Coffee: Benefits and Side Effects

Coffee is one of the most popular drinks enjoyed by a lot of people in different parts of the world. Made from roasted coffee beans, coffee can be prepared in different ways and enjoyed hot or cold. How coffee is prepared affects its flavor and aroma. There are at least 20 types of coffee including: cappuccino, espresso, long black, Vienna, Irish coffee, flat white and café mocha.

Science has had a lot to say about how coffee may benefit the body and the side effects of drinking coffee. The benefits and side effects of coffee have mostly been associated with caffeine, a central nervous system stimulant. Found in black tea, green tea and some other types of tea as well as a host of beverages, soft drinks, energy drinks and some foods, caffeine is the most consumed psychoactive substance.

A psychoactive substance is a chemical substance that works primarily on the central nervous system. The substance changes the way the brain functions and this results in alterations in cognition, behavior, mood, perception and consciousness. The amount of caffeine contained in a cup of coffee depends on factors like brewing technique and the quantity of ground coffee used. Decaffeinated coffee, which is a popular type of coffee also contains caffeine, but in lesser amounts.

Benefits of Coffee

Coffee just doesn’t taste great; it also has some great benefits for the body. Generally, coffee is rich in antioxidants and nutrients. It contains nutrients like vitamins B5, B2,B1 and B3, magnesium, potassium and niacin. However, the nutritional content of a cup of coffee is further affected by the brewing technique and the type of coffee. Sugar, milk or cream and other substances added to coffee would also affect its nutritional value. These are some of the benefits of coffee:

It Improves the Performance of the Brain

a man sitting on a bed, studying with a book and laptop.

The caffeine in coffee increases the release of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain and blocks the effects of adenosine. This would improve your brain function as well as your mood. It would also improve your alertness and concentration and relieve mental as well as physical fatigue especially after sleep deprivation.

It Reduces the Risk of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Disease

Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease are neurodegenerative disorders that mostly affect seniors. If you drink coffee regularly, your risk of developing either of these diseases as you age reduces significantly.

It Reduces the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease and one of the leading causes of death worldwide, estimated to affect about 425 million people around the world. Unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise, overweight and obesity are some of the risk factors of type 2 diabetes.

Studies have found that people who drink coffee are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than people who do not drink coffee. The studies show that the more coffee a person drinks per day, the lower their risk of type 2 diabetes. Coffee is also believed to reduce the risk of dying in people living with type 2 diabetes.

It Improves Liver Health

Drinking coffee has been associated with a reduced risk of liver cancer by up to 40%. Coffee is also believed to be effective in preventing cirrhosis of the liver, a liver disease often caused by excessive consumption of alcohol and hepatitis. People who drink coffee regularly are believed to have a reduced risk (about 80%) of developing cirrhosis.

It Reduces the Risk of Gallstones

The caffeine content in coffee reduces the risk of gallstones and the higher the caffeine intake, the lower the risk of gallstones.

Although there is not much scientific evidence to support these claims, coffee may also be beneficial in reducing the risk of certain types of cancer like lung cancer, endometrial cancer, stomach cancer and colon cancer. Some studies also show that drinking coffee regularly significantly reduces a person’s risk of depression and suicide.

Side Effects of Coffee

Woman sitting at a desk, stressed.

For most healthy adults, drinking a few cups of coffee daily may be safe. Consuming too much coffee may lead to caffeine dependence, a condition where you become addicted to caffeine to the point that you develop withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, muscle pain, lethargy and headaches when you stop taking it.

Drinking several cups of coffee per day increases your risk of caffeine dependence. With time, you may need to drink even more to achieve the same effects. Here are some of the side effects you may expect from drinking too much coffee:

Insomnia

If you drink more coffee than you should, you may experience insomnia. Chronic sleep deprivation increases your risk of serious health conditions like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, heart attack or stroke. It also increases your risk of injury and accidents. Other problems that you may experience from chronic sleep deprivation are low sex drive and premature wrinkling of the skin.

It Worsens Symptoms of Certain Health Conditions

Drinking coffee, especially in excess may make symptoms of certain health conditions worse. If you have heart disease, drinking too much coffee is certainly not safe for you. Some studies associate drinking coffee with increased risk of heart attacks in people with heart conditions.

People who have mental health conditions like anxiety disorders and schizophrenia should drink coffee in moderation as too much coffee would make their condition worse. Although coffee is believed to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, people living with diabetes should drink coffee in moderation. Caffeine may lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

When taken in large amounts, coffee can worsen symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea. It can also make bleeding disorders worse. If you have osteoporosis, you should drink coffee in moderation. Too much coffee can weaken the bones and this is especially not good for people with osteoporosis.

It Increases Cholesterol Levels

Unfiltered coffee has been associated with increased levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is the bad cholesterol which puts the heart at risk. People who have raised levels of LDL cholesterol should avoid unfiltered coffee like espresso.

Other effects of drinking too much coffee include irregular heartbeat, ringing in the ears, agitation, nausea and vomiting, anxiety, nervousness, restlessness and headache. Coffee should be taken in moderation during pregnancy. Drinking more than two cups of coffee may not be safe in pregnancy as it may lead to miscarriage, low birth weight and premature birth.

Drinking more than two cups of coffee per day in breastfeeding women is also not recommended. Their babies may have sleep problems and digestive problems. It may also cause irritability in babies. Coffee interacts with certain substances. If you are on any medication, check with your doctor if coffee is safe for you. When coffee is taken with certain medications, some side effects may occur, some of which may be serious.

Do not take coffee with alcohol. Alcohol affects the way your body processes caffeine. The caffeine in your coffee would stay longer in your body than it should when taken with alcohol. Too much caffeine in your bloodstream is harmful.

In Conclusion

If before now, you have wondered whether coffee is good for you, the answer is maybe yes. Coffee seems to have more benefits than side effects, but the only way coffee can be beneficial for you is when you consume it in moderation.

If you have also wondered whether your child should be allowed to take coffee, the answer is maybe not. The caffeine content in coffee does not make coffee a very safe drink for kids. The side effects of over-consumption of caffeine are more severe in children. It is best to avoid giving your child coffee.

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Geranium Oil: Your New Favorite Essential Oil

Geranium, also known as Cranesbill, is a plant with small beautiful flowers that offer a wide range of health benefits. The roots of cranesbill possess a compound called tannin, which is responsible for alleviating diarrhea, soothing the digestive system, and preventing inflammation in the bladder and other symptoms linked with Crohn’s disease.

Traditionally, Geranium was also used to stop abnormal bleeding, including that related to uterine issues, hemorrhoids, and menstruation. The tannins present in the herb can also function as a natural astringent to reduce inflammation connected with skin conditions, including sores. The herb also has the ability to treat eye conditions, such as mild retina irritations and conjunctivitis. Diabetics may also find Geranium an effective treatment for eye problems.

Apart from the root, oil extracts from Geranium are commonly used to improve physical, mental and emotional health. Geranium oil is used to alleviate anxiety, regulate hormones, treat acne, and reduce inflammation. This oil can also improve mood, alleviate fatigue, and boost emotional health.

geranium

Interestingly, Geranium oil is non-irritant and nontoxic and acts as an antiseptic and antidepressant. It is, in fact, one of the best oil for treating skin problems like dermatitis, eczema, and oily skin.

Geranium oil is extracted via steam distillation of the leaves and stems of the geranium plant. The oil’s main components include alpha-pinene, myrcene, limonene, menthone, linalool, geranyl acetate, citronellol, geraniol, and geranyl butyrate.

Health Benefits of Geranium Oil

Since Geranium essential oil is a safe treatment for a number of health conditions, let’s take a closer look at its top benefits.

Contains Anti-inflammatory Properties

Inflammation has been found to be associated with just about every health condition, and researchers are furiously investigating chronic inflammation effects on health and possible preventive medical applications. Research shows that geranium essential oil has significant potential for the development of novel anti-inflammatory drugs with improved safety profile.

Geranium oil inhibits the inflammatory responses in the skin; this helps your body to fight many health issues. Studies show that geranium oil is a safer and more effective ingredient for anti-inflammatory medication. Geranium oil reduces inflammation in the body, and there are fewer side effects from this essential oil than cholesterol and joint pain medications.

Combats Infections

The antibacterial properties found in geranium oil helps to protect your body from infection. Geranium oil can stop bacteria from growing on the skin, like on a wound. To do this, rub two drops of geranium oil onto the affected area and cover it with gauze; you can repeat this remedy twice a day until the wound or cut is healed.

When you use geranium oil to fight external infection, your immune system can focus on your internal functions and keep you healthier. Athlete’s foot is a bacterial infection that can be cured with geranium oil. To do this, add give drops of geranium oil to a foot bath with warm water and sea salt; do this twice daily for the best results.

geranium

Has Diuretic Properties

The Geranium essential oil has diuretic properties, which means that it increases urination. Urination is one of the three natural ways to remove toxins from the body. The other methods are excretion and perspiration, but urination is the most effective of the three. These eliminated toxins are urea, uric acid, bile salts, pathogens, and other synthetic or chemical substances, heavy metals, pollutants, and even sugar.

Moreover, urination removes fat from the body, aid digestion, prevent the production of excess gas in the intestine, and remove excess bile that is secreted by the liver. Urination also lowers blood pressure because the more you urinate, the more sodium is eliminated, causing blood pressure to reduce.

Stimulates Blood Clot

Geranium oil causes the contraction of blood vessels and, therefore, helps to stop blood flow; it also speeds up the formation of blood clots. This helps in the healing of wounds or incisions, and it keeps toxins from entering the body. This health benefits will even help to prevent hemorrhoids. Try adding one drop of geranium oil to ice cream or frozen soy milk. You can also add the oil to a teaspoon of wheat germ or flaxseeds.

Increases Urination

An increase in urination means fewer toxins in the body, and being that geranium oil is a diuretic, it will promote urination. Through urination, you release toxic chemicals, heavy metals, sugar, sodium, and pollutants. Urination also removes excess bile and acids from the stomach.

Good for the Skin

Geranium oil helps in the treatment of acne, dermatitis and skin diseases. Try mixing a teaspoon of coconut oil with five drops of geranium oil, then rub the mixture onto the infected area twice a day until you see results. You can also add two drops of geranium oil to your daily face or body wash.

And since geranium oil is an astringent, it also induces contractions in several parts of the body. It has the power to minimize the look of wrinkles because it tightens facial skin and slows down the effects of aging.

geranium

Treats Respiratory Infections

Geranium oil can prevent nose and throat infections, as it contains several chemicals that have antibiotic-like effects. When applied to the nose or throat, topically, the oil has a soothing effect and will reduce soreness. To take advantage of this benefit, use a diffuser, inhale geranium oil twice a day, or rub the oil on your throat and under your nostrils.

Tones the Muscle

Geranium oil helps in tightening and contracting muscles – this is again due to its astringent properties. It can prevent your muscles and skin from sagging, and it can give you a more toned abdominal section. Create a massage oil by mixing five drops of geranium oil with one tablespoon of jojoba oil and massage it into your skin, focusing on your muscles.

Repels Insects

Geranium oil is used as a natural bug repellant. To make your own bug repellent, mix geranium oil with water and spray it on your body – this is much safer than sprays that are filled with chemicals. You can also add baking soda to this mixture to boost the effects. It also heals insect bites and stops itching; use it as a massage oil on itchy or irritated spots for relief.

Acts as a Natural Deodorant

Geranium oil is a circulatory oil, which means that it exits the body through perspiration. Now your sweat will smell like flowers! Because geranium oil has antibacterial properties, it aids in eliminating bodily odors and can be used as a natural deodorant. The rose-like smell of geranium oil is a perfect way to keep you smelling fresh every day. Add five drops of geranium oil to a spray bottle and mix it with five tablespoons of water; this is a natural and beneficial perfume that you can use every day.

geranium

Improves Mental Health

Geranium oil has the ability to improve mental functioning and uplift your spirits. It’s known to help people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and anger. The sweet and floral smell of geranium oil calms and relaxes the body and mind.

Side Effects of Geranium Oil

  • When applied to the skin, Geranium oil can lead to rashes or burning sensation. It’s advisable to test the oil on a small area of the skin first.
  • Geranium oil can also result in eye irritation if applied to the face.
  • Always take geranium oil in smaller amounts because the safety of the oil, when taken in larger amounts, has not been ascertained.
  • Geranium oil facilitates the secretion of hormones, so it’s not advised for use by pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers. It’should not be used on babies and young children affect their skin and cause toxicity.

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Benefits and Side Effects of Dates

What Are Dates?

Dates, also known as Phoenix dactylifera, or date palm, are a flowering plant species in the palm family, Arecaceae. They are cultivated for their edible sweet fruit. Dates originate from the Middle Eastern area of Iraq. They`re packed with vitamins and minerals, and they have loads of health benefits. Let`s get talking!

Health Benefits of Dates

Relieve Constipation

Dates are used as a laxative to relieve constipation. You may soak them overnight to make them more beneficial for this purpose. Dates work excellently as natural laxatives because they contain soluble fiber that absorbs water in the intestinal tract. The fiber content also hydrates hardened feces and brings about a free passage.

Contain Vitamin A

Dates contain high amounts of vitamin A, making them fit for people who have vitamin A deficiency or suffer night blindness. Dates also delay macular degeneration and generally give better vision.

Control Cholesterol Levels

The Hallawi variety of dates reduces blood cholesterol levels. It contains catechins in high amounts. Catechins are the compounds in tea that reduce cholesterol. Hallawi dates reduce levels of unhealthy cholesterol, hence reduce the risk of atherosclerotic deposits increasing in blood vessels. Considering these, it is correct to say that Hallawi dates reduce the risk of heart disease.

Control Blood Pressure

dates benefits

Dates contain high potassium levels and low sodium levels. High amounts of sodium is a major cause of high blood pressure. However, potassium, which dates contain in large proportion, aids sodium excretion. This goes a long way in regulating blood pressure and blood volume.

Nourish Intestinal Microbiome

The intestines have loads of micro-organisms in them, and many of them are essential for the breakdown of nutrients, and other health benefits. Unfortunately, diseases and some medications suppress these micro-organisms. To ensure that these healthy bacteria (the micro-organisms) are in good state, healthy nutrition is vital. This is why you should consume dates; they contain soluble fiber which nourishes the intestinal bacteria. This is great for digestion, the immune system, and some other key areas of your health.

Provide Energy

Dates contain simple sugar in high amounts. These sugars are in the form of glucose and fructose, which the body utilizes for energy. When you consume dates before exercise or any strenuous activity, your brain and muscles get enough energy to perform excellently.

Prevent Anemia

Regular consumption of dates enriches you with iron, helping you prevent iron deficiency, hence also preventing anemia.

Treat Sexual Dysfunction

Dates contain estradiol and flavonoid which boost sperm count and motility. Some studies even claim that date palm pollen treats infertility. To use dates to treat sexual issues, soak a handful of dates in fresh goat milk overnight, then grind them in the milk with a mixture of honey and cardamom powder. Please note that it is pertinent to consult a doctor before doing this, to be sure it is the right treatment for your condition.

Preserve Cognitive Health

As people get closer to old age, their chances of degeneration of brain tissues increase as a result of inflammation and some other factors. This wouldn’t be much of an issue if the effects of cortisol and other oxidants are put in check. You can trust dates to do this. In the long run, dates prevent Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s syndrome.

Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is usually as a result of factors ranging from inflammation, bowel movements, the health condition of the intestine, and some other factors. Dates nourish intestinal bacteria and decrease the body’s inflammatory response. Dates also bring about the reduction of colon polyp, which may turn cancerous if not controlled.

Support Prenatal Health

Dates are quite high in calories, and they supply folic acid in high amounts. Folic acid prevents neural tube defects and ensures the healthy development of the fetal brain. Daily consumption of dates is necessary for prenatal health support.

Improve Bone Health

Dates enrich you with calcium and vitamin K. These are necessary for bone health; vitamin K is particularly necessary for blood clotting and bone mineralization. That’s not all, as dates contain magnesium, which is vital for bone structure.

Keep the Skin Healthy

prunes benefits

Dates contain carotenoid antioxidants which preserve the skin and serve as UV light reflectors to block the damage the sun causes to the skin. These antioxidants also protect the skin from anti-aging effects, leaving your skin looking dazzling.

Relieve Symptoms of SAR

Dates relieve the symptoms of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis, a condition characteristic of allergic reactions to airborne allergens like grass, dust, and animal dander. Did you know that SAR affects over 30 million people in America?

Side Effects of Dates

Skin Rashes

When dried fruits have sulfites in them, they cause skin rashes. Dates, many times, contain sulfites, hence they may cause skin rashes.

Abdominal Issues

If not for sulfite that people add to dates, we wouldn’t have abdominal issues to worry about. This chemical compound — sulfites — are used to preserve dried fruits, and kill harmful bacteria in them.

Unfortunately, some people are sensitive to sulfite and may have reactions such as bloating, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

People who already consume foods that provide sources of fiber may also have abdominal issues when they consume dates, as that would be excess of fiber in their system because dates are rich in fiber.

Risk of Hyperkalemia

When there are excessively high levels of potassium in the blood, we say one suffers hyperkalemia. Dates are rich in potassium, hence an excessive consumption may lead to hyperkalemia.

Blood potassium levels should normally be between 3.6 and 5.2 millimoles per liter. People with already high potassium levels should avoid eating dates.

Fructose Intolerance

Dates contain fructose. Some people don`t digest fructose easily, hence they have abdominal pain. If you experience this, you might want to avoid eating dates.

Could Harm the Digestive System

Dates have a wax coating, just as some other fruits do. The wax on fruits makes them look more appealing, and help them remain fresh for a long time. Dates sometimes have petroleum wax or chemical spray on them, which can be dangerous to the digestive system.

Risk of Weight Gain

Dates are high in fiber and calories, making them cause weight gain, especially in individuals who already have the tendency to gain some extra weight quickly.

Unhealthy for Infants

date side effects

Babies have difficulty chewing dates. Also, their intestines are not developed enough for the digestion. In some cases, dates block the windpipe of infants. As much as possible, avoid feeding infants with dates.

Some Facts about Dates

  • Date trees are about 69 to 75 feet in height, while the leaves are about 13 to 20 feet long.
  • Fossil records show that date palms are over 50 million years old.
  • Date palm seeds can be dormant for decades until they have adequate light and water.
  • Majority of dates in America are grown in California`s Coachella Valley.
  • Ancient Mesopotamians regarded dates as an aphrodisiac.
  • Dates were commonly found in Roman peristyle gardens.
  • Dates last long because of their low water and high sugar contents.
  • Date palm is called the “tree of life” in the Middle East, due to its versatility: it is useful for food and for making building materials.

Now That You Know…

Are dates perfect for your health? Why not start enjoying these amazing health benefits already? Remember that moderation is key.

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The Amazing Health Benefits of Blackberry Leaves

Blackberry is a fruit that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The fruit has both a sweet and sour taste and is often used as jelly, jam, food dressing, or dessert. This makes blackberry a familiar part of our menu. However, not many people know about the incredible health benefits of not just the fruit but its leaves.

Blackberry contains vitamins and nutrients that are good for our health. These nutrients include vitamin A, vitamin C, protein, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, iron, fat, riboflavin, dietary fiber, and niacin.

Like the fruit, blackberry leaves also possess its nutrients and health benefits. Blackberry leaves have the ability to treat diabetes, cancer, hemorrhoids, cardiovascular problems, rheumatism, diarrhea, colds, and flu. They can also boost the immune system, treat digestive problems, promote oral health, and nourish the skin.

Health Benefits of Blackberry Leaves

Now, let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of blackberry leaves.

Boosts Immunity

Blackberry leaves help to boost the immune system. The leaves are rich in flavonoids which is the source of antioxidant. What this means is that with increased immunity, you won’t get ill so easily. In addition, the flavonoids found in the blackberry leaves may protect the body against bacteria and virus.

Aids in Digestion

Blackberry leaves are one of the best treatments for digestive problems. Drinking the extract of blackberry leaves may help relax the gastrointestinal tract and boost digestive health. Thus, blackberry leaves are an effective alternative treatment for digestive problems.

blackberry leaves

Treats Rheumatism

Consuming this herb cures rheumatism. You only need to boil the dried blackberry leaves drink at least a cup in two days. Regular intake can provide the best benefits from blackberry leaves and treat rheumatism.

Promotes Oral Health

Blackberry leaves contain anti-bacterial properties that combat bacteria in the mouth. In addition, to promoting oral health, the leaves help to prevent serious mouth problems such as chronic gums inflammation, gum infection, bleeding gums, and teeth problems.

Another health benefit of the blackberry leaf is its ability to relieve sore throats. If you have ever suffered this problem, you’d know how it creates some itchy feeling and pain in the throat. Also, it can affect a person’s voice. Luckily, blackberry leaves a traditional solution that can fix the problem. Simply boil blackberry leaves, strain the water, and drink this warm herbal tea.

For people who have mouth sores, they only need to wash their mouth with blackberry leaf extract as it acts as a mouth wash. It is believed to be more effective than the conventional mouth wash. Blackberry leaves have the ability to kill bacteria in the mouth.

In fact, in some countries, blackberry is used as a treatment for membrane inflammation.

Cures Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common health problem that we all get to experience at some points in life. There are claims that the best way to treat diarrhea is with herbal treatments. Fortunately, blackberry leaves contain the nutrients that can cure diarrhea. You prepare blackberry leaf tea, simply boil 4.5 grams leaves. Then, extract and drink the water warm. If you like, you can add honey to it. The blackberry leaf tea may cure diarrhea faster than conventional treatments.

blackberry leaves

Prevents Cancer

Cancer is considered the number one killer in recent years. While there are several traditional ways to cure, or at least, prevent the growth of cancer cells, it believed blackberry leaves are very effective. The leaves possess antioxidant properties, making them effective for preventing and treating various types of cancers, including colon cancer.

Heals Wounds

For unexplainable reasons, we sometimes fall and get bruises and wounds on our skin. Some wounds are caused by more serious accidents. However, blackberry leaves are potent for healing all kinds of wounds. The herb contains properties that have the power to speed up the healing of wounds. They contain tannins with amazing astringent abilities.

Good for the Skin

The blackberry leaf is one magical herb that can treat skin disorders. Simply soak three or four blackberry leaves in warm water. Strain the water and with a towel, gently apply the water on the affected areas on the skin.

Free radicals are responsible for promoting the growth of cancer cells. They are also very bad for your skin and overall health. According to some studies, blackberry leaves possess high oxygen content than other leaves, making the herb effective for protecting against free radicals.

Not many people know that blackberry leaves can also treat skin ulcers. This is one of many skin disorders that some people suffer from. Blackberry leaves contain antibacterial compounds that combat the bacteria that cause these ulcers.

Simply apply your blackberry leaf extract on skin ulcers.

blackberry leaves

Rich in Antioxidants

Studies have suggested that the antioxidant property in blackberry leaves can effectively destroy free radicals. In addition, these antioxidants help to promote and maintain good health; it prevents cancers and even nourishes the skin. For your overall health, blackberry leaves are definitely worth a try.

Treats Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can cause some discomfort. Luckily, blackberry leaves contain properties that relieve hemorrhoids.

Controls Diabetes

The high potassium content of the blackberry fruit helps to reduce insulin. When consumed daily, one teaspoon of honey with blackberry extracts helps control diabetes. But for best results, it is recommended to take this mixture for at least a week. Apart from the fruit, blackberry leaves can also be consumed for their anti-diabetic abilities.

Promotes Heart Health

Blackberry leaves contain rich amounts of flavonoids, which help to prevent cardiovascular disease. Also, it helps to maintain the organs and cells of the body. The extract of blackberry leaves promotes heart health.

blackberry leaves

Provides Relief for Cold and Flu

Blackberry leaves can give some relief for colds and flu. You only need to boil the leaves. Strain and drink the water while it is warm. As a result, it lowers body temperature and clears the nasal cavity.

Has Anti-Aging Effects

Premature aging is often caused by bad lifestyle and free radicals. Blackberry leaves, however, contain antioxidants that prevent premature aging.

How to Process Blackberry Leaves

To enjoy all the health benefits that blackberry leaves offer, we’ve got some tips on how to process the herb. Wash about 5-6 blackberry leaves. Boil them in 100 ml water. Then, strain and drink the extract.

It is believed that the best way to consume blackberry leaves is by processing it as tea. If you like, you may add honey to improve its taste. It is advisable to drink blackberry leaf tea once in two days.

How to Use Blackberry Leaves to Treat Skin Disorders

One of the most popular health benefits of blackberry leaves is that they can be used as an alternative treatment to treat skin disorders such as skin ulcers. Now, here’s how to treat skin disorders with blackberry leaves:

  • Soak about 3-4 blackberry leaves in warm water.
  • Strain the water.
  • Soak a towel in the water.
  • Apply it gently on the skin to kill the bacteria on the skin.

Bottom Line

Evidently, blackberry leaves contain a number of health benefits that help treat a host of health conditions, including, diabetes, hemorrhoids, cancer, rheumatism, diarrhea, colds, flu. The leaves also heal wounds, boost the immune system, promote heart health, prevent digestive issues, support oral health, and nourish the skin.

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