A Guide to the Health Benefits of Myrrh Essential Oil

Myrrh essential oil is extracted from resin. Traditionally, in ancient Egypt, the resin was commonly used in incense and perfumes, while the oil derived from it was used for healing wounds. The main components of myrrh essential oil include acetic acid, alpha-pinene, limonene, cadinene, cuminaldehyde, eugenol, heerabolene, formic acid, sesquiterpenes, and cresol.

The health benefits of the essential oil can be attributed to its astringent, antimicrobial, expectorant, antifungal, anticatarrhal, stimulant, carminative, stomachic, diaphoretic, vulnerary, antiseptic, immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties.

The earthy flavor of myrrh essential oil blends well with spicy, citrus, and floral essential oils, such as lavender, frankincense, and lemon.

Health Benefits of Myrrh Essential Oil

In addition to being a powerful oil in the field of aromatherapy, myrrh essential oil possesses a range of medicinal uses as well. Let’s take a closer look at the most common health benefits that the essential oil offers.

Boosts Immunity

Myrrh essential oil fortifies and activates the immune system and keeps infections at bay.

Stimulates Blood Circulation

This powerful essential oil stimulates blood circulation and ensures a proper supply of oxygen to the tissues. This is good for attaining a proper metabolic rate as well as for boosting the immune system. Increasing the blood flow to all the parts of the body helps in staying healthy.

myrrh essential oil

Prevents Microbial Growth

Myrrh essential oil does not allow microbes to grow or infect your system. It can be used to prevent many problems occurring due to microbial infections such as fever, food poisoning, cough and cold, mumps, measles, pox, and infection of wounds. It has no adverse side effects, unlike other antibiotics, such as weakening of liver or digestive malfunction.

Protects Against Infections

If you have applied a small amount of myrrh essential oil on cuts and wounds, you don’t need to worry about them becoming infected. This oil will prevent them from becoming septic since it is an antiseptic substance. It can protect you from tetanus as well to some extent.

Contains Astringent Properties

Myrrh essential oil is an astringent, which means that it strengthens the gums and muscles, intestines, and other internal organs, and smoothens the skin. It also strengthens the grip of hair roots, thereby preventing hair loss. One more serious aspect of this astringent property is that it stops hemorrhaging in wounds. When this astringency makes the blood vessels contract and checks the flow of blood, it can stop you from losing too much blood when wounded.

Aids Digestion

This essential oil helps relieve a person of those gases which often lead to embarrassing situations in public.

Relieves Cough

Myrrh essential oil is effective for treating cold and cough. It combats the viral infections that can result in them, as well as relieves congestion, and decreases the amount of phlegm in the lungs and respiratory tracts.

myrrh essential oil

Fights Fungal Infections

Myrrh essential oil functions as a fungicide and can be used both internally and externally to prevent fungal infections.

Possesses Anti-catarrhal Properties

This property of myrrh essential oil can provide relief for excess mucus and phlegm and issues associated with mucus like congestion, cough, difficulty in breathing, and heaviness in the chest.

Stimulates the Nervous System

Myrrh essential oil stimulates thoughts, blood circulation, digestion, nervous activity, and excretion. It stimulates the pumping action of the heart, secretion of digestive juices and bile into the stomach, and keeps you alert and active by stimulating the brain and the nervous system.

Increases Perspiration

Myrrh essential oil increases perspiration and eliminates excess salt and excess water as well as toxins from your body. Sweating also cleans the pores of the skin and helps harmful gases such as nitrogen escape.

Hastens Healing

This property of myrrh essential oil protects wounds from infections and heals them quickly.

Supports Oral Health

Owing to its antimicrobial properties, myrrh essential oil has traditionally been used to treat oral infections and inflammation. In fact, the oil is an ingredient in some natural mouthwashes and toothpaste. Myrrh oil is also used by people with Behcet’s disease to treat painful mouth sores. The oil may also help treat gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums around the teeth due to an accumulation of plaque.

However, it is important to note that oral care products containing myrrh essential oil should never be swallowed as high doses of the oil can be toxic.

myrrh essential oil

Combats Oxidative Damage

Myrrh essential oil may be a powerful antioxidant, a compound that combats oxidative damage. Free radicals are responsible for oxidative damage and may trigger premature aging and some diseases.

Additionally, myrrh essential oil can help protect the liver against lead-induced oxidative damage.

Prevents Premature Aging

As a tonic, myrrh essential oil strengthens and protects the organs of the body from premature aging and infection.

Has Anti-inflammatory Properties

Myrrh essential oil blocks the production of inflammatory chemicals that can lead to swelling and pain such as headaches, joint pain, and back pain. The oil prevents inflammation in tissues in case of fever or viral infections. It also treats indigestion caused by the consumption of spicy food.

Relieves Spasms

It provides relief from uncomfortable contractions or spasms and therefore relieves muscle pain, cramps, and aches.

myrrh essential oil

Other Potential Benefits of Myrrh Essential Oil

This essential oil is highly beneficial in aromatherapy as a sedative, antidepressant, and improves emotional health.

It also regulates menstruation and relieves symptoms like hormonal imbalances and mood swings.

It supports uterine health, fades away scars and spots, pyorrhea, diarrhea, as well as treat skin diseases such as ringworm, eczema, and itches.

Myrrh essential oil may help kill or slow the growth of cancer cells from the liver, prostate, breast, and skin.

The compounds found in the essential oil may help treat stomach ulcers and intestinal spasms caused by irritable bowel syndrome.

How to Use Myrrh Essential Oil

You can put myrrh essential oil to use in three simple ways outlined below.

  • Inhale the steam by incorporating a few drops of myrrh oil into hot water.
  • After mixing with carrier oils, apply it topically.
  • Add a few drops to the cold compress and apply on inflamed areas.

Side Effects of Myrrh Essential Oil

Despite the impressive range of health benefits of myrrh essential oil, it can have toxic effects if used in excess.

  • Myrrh essential oil is very concentrated, so it should not be diffused close to young children.
  • If used in excess, myrrh essential oil may affect a person’s heart rate. People with heart conditions should use the essential oil with caution.
  • People taking diabetes medication should keep in mind that myrrh essential oil may lower blood sugar. In fact, it may interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery.
  • Pregnant women should steer clear of the oil as it stimulates the uterus and may trigger miscarriage too.
  • People who are on blood thinners should avoid the use of myrrh essential oil as the oil may decrease their effectiveness.

Bottom Line

Evidently, myrrh essential oil contains several health benefits which include its ability to kill parasites, harmful bacteria, and other microbes. The essential oil may also heal wounds, support oral health, increase perspiration, aids digestion, and relieve pain and inflammation.

However, due to its side effects, you should check with a medical practitioner before using myrrh essential oil.

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5 Ways To Get Rid Of Belly Fat

What is Belly Fat?

Belly fat is that type of fat you should not have in excess. If you are struggling with a stomach bulge, you are not alone. A lot of people are too, and in fact people who are thinner or fatter than you are. Belly fat is not particular to people who have excess weight. The truth is everyone has some belly fat regardless of their size.

The thing about belly fat is where it‘s located in your body. There are different types of fat in different parts of your body. Subcutaneous fat is a type of fat that sits under your skin. Everyone has subcutaneous fat but how much a person would develop depends on factors like exercise and diet.

Visceral fat also known as belly fat is the fat surrounding your internal organs like your kidneys, lungs and stomach. Your organs actually need visceral fat since they provide cushioning; but they need it in small amount.

Why is Excess Belly Fat Dangerous?

There are parts of your body where fat is naturally stored. When you gain excess weight, the extra fat is stored in places other than the usual deposit areas. These include places like your heart and your organs in and around your abdomen. Besides staying in your abdomen, belly fat also produces some other substances which are harmful to your health.

If you have excess belly fat, you may be at a greater risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, breathing problems and some types of cancer including colon cancer and breast cancer. People who have excess belly fat have also been found to be at risk of premature death. This is regardless of their body weight.

Other studies show that a woman who has a healthy body weight but measures a large waistline is more likely to die from cardiovascular disease. You may be wondering where belly fat comes from. Do thin people not also have belly fat? Yes they do and in fact they can have it in excess. How much belly fat a person has is determined by so many factors.

What are the Causes of Belly Fat?

Beer

To begin with, let’s find out if you have excess belly fat. Get a measuring tape and wrap it around your waist at your navel while standing. If your waist size is more than 40 inches as a man, and more than 35 inches as a woman, then that’s a sign you may have excess belly fat.

A good way to know for sure is to get a CT scan or MRI done. Either of the tests would reveal how much visceral fat you have. If you have excess belly fat, there are several things that may be responsible. Let’s take a look at some of them:

Gene

The genes a person inherits play a role in how much belly fat they would have. This explains why a thin person can have excess belly fat. Genes also affect a person’s body type and where fat is stored in their body. Some persons have the tendency to carry excess weight around their waist. Persons like this are said to have “apple shape”. Others are more likely to store fat in their thighs and hips and they are said to have a “pear shape”.

Age

Older people are more likely to have excess belly fat than young people. This is particularly true for women once they reach menopause. After menopause, the fat in a woman’s body is more likely to move to the abdomen. As a woman gets older, there is a decrease in the levels of her estrogen. This also affects the distribution of fat in her body. Even if a woman is not gaining weight, she’s more likely to gain belly fat.

Aging in both men and women also leads to a decrease in body mass. The decrease in body mass in turn affects the way the body uses up calories from food. It slows down the rate at which the body burns up calories. This can make it more difficult to keep a healthy weight.

Drinking too much Alcohol

Regardless of the type of alcohol you take, drinking too much alcohol puts you at a greater risk of excess belly fat. If you must drink alcohol, drink only a little, but it is best not to drink at all. Besides increasing your risk of excess belly fat, alcohol consumption is a risk factor of several chronic diseases like cancer, kidney disease, liver disease and heart disease.

Overeating

If you eat more food than you need, you are more likely to have too much belly fat. Overeating leads to an imbalance between your caloric intake and the energy you burn.

Physical Inactivity

Belly fat feeds on inactivity. The less physically active you are, the more likely you would develop excess body fat, even if you watch what you eat.

How do you get Rid of Excess Belly Fat?

Man sleeping.

If you have been told there’s a single thing you need to do to lose the bulge in your tummy, that isn’t really true. There’s no trick or formula to losing excess belly fat. With weight loss, time is an important factor. Since there are several factors that can cause weight gain, there are several things you might also need to do to lose weight.

Supplements, herbal products and special diets may appear to bring a quick solution, but the truth is the only way to be successful with ridding your body of excess belly fat and maintaining your weight is to commit to a healthy lifestyle for as long as you live. This isn’t a one-off thing; it is rather a life-long commitment. These are some of the things you should start doing:

Make Exercise a Part of your Daily Routine

Physical inactivity is a big culprit when it comes to excess belly fat. Aim at exercising for at least 30 minutes every day. Strength training exercises and aerobic exercises are particularly helpful with weight loss. As your body weight reduces, your belly fat also shrinks.

Eat Moderately

Even if you follow a healthy diet like the Mediterranean diet which is believed to help with achieving and keeping a flat belly, you still need to eat in moderation. Eating a lot of food, even if healthy, would lead to excess weight gain. If you are struggling with overeating, there are a lot ways you can curb your appetite. One way is to eat more fiber-rich foods which would help you stay full for longer periods. Another way is to eat from smaller plates. This will help to control your food portions.

Eliminate Sugary Drinks and Foods from your Diet

Excess sugar is stored as fat in your body. Water is a healthier option to sugary drinks and beverages. Eating too much of sugary foods would make it more difficult for you to lose weight. Junk foods are well known to be high in sugar. Cutting them from your diet would help you lose weight and maintain a healthy weight.

Eat Healthy Foods

The types of foods that you eat go a long way to determine how much belly fat you would have. If you eat a lot of refined grains like pasta, white rice and white bread, you are more likely to gain excess belly fat. Instead, you should eat healthier foods like whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and choose healthy fats over saturated fats.

Manage Stress

Too much stress can lead to weight gain and especially excess belly fat. While stress may not be totally avoidable, you can manage them the right way. To deal effectively with stress, the first thing you should probably do is to find out your stressor. Work-related stress is a type of stress experienced by a lot of people.

If you are stressed from work, there are ways you can deal with it. Getting enough sleep every night is a healthy coping mechanism for dealing with stress. The quality of your sleep greatly impacts your health. Yoga and meditation can also be an effective stress management technique.

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Horseradish Root: Health Benefits and Side Effects

Horseradish root is a popular condiment that originates from south-eastern Europe. It tastes hot but has an aftertaste that does not linger. Horseradish root is rich in nutrient and mineral content, which includes vitamin C, dietary fiber, folate, zinc, potassium, magnesium, manganese, calcium, as well as organic chemical composition of enzymes and oils, like sinigrin.

These components function together to provide the amazing health benefits of horseradish root. For instance, its component allyl isothiocyanate is known to inhibit various forms of cancer. Other compounds in horseradish like glucosinolate also contain chemopreventive properties.

The root contains a host of other antioxidants that treat respiratory disorders such as sinusitis and mucus. They also help fight off bacterial infections like that of the urinary tract.

Health Benefits of Horseradish Root

Like it was mentioned above, there are several amazing ways horseradish root can do wonders for your health. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Boosts Digestion

Some enzymes in the root are responsible for stimulating digestion and easing bowel movements. Horseradish root is also considered a cholagogue as it stimulates the production of bile in the gallbladder – and so, aids digestion. The fiber in the horseradish root can also enhance digestion. However, it is best to consult your doctor before using the root for digestive issues.

Combats Cancer

The glucosinolates present in horseradish help to activate the cancer-fighting enzymes, and this can be beneficial to people suffering from cancer. In fact, some preliminary studies suggest that horseradish can induce cell death, especially in colon cancer. This further confirms the possibility of glucosinolates being effective as a cancer cure.

Possesses Antimicrobial Properties

The allyl isothiocyanate in the root has been attributed with antimicrobial properties. According to some studies, this compound can provide protection against a range of microbes and resistance against bacterial growth. In addition, the antimicrobial properties of horseradish help in the treatment of ear infections.

Has Antioxidant Properties

Horseradish root contains several phytocompounds, types of antioxidants that are very beneficial to health. Some other antioxidants in horseradish are antimutagenic, which means that they can safeguard the body against mutagens that may inflict serious harm. Some other studies state that horseradish can lower DNA damage caused by oxidative stress.

Helps Fight Inflammation

Horseradish can help fight inflammation by reducing the release of reactive oxygen species. The root helps to prevent inflammation – whether in the case of injury or even as relief from arthritis pains. However, keep in mind that more research is needed on this.

Treats Urinary Tract Infections

In most cases, the antibiotic properties of horseradish can help treat urinary tract infections better than conventional treatments. One other reason for horseradish’s function in this aspect is sinigrin, the compound found in the root. Sinigrin is a potent diuretic and prevents the retention of water, and this helps treat urinary tract infections.

Alleviates Respiratory Conditions

The antibiotic properties of the root can play a primary role in treating respiratory conditions. In fact, in traditional medicine horseradish root is used for treating sinusitis, bronchitis, cough, and common cold.

Supports Hair Growth

Although not much research has been conducted in this area, there are reports that the antioxidants in horseradish help regenerate hair and prevent hair loss. They do this by boosting circulation to the scalp. To treat scalp issues, simply make a poultice from horseradish and apply to the scalp. Leave it on for about 20 minutes and then wash off.

Good for the Skin

Skin conditions like melasma (brown patches on the face) can be treated with horseradish root. The root contains bleaching properties which can help treat skin discoloration – which is the main symptom of melasma. Simply cut the horseradish root into slices and rub directly on the skin. Make sure the juice of the root is applied directly to the affected areas. After allowing it to dry, rinse with warm water and pat dry. You can carry out this process weekly until these patches fade out.

Alternatively, mix two tablespoons of horseradish powder with one cup of sour cream. Apply the mixture to the face and leave it on for about 30 minutes. Wash your face with warm water. You can repeat this weekly until you notice positive results.

Reduces Age Spots

The skin-lightening properties of horseradish have a huge role to play in this regard. You can make horseradish paste and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for about 20 minutes and then wash it off with lukewarm water. You can follow this remedy a few times a week.

Alternately, you can grate a four-inch piece of horseradish and mix it with a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar. Allow the mixture to sit for about two weeks, after which you strain it. Using a cotton ball, apply it to the affected areas. Follow this remedy thrice a day for about a month.

Dosage

Consuming too much of horseradish may be a problem. However, there is insufficient evidence yet with regards to the dosing. So, please consult your doctor before incorporating the herb in your diet.

Side Effects of Horseradish

Horseradish is generally considered safe for topical and internal consumption but not everything is amazing about this condiment. There are several precautions to take before using this herb.

  • Horseradish has mustard oil that can be toxic. And so, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are advised to steer clear of horseradish root in its various forms.
  • Horseradish can cause digestive tract issues in children below 4 years of age.
  • Horseradish might increase the flow of urine, and this can be detrimental for people with kidney disorders.
  • Hypothyroidism is a condition that happens due to an underactive thyroid gland. Horseradish might aggravate this condition.
  • While horseradish can help treat certain digestive issues, there are reports that it can also worsen inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal ulcers, or other digestive conditions. You should consult your doctor before using it for this purpose.
  • Horseradish has high contents of sodium and the calories which come from sugar. While it is commonly consumed in small amounts, it is still important to keep in mind that sodium can be detrimental to people with obesity.
  • In addition, horseradish has a mild diuretic quality, which can worsen problems for people with kidney disorders, inflammatory bowel disease or peptic ulcer.

How to Eat Horseradish

You can simply use grated horseradish in a sandwich or with scrambled eggs and salsa. You can also add a teaspoon to your salad dressing. Horseradish leaves are also edible, but remember that they have a sharp, bitter and peppery taste. You can either eat them raw or cooked.

How to Buy and Store Horseradish

  • If you are considering using fresh horseradish root, make sure they are still firm and have no mold or soft spots.
  • It is best to stay away from older roots that appear shriveled and dry or are starting to sprout.
  • Always go for bottled prepared horseradish in the refrigerator.
  • You can store the unwashed horseradish root in a plastic bag in your refrigerator.
  • Although it is not recommended to freeze the whole pieces, grated horseradish can be frozen for as long as 6 months.

Like with all herbs, it is advisable to check with your doctor before using horseradish to treat any health condition.

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Peach Juice: Benefits and Side Effects

Is Peach Juice Healthy?

Peach juice is bursting with minerals and vitamins; it’s low in calories and has loads of health benefits. The peach fruit is medicinal, and it enriches the body in many ways. Its juice is made from its orange fleshy part. Let’s discuss its health benefits.

11 Health Benefits of Peach Juice

Prevents Cancer

Peach juice contains lutein, lycopene, beta-carotene, and vitamins C and E in large amounts. These nutrients contain compounds that suppress tumor, making peach juice anticarcinogenic, hence inhibiting cancer. Its beta-carotene and vitamin E contents particularly enhance the immune system to fight cancer.

Enhances Weight Loss

Benefits of Whiskey

Peach juice contains only 60 calories, making it a reliable weight loss diet. In addition to exercise and a healthy diet, you may drink peach juice to help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Improves Cardiovascular Health

Peach juice contains vitamin C, potassium, and iron, all of which are vital for protecting the heart. Iron is essential for proper blood circulation to aid the oxygenation process. Potassium reduces strain on blood vessels, while vitamin C shields arteries and tissues from damage by making the healing process faster. All of these reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.

Prevents Aging

Regular consumption of peach juice beautifies the skin as a result of its vitamin C content which eliminates free radicals, hence reduces wrinkles.

Boosts Immunity

Peach juice helps boost immunity. It contains antioxidants and loads of vitamins such as vitamins A, B, and C which build the body’s defense system.

Improves Kidney Health

People who drink peach juice daily have lower chances of suffering from kidney diseases. Peach juice flushes accumulated toxins and clears the urinary tract, hence dissolves kidney stones. This juice has diuretic and laxative properties that enable the kidneys to function better.

Improves Vision

Peach juice contains beta-carotene in high amounts, thereby reducing the oxidative stress of the retina, and slows down the development of cataracts in the process. It also prevents macular degeneration to improve vision.

Detoxifies Body Waste

Peach juice has laxative and diuretic properties, and as a result, expels toxins and relieves strain on the kidney and liver.

Treats Inflammatory Conditions

Peach juice combats inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, migraines, and gout. It contains antioxidants and minerals that regulate the release of histamine to inhibit allergic reactions. However, consuming the same peach juice excessively may trigger allergic reactions in the throat and tongue.

Aids Digestion

Peach juice contains alkaline which treats gastritis, flatulence, nausea, constipation, and other digestive issues. Regular consumption of peach juice aids digestion.

Improves Sleep

Peach Juice: Benefits and Side Effects

A drink of peach juice before bedtime leaves you drowsy and helps you have a sound sleep. Peach juice has sedative qualities due to its mineral contents which balance sleep hormones. Having sleep issues? Ensure you drink peach juice nightly.

10 Side Effects of Peach Juice

The side effects of peach juice are mainly as a result of excessive intake. Peach juice, like every other nutritious drink, should be consumed in moderation. Let’s discuss the side effects of peach juice.

Excess Antioxidants

Peach juice contains antioxidants like vitamin A, vitamin C, flavonoids, and phytonutrients which fight free radicals and prevent oxidative damage, however, people who drink a lot of peach juice stand the risk of consuming excess antioxidants, and this may lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even cancer.

There are cases where people don’t drink peach juice excessively but are still at risk of these conditions — perhaps because they obtain a good amount of antioxidants from other sources.

Vitamin A Overdose

Vitamin A keeps the eyes healthy and combats many eye defects. However, an overdose of vitamin A may lead to complications such as bone pain, blurry vision, bleeding in lungs, decreased thyroid, cracked fingernails, and some other health conditions.

An overdose of vitamin A may be as a result of excess consumption of peach juice.

Pregnancy Issues

Peach juice contains folic acid which is essential for the proper development of the fetus, however, when pregnant women consume the juice in excess, they experience complications such as nausea, skin rashes, cramps, seizures, and diarrhea as a result of excess folic acid in their system.

Potassium Overdose

Regular consumption of peach juice is beneficial to people who are hypertensive because it contains potassium and some other essential minerals. However, excess potassium as a result of high peach juice consumption may cause hypotension — low blood pressure — with symptoms like dizziness, blurry vision, and fatigue.

Excess Hydration

Peach juice contains loads of nutrients that make it beneficial for skin health. Its vitamins C and E contents, for instance, fight free radicals, and in the long run, prevent aging. Its water content keeps the skin moisturized and hydrated, however, it could be dangerous to the skin and entire health when there is excess consumption.

Excess Fiber

When you drink too much of peach juice, its fiber content may hinder your intestines from properly absorbing nutrients, hence leading to complications such as intestinal blockage, intestinal gas, and constipation.

Phosphorus Overdose

The phosphorus content in peach juice is highly beneficial, however, when you take it in excess, you may experience muscle pain, diarrhea, increased thirst, stomach pain, and some other conditions.

Excess Iron

Peach juice’s iron content is quite beneficial, but only when consumption is in moderation. Excess iron consumption leads to liver disease, heart attack, heart failure, fatigue, and some other health issues.

Excess Magnesium

Regular consumption of peach juice provides relief from anxiety and stress. It also enables the nervous system to function better. This is as a result of its magnesium content. However, an excessive intake of magnesium may cause muscle weakness, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, respiratory disorders, diarrhea, and some other conditions. Moderation is key in consuming peach juice.

Risk of Weight Gain

Inasmuch as peach juice contains only a few calories, excessive intake may make the calories add up and cause weight gain. This risk is more prevalent in cases where there is calorie intake from other sources.

Quick Peach Facts

  • There are over 600 varieties of peaches globally.
  • Studies show that peaches were mentioned in Chinese writings as far back as the 10th century BC.
  • Peaches are referred to as “fruit of calmness”, for their ability to reduce anxiety.
  • Some climes consider peaches as the symbol of protection, longevity, and good luck.
  • Brides in some parts of China use peach flowers to decorate their hair, and they believe that it symbolizes immortality and unity.
  • Columbus brought peaches to America on his second and third voyages.
  • The aromas of peaches have analgesic effects.
  • Ancient Romans called peaches “persian apples” because they believed that peaches originated from Persia.
  • Peach trees thrive in temperate climates.
  • Nitrogen-rich fertilizers and constant water supply enhance the growth of peach plants.
  • Peach trees grow as tall as 33 feet in height, depending on their variety.
  • Peach trees grow flowers before leaves. The flowers have both female and male reproductive organs.
  • There are two groups of peaches in which all varieties fall in: clingstone and freestone peaches.
  • Peaches are used to make creams, lotions, shampoos, and perfumes.
  • Peaches ripe faster when you place them in a brown paper bag for two to three days.

Now That You Know…

Peach juice is highly beneficial, and its side effects are mainly as a result of excessive intake. To enjoy the benefits of peach juice and remain healthy, ensure you consume it in moderation.

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Muira Puama: All You Need to Know About this Incredible Herb

Muira Puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides), also known as Sexuelle marapuama, Potency wood, Ptychopetalum uncinatum, and Ptychopetali lignum, is one of the most active botanicals, with a long history of traditional use as an energy tonic, immune booster, and treatment for impotence. It is often referred to as the "Viagra of the Amazon" and has long been considered an effective natural therapeutic approach for loss of libido in both men and women.

As a plant with a long history of remedying sex-related health problems, the root and bark of Muira Puama are the most commonly-used parts. Traditionally, it has been used to boost libido, reduce stress, stimulate appetite and some studies suggest that the plant may even stimulate the brain as well. In addition, Muira Puama is used to get rid of an upset stomach, painful joints, and an irregular menstrual cycle. The plant is also able to cure paralysis caused by poliomyelitis.

Muira Puama is a popular herbal medicine in Brazil, South America, and around the world as it used as a neuromuscular tonic and remedy for paralysis, asthenia, ataxia, severe rheumatism, sexual impotence, grippe, and disorders that affect the central nervous system.

The plant is also considered helpful for boosting physical performance and in the treatment of dysentery and impotence.

Health Benefits of Muira Puama

Muira Puama contains an impressive range of health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the top benefits this plant offer.

Increases Libido and Treats Impotence

Poor sexual function and low sex drive is a topic that makes most people uncomfortable. There is a general belief that men, particularly, should be virile and due to this, many people have an expectation that virility should last forever. What can then be done if your libido nose-dives? Luckily, there are several medicinal herbs that encourage a healthy sex drive in men and women; Muira Puama is one of them.

According to several studies on the impact of Muira Puama on impotence and low libido in both sexes, there are indications that it is effective in improving libido and treating erectile dysfunction. People who experience a lack of sexual desire and the inability to get or maintain an erection can experience improved libido and sexual performance with the help of the extract of Muira Puama.

Similar to Viagra, the extract has a profound effect on erectile dysfunction. However, the plant is not just for men. Studies show that Muira Puama provides a significant improvement in all areas of libido and sexual performance in and pre- and postmenopausal women too.

Traditionally the bark and root of Muira Puama have been used by indigenous tribes in Brazil for the treatment of influenza, rheumatism, neuromuscular problems, stomach upset, and low sex drive. However, this herb is best known for its aphrodisiac qualities. This is why it is commonly referred to by other names like “erection root” and “potency wood”. Over the years, the herb has proven to be a potent sexual enhancer for both sexes.

Alleviates Stress, Exhaustion, and Trauma

Apart from its positive effect on impotence, there are other health benefits associated with Muira Puama. In recent studies, it was reported that Muira Puama extracts contain adaptogenic, anti-fatigue, anti-stress properties and have a significant effect on the central nervous system. When used as a tonic for the nervous system, the herb may also help in the treatment of mild fatigue, stress, and trauma.

Busy working mothers who need to balance work with home are often under a lot of stress. The effects of stress can lead to a range of health problems. In fact, several studies indicate that severe, unmanaged stress can have negative effects on the immune system as well as increase the levels of blood sugar and insulin. Fortunately, Muira Puama may be helpful for alleviating anxiety and significantly lower mental and emotional stress.

Aids in Weight Reduction

Other studies show that Muira Puama may play a role in decreasing the percentage of body fat, increasing lean muscle mass, and reducing cholesterol in the body with no toxic side effects even after long-term use.

Boosts Physical Performance

Historically, many people of all ages use herbs to enhance physical performance, and Muira Puama is not an exception. For instance, in Brazil, the herb is considered a tonic for physical and athletic performance and is often used to combat exhaustion. The reason for this, according to some studies, is attributed to Muira Puama’s function as a mild stimulant.

Treats Gastrointestinal and Reproductive Problems

Furthermore, Muira Puama may also be helpful in treating stomach issues and reproductive disorders. The herb is believed to also be helpful in the treatment of stomach upset, menstrual disorders, paralysis caused by poliomyelitis, rheumatism, and as an appetite stimulant.

How to Take Muira Puama

The herb is most effective when taken as an alcohol-based tincture. This is because it has a resin that is not easily dissolved in water. The herb is not as effective when taken in capsules and tea forms.

Dosage

The right dose of Muira Puama is largely dependent on many factors, including the user’s health, age, and a number of other conditions. At the moment, there is not enough scientific data to ascertain the right range of doses for Muira Puama. It is important to also keep in mind that herbal products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be vital. Ensure you adhere to relevant directions on product labels and check with your pharmacist, doctor or other healthcare professionals before using any herb.

Side Effects of Muira Puama

Muira Puama is generally considered safe for use. However, the herb has some mild side effects.

  • Muira Puama may direct blood flow away from the heart which can result in short-term hypotension.
  • Muira Puama may lead to headaches and upset stomach.
  • Muira Puama is not recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children.
  • Although there are no clinical studies on the herb yet, Muira Puama might interact with nitrates (similar to Viagra) leading to severely low blood pressure.

Interactions

Muira Puama may actually interfere with certain drugs. Therefore, people who are undergoing any kind of treatments should be careful. It is best to check with your doctor before consuming the herb.

Some of the drugs with which it will interact include steroids, nitrates like nitro-glycerine, medications for heart problems, Alzheimer’s medications, drugs for erectile dysfunctions, hormone imbalance medications, and blood pressure medications.

If you decide to start using Muira Puama, be careful not to consume any of the drugs mentioned above. It is not advisable to use Muira Puama when you are undergoing medications for high blood pressure, heart-related issues, and many other health problems.

Bottom Line

Muira puama is a plant with bark and roots that are used for medicinal purposes. The herb is used for preventing and treating sexual disorders as well as to increase sexual desire. It is also effective as an appetite stimulant and for treating menstrual disorders, upset stomach, joint pain, and paralysis caused by poliomyelitis.

Some people actually apply Muira Puama topically to the skin as an aphrodisiac and for muscle paralysis, and rheumatism. When used in combination with other herbs, Muira Puama is also used as a remedy for erectile dysfunction.

However, like with all herbs, you should consult your doctor before using Muira Puama.

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