Vinegar is a flavoring agent and a kind of medication. It is made by fermenting acetic acid bacteria and ethanol. It has loads of nutrients which the body requires.
Read more on BeFantastico website: Vinegar: Types and Benefits

What is Vinegar?

Vinegar is a flavoring agent and a kind of medication. It is made by fermenting acetic acid bacteria and ethanol. It has loads of nutrients which the body requires. Vinegar contains calcium, iron, carbohydrates, acetic acid, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, and some other nutrients that are beneficial to your wellbeing. Its tangy taste which reduces the need for salt in soups, bean dishes, and some other meals. There are various flavors of vinegar, depending on the need for it. Let`s take a look at the varieties of vinegar.

10 Varieties of Vinegar

White Vinegar

White vinegar is quite popular, especially in America. It`s made from laboratory-produced acetic acid which is diluted with water, or from grain-based ethanol. People mainly use it for pickling and cleaning. It has a harsh taste in meals.

Apple Cider Vinegar

In the United States, apple cider vinegar is next to white vinegar in terms of popularity. It adds a tart and slightly fruity flavor to meals. It is excellent for marinades, salads, dressings, condiments, and other vinegar purposes. It is used for more purposes than white vinegar.

Wine Vinegar

Wine vinegar is quite flavorful. It is made from a blend of either white wines or red wines. Most commonly used in Europe, wine vinegar tastes as great as the quality of the wine used in making it. It is used to add flavor to varieties of recipes.

Balsamic Vinegar

This flavorful vinegar is of two types: traditional and commercial. A quasi-governmental body in Italy governs the production and spread of the traditional variety; it is quite scarce and expensive as a result. It usually has leaf ratings on a scale of one to four, serving as a guide on how to use the vinegar. One-leaf vinegar, for instance, is ideal for dressing salads, while four-leaf vinegar is appropriate for seasoning dishes. Commercial balsamic vinegar, on the other hand, has no geographical restrictions as its traditional counterpart does. It is easily accessible and more affordable. Its flavor is just as great, and it brings out the best in meals.

Rice Vinegar

Rice vinegar can be traced to Japan, where it is used in making sushi. It is made from the sugars in rice. It may come in a red or black variety, and both are used to flavor fruits and tender vegetables. Red rice vinegar is particularly great for soups and noodles, while black rice vinegar is a perfect dipping sauce.

Malt Vinegar

This dark-brown vinegar has a malty flavor, and it is ideal for pickling and eating some meals, fish, and chips in particular.

Cane Vinegar

This type of vinegar is produced from sugar cane, and it is mainly used in the Philippines. Its color is light yellow, and it is somewhat similar to rice vinegar. Despite the fact that it is made from sugar cane, this vinegar is not sweeter than other varieties of vinegar.

Beer Vinegar

With its beautiful light gold color, beer vinegar, made from beer as the name implies, has a sharp and malty taste. This vinegar is popular in the Netherlands, Austria, Germany, and Bavaria.

Coconut Vinegar

This white vinegar with a sharp, acidic, and subtle yeasty taste is popular in Southeast Asia. It is made from the sap of the coconut palm and often used in Indian and Thai dishes.

Raisin Vinegar

Raisin vinegar has a slightly cloudy brown color, and it is popular in Middle Eastern regions. Its flavor is mild; however, it tastes great when mixed with a little cinnamon. You may add it to salad dressings to enjoy its unique taste.

13 Health Benefits of Vinegar

Fights Oral Bacteria

Vinegar contains antimicrobial properties which make it effective at controlling the spread of bacteria in the mouth. It reduces the risk of oral issues such as tooth decay and bleeding gums. This, however, does not negate the need for oral examination by a dentist.

Enhances Hair Growth

Did you know that a teaspoon of apple vinegar combined with carrier oil can make your hair grow faster? Simply apply it on your hair twice a week, and enjoy other benefits such as the prevention of dandruff and itchy scalp.

Maintains Skin Elasticity

The more elastic your skin is, the slower you age. Apple vinegar mixed with water of equal quantity can help you maintain skin tone and soften your skin. It also rebalances pH levels. Simply massage your skin with the mix to enjoy its rejuvenating properties.

Treats Allergies

People who suffer anaphylactic food allergies benefit from regular consumption of white vinegar. It also prevents sudden allergic reactions.

Provides Alkali Balance

Metabolism increases alkalinity, however, maintaining healthy levels is vital to preventing terrible health conditions. Daily consumption on vinegar ensures healthy alkaline levels in your bloodstream.

Treats Cancer

Vinegar contains antioxidants that combat cancerous cells. Vinegar particularly reduces the risk of breast, bladder, colon, lung, and prostate cancers. Note that vinegar is more effective at preventing cancer, and treating it at its initial stages.

Burns Fat

Excess fat causes obesity, which in turn triggers terrible health conditions. Apple cider vinegar burns fat and boosts metabolic rate. Simply incorporate it into your diet to enjoy its benefits.

Reduces Cholesterol Levels

Unhealthy accumulation of cholesterol may cause hardened and constricted arteries which affect blood flow and cause cardiovascular conditions like a heart attack or stroke. Consuming apple cider vinegar in small quantity helps to reduce cholesterol levels. However, note that your cardiologist`s advice is vital.

It is Antimicrobial

White vinegar controls microbial development as a result of its microbial property. Minimal consumption of vinegar helps prevent harmful microbial effects.

Treats Hypertension

Vinegar’s acetic acid content makes it fit for combating hypertension. You may need to speak with your doctor before treating hypertension with vinegar, to determine if it’s safe for you.

Relieves Acid Reflux

White and rice vinegar varieties contain compounds that treat health issues such as gastroesophageal reflux, a condition in which acids in the stomach flow backward and get to the esophagus, resulting in belching, heartburn, and nausea. This condition is quite delicate, hence you should draw your doctor`s attention to it to avoid worse acidic reactions.

Improves Gut Health

Vinegar promotes the growth of useful bacteria. It also destroys bad bacteria and prevents indigestion. With regular consumption of organic raw apple cider vinegar, you can boost your immunity through proper digestion.

Lowers Blood Sugar

Vinegar reduces glucose levels, hence prevents diabetes. It also boosts insulin activity. If you suffer high blood sugar levels, you might want to seek your doctor`s advice to know if vinegar is safe for you.

Vinegar Facts

• Vinegar comes from the French, “vin aigre,” which means “sour wine”.
• November 1st is National Vinegar Day.
• White vinegar is effective at disinfecting and cleaning butcher block countertops and wooden cutting boards.
• White distilled vinegar eliminates wine stains on 100% cotton fabric within 24 hours. Simply sponge the fabric with it on the spot of the stain.
• As far back as 5000BC, Babylonians used vinegar as a condiment and preservative.
• You may substitute fresh lemon juice with vinegar.
• White vinegar treats sunburn by restoring the skin to its correct acidity; it also has a cooling effect.
• Simply put a piece of tissue paper over the affected area, and spray with white vinegar.

Now That You Know…

There are various types of vinegars, meeting different needs. Its health benefits are also numerous. Are you considering incorporating vinegar in your meals? Your health will thank you for it.

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White tea is made from the Camellia sinensis plant, the same plant from which black tea, green tea as well as other types of tea is made from. Unlike most types of tea, white tea is minimally processed. It is not oxidized or rolled.
Read more on BeFantastico website: White Tea

What is White Tea?

White tea is made from the Camellia sinensis plant, the same plant from which black tea, green tea as well as other types of tea is made from. Unlike most types of tea, white tea is minimally processed. It is not oxidized or rolled. Oxidation process involves exposing tea leaves to oxygen after they have been harvested. The exposure time of tea leaves to oxygen affects the color as well as the flavor of the tea.

Black tea is fully oxidized. This explains its dark color and strong flavor. Green tea is also oxidized, but not as much as black tea. White tea, unlike black tea and green tea, does not go through much processing. White tea is harvested before the Camellia sinensis plant is mature; when the buds have not fully opened and they are still covered by fine silvery-white hairs. This gives the plant a whitish appearance, hence the name “white tea”.

Once picked, the leaves are allowed to wither and get dried by the sun. This results in a flavor lighter than black tea and green tea. Although referred to as “white”, white tea is not white, it is pale yellow once it is brewed. White tea is believed to have originated from China. Today, several countries like Taiwan and Thailand produce white tea.

Types of White Tea

White teas come in varieties. A type of white tea would be different from another due to the different types of tea plant from which the tea was picked, how the tea was cultivated and how the tea was processed. This is why different white teas do not have the same amount of nutrients. Some of the most popular types of white tea are:

Silver Needle

Silver Needle is the most popular type of white tea among tea connoisseurs. It is considered the finest of white teas and it also the most expensive. Also known as Bai Hao Yinzhen, Silver Needle has a light and delicate woodsy flavor. It is slightly sweet to the taste and golden in color. Silver Needle is commonly produced in the Fujian province of China.

White Peony

White Peony ranks second in quality among white teas. Also called Bai Mu Dan, White Peony, is stronger in flavor and darker in color than Silver Needle. After it is brewed, White Peony is pale green and gives off a nutty aroma.

Tribute Eyebrow

Tribute Eyebrow or Gong Mei is ranked as the third highest quality of white tea. This white tea is processed in a way that is slightly different from other types of white tea. It has a bolder flavor than Silver Needle. Just like oolong tea, Tribute Eyebrow has a strong, fruity flavor.

Long Life Eyebrow

The tea leaves that are left after Silver Needle and White Peony have been harvested are used to make Long Life Eyebrow. Regarded as the fourth highest quality of white tea, Long Life Eyebrow or Shou Mei has a strong flavor and is darker in color than the first three. After brewing, Long Life Eyebrow is deep yellow.

There are several other types of white tea varieties. Some have other ingredients like fruits added to them to give extra flavor and sweetness. Although these other types of white tea are not considered to be true white tea by most tea experts, yet they have something to offer. Some of these other types of white tea are:

Darjeeling White

Darjeeling white tea is produced in Darjeeling, India. Brewed Darjeeling white tea has a nutty flavor and is pale yellow. It is slightly sweet to the taste.

Ceylon White

Ceylon white tea is produced in Sri Lanka. It is a unique tea that is specially processed. The processing of this special tea gives it its delicate flavor and subtle natural taste.

Caffeine Content in White Tea

Although white tea is generally believed to be lower in caffeine than black tea or green tea, some varieties of white tea has more caffeine than other types of white tea and may even contain the same amount of caffeine found in black tea and green tea.

Certain factors affect the caffeine content of white tea. Where the tea leaves are cultivated, how they are processed and how the tea is brewed affect how much caffeine is in a cup of white tea. If you are watching your caffeine intake, there are ways to reduce the caffeine in your white tea:

• Use loose white tea leaves instead of teabags. Loose leaves contain less caffeine than teabags. They are also richer in flavor and have a stronger aroma than teabags
• Choose decaffeinated white tea. Although decaffeinated white tea also contains little amount of caffeine, they are a better alternative to other types of white tea that has not been decaffeinated
• Choose white tea of the highest quality. High quality white teas are known to contain less amount of caffeine than other types of white tea
• Avoid using boiling water to brew your tea. Very hot water increases the amount of caffeine in a cup of tea
• Reduce your steep time to less than five minutes
• Avoid white tea blended with green tea, black tea or oolong tea. This type of white tea contains higher amounts of caffeine

Benefits of White Tea

White tea just doesn’t taste great; it also has a high amount of antioxidants. White tea contains polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins and other nutrients that keep you healthy and protect you from diseases. These are some of the health benefits of drinking white tea:

They Reduce the Risk of Cancer

Studies have shown that white tea may have anti-cancer properties. Extract from white tea was found to accelerate cell death in a type of lung cancer cell. Researchers believe that of all types of tea, white tea may have the strongest potential for fighting cancer. This is because unlike other types of tea, white tea is minimally processed. The process of oxidation destroys polyphenols in tea. Polyphenols are cancer-fighting chemicals. Higher levels of polyphenols are found in white tea than in other types of tea.

They Improve Oral Health

Regular consumption of white tea can be an effective way to reduce your risk of tooth decay. The healthy chemicals in white tea inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that can lead to plaque formation. White tea also contains fluoride. Fluoride is important to maintain the health of your teeth. They make your teeth stronger and prevent cavities.

They Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Flavonoids found in white tea have been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular diseases are conditions that involve blocked or narrowed blood vessels and that can lead to stroke, heart attack or chest pain.

They Aid in Weight Loss

Regular consumption of white tea can make weight loss easier. The compounds in white tea would help to boost your metabolism and also help to burn excess fat in your body.

They Lower Bad Cholesterol

Regular consumption of white tea is associated with lower levels of bad cholesterol in the body. High levels of bad cholesterol increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

In conclusion

White teas are best enjoyed as they are with no sugar or milk. Always store your tea in cool, dark place and keep it from heat, light and moisture. Storing your white tea in an airtight container would help your tea retain its freshness and last longer.

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Honeydew melons are cultivated in semiarid regions and like watermelons, they belong to the melon family. The honeydew melon is a round, tasty fruit with pale-green flesh. Honeydew melons are loaded with vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for overall health.
Read more on BeFantastico website: Honeydew Melon: What You Should Know About this Tasty Fruit

Honeydew melons are cultivated in semiarid regions and like watermelons, they belong to the melon family. The honeydew melon is a round, tasty fruit with pale-green flesh.

Honeydew melons are loaded with vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for overall health. They generally have low-calorie content and contain no fat or cholesterol. The fiber in honeydew melon makes you feel full, especially if you’re considering shedding some weight. Honeydew melon is also rich in potassium which helps to regulate blood pressure, heart rate, and sodium.

This fruit possesses significant amounts of vitamins A, vitamin B complex, and vitamin C. Its vitamin A content promotes eye health while its vitamin C helps the body form resistance against free radicals and their damaging effects. As a good source of vitamin B complex, honeydew melons also strengthen the immune system, increase the good cholesterol in the blood, as well as convert carbohydrates and fats to energy.

The minerals contained in honeydew melon include phosphorus, iron, calcium, zinc, manganese, and copper. Manganese found in honeydew enhances the metabolism of carbohydrates, stabilizes brain functions, and lowers blood sugar level. Its iron, on the other hand, helps to transport oxygen throughout the body and prevent anemia, while its phosphorus helps control the use of calcium in the body.

Health Benefits of Honeydew Melon

Honeydew melon nourishes the body in many impressive ways. To understand how regular consumption of honeydew melon is important for the body, take a look at these 10 health benefits.

Improves Brain Health

Honeydew contains several components such as potassium, folate, as well as various antioxidants known to offer neurological benefits. Folate significantly reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and reverses cognitive decline. On the other hand, potassium increases blood flow to the brain to boost cognition and focus.

In addition, honeydew melons possess rich amounts of vitamin B6. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to nausea and depression.

Prevents and Treats Diabetes

Honeydew is a fruit with components that monitor the production of insulin in the body. When the production of insulin is insufficient in the body, it can result in diabetes, which is an adverse effect of high blood sugar levels.

Aside from stimulating the production of insulin, honeydew melons also have very low glucose content, thus lowering the risks of developing diabetes.

Aids in Weight Loss

The honeydew melon is able to regulate digestion and lower cholesterol levels as it is rich in fiber. When digestion is improved and your food is digested properly, it eases bowel movement. This lowers the chances of developing digestion-related problems like bloating, constipation, and nausea.

In addition to its rich fiber content, honeydew melons are also low in calories. This is very beneficial for people who are keen on losing weight. This fruit does the body so much good, especially in the area of weight management which in turn prevents serious health conditions like high blood pressure, heart ailments, or even cancer.

Boosts Immunity

Honeydew melons provide the body with Vitamin C which plays an essential role for a fortified immune system. The body struggles to combat the accumulation of irregular bacteria, the build-up of excess fat, and ailments when the immune system is not strong enough.

Luckily, according to some studies, honeydew melons are packed with substantial amounts of vitamin C needed to boost immunity.

Strengthens Bones and Teeth

Honeydew is a fruit with high calcium content which is very vital for maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth. Studies have shown that eating a lot of this fruit can strengthen the bones and teeth for many years.

Promotes Skin and Hair Health

This fruit’s vitamin C content regulates and increases the production of collagen in the body. Collagen is a type of protein that is essential for maintaining a healthy, clear, and young-looking skin. It helps to repair skin tissues and blood vessels as well as improve the skin’s appearance on a cellular level. If you desire a healthy and beautiful skin, then honeydew melons are your best bet.

Sufficient consumption of vitamin C does not only boost the immune system but also produces and maintains collagen, a protein present in hair and skin. In addition, honeydew contains some vitamin A which helps to moisturize the hair via increased production of sebum.

Keeps the Body Hydrated

The honeydew melon is known to have a high amount of water. This fruit is 90% water and also rich in potassium which keeps the body at healthy water levels. This is why honeydew melon is commonly juiced during summer and sunny days as it keeps the body hydrated. It does not only quench thirst, but it also hydrates the body on a cellular level.

Beneficial for Pregnant Women

The body’s demand for vitamin and mineral intake is usually very high during pregnancy. This is a period when the body should get a lot of nutrients because the immune system tends to be weaker than usual. Thankfully, honeydew melon is a fruit that can fill the body with various beneficial nutrients during pregnancy.

This fruit is rich in potassium which assures the body of a healthy heart condition. It also contains vitamin C which fortifies the immune system. If you are pregnant and desire to be strong enough to give birth to a healthy child, honeydew melon comes highly recommended for you.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Studies have shown that eating or drinking the extract of honeydew melon is good for those who suffer from high blood pressure. The high potassium content in this fruit prevents blood pressure from rising and inhibits other heart problems.

Honeydew is jam-packed with potassium and very little amount of sodium. Potassium helps to relax blood vessels and regulate blood pressure levels.

Improves Eye Health

Of all the phytonutrients, lutein and zeaxanthin are two of the most vital for the eyes. Interestingly, these phytonutrients are contained in honeydew melon and help to enhance eye health. They stimulate better vision and reduce the risks of eye-related problems such as cataracts, age-related blindness, and macular degeneration.

Side Effects of Honeydew Melon

Honeydew melon is rich in nutrients and can boost overall health. However, as with every food, overeating is bad. Excessive intake of this fruit could result in certain side effects. Let’s take a look at some of them:

• Honeydew has high fiber and water content, but consuming too much of it may lead to diarrhea. In fact, if taken in excess, the fruit is known to result in excessive gas and loose stool.
• Since the digestive system tends to be slower at night, it is not advisable to eat sugary or acidic foods like honeydew. This is because the fruit contains natural sugar which may affect sleep quality and cause weight gain.
• Excess of honeydew melons may not be healthy for people who are diabetic as it contains high blood sugar levels. You should consult a doctor before consuming the fruit on a daily basis.
• Exercising portion control is key when consuming honeydew melons. This fruit may be rich in nutrients but our body only needs a small percentage of the nutrients to maintain good health.
• It is important to eat fruits alone and not pair them with anything, not even water. Drinking water after having honeydew melons increases the risk of bacteria expanding across the gastrointestinal tract.

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Members of the invertebrate class, Bivalvia, are generally called “clams”. They are mollusks with bivalved shells (two shells), and there are over 15,000 of them in existence, with about 500 in fresh water, while others live in seas. More studies are showing how nutritious clams are.
Read more on BeFantastico website: Clams: Benefits and Side Effects

What Are Clams?

Members of the invertebrate class, Bivalvia, are generally called “clams”. They are mollusks with bivalved shells (two shells), and there are over 15,000 of them in existence, with about 500 in fresh water, while others live in seas. More studies are showing how nutritious clams are. Although they can be salty and quite chewy, they remain nutritious. Clams contain protein, carbohydrates, iron, potassium, selenium, vitamin B12, and they`re low in calories. In order not to ruin these nutritional contents, ensure you don`t cook clams in oil or butter. As you read, you will discover an ideal way to cook clams. Here`s how clams can benefit your health.

Health Benefits of Eating Clams

Prevents Neurodegenerative Disorders

Clams provide nutrition for the brain, hence preventing neurodegenerative disorders. Their vitamin B12 content, in particular, prevents Alzheimer’s disease and some other neurological diseases.

Regulates Blood Pressure

The potassium content of clams ensures vasodilation and the regulation of blood pressure levels. Regular consumption of clams will increase your potassium level and help you achieve healthy blood pressure levels. You just might need to consider eating this amazing seafood.

Promotes Immune Function

Zinc is essential in promoting immune function. It also enhances some biochemical processes such as phagocytosis, detoxification, and the production of white blood cells. Zinc is usually lost through body fluids such as sweat and semen. It is quite important to renew lost zinc by consuming clams often.

Prevents Anemia

Would you believe that clams contain more iron than beef? A three-ounce serving of clams enriches you with 24 mg iron, way more than your 8 mg daily need. Iron maintains hemoglobin production, hence ensures the circulation of oxygen around the body.

Improves Heart Health

Clams are rich in omega-3 fatty acids; you can get 140 mg of this nutrient from a 3-ounce serving of clams. Omega-3 fatty acids support blood vessel flexibility and reduce the risk of atherosclerotic plaques which attach themselves to the blood vessel walls where they may obstruct blood flow and eventually cause heart attacks and strokes.

Prevents Rheumatoid Arthritis

Selenium deficiency is one of the causes of rheumatoid arthritis, an auto-immune disorder which occurs as a result of low-grade chronic overstimulation of the immune system. This may cause it to misfire and attack cells of the sufferer`s body, thereby deviating from its function of detecting foreign pathogens. Clams are rich in selenium; hence they produce antioxidant enzymes which inhibit inflammatory damage which the immune system causes to joints.

Improves Thyroid Health

Clams, like many other species of seafood, are rich in iodine which is essential for the production of thyroid hormone. This is vital in the regulation of metabolic processes. Clams are also rich in copper, which like iodine, also aids the production of thyroid hormone.

Aids Collagen Synthesis

Collagen is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the joint, mucous membranes, skin, and some other cells. People who consume vitamin C regularly don`t have issues with collagen production. Clams are rich in vitamin C, hence they aid collagen synthesis.

Improves Male Fertility

Zinc and selenium are essential for male fertility. They promote sperm motility and testosterone synthesis. They also reduce the risk of producing deformed sperm.

Tips for Cleaning Clams

Now that you know some of the health benefits of eating clams, you might want to give it a try. However, it is important that you have some knowledge of cleaning clams before attempting to eat them. Let`s talk about how to clean clams.

• Use a stiff brush to scrub the external part of the clams thoroughly.
• Immerse clams for some hours in a salt water solution of 1/3 cup of salt to a gallon of water.
• Add about half a cup of cornmeal to eliminate dark matter and sand from the clams` stomachs.

How to Cook Clams

You know how to clean clams; what`s next? Cooking them, definitely! Let`s discuss how to cook clams. Using the steam method to cook clams is quite effective for the small and medium-sized ones. Let`s get talking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound clams
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon butter

Method

It will take about five minutes to cook cleaned clams with this method.

• Preheat a large saucepan to medium heat, melt the butter in it and stir the garlic in.
• Cook the garlic until it has a tan color. Be careful not to overcook or burn it. If you do, dispose of everything, and restart the process.
• However, if you neither overcook nor burn it, consider it fit for consumption.

Side Effects of Eating Clams

Selenium Overdose

People who consume clams in excess are at risk of overdosing on selenium. Excessive consumption of selenium may cause fatigue, stomach upset, irritability, and nerve damage. Any consumption which exceeds 40mg of selenium daily is an overdose. You might want to consume clams in moderation.

Vitamin B12 Overdose

Vitamin B12 supports the production of amino acids and hemoglobin, however, an excessive intake of it may put you at risk of diarrhea, rashes, itching, or peripheral vascular thrombosis — a blood vessel disease. Moderation is key in consuming clams.

Iron Overdose

Excessive consumption of iron may cause diabetes, liver damage, stomach issue, Alzheimer`s disease, heart disease, and certain cancers. You might need to consume clams in moderation, especially if you already derive some amount of iron from other sources.

26 Facts about Clams

• Freshwater clams can survive in an aquarium.
• The three main types of clams are soft-shelled, hard clams, and surf clams.
• There are over 15,000 species of clams, however, they`re not all edible.
• There are over 150 edible species of clams.
• Clams feed on plankton.
• Clams live upside down in the sand.
• The giant clam can weigh over 400lb and live for over 100 years.
• Clams are one of the most sustainable seafood resources in the U.S.
• It takes about three years for a clam to mature to market size.
• A clam can live for up to 35 years.
• Clams don`t have brains, eyes, noses, or ears.
• Clams love mudflats, coral reefs, and deep oceans.
• Clam flats are areas that are populated with clams.
• Clams feed less during the winter because they need less energy.
• Clams love to be in groups, close to one another.
• Native Americans used clam shells to make spoons, scrapers, knives, and hoes.
• No two giant clams have the same colors and patterns.
• Some clams can survive for years without being in the water.
• You can tell the age of a clam from the growth lines on its shell.
• The clam farming industry has an income of over $50 million annually.
• Early American colonists used salted clams for bait.
• If you are digging for clams yourself, ensure you avoid Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) — a marine biotoxin.
• Red tide increases the risk of deadly toxin dwelling in water.
• You might need to check with your local marine fishery government agency to be sure that it is safe to clam in the water you intend.
• You can eat small clams raw after cleaning them.
• The larger the clams, the tougher the meat.

Now That You Know…

You have seen the health benefits, side effects, and loads of other details about clams. With moderate consumption, you may have no issues eating clams. If you encounter an allergy or strange reaction of whatever form, do speak with your doctor.

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Parsley essential oil is what you get from the leaves, roots, and the seed of the parsley plant, also known as Petroselinum crispum, after some steam distillation. Its use was first recorded in the Mediterranean region, however, its cultivation is now worldwide.
Read more on BeFantastico website: 25 Benefits of Parsley Essential Oil

What is Parsley Essential Oil?

Parsley essential oil is what you get from the leaves, roots, and the seed of the parsley plant, also known as Petroselinum crispum, after some steam distillation. Its use was first recorded in the Mediterranean region, however, its cultivation is now worldwide. Parsley essential oil has loads of benefits. Let’s see.

25 Benefits of Parsley Essential Oil

Heightens Sex Drive

Parsley essential oil’s ability to improve blood flow makes it beneficial in enhancing sex drive. It is a safe natural alternative when compared to male enhancement products.

Possesses Astringent Properties

Parsley essential oil induces contractions in the skin, gum, intestines, and some other parts of the body. It gives structural toughness to the skin, makes hair strands attach firmly to their roots, holds the teeth firmly to the gums, and performs loads of other functions. This oil also treats acne and hemorrhoids.

Purifies Blood

The importance of toxin-free blood cannot be overemphasized. Contaminated blood may affect systems and organs in the body and eventually lead to their shut down in extreme cases. Parsley essential oil is a pro-circulatory agent which purifies blood and assists the liver by eliminating toxic substances and increasing the rate at which oxygen reaches required internal areas of the body.

Regulates Menstruation

Some females experience irregular menstrual cycles due to a number of factors; some of them are hormonal imbalance, weight gain, and nutritional deficiency. Parsley essential oil helps regulate menstruation by enhancing contractions in the muscles of the uterus and optimizing hormone levels. What`s more? It promotes the secretion of estrogen and treats abdominal cramps.

Manages Gout and Inflammation

Gout develops when the kidneys are unable to eliminate uric acid that builds up around the joint. Parsley essential oil reduces inflammation in the joints and decreases the concentration of uric acid in the body. It also serves as a diuretic which enhances the removal of toxins and other fluids from the body.

Improves Bowel Movements

Parsley essential oil clears the bowels and relieves constipation. Because it’s a natural laxative, it loosens stool and increases the peristaltic movement of stool along the colon; it also stimulates contraction of the intestines’ muscles to enhance peristaltic waves in the intestinal lining, hence pushes waste matter out of the body.

Hinders Bacterial Growth

Parsley essential oil contains toxic ingredients that hinder the replication of bacteria. It also treats bacterial infections.

Eliminates Uneven Skin Discoloration

Overproduction of melanin can cause discoloration on the top layer of the skin. This overproduction may be as a result of constant exposure to the harmful rays of the sun. The antioxidant content of parsley essential oil reduces the effect of oxidative stress on the skin, eliminate the blemishes, and evens out skin pigmentation and complexion.

Enhances Hair Growth

Parsley essential oil boosts blood circulation in the scalp and enhances hair growth as a result. You may mix it with a carrier oil, and apply it to eliminate dandruff, maintain hair color, and prevent hair loss.

Treats Respiratory Disorders

Parsley essential oil functions as an expectorant, eliminating mucus from the airways and bronchi. It treats coughs, colds, and other respiratory disorders.

Prevents Microbial Infections

Infections and diseases thrive where microbes are present. Parsley essential oil possesses antimicrobial properties. You can be sure of extended protection from infections with parsley essential oil.

Relieves Arthritis Pain

Obstructed blood circulation and accumulation of uric acids in the muscles and joints are two major causes of arthritis. Parsley essential oil is both detoxifying and depurative, making it enhance the removal of toxins and purifying the blood. What’s more? It increases urination, hence aids the removal of body waste. It also stimulates blood circulation and hinders the accumulation of uric acid. All of these make it effective at relieving the pain of arthritis.

Prevents Sepsis

Microbial infections may cause wounds and internal organs to be septic. Pains, cramps, convulsions, and hydrophobia are common with sepsis. Parsley essential oil inhibits the growth of microbes, hence cures sepsis.

Detoxifies the Body

Parsley essential oil enhances the removal of toxins and other wastes from the body through urine. This keeps you safe from health conditions such as rheumatism, skin diseases, arthritis, and some others.

Aids Digestion

Parsley essential oil has a spicy and herbaceous smell that sparks up appetite and aids digestion by increasing the secretion of digestive juices in the stomach.

Increases Urination Levels

Parsley essential oil increases the frequency of urination and the quantity of urine. Increased urination levels eliminate unwanted substances such as fluids, salts, uric acid, fats, pollutants, and microbes from the body. This shields the body from diseases such as renal calculi and urinary infections. What`s more? This removal of water and fats promotes weight loss and gives relief to people suffering from swelling and water-logging.

It`s a Depurative Agent

Depurative agents purify the blood. Parsley essential oil is a depurative agent. It eliminates unwanted substances from the blood and cleanses it. It also enables oxygen to reach the tissues, and it stimulates blood circulation.

It`s an Emmenagogue

This oil`s emmenagogue property makes it aid obstructed or delayed menstruation by stimulating the secretion of estrogen and some other hormones. It also gives relief from health conditions such as nausea, abdominal cramps, fatigue, and some other conditions. What`s more? It keeps the reproductive organs of women healthy and enhances puberty signs.

Relieves Flatulence

Excess gas, air ingestion, acid digestions, food intolerance, and a number of other factors may cause flatulence. It can be really embarrassing when it occurs excessively, especially with its accompanying odor. Parsley essential oil is a reliable relief for flatulence, as it enhances enzyme secretion, aids digestion, and eliminates excess gas.

Reduces Fever

Parsley essential oil is an effective febrifuge. This means that it reduces fever caused by an increase in the level of toxins present in the blood. In addition, its antimicrobial properties treat microbial or virus-caused fever such as yellow fever, typhoid, influenza, or malaria.

Relieves Constipation

Parsley essential oil gets rid of constipation as a result of its laxative properties. It heightens the discharge of gastric juices and enhances the movement of excreta by stimulating peristaltic motion in the intestines.

Stimulates Nerves

Parsley essential oil stimulates excretion, digestion, immune mechanism, and the circulation of blood and lymph. It keeps you active, strong, and energetic at all times.

Protects Stomach

Parsley essential oil soothes your stomach and ensures the healthy flow of gastric juices into it. It reduces inflammation, prevents infections, and cures ulcers.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Extreme cases of high blood pressure lead to stroke, heart attack, damage of the artery walls, and some other complications. Parsley essential oil lowers blood pressure without side effects.

Improves Uterine Health

Parsley essential oil enhances the secretion of progesterone and estrogen. This helps maintain uterine health by regulating menses and preventing uterus problems such as dryness and uterine ulcers.

Side Effects of Parsley Essential Oil

It Contains Oleoresin

The oleoresin content of parsley essential oil may cause sudden low blood pressure, deafness, slow pulse, giddiness, among other conditions. Note that these symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Risk of Abortion

Parsley essential oil may cause an abortion if pregnant women take it in large amounts. It may also cause birth defects when combined with certain medications.

Bleeding Disorders

Parsley essential oil may increase the risk of bleeding in people who already have bleeding disorders. It may also delay blood clotting.

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