Quinoa (pronounced Keen- Wah), originated from the Andean region of South America and has been one of the primary foods of the Inca Indians for more than 6,000 years. They called it ‘chisaya mama’ or the mother of all grains. Quinoa is the seed of a leafy plant related to spinach. Quinoa is a source of all the essential amino acids, an excellent source of protein, one of the best sources in the vegetable kingdom and contains lysine, an amino acid which helps the body to produce and process protein. A great source of B vitamins, folic acid and Vitamin E. It contains high levels of riboflavin, potassium and trace elements zinc, copper, magnesium and manganese.
Quinoa is excellent for those following a wheat and gluten free diet and may be substituted for almost any other grain. The seeds are covered with saponins which have a bitter taste naturally repelling insects and birds. Therefore Quinoa needs to be washed thoroughly before use, although the grain bought in packets may have been pre washed and the saponins removed. This grain is light for digestion and ideal for those convalescing or after a detoxification therapy such as Panchakarma. It may also be used for breakfast and is idea as a cold salad or in a casserole.
Health and Well Being using Ancient Indian Herbs and Healing
24 September 2009
16 July 2009
Tumeric the wonder Spice
Tumeric is a fragrant, yellow spice a food as well as a medicine. Botanically known as curcuma longa L. Volumes of evidence have exposed the anti cancer affect of its photochemical the curcuminoids. Additionally, it strengthens the immune system, lowers blood sugar and is regarded as a powerful anti inflammatory due to its potent COX2 enzyme inhibitor effect.
Most researchers advocate between 1000 to 3000 milligrams, this may be taken as a food supplement. There is also growing evidence it that curcumin is most effective at inhibiting the protein fragments that directly produce Alzheimer. It has also been noted that there is very little Alzheimer's amongst Indias’ aging population. The herb is used daily in their diet.
Most researchers advocate between 1000 to 3000 milligrams, this may be taken as a food supplement. There is also growing evidence it that curcumin is most effective at inhibiting the protein fragments that directly produce Alzheimer. It has also been noted that there is very little Alzheimer's amongst Indias’ aging population. The herb is used daily in their diet.
Juicy Cherries
Cherries are grown in over 20 countries worldwide. In Europe my favourite is the Picota Cherry from Spain. Picota cherries are handpicked in the Jerte Valley the western region of Southern Spain. They have been grown here since the 17th Century. With over 2 million cherry trees in this region the sight of their spring bloom must be amazing. The longer ripening of this variety of cherry gives their unique deep flavour. The season is between May and August.
Fourteen cherries give you fewer than 50 calories, approximately 20% of your Vitamin C intake. They are free from fat and have a low GI index rating of 22.
Emerging Evidence links cherries to health benefits from easing the pain of gout and arthritis to aiding natural sleep through the increase in melatonin. They reduce risk factors for heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. Cherries also have among the highest levels of antioxidants and contain beta carotene; they provide a higher source than blueberries or strawberries. Cherries contain Vitamin A and C, bioflavonoid, potassium, magnesium, folate and iron and they are a high source of fibre in the diet. The plant pigment in cherries works with vitamin C to strengthen collagen, a fibrous protein in connective tissue. They are also a great source of nutrition for those who put a lot of strain on their joints.
Fourteen cherries give you fewer than 50 calories, approximately 20% of your Vitamin C intake. They are free from fat and have a low GI index rating of 22.
Emerging Evidence links cherries to health benefits from easing the pain of gout and arthritis to aiding natural sleep through the increase in melatonin. They reduce risk factors for heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. Cherries also have among the highest levels of antioxidants and contain beta carotene; they provide a higher source than blueberries or strawberries. Cherries contain Vitamin A and C, bioflavonoid, potassium, magnesium, folate and iron and they are a high source of fibre in the diet. The plant pigment in cherries works with vitamin C to strengthen collagen, a fibrous protein in connective tissue. They are also a great source of nutrition for those who put a lot of strain on their joints.
15 July 2009
Ten Thoughts on Holistic Living
1. Spend some time in nature you will be amazed how it can increase your vital life force (prana) and inspire you.
2. Define yourself by who you are not by the roles you play.
3. Contribute to abundance and flow – if you no longer need something pass it on…
4. Take a break and rejuvenate yourself with five minutes of silence.
5. Look where you want to go in life not where you don’t.
6. Feel great in your own skin!!
7. Spend some time with your shoes off contacting nature through your soles!!
8. Learn something new and share it with others.
9. Make your home a sacred space.
10. Be creative mind map creative ideas and inspire yourself.
2. Define yourself by who you are not by the roles you play.
3. Contribute to abundance and flow – if you no longer need something pass it on…
4. Take a break and rejuvenate yourself with five minutes of silence.
5. Look where you want to go in life not where you don’t.
6. Feel great in your own skin!!
7. Spend some time with your shoes off contacting nature through your soles!!
8. Learn something new and share it with others.
9. Make your home a sacred space.
10. Be creative mind map creative ideas and inspire yourself.
Mango Yoghurt Smoothie / Lassi
INGREDIENTS
1 cup of fresh sweet mango diced
1 cup plain or vanilla yoghurt
½ vanilla pod
PREPARATION
The easiest and quickest way to prepare the mango is to cut slices lengthwise close to and either side of the stone. Score the flesh without breaking the skin then slide the knife under the flesh to release the fruit. The skin and the flesh can be removed around the stone.
The vanilla pod may be soaked in warm water and when soft cut open lengthways with a knife and the vanilla paste may be put in the mixer with the fruit. If you are not using fresh vanilla you may use vanilla yoghurt. Otherwise plain yoghurt and a few ice cubes may be whizzed up with the fruit until smooth.
Remember to enjoy this smoothie on an empty stomach and well before your meal so you digest it well.
1 cup of fresh sweet mango diced
1 cup plain or vanilla yoghurt
½ vanilla pod
PREPARATION
The easiest and quickest way to prepare the mango is to cut slices lengthwise close to and either side of the stone. Score the flesh without breaking the skin then slide the knife under the flesh to release the fruit. The skin and the flesh can be removed around the stone.
The vanilla pod may be soaked in warm water and when soft cut open lengthways with a knife and the vanilla paste may be put in the mixer with the fruit. If you are not using fresh vanilla you may use vanilla yoghurt. Otherwise plain yoghurt and a few ice cubes may be whizzed up with the fruit until smooth.
Remember to enjoy this smoothie on an empty stomach and well before your meal so you digest it well.
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