recipes I was able to find online 😉 .

 

An infusion of the dried leaf or root.

Pour hot water over one tablespoon of nettle and brew under a lid for about 15 minutes. Such an infusion can be drunk daily for 2 weeks and then you should take a break. It is best to drink the infusion on an empty stomach or before bedtime. If desired, you can add a bit of honey 🍯 or mix it with other herbs, mint or lemon 🍋.

 

Nettle puree.

Good for freezing. Mix young nettle leaves with boiled water, blend together and pour into containers. Such frozen puree you can eat throughout the year.

 

Nettle tincture.  Pour boiling water over collected nettle leaves, then blend. Pour alcohol over mixed nettle (10 times more than the amount of nettle). Close in a dark airtight bottle and leave for about a week in a dark place. After this time, strain the solution through a sieve and store the tincture in the refrigerator.

 

Decoction of nettle leaves.

Pour 2-2.5 tablespoons of nettle in cool water and bring to a boil. Boil under the lid for 5 minutes, then leave for 10 minutes and after that time strain e.g. into a thermos. Drink 2-4 times a day after eating.

 

Nettle honey. 🍯

It is the most versatile and most effective nettle remedy. Prepare by grinding 1kg of fresh leaves, boiled in 3 glasses of water, then strain. Add 0,5kg of honey 🍯 and water to the volume of 1 litre. Store the mixture in a dark, cool and dry place.

 

Juice made from fresh nettles can be pasteurized or frozen. In order to preserve as many nutrients of nettles as possible, it is recommended to use slow-running juicers.

 

DID YOU KNOW 💡😄

💡 The dried herb was smoked for asthma problems, coughs and toothaches

💡 Chlorophyll extracted from nettles is used as green colorant with code E140.

💡 Nettle can be used to flavour beer, only the young shoots are used for this.

💡 Fibre can be used to make paper. 🧾

💡 Leaves were used to preserve food. Food was wrapped with them for this purpose.

💡 Due to its high silica and calcium content, it was used to clean boilers and dishes.

💡 Oil was pressed from the seeds 🌱, which was also used for lighting purposes.

💡 Planting nettles around the apiaries kept the frogs 🐸 away from the hives.

💡 In Roman mythology it was dedicated to Venus; powdered nettle seeds mixed with honey and sipped with wine were supposed to act as an APHRODISIAC.

💡 In ancient beliefs it was written that flogging with nettles restored men’s will to live.

💡 In the Eastern Borderlands, girls were smeared with nettles to ensure fertility.

💡 Nettles play an important role in Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, The Wild Swans. There, they are a textile material whose extraction involves suffering, which is the payment for magical properties.

💡 Increases plant resistance to attack by insects and pathogenic fungi, accelerates plant growth, and activates compost decomposition and repels some insects and mites.

💡 During World War I, uniforms were sewn from nettles of the German army. During the interwar period, exports of this plant from Germany to Britain increased.

💡 During World War II, nettle was widely cultivated.

💡 Fabrics woven from nettles have a slightly shiny texture, are daintier than linen fabrics and stronger than cotton fabrics. Now imagine the tag on your favourite blouse 100% nettle instead of 100% cotton 🤔😁.

 

Here I want to include all the information I found about this plant, i.e. how and where to collect it, how to distinguish it from other poisonous plants (false dandelions! read about them by clicking the last link under ‘External sources’), what uses it has and what recipes I found for it.

Dandelion – is it really a weed? It is a very valuable medicinal plant, which is used as a whole, i.e. flower, stem and root have rich health-promoting properties.

The end of April and the beginning of May is the best time to harvest this plant, as far as the root is concerned it is better to harvest it in the autumn, then it is less fibrous. The leaves, on the other hand, are good to collect between April and June.

If you are going to go look for dandelions, then start by choosing a place.

It is important that it is not by a busy road, so that the meadows are away from motor traffic. Pay attention if your chosen location is near any agricultural fields where they may use different types of fertilizers (and I do not mean those “natural” fertilizers). It is important to be away from all kinds of pollution, because dandelions very much absorb pollution from the outside and from the soil.

When picking, it’s a good idea to remember to wear gloves so your hands don’t get stained.

Before you start picking dandelions, make sure that it is definitely a dandelion, and not a false one like a yellow thistle. They are two similar flowers; dandelions are edible, whilst yellow thistles are considered poisonous. You should pay attention to where you pick your plants from!

So how do you tell them apart?

Dandelions have many properties and uses, both the dandelion flower as well as stem and root. The plant is used in pharmaceutical products, in natural remedies for diseases of the liver, pancreas and other parts of the digestive system as well as the kidneys and in cleansing products. At the beginning of diabetes it lowers the level of glucose in blood. It also improves circulation and brain function, brings relief in rheumatic diseases and skin problems. Dandelion can be used internally (tinctures, syrups, infusions, teas, etc.) and externally (ointments, compresses).

Dandelion products stimulate the liver and bile ducts, thanks to which the flow of bile to the duodenum is facilitated. As a result, our body digests better and intestinal peristalsis works better.

Scientific studies have also shown the positive effects of dandelion in preventing cancer, and it does well in fighting cancer cells.

In Canada, at the University of Windsor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry discovered that drinking dandelion tea affects cell breakdown within 48 hours while healthy cells remain unaffected.

 

Dandelions are full of vitamins:

Vitamin A, group B vitamins (thiamine B1, riboflavin B2, niacin B3, pantothenic acid B5, B6, folate / folic acid B9, cobalamin B12), choline, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K.

There are also macronutrients:

phosphorus, calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium.

And micronutrients:

iron, copper, zinc, manganese, selenium.

I also found in other sources that the plant also contains: silicon flavonoids and polyphenols (and other antioxidants), asparagine, inulin (prebiotic), compounds with anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antifungal activity.

 

Not surprisingly, dandelion has been found to be useful in avitaminosis. It is worth examining the level of vitamins and minerals in our body. I used an elemental hair analysis, which shows a lot about the nutritional status of our body. More information about the test can be found here:

👉 Elemental Hair Analysis 

 

The flowers are very often used for making syrups, the consistency of which resembles honey. The flowers can be used to make wine with the addition of lemon and sugar. As for the dandelion flowers, they have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and diuretic properties. They also have a positive effect on ovarian problems and menstruation, and flower infusions are good for this purpose.

Young dandelion leaves are suitable for raw consumption as well as cooked. They should be harvested during the flowering period and they can be used for spring salads. Infusions from the leaves have antipyretic, cough suppressant properties, and prevent the formation of gallstones. The leaves have a beneficial effect on joint problems in diseases such as gout.

The root is best harvested in autumn, even October-November. After thorough cleaning, cut it into strips and dry it (in the shade and in the air or in drying chambers, but do not exceed 30°C). It can be eaten raw as well as cooked; it has laxative properties. Historically, dandelion root was used similarly to chicory roots. Dandelion root along with burdock root is used in the production of a well-known traditional drink in the UK, Dandelion and burdock.

The “milk” contains organic acids, antioxidants, antibacterial, antiviral compounds, so it works well for skin problems. It helps to fight dandruff, acne, warts.

Dandelion is also used in cosmetics; it is added to some skin creams.

 

Precautions or Adverse Effects.

Dandelion should not be used in case of biliary obstruction or gallbladder abscess. In the case of cholelithiasis patients should consult a doctor. This plant is also not recommended in case of gastric ulcers (since bitter compounds contained in dandelion may increase secretion of gastric juices and intensify the ailments). As for the use of dandelion syrup, due to its high sugar content, it is not recommended for diabetics. With tinctures, people who cannot consume alcohol should use dandelion products in other, non-alcoholic forms.

 

WHAT CAN BE MADE FROM DANDELIONS?

Syrups (they are very helpful in upper respiratory tract infections, when you have cough, sore throat or prophylactically build up our immunity), teas, infusions, tinctures, wines.

You can find quite a few recipes on the internet, or maybe you have one handed down from generation to generation – these are the recipes I appreciate the most😊. If you feel like sharing your recipe with us, feel free to post in the comments 😊.

In some recipes it is written to clean the flower. Before you do this, it’s worth mentioning not to wash it under running water because you will lose the aromatic and valuable pollen. So if the recipe doesn’t call for cleaning, I would skip it, but this is just my opinion. After cutting the flowers clean them of the green remains of the stems, if you leave the remains of the stems they will give a slightly bitter taste. Remember, however, that the older the flower, the more bitter the taste may remain. Spread the flowers e.g. on white paper towels, then any insects contained within have a chance to escape. Leave like this for about 2-3 hours in the sun.

 

Sample recipes I found:

Decoction: 50g of roots and leaves, flower or the root itself, pour into 1 litre of water. Boil 2 minutes. Steep 10 minutes under a lid, strain. Drink ½ glass daily 30 minutes before meals.

An infusion of the roots and leaves. Use in diseases of bile ducts, liver, urinary tracts, indigestion, habitual constipation, atherosclerosis, acne, skin rashes, poor metabolism.

Infusion of the flower. Use for menstrual disorders, bleeding, ovarian problems, inflammation of appendages.

Decoction of the root. Use for liver disorders, gallstones, internal bleeding, cancerous diseases.

Alcohol tincture: using dandelion juice or syrup*, use in biliary tract diseases, indigestion 15-20 drops per water, 2-3 times a day with meals. *dandelion juice (succus taraxaci in pharmacies) or squeezed from cleaned dandelion roots or syrup: pour 1 litre of water on approx. 250 flower baskets and boil for 5 minutes. Set aside for an hour and then strain the decoction. Boil the decoction on low heat for 3-5 hours, stirring without bringing to a boil. Add 1 kg of sugar and lemon juice and mix thoroughly.

Dandelion flower wine: 250 g of the flower, 1 kg of sugar, 2 litres of water, 50 g of wine yeast, set in a dark place for a few weeks, pour the wine into bottles and store in a dark place. Use a tiny glass twice a day for digestive and feminine ailments.

Salads, syrups, beverages, soups – several ways to prepare according to recipes found online

 

External sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonchus_arvensis

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taraxacum_officinale

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dandelion_and_burdock

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/False_dandelion

 

In this article I will discuss:

The effectiveness of cupping, especially in the autumn and winter, when we are exposed to colds, flu and diseases of the upper respiratory tract; when you should and shouldn’t use cups.

Cupping therapy is a very ancient method of fighting against various diseases. Vacuum therapy, like massage or acupressure, is an ancient form of treatment and originates in China, where it was known 3,000 years ago as a versatile, side-effect-free treatment for many diseases and ailments. Other sources also claim that this method is even older. In Far Eastern culture, negative pressure therapies are still very popular as well as other natural methods to support our immune system.

Currently in countries such as China, Korea, Japan, cupping therapy is as popular as acupuncture or herbal medicine. This therapy in these countries is reimbursed by state insurance systems.

More historical information can be found here:>>> https://bit.ly/2QZihyW

 

In the old days there were glass fire cups, and we still have fireless vacuum cups, which can be used in the comfort of your home. There are also Chinese rubber cups, which are mainly used for massage, cut or wet cups (Hijama), as well as needle cups or a combination of acupuncture with magnetotherapy (Haci cups), herbal, water and vibromassage cups.

I will focus on describing vacuum fireless cups for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes. The use of this method is primarily to stimulate the immune system, but there are more benefits. Regardless of the type of cup, their action affects the bones, joints, muscle tissue, subcutaneous and skin.

They also improve circulation and lymph flow which has a beneficial effect on cleansing our body of toxins. Cupping therapy can be combined with classical methods of treatment.

Before you proceed with the cupping therapy, make sure that the person undergoing treatment does not have health problems that are contraindications to the procedure.

CONTRAINDICATIONS
🚫 tuberculosis

🚫 cancer

🚫 inflammatory skin lesions

🚫 increased fragility of blood vessels

🚫 haemorrhagic diathesis (e.g. haemophilia)

🚫 dyspnoea (e.g. cardiac or respiratory failure)

🚫 autoimmune diseases

🚫 anaemia

🚫 general cachexia

🚫 fever over 38.5 °C

🚫 hypertension

🚫 pregnancy (Only in certain situations: do not use until the 4th month, and if the pregnancy is dangerous/pathological. Do not apply to lower abdomen or lumbar region of spine and do not apply high vacuum)

🚫 convulsions

🚫 under the influence of drugs

🚫 do not use immediately after a meal and heavy physical activity

🚫 do use for 24 hours after a sprain or contusion

 

When should you use cupping therapy?

✔️ acute inflammatory conditions (bronchi, lungs)

✔️ influenza

✔️ viral infections of the upper respiratory tract

✔️ inflammation of the throat, tonsils, larynx, sinuses

✔️ recurrent tonsillitis

✔️ recurrent cough

✔️ bronchial asthma

✔️ in prevention (increase immunity, detoxification)

✔️ angina pectoris

✔️ blood pressure disorders

✔️ neuritis, neuralgia, sciatica,

✔️ pains in muscles, joints, degenerative changes

✔️ after injury and physical effort (for muscles)

✔️ for back pain

✔️ headaches, migraines

✔️ neuroses

✔️ acute and chronic inflammation of the stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, liver

✔️ intestinal diseases

✔️ kidney and bladder inflammation, bed-wetting

✔️ menstrual problems, menopausal problems, inflammation of the appendages

✔️ before a big physical effort in order to increase the efficiency of the body (for muscles)

 

Directions:

1. Room for treatment should be heated, without open windows and drafts.

2. The area on which the cups are to be placed should be cleaned and preferably gently lubricated with Vaseline or olive oil (especially if there is little fat or the area is hairy). It will certainly be easier to remove the cups after the procedure. For me it is also important what I lubricate with, so it is not some kind of chemical fragrance oil, remember that during the treatment the pores in the skin open wider.

3. Place the cups in places where it is relatively “even”, i.e. there are no bone protrusions. Remember that we do not put them directly on the spine or shoulder blades. We also do not put cups in the area of the heart and large blood vessels, eyes, ears, nose, nipples, stomach and where there are varicose veins and moles. We choose places well-muscled and with fatty bedding.

4. Use the vacuum pump provided to adjust the vacuum strength. Remember not to use high vacuum for children, pregnant women, elderly people or people with fragile vessels.

5. After the application of the cups, the person undergoing the treatment should be covered with a blanket so that they do not get cold.

6. The treatment time for an adult is 15-20 minutes. For a child from 5-15 minutes depending on the age.

7. The procedure should not cause pain. Of course, there will be a pulling sensation on the skin which may cause discomfort.

8. When it is finished, gently pull it off. There are so-called valves in the vacuum cups, or you can gently lift it with your finger to let the air in.

9. After well placed cups, petechiae/hematomas/ bruises should appear.

10. The frequency of placing the cups depends on the purpose and the condition of the patient or the person undergoing the treatment.

 

After the cups are applied, these may temporarily appear:

🔹 Temperature rise

🔹 Pressure surges

🔹 Headaches/dizziness

🔹 Insomnia

🔹 Increased pain/stabbing in affected areas

🔹 Change in colour or frequency of urination

🔹 Increased sweating

WHERE DO YOU BUY THE CUPS?
– You can buy them in a pharmacy.

– via internet, e.g.: eBay, Amazon, etc.

 

AND WHAT DO DOCTORS THINK ABOUT THE USE OF CUPS?
Certainly, opinions are divided because it is an unconventional method. But I listen to those doctors who have results.

 

➡️ In the history of Polish medicine there is a description of cups and the rules of their use was presented by Stefan Falmierz in 1534 in the first Polish medical work “Herbarium or Herbarium”.

➡️ In the interwar period Professor Witold Orłowski recommended medical cups for lung diseases.

 

HOW DO THE CUPS WORK?

While placing the cups, a vacuum is created inside the cup which has an effect:

• Immunological – during the procedure a large number of immune bodies are secreted.
• Mechanical – the cup activates the flow of blood and lymph
• Reflex – there is an improvement in the functioning of internal organs, as a result of the skin-peritoneal reflex

During the treatment the skin is sucked into the cup, creating a large congestion on the skin. This congestion (i.e. blood along with viruses that circulate in our body) is treated by the body as a foreign body. In the skin, dendritic cells (very sensitive immune cells that play a primary role in stimulating lymphocytes) sense any foreign body, give a signal to other immune cells – leukocytes and then our body produces antibodies, automatically activating the defence mechanism to fight the enemy. However, encountering its own blood, it directs all its force against the emerging or already developed infection. In this way, our body produces something like a vaccine for itself.

Cupping therapy can also be compared to auto-chemotherapy, which is based on the stimulus effect of own blood injected intramuscularly.

💡Remember that in acute conditions, it is recommended that you stay at home and preferably in bed for a day or two.

💡It’s important to know that it’s not a “hands off” treatment, where our health will improve as if with a magic pill.

 

I hope that this article encouraged you to use cupping therapy as an additional form of strengthening the body.

 

SOURCES:

Edyta Sztuka ” Natural methods to strengthen the body” 2016

Interviews: Dr. Urszula Krupa, Dr. Hubert Czerniak
https://bit.ly/2QZihyW