Ang pagkakaroon ng anak ang isa sa pinakamagandang biyaya na matatanggap ng isang magkapareha. Ang anak ay ang bunga ng pagmamahalan ng isang magkapareha na bubuo sa isang kumpletong pamilya. Ngunit sa kasamaang palad, may ilang mga magkapareha na tila baga nahihirapang makabuo ng anak. Malungkot man isipin ngunit ito ang katotohanan.

Upang mapataas ang posibilidad ng pagbubuntis, narito ang ilang mabisang tips mula sa mga ekperto.

1. Magpasuri sa doctor - Ang pangunahing hakbang para sa mga pares na hirap makabuo ang anak ay ang pisikal na pagpapatingin sa doktor. Mahalaga ito upang matukoy kung mayroong problema sa kalusugan ng isa man sa magkapareha, problema sa kalusugan na nakakaapekto sa abilidad na pagbububuntis. Bukod pa rito, mabibigyan din ng doktor ang pagkapareha ng ekpertong payo na tiyak na makatutulong sa kanila sa pagbuo ng anak.

2. Makipagtalik sa tamang panahon - Mas mataas ang posibilidad ng pagbuo ng anak kung gagawin ang pakikipagtalik sa panahon kung kailan lumalabas ang itlog (egg cell) ng babae mula sa obaryo. Ang panahon na ito na tinatawag na ovulation period ay nakapaloob sa 28-31 na araw ng menstrual cycle ng mga babae. Ang ovulation period ay kadalasang nagaganap pagkatapos ng 7 araw mula sa huling araw ng pagreregla.

3. Ang mga lalaki ay maglaan ng 2 hanggang 3 araw na pagitan sa bawat pagpapalabas ng semilya - Hindi rin mabuti na araw-arawin ang pagpapalabas ng semilya ng mga lalaki. Ito’y sapagkat kailangan din ng katawan ng lalaki na mapalitan ang semilya na inilabas. Upang makasiguro na sapat ang dami ng semilya na ilalabas, bigyan ng 2 hanggang 3 araw na pagitan ang bawat pagpapalabas.

4. Umiwas sa stress - Ang stress ay tiyak na nakakaapekto sa kalausugan sa pangkalahatan. Kabilang na dito ang kakayanan na makabuo ng anak. Halimbawa, ang libog o libido na nararamdaman ng magkapareha ay maaaring mawala kung masasabayan ng stress.

5. Huwag hayaang mainitan ang ari ng lalaki - Ang mga semilya ay sensitibo sa init, maaaring mamatay ang mga semilya kung maapektohan sila ng pagtaas ng temperatura. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit nasa labas ng katawan ang itlog (testes) ng lalaki at nababalot lamang ng bayag sa halip na nakapasok sa loob ng katawan.

6. Huwag madaliin ang pagtatalik - Bigyan ng oras at huwag madaliin ang pakikipagtalik. Mas marami ang mailalabas na semilya gayundin ang orgasmo ng babae kung ang pagtatalik ay gagawin nang buo at hindi minamadali.

7. Iwasan ang masasamang bisyo—sigarilyo, alak, droga. - Ang mga masasamang bisyo gaya ng paninigarilyo, sobrang pag-inom ng alak, pati na ang paggamit sa mga nakakasamang droga ay may direktang epekto rin sa abilidad ng magkapares na makabuo ng anak. Ang hormones ay maaring maapektohan at mapaliit ang posibilidad ng pagbuo ng anak.

8. Subukan ang ibang posisyon - Ang posisyon sa pakikipagtalik ay may epekto rin sa kakayanan na makabuo ng anak. Maaaring hindi umabot sa loob ng matres ng babae ang semilya at tumulo palabas kung mali ang posisyon na ginagawa.

9. Panatilihin ang malusog na pangangatawan ng magkapareha - Ang pagkain ng balanse at masusustansyang pagkain, gayundin ang regular na pag-eehersisyo, ay hindi nawawala sa mga tips ng doktor. Ito’y sapagkat talaga namang nakakaapekto sa pang-araw-araw na gawain ang pagkakaroon ng malusog na pangangatawan, kabilang na ang abilidad na makabuo ng anak.

10. Iwasan ang basta-bastang paggamit ng mga pampadulas - May ilang magkapareha na gumagamit ng mga pampadulas sa kanilang pakikipagtalik. Ang paglangoy ng semilya papasok sa matres ng babae ay maaaring maapektohan kung basta bastang gagamit ng mga ito. Kung nais gumamit ng pampadulas, tiyakin na rekomendado ito ng doktor.

Source: Kalusugan.PH

Banana is one of tropical fruits liked by many people in the world. The fruit contains many health benefits, along with high energy content which is often added in athlete’s diet. But not many people know that the banana leaves also have many health benefits. Banana leaves (dried one and fresh one) can be used as herbal too. They have many benefits for our health and beauty, and can cure ailments such as sore throat, cough, common cold, and fever. It is also used as traditional spa ingredients in Bali, which is very good for the skin. n South-east Asia, banana leaves are often used as garnish to enhance the appearance of foods and as food wrapping. So far, most people only know banana leaves as food wrapper or as a material for handicrafts.

The dried banana leaves has important compounds for our health, such as polyphenols (act as antioxidants), lignin, hemicellulose, protein, and allantoin. Banana leaves also have astringent effect. That is why banana leaves can cure ailments. To get the benefits of dried banana leaves, we can use it just like other herbal medicines, for example use it as infusion like making tea, or boil it to make decoction.

The Health Benefits:

1. Boosts Immune System - Dried banana leaves contains allantoin, a substance known to boost immune system, accelerates healing process and acts as an astringent. This is why banana leaves can cure sore throat and fever, which are mainly caused by poor immune. Even if we do not have such ailments, we also can drink banana leaves decoction or tea atleast once a day to boost our immune system, so we cannot contract the ailments easily.

2. High in Antioxidants - Banana leaves are high in polyphenols, a type of antioxidants. Antioxidants is needed to fight many disorders caused by free radicals in our body. It fights free radicals, thus preventing micro-inflammations caused by free radicals. Those micro-inflammation can cause many degenerative diseases, such as atherosclerosis, alzheimer, dementia, even cancers. High anti-oxidants is also known to prevent early aging signs such as wrinkled and dull skin. To get this benefits, we can drink banana leaves tea 1-3 times a day.

3. Heals Wounds and Skin Irritation - Fresh banana leaves are used traditionally to cure wounds and irritation. Just crush some banana leaves by a mortar, then put it on the affected area. We can bind it with bandage to prevent it falling away. Change the leaves and bandage 2-3 times a day.

4.Cures Sore Throat - Sore throat is a symptom of many respiratory-related illnesses, and mostly caused by virus, so antibiotics may not help at all. Sore throat is really annoying, making us feel painful when swallowing foods or beverages. Drinking banana leaves decoction atleast once a day can reduce the sore throat gradually.

5. Treatment of Dysentery - Allantoin and polyphenols in dried banana leaves can reduce intestinal bleeding in dysentery. We can drink the decoction atleast once a day to stop the bleeding. The astringent effect also reduce the stomach pain due to hyperperistaltic activity of intestines. The good news, banana leaves do not interfere with prescribed drugs, so in severe dysentery we can take drugs and banana leaves tea/decoction together.

6. Reduces Fever - Antioxidants and astringent contained in banana leaves are good substances to reduce inflammations, which often take form in fever. The astringent effect will also sooth the unease feeling of fever. To reduce fever, we can drink the decoction 3 times a day.

Banana Beauty Tricks

7. Maintains Healthy Skin - One of the health benefits of banana leaves is to promote healthy skin. Banana leaves mask has been used in traditional spa for generations to maintain healthy skin. The fresh leaves are crushed with mortar or blender, then applied to the face or all over the body. The allantoin and antioxidants helps preventing early aging signs on the skin (such as wrinkles and dark spots), cures skin irritation, reduce acne and pimples, and keep the skin moist and soft.

8. Maintains Healthy Hair - Banana leaves extract can cure dandruffs, maintain healthy scalp, and keep the natural color of the hair, thanks to its high allantoin and astringent effect. If we often have itchy and sore scalp, this banana leaves hair mask is proven to be very effective. We can take some fresh banana leaves, then crush it with blender. Apply it as hair mask on the scalp and hair, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water. Using this hair mask regularly will also make our hair looks shiny and more beautiful.

9. Reduce Cellulites and Body Weight - Traditional spa also uses banana leaves as traditional weightloss program. There are 2 ways in using the banana leaves: first, the mashed fresh leaves are used as body mask to reduce the cellulites and keep the skin healthy. The second, the whole banana leaves are steamed and then wrapped on the desired area (usually belly, upper thighs and upper arms) for 1-2 hours. After the treatment finishes, a cup of tea made of banana leaves and ginger is taken. This treatment was popular in Sultan’s Palace in Yogyakarta and the Kings’ Palaces in Bali, to maintain the beauty of the queens, princesses and concubines. But now we can find this traditional treatment in many spa in Bali. However, the treatment will be more effective if we do low-calories diet and sports too.

Other Traditional uses of Banana Leaves

10. Handicrafts - Many handicrafters use dried banana leaves for their products. Usually, dried banana leaves are woven and made into bags, belts, and bracelets. Dried banana leaves are seen as waste in tropical countries, but those handicrafters can transform them into beautiful artistic goods, which are highly priced. Some designers now are looking for these goods to make up their fashion ideas, as a program of reducing waste.

11. Livestocks’ Foods - Livestocks such as goats, sheep, cows, chickens, even rabbits like to eat banana leaves. They like the taste, especially the young leaves. Banana leaves also contain good nutrition for them and act as their natural medicine. If we have livestocks or pets at home, we can feed them fresh banana leaves. It is cheap, and sometimes people just throw away the leaves after taking the fruits. The dried leaves can be stored and used like hay. Now, many animal food factories use powdered banana leaves as an ingredient of their products.

12. Food Wrappers - Traditional South-east Asian foods, such as Vietnamese, Thai and Indonesian foods often use banana leaves to wrap the cakes, chicken and fish. The banana leaves give particular pleasant aroma that can increase our appetite. Foods wrapped in green banana leaves also looks beautiful.
Rice or other foods wrapped in banana leaves for take-away will last longer too. The mechanism is still unknown, but banana leaves probably has some anti-microbial effects which can kill germs that cause foods to rot. For example, the Sundanese nasi timbel (rice wrapped in banana leaves) can last for 24 hours without rotting, and is often prepared for picnics and travels.

The banana leaves are also used for wrapping fruits in big baskets when transporting the fruits to the local markets. This makes the fruits last longer and keeps their colors and firmness.
And the most important of South-east Asian cultures, banana leaves are often used as garnish for foods offerings in temples. We can see this kind of garnish in Thailand and Bali, also in many other places in big ceremonies such as wedding.

13.Headaches reliever - Young leaves used for cool dressing of inflamed and blistered surfaces and as cool application for headaches.

14. Hygienic - The Banana Leaf is a wrapper for food hygiene. To wrap food, better use banana leaves as compared to using a plastic wrap made with polymers that can cause cancer, especially when used to wrap the food that’s hot.

15.Prevent Nightmare - leaves put under the pillow at bedtime to prevent nightmares

16.Prevent Hallucination - leaves put under the pillow at bedtime to prevent Hallucination.

17. . Enhancing Body Endurance - Banana leaves can enhance the immune system of a human body that are weak. In addition to enhancing endurance, a banana leaf can also ward off free radicals inducing cancer that are increasingly dangerous for human health. Perhaps this is a strange thing, but the substance that is stored in a banana leaf namely allantoin can be converted into an anti-oxidant producing agent.

18.Pre Hepatic Jaundice - infusion of leaves used for bathing in pre-hepatic jaundice.

19. Anti-Ulcer Activity - Study of dried powder of banana pulp showed anti-ulcerogenic activity, esp in the unripe, mature green plantain banana.

20. Wrapping or Cooking - Leaves used for wrapping food for cooking. Leaves used for polishing floors, lining pots for cooking rice.

21. As Neutralizing poisoning agent against venoms - Banana leaf benefits can also be used as a poison neutralizing agent against liquid that was injected into one’s body such as venom. If you are attacked by insect bites such as ants or mosquitoes then you can use banana leaves to neutralize the toxins and it will have no side effects whatsoever. You just need to grind banana leaves until it turns into a powder, then applied to the affected area of insect bites accordingly.

- BK Rubytha Huntarigo Batiller of HERBAL PLANTS BENEFITS A LOT WHICH IS GOOD FOR OUR HUMAN BODY

Bees swallow, digest and regurgitate nectar to make honey; this nectar contains almost 600 compounds. We need our bees, so let’s do everything we can to save them and keep them here on this earth.

Honey is so good we have included it in our list of powerfoods that should be in your kitchen right now. “My son, eat thou honey, for it is good” — King Solomon – Proverbs: 24:13

The Health Benefits:

1. Prevent cancer and heart disease - Honey contains flavonoids, antioxidants which help reduce the risk of some cancers and heart disease.

2. Reduce ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders - Recent research shows that honey treatment may help disorders such as ulcers and bacterial gastroenteritis. This may be related to the 3rd benefit,

3. Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-fungal - “All honey is antibacterial, because the bees add an enzyme that makes hydrogen peroxide,” said Peter Molan, director of the Honey Research Unit at the University of Waikato in New Zealand.

4. Increase athletic performance - Ancient Olympic athletes would eat honey and dried figs to enhance their performance. This has now been verified with modern studies, showing that it is superior in maintaining glycogen levels and improving recovery time than other sweeteners.

5. Reduce cough and throat irritation - Honey helps with coughs, particularly buckwheat honey. In a study of 110 children, a single dose of buckwheat honey was just as effective as a single dose of dextromethorphan in relieving nocturnal cough and allowing proper sleep.

6. Balance the 5 elements: Honey has been used in ayurvedic medicine in India for at least 4000 years and is considered to affect all three of the body’s primitive material imbalances positively. It is also said to be useful useful in improving eyesight, weight loss, curing impotence and premature ejaculation, urinary tract disorders, bronchial asthma, diarrhea, and nausea. Honey is referred as “Yogavahi” since it has a quality of penetrating the deepest tissues of the body. When honey is used with other herbal preparations, it enhances the medicinal qualities of those preparations and also helps them to reach the deeper tissues.

7. Blood sugar regulation - Even though honey contains simple sugars, it is NOT the same as white sugar or artificial sweeteners. Its exact combination of fructose and glucose actually helps the body regulate blood sugar levels. Some honeys have a low hypoglycemic index, so they don’t jolt your blood sugar. (Watch this video Sweetener Comparison where I compare stevia, brown rice syrup, honey, molasses and agave, and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each.)

8. Heal wounds and burns - External application of honey has been shown to be as effective as conventional treatment with silver sulfadiazene. It is speculated that the drying effect of the simple sugars and honey’s anti-bacterial nature combine to create this effect.

9. Probiotic - Some varieties of honey possess large amounts of friendly bacteria. This includes up to 6 species of lactobacilli and 4 species of bifidobacteria. This may explain many of the “mysterious therapeutic properties of honey.”

10. Beautiful skin - Its anti-bacterial qualities are particularly useful for the skin, and, when used with the other ingredients, can also be moisturizing and nourishing! For a powerful home beauty treatment for which you probably have all the ingredients in your kitchen already.

- BK Rubytha Huntarigo Batiller of HERBAL PLANTS BENEFITS A LOT WHICH IS GOOD FOR OUR HUMAN BODY

Dragon fruit – the new super fruit, is also known as Pitaya. It is said to possess remarkable health-giving properties.

It is native to South America and grows from a cactus plant. Because of the growing nature of its popularity it is being widely harvested in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Philippines and even Bangladesh.

The dragon fruit has a delicate smell. The taste and texture is often said to be a blend of kiwi fruit and pear. Sometimes it is also likened to a melon. Its flesh is filled with edible black seeds. The skin is scaly and experts suggest that it is not fit for eating.

The dragon fruit has three varieties: Red skin and white flesh,Yellow skin and white flesh and Red skin and pink flesh

The benefits of dragon fruit may be listed as follows:

1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals. Dragon fruit is said to be rich in Vitamin C, Vitamins B1, B2 and B3. The yellow Pitaya is said to be a good source of calcium which strengthens teeth and bones naturally, while the red skinned ones have significant amounts of phosphorous which is also essentially needed by the body to function properly. Sufficient amounts of phosphorous in the body, in particular, help increase energy levels. Iron is also one of the main components of this fruit, which is good for the blood.

2. Rich in Fiber and Protein. The flesh of the dragon fruit is rich in fiber which benefits those suffering from constipation. Plus, its high protein content makes it a good choice for those striving to lose weight as it boosts the metabolism.

3. Good for Diabetes. Dragon fruit is said to have the ability to lower blood glucose levels, thereby making it a healthy fruit for people with diabetes. In Taiwan especially, people with diabetes are urged by doctors to consume dragon fruit.

4. Contains Healthy Fats. The tiny black seeds of the dragon fruit are a rich source of Omega-3 fats and mono-unsaturated fats, both of which are healthy fats that do not increase the cholesterol levels in the body. On an average, there are over a 1000 seeds in a dragon fruit.

5. Loaded with Antioxidants. Dragon fruit, being a real food is extremely rich in antioxidants. It has a large variety of antioxidant substances which help the body fight free radicals that may damage the cells and DNA, thus acting as deterrents to many diseases, including cancer.

6. Boosts Immune System. As this super fruit is rich in Vitamin C, it helps a great deal in boosting the immune system and protecting the body from harmful infections. Vitamin C is also said to rid the body of harmful toxins and metals. It also enables quick healing of wounds, cuts and bruises. Eating this fruit on a regular basis is said to be beneficial in fighting against asthma and cough.

7. Protects the Heart. Dragon fruits are rich in flavonoids that have been linked to having a favorable effect in protecting the heart from cardio related diseases. Furthermore, the healthy fat content prevents cholesterol build-up. Low levels of cholesterol always help maintain a good condition of the heart.

8. Helps in Digestion. Having rich fiber content, eating a dragon fruit will help in digestion as fiber rich foods are known to aid in digestion and relieve constipation. In addition, it can help clear the colon of toxic elements and thus, reduce the risk of colon cancer. Some studies also suggest dragon fruit to have pro-biotic components. Moreover, it is believed that eating this fruit helps increase the appetite, making it a healthy choice for those suffering from a loss of appetite due to an illness or some other reason.

9. Good for the Skin. With nearly 90% water content, the dragon fruit is rich in moisture, and moisture is good for the skin. The dragon fruit hence, provides for ample moisture in the diet which, in turn, helps maintain a healthy and glowing skin.

Consumption of dragon fruit has no known side effects. However if having it for the first time, eat it early in the day so that if there any adverse reactions, they can be easily taken care of. Including this fruit in the daily diet shall help gain maximum benefit from this super fruit, along with ensuring an overall state of good health.

-SpeedyRemedies.com and Agro.Ventures (Youtube)

The season for Singkamas or turnips is during summer, which is but a perfect timing for its thirst quenching quality during the summer heat. Turnips are a root crop vegetable that provides low calories. It is therefore the perfect substitute meal for people who want to attain a physically fit body without sacrificing the need for energy for performing strenuous activities. Thus, turnips have become a famous dietary alternative especially for today’s health conscious and body conscious generation.

Much like other fruits and vegetables, turnips is also known for its dietary fiber. Thus, it can sufficiently satisfy hunger without being heavy on the belly. In lieu of which, this vegetable helps in reducing the risk of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes.

Turnips also provide a cooling effect because it contains water. Considering that over 70% of human bodies is made up of water, eating turnips also serves as an alternative or supplement to people undergoing water therapy. The water we get from turnip helps to replace the soiled water in our bodies for cleansing which help organs like pancreas, kidney, stomach and skin to function well.

Aside from low calorie, dietary fiber and water, turnips are also an excellent source of anti-oxidants, minerals, and vitamins. It is rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful anti-oxidant that helps for the creation of collagen. Vitamin C helps the body forage damaging free radicals for the deterrence of germs, viruses, and bacteria and destructive oxidation reactions that can cause sickness, inflammation, or even cancer. Thus turnips help in boosting our body’s natural immune system. Other vitamins provided by turnips included vitamin A, and vitamin B-complex namely folates, riboflavin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid and thiamin.

Turnips also help prevents and or facilitate healing of a broad range of health issues because of its high nutrient content. Among the minerals and nutrients in turnips included calcium, phosphorous, folic acid magnesium, niacin, Iron, potassium, and sodium which are essential for the over all well being of our body.

Because of the health benefits of turnips, people around the world have invented different ways to cook turnips. In the Philippines, they are famous as an ingredient of Lumpiang Sariwa. Cooking turnips is not advisable however because heat can destroy some of its natural nutrients and minerals. Thus, the best way to eat turnips and enjoy their health benefits is through the good old fashion way of cutting the fresh vegetable into bitable pieces and enjoying its natural taste with a pinch of salt or as it is.

The Health benefits:

1. Good for Diabetes, Once you have diabetes you’re stuck with it. But there’s no need to lose hope. It’s really not as bad or hard as it sounds.

2. High in vitamins C, A and B complex, along with calcium, phosphorus, folic acid magnesium, niacin, Iron, potassium, and sodium.

3. Has a thirst-quenching capacity.

4. Provides low calories.

5. A dietary fiber that satisfies hunger without feeling heavy.

6. Helps reduce the risk of obesity, hypertension.

7. Has water, thus provides a cooling effect.

8. Good alternative or supplement to people undergoing water therapy.

9. Helps replace the soiled water in our bodies for cleansing which help organs like pancreas, kidney, stomach and skin to function well.

10. Excellent source of anti-oxidants, minerals, and vitamin.s

11. Helps in boosting our body’s natural immune system.

12. Lowers the homocysteine levels. Homocysteine, a type of amino acid, is listed as an independent factor for heart disease. In addition, homocysteine, present in extremely high quantities in meat products, is also linked to renal disease. Jicama exhibits strong anti-homocysteine property – that is, it reduces the levels of this amino acid – and in turn, reduces the risk of cardiovascular and renal disease.The potency of anti-homocysteine capability of jicama can be easily gauged by the results of recent studies that conclude that people who regularly eat this vegetable have approximately 11% lower homocysteine levels than people who do not eat it at all.

13.Reduces the risk of capillary damage. Jicama supports or strengthens the structure of capillaries, reducing the risk of having broken capillaries or capillary damage.

14. Lowers cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels, often a result of poor eating habits, is a factor for many serious health conditions such as heart attack and hypertension. It has been proven time and again that people who eat more fiber have a lower risk of high cholesterol blood levels. Fiber-rich diet is also useful for people who have high cholesterol because fiber has a strong detrimental effect on cholesterol levels. Jicama is an extremely rich source of soluble fiber, which according to the Mayo Clinic, aids in reduction of cholesterol levels and stabilization of blood sugar levels. A 100-gram serving of jicama allows you to meet 13% of your daily recommended value of soluble fiber.

15. Aids weight loss. To lose weight or for managing your weight, you must reduce your daily calorie intake. As jicama is a low-calorie food – a 100-gram of raw jicama serving contains only 35 calories – it is an excellent choice for people who want to lose weight.

There are so many benefits we can get from eating Singkamas or Turnip. Hence, if you want to attain physically fit body without doing exhausting activities, this is the perfect substitute meal for you.
-HERBAL PLANTS BENEFITS A LOT WHICH IS GOOD FOR OUR HUMAN BODY and Food Bae (Youtube)

The cashew tree is native to Brazil, where its fruit is considered a delicacy. In the 16th century, the Portuguese introduced them to India and some African countries, where they are now also grown. What we call the cashew nut is actually the seed of this fruit. Cashews are rich in iron, phosphorus, selenium, magnesium and zinc. They are also good sources of phytochemicals, antioxidants, and protein.

Here are seven health benefits of cashews:

Cashews are ripe with proanthocyanidins, a class of flavanols that actually starve tumors and stop cancer cells from dividing. Studies have also shown that cashews can reduce your colon cancer risk. Their high copper content also endows the seed with the power to eliminate free radicals and they are also good sources of phytochemicals and antioxidants that protect us from heart disease and cancer.

1. Heart Health. Cashews have a lower fat content than most other nuts and most of it is in the form of oleic acid, the same heart-healthy monounsaturated fat found in olive oil. Studies show that oleic acid promotes good cardiovascular health by helping to reduce triglyceride levels, high levels of which are associated with an increased risk for heart disease. Cashews are wonderfully cholesterol free and their high antioxidant content helps lower risk of cardiovascular and coronary heart diseases. The magnesium in cashews helps lower blood pressure and helps prevent heart attacks.

2. Hair and Skin Health. Cashews are rich in the mineral copper. An essential component of many enzymes, copper plays its part in a broad array of processes. One copper-containing enzyme, tyrosinase, converts tyrosine to melanin, which is the pigment that gives hair and skin its color. Without the copper cashews are so abundant in, these enzymes would not be able to do their jobs.

3. Bone Health. Cashews are particularly rich in magnesium. It’s a well-known fact that calcium is necessary for strong bones, but magnesium is as well. Most of the magnesium in the human body is in our bones. Some of it helps lend bones their physical structure, and the remainder is located on the surface of the bone where it is stored for the body to use as it needs. Copper found in cashews is vital for the function of enzymes involved in combining collagen and elastin, providing substance and flexibility in bones and joints.

4. Good for the Nerves. By preventing calcium from rushing into nerve cells and activating them, magnesium keeps our nerves relaxed and thereby our blood vessels and muscles too. Too little magnesium means too much calcium can gain entrance to the nerve cell, causing it to send too many messages, and leading to too much contraction.

5. Insufficient magnesium leads to higher blood pressure, muscle tension, migraine headaches, soreness and fatigue. Not surprisingly, studies have demonstrated that magnesium helps diminish the frequency of migraine attacks, lowers blood pressure and helps prevent heart attacks.

6. Prevent Gallstones. Data collected on 80,718 women from the Nurses’ Health Study demonstrates that women who eat at least an ounce of nuts each week, such as cashews, have a 25% lower risk of developing gallstones.

7. Weight Loss. People who eat nuts twice a week are much less likely to gain weight than those who rarely eat nuts. Cashew nuts are indeed relatively high in fat, but it is considered “good fat.” This is attributable to the ideal fat ratio in the nut, 1:2:1 for saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated, respectively, which is recommended by scientists for tip-top health. Cashew nuts contain less fat than most other popular nuts, including peanuts, pecans, almonds and walnuts. They are dense in energy and high in dietary fiber, making them a very valuable snack for managing weight gain.

-HERBAL PLANTS BENEFITS A LOT WHICH IS GOOD FOR OUR HUMAN BODY and Duncan's Thai Kitchen (Youtube)

Pineapples are a funny-looking fruit with a serious impact on health, and their health and medicinal benefits include their ability to improve respiratory health, cure coughs and colds, improve digestion, help you lose weight, strengthen bones, improve oral health, boost eye health, reduce inflammation, prevent cancer, increase heart health, fight off infections and parasites, improve the immune system, and increase circulation.

Pineapple is a very nutritious fruit that looks like a pinecone. It has a sweet taste. Since the fruit is rich in nutrients, it is very good for health. The fruit is available in the market the whole year. It has nutrients that help in digesting food. Pineapple is a rich source of carbohydrate, vitamins, calcium and minerals. There is very less protein in it. Pineapple contains bromelain enzyme, which helps in curing many diseases.

It contains antioxidants, which fight free radicals. The fruit has anti-inflammatory properties. It is useful for treating gout, atherosclerosis, catarrh, nausea and intestinal worms. Pineapple is very good for nails also. It can heal cracked feet and chapped lips. We will tell you about some other benefits of this fruit.

Pineapples are a delicious tropical fruit that have been celebrated for centuries not only for their distinct and unique taste, but also for their seemingly miraculous health benefits. Pineapples are eaten fresh, juiced, cooked, and preserved and their leaves are even used for wallpaper and ceiling insulation. They belong to the Bromeliaceae family and are actual a composite fruit made of coalesced berries that grow at the crown of a fruiting tree.

Historically, the most significant grower of pineapples was Hawaii, but they are now cultivated in large quantities in Brazil, the Philippines, and Costa Rica. That being said, the fruit is actually native to Paraguay and Brazil, and possibly parts of the Caribbean. The exact movement of pineapples and the evolution of pineapples as a popular global fruit are still somewhat unknown. It was first brought to Europe and Spain following Christopher Columbus’s return there in 1493.

Its fruiting season run from March until June, and each tree can produce a number of fruits. The name pineapple actually evolved in the 17th century due to its similar structure and appearance to pine cones. Traditionally, they were known as “ananas”. The fruit itself is up to a foot long and is surrounded by thorny spikes, topped with hard, waxy leaves, sometimes up to thirty per fruit. Pineapples and their sweet juice are used and enjoyed around the world, even as a popular flavor in alcoholic drinks, the most famous of which is the tropical drink, the pina colada!

Nutritional Value of Pineapples

Aside from the interesting story and appearance of this fruit, it is also a storehouse of huge health benefits due to its wealth of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, copper, manganese, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C, beta carotene, thiamin, B6, and folate, as well as soluble and insoluble fiber, and bromelain.

Health Benefits of Pineapples

1. Arthritis Management: One of the most celebrated uses of pineapple in terms of health is its ability to reduce the inflammation of joints and muscles, particularly those associated with arthritis, a truly debilitating disease that affects millions of people around the world. Pineapples contain a relatively rare proteolytic enzyme called bromelain, which is primarily associated with breaking down complex proteins, but it also has serious anti-inflammatory effects, and has been positively correlated with reducing the signs and symptoms of arthritis in many test subjects.

2. Immune System: A single serving of pineapple has more than 130% of the daily requirement of vitamin-C for human beings, making it one of the richest and most delicious sources of ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is mainly associated with reducing illness and boosting the immune system by stimulating the activity of white blood cells and acting as an antioxidant to defend against the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals are dangerous byproducts of cellular metabolism that can damage various organ systems and disrupt function, as well as cause healthy cells to mutate into cancerous ones. The vitamin C content of pineapples defends against this.

3. Tissue and Cellular Health: One of the commonly overlooked benefits of vitamin C is its essential role in creating collagen. This is partly the reason why it is seen as a healing vitamin, because collagen is the essential protein base of blood vessel walls, skin, organs, and bones. High vitamin C content helps you heal wounds and injuries to the body quickly, along with defending against infections and illness.

4. Cancer Prevention: In addition to the antioxidant potential of vitamin C in the battle against cancer, pineapples are also rich in various other antioxidants, including vitamin A, beta carotene, bromelain, various flavonoid compounds, and high levels of manganese, which is an important co-factor of superoxide dismutase, an extremely potent free radical scavenger that has been associated with a number of different cancers. Pineapple has directly been related to preventing cancers of the mouth, throat, and breast.

5. Digestion: Like most fruits, pineapples are a rich source of fiber, but they are special in that they contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. This means that eating a healthy amount of pineapples can protect you from a vast amount of health conditions, including constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, atherosclerosis and blood clotting, as well as blood pressure. Fiber can bulk up stool, which promotes the passage of food through the digestive tract at a normal rate, and also stimulates the release of gastric and digestive juices to help food dissolve. Furthermore, it bulks up loose stool, which helps with diarrhea and IBS. Fiber also strips the blood vessels clean of excess cholesterol and eliminates it from the body, thereby boosting cardiovascular health

6. Coughs and Colds: The normal immune system boosting power of vitamin C is well known, but that special enzyme, bromelain, is also connected with the reduction of phlegm and mucus build up in the respiratory tracts and sinus cavities. It therefore prevents the illnesses that cause phlegm and mucus build-up, while also treating them by loosening those materials and helping you eliminate them from your body if you’ve already contracted an illness or infection

7. Bone Health: Although pineapples are not famous for having a strong calcium content, which most people immediately associate with bone health, it does have an impressive amount of manganese, which is another trace mineral that is essential in the strengthening of bones, as well as their growth and repair. Manganese is the most prominent mineral in pineapple, and a single serving can deliver more than 70% of your daily requirement of this essential mineral.

8. Oral Health: Along with the antioxidant compounds that protect against oral cancer, pineapples also have astringent properties, which strengthen gums and make sure that your teeth do not become loose. Astringent agents help to tighten up tissues and tone the body so things like tooth loss, hair loss, and muscle weakness or skin loosening does not occur. Pineapples are very powerful astringents and are often prescribed as a natural remedy to fix loosening of teeth or the the retraction of the gums.

9. Eye Health: Vision is one of the most important senses for human beings, and pineapples have been directly connected to boosting eye health and preventing the age-related deficiencies that so often occur. Macular degeneration affects many elderly people, and beta carotene can help to delay this vision problem. Keeping proper amounts of beta-carotene in your diet from fruits and vegetables is essential if you want to properly see the world well into your old age.

10. Blood Pressure: Pineapples are a valuable source of many minerals, and potassium is among them. This is one of the most important minerals in our body, and potassium deficiency can result in a wide array of health hazards. One of the most important functions of potassium is as a vasodilator, meaning that it eases the tension and stress of the blood vessels and promotes blood circulation to various parts of the body. When your blood vessels relax, your blood pressure is reduced and the flow of blood is less restricted. This can prevent clots from blocking the flow of blood and reduces the accumulation of plaque in the arteries and vessels. This helps people prevent conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. So eat your pineapples for a healthy heart!

11. Blood Circulation: In a related benefit to the vasodilating potential of potassium, pineapples also provide the body with copper, another essential mineral that functions in a number of enzymatic reactions and compounds in the body. Most notably, copper is a necessary element for the formation of healthy red blood cells. High red blood cell count increases oxygenation to the various organ systems and makes them function at optimal levels. It also increases cognitive abilities and can maintain neural pathways to prevent neural disorders like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease!

12. Pineapple juice is packed with vitamins and minerals. Pineapple contains vitamin C, B-Complex (folate, thiamine, pyridoxine, riboflavin). On minerals front, it is having potassium, calcium, phosphorous and Manganese. It is also rich in natural soluble and insoluble fibre and low in calories. Fresh pineapple juice is having 75 percent of vitamin C of daily requirements. Vitamin C is good for healthy immune system, effective in cold and cell growth. Vitamin B boosts metabolic activities of the body. B6 regulate blood sugar. Vitamin A maintains healthy mucus membrane, eyesight and skin. Potassium prevents muscle cramps and soreness.

13. Pineapple Reduces the Risk of Hypertension. Pineapple juice reduces hypertension due to adequate presence of potassium and lesser amount of sodium. This proportion of potassium and sodium is the best way to combat high blood pressure. A cup of pineapple juice contains about 1 milligram of sodium and 195 milligram of potassium. So, it is suggested that persons suffering from hypertension may take pineapple juice regularly. Pineapple is considered as the fruit which has among the lowest amount of sodium in fruits.

14. Pineapple Good for Heart Health. Pineapple juice improves blood circulation, good for heart health and ensures smooth blood flow in the circulatory system. Pineapple juice also contains bromelain that makes blood thinner which reduces the chances of heart attack, stroke and other heart diseases. Antioxidants in vitamin C also lower the risks of heart diseases by combating free radicals. Vitamin C also prevents atherosclerosis. It acts like as anti-coagulant.

15. Pineapple good for Intestine Health. Eating fibrous foods helps in improving the health of intestine. Since pineapple contains high amounts of fiber, it can make the intestine healthy and disease free. It contains bromelain enzyme, which helps in digesting food.

16. Pineapple Good for Bleeding Disorders. Pineapple is rich in nutrients with anti-coagulant properties. Therefore, the fruit is very useful for treating bleeding disorders. The fruit can stop the formation of blood clots. You can prevent and treat blood clotting by including pineapple in your diet.

17. Pineapple Good for Healthy Hair. Pineapple can make the hair healthy and disease free. It contains Vitamin C, which helps in reversing the problem of hair fall. Eating the fruit helps in faster growth of hair and preventing many types of hair problems and scalp infection. You can get thick and strong hair by eating pineapple.

A Few Words of Warning: The benefits of eating pineapple are clear from the impressive list of qualities that you just read, but there is always something about foods that should be cautioned against, and pineapples are no exception. The bromelain in pineapples is primarily a meat-tenderizing enzyme, which is why it is so helpful in the digestion of tough foods. This can result in the softening or tenderness of your “meat” as well, meaning that your lips, gums, and tongue might experience some tenderness or sensitivity if you eat too much pineapple. Bromelain is a powerful chemical, as is vitamin C, if taken in excess. Both of these are in high proportions in pineapple, and an “overdose” can lead to vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and nausea. Also, bromelain has been known to stimulate menstruation, so pregnant women should avoid excessive pineapple, as the high levels of bromelain can actually lead to a miscarriage in rare cases. Other than those health concerns, grab one of these spiky tropical fruits and dig in. Your body will thank you for it!
-HERBAL PLANTS BENEFITS A LOT WHICH IS GOOD FOR OUR HUMAN BODY

If pineapple is known as the "king" of fruits, guava is considered the "queen". Thought to be native to southern Central America and Mexico where it's been a major crop for centuries, guavas are members of the myrtle and eucalyptus family, growing throughout the tropics on small trees with smooth, copper-colored bark. Another type, Psidium cattleianum, grown in flower and foliage gardens, is not for eating.

Soft, sweet, and fragrant when ripe, guavas are small and round or oval, with varying colors from yellow to pink to dark red, depending on the variety. Each fruit contains a large number of tiny, edible seeds at the center. Guavas are very good simply sliced for a snack or added to salads. In other areas of the world, guava is popular as a thick, rich paste made into cheese. Fresh guava juice is common in Hawaii. In Fiji, guavas are used to make tasty jelly.

While one of the first references to guava fruit was made in 1526 in the West Indies, they were only introduced in Florida in 1847, where they became familiar commodity within about 40 years. Between 1948 and 1969, 21 guava cultivars from seven countries were introduced in Hawaii. Today, about 125,327 acres are dedicated to guava cultivation in India, yielding more than 27,300 tons every year.

Apparently a somewhat fragile fruit, a sharp dip in temperatures can threaten guava trees in northern California, while the intense heat of Southern California scorches them.

It's no wonder guava is called a “super fruit.” Compared to the same amount of pineapple, guavas contain 30 more calories per serving, but three times the protein and more than four times the fiber. All that fiber makes guavas a great "regulator," while helping to protect the colon by reducing the risk of cancer-causing toxins and chemical build up; the fiber actually binds to the toxins and helps move them out of the body.

While pineapples provide 131% of the daily value of vitamin C in a serving, guavas offer 628%. Guava should be eaten with the skin, like an apple, imparting even higher concentrations of vitamin C. Eating fruits rich in this vitamin helps the body build up resistance to infection, including infectious diseases, while scavenging free radicals that could cause serious illnesses.

Guavas contain: vitamin A (21% of the daily value), essential for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin; folate (20%), great for pregnant women to help prevent neural tube defects. Flavonoids include beta-carotene (a known cancer inhibitor); lycopene, which in pink guava has been found to protect the skin against UV rays and help prevent prostate cancer; lutein and cryptoxanthin, both antioxidants. Guavas have potassium, too - more per serving than even a banana - which is important as heart rate and blood pressure regulators.

Smaller amounts of other vitamins in guava deserve mention: pantothenic acid, niacin, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine),vitamin E and K, and the minerals magnesium, copper, and manganese, the latter imparting the enzymesuperoxide dismutase.

However, consume guavas in moderation because they contain fructose, which may be harmful to your health in excessive amounts.

Amazing Health Benefits of Guava Fruits:

1.Anti-Ageing Properties- Guavas are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and antioxidants like carotene and lycopene which help protect the skin from wrinkles. A guava a day, keeps fine lines away. Guava is a rich source of vitamins A, B, C and potassium which are good antioxidants and detoxifiers. They fight free radicals, thus keeping your skin glowing and free from premature signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. Besides, lycopene protects the healthy cells from toxins that accumulate in the body due to metabolism and environmental pollution. These toxins also cause premature aging by damaging the DNA in charge of growth and development

2. Stress-Buster- The magnesium present in guavas helps to relax the muscles and nerves of the body. So after a hard workout or a long day at the office, a guava is certainly what you need to relax your muscles, combat stress and give your system a good energy boos

3. Good for Your Brain- “Guavas contain vitamin B3 and vitamin B6, also known as niacin and pyridoxine respectively, which help in improving blood circulation to the brain, stimulating cognitive function and relaxing the nerves”, remarks Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja.

4. Weight Loss- Want to shed a few pounds? Guava is just the ticket. Without compromising your intake of proteins, vitamins and fiber, guava helps you lose weight by regulating your metabolism. It’s a win-win! Guava makes for a very filling snack and satisfies the appetite very easily. Guava, especially raw guava, also has far less sugar as compared to apples, oranges, grapes, and other fruits.

5. Cough and Cold- Guava has one of the highest quantities of vitamin-C and iron among fruits, and both are proven to be preventive against cold and viral infections. The juice of raw and immature guavas or a decoction of guava-leaves is very helpful in relieving cough and cold since it helps get rid of mucus and disinfects the respiratory tract, throat and lungs.

6. Guava During Pregnancy- Guavas contain folic acid, or vitamin B-9, which is recommended for pregnant women since it can help in developing the baby’s nervous system and protect the newborn from neurological disorders.

7. Beats Toothache- Guava leaves have a potent anti-inflammatory action and a powerful antibacterial ability which fights infection and kills germs. Thus, consuming guava leaves works as a fantastic home remedy for toothache. The juice of guava leaves has also been known to cure toothaches, swollen gums and oral ulcers.

8. Improves Eyesight- Due to the presence of Vitamin A, guava is well known as a booster for vision health. It can not only prevent degradation of eyesight, but even improve eyesight. It can help slow down the appearance of cataracts and macular degeneration. Even though guavas are not as rich in Vitamin A as carrots, they are still a very good source of the nutrient.

9. Treats Constipation- It is one of the richest sources of dietary fiber in comparison to other fruits and just 1 guava fulfills about 12% of your daily recommended intake of fibre, which makes it extremely beneficial for your digestive health. Guava seeds, if ingested whole or chewed, serve as excellent laxatives too, helping the formation of healthy bowel movements.

10. Heart Healthy- Guavas improve the sodium and potassium balance of the body, thereby regulating blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Guavas also help lower the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol (LDL), which contribute to the development of heart disease. This magical fruit improves levels of the good cholesterol (HDL). A study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension showed that dietary adherence to guavas improves the sodium/potassium balance of the body, thereby regulating blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Besides, guavas also help lower the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol, which contribute to development of heart disease. They also improve the levels the good cholesterol (HDL).

11. Diabetes-Friendly- Due to the rich fibre content and low glycaemic index, guavas prevent the development of diabetes. While the low glycemic index inhibits a sudden spike in sugar levels, the fibre content ensures the sugar levels are well regulated.

12. Slows Down Sugar Absorption- Guava can aid weight loss as it effectively prevents or slows down the absorption of sugar in the blood. As you know, sugar is a big problem when you are trying to lose weight. It is this ability that makes this fruit great for diabetics.

13. Lowers Risk of Cancer- “Lycopene, quercetin, vitamin C and other polyphenols act as potent antioxidants which neutralise free radicals generated in the body, preventing the growth of cancer cells. Guavas have shown to be widely successful in reducing prostate cancer risk and also inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells since it is rich in lycopene”, says Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja.

14. Immunity Booster- Did you know: Guavas are one of the richest sources of vitamin C? It’s true. Guavas contain 4 times the vitamin C content present in oranges. Vitamin C helps improve immunity and protects you against common infections and pathogens.

15. Thyroid Health- They are a good source for copper, which is an important part of regulating thyroid metabolism by helping to control hormone production and absorption. The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the body for regulating hormones and organ system function, so guava can help balance your health in many ways.

16. Helps you relax- Magnesium present in guavas helps in relaxing your nerves and muscles. In today’s stressful times, consuming a guava to combat stress and relax is certainly a good idea. Guava is rich in magnesium which acts as a nervous relaxant. It helps to relax muscles and nerves of the body. So after a hard work out, a guava is certainly what you need to relax your muscles and give your system a nice energy boost.

17. Healthy Mind- It helps to keep your brain functions positive by maintaining good blood flow and also by infusing it with Vit B3 and Vit B6. Vit B6 is pyridoxine which is good for nerves. It keeps your nerves relaxed.

18. Scurvy- Guava can outdo many other fruits, including orange and other citrus fruits, in terms of itsconcentration of vitamin-C. A deficiency of vitamin-C can cause scurvy, and proper intake of vitamin-C is the only known remedy for that dangerous disease. In fact, guavas contain 5X more vitamin-C than oranges, which are often heralded as the absolute best source of that beneficial vitamin.

19. Rich In Fiber- As you know, fiber plays a very important role in weight loss.One guava contains 9 grams of fiber. This nutrient keeps you feeling full for longer, promotes better digestion of food, prevents constipation and also helps in reducing the amount of saturated fat that is absorbed by your body.

20. Dengue Fever- Guava juice is an effective remedy to treat dengue fever. It is recommended to drink the guava juice at least three times in a day for effective results.

21. Cholesterol- Free And Low In Carbs- Another reason that guava is such a great weight loss food is because it is free of cholesterol and very low in digestible carbohydrates . It is one of the best fruits to add to your diet when you want it to be low in carbs. Being cholesterol-free, it protects you from many diseases, including heart disease.

22. Improves Circulation- Guava can improve brain function because it improves circulation in your body. Because it contains high levels of potassium, it helps in regulating blood pressure. It has been reported that this mineral can help in reversing the effects of excessive sodium in the body.

23. Cleanses The Body- With its richness in fiber, guava is an excellent natural body cleanser. This is great when you are trying to shed those unwanted pounds. It helps in flushing toxins out of your body as well as eliminating waste properly. This, in turn, helps you burn more fat.

24. Antibacterial Agent- Guava Juice acts as an antibacterial agent. Guava has a capacity to shrink and contract any open tissues in your body. This has anti-bacterial properties that can flush out the harmful toxins and bacteria from your body.

25. Flu- Guava juice is proven to be a good remedy to cure Flu. Frequent weather condition change, low immunity can cause air-borne diseases like flu. Flu cases always rise during the rainy season. Flu can easily be cured by your own body’s immune system. Vitamin C is the most essential nutrient that can fight off flu-causing viruses and boost the immune system. Guava juice is the best way to get vitamin C from the natural source.

26. Improves Complexion- Guava helps regain the skin’s radiance and freshness. Reap the benefits by preparing a DIY scrub at home: All you have to do is mash some guava flesh with an egg yolk and apply it on your face. Rinse off after 20 minutes with warm water. When used once or twice a week, this scrub will remove dead cells from your skin and lighten your complexion. Guavas are also a great source of Vitamin K, which helps get rid of skin discoloration, dark circles, redness and acne irritation.

27. Improves Texture- Guavas rank high in astringent properties, guava leaves and unripe guavas even higher.Guava helps tone up and tighten the facial muscles, so apply a decoction of the leaves and fruit on your skin and voila.

28. UV Protection- Pink guavas contain twice the amount of lycopene present in tomatoes. Lycopene is an antioxidant that protects your skin from being damaged by UV rays and environmental pollution. A guava provides about 2.9 grams of lycopene.

29. Natural Skin Toner- The high concentration of vitamins, minerals and nutrients in guava helps in keeping your skin toned, fresh and wrinkle free. Guava is effective in enhancing skin texture, tightening the loosened skin and reviving the lost elasticity of the skin. The astringent qualities of guavas keep your skin free from blemishes, acne, wrinkles and pimples. Washing your face with the decoction of immature guava fruit and its leaves beautifies your skin.

30. Skin Hydration- Proper hydration is vital for healthy skin. Water plays an important role in keeping your skin hydrated. Thus, it is recommended to have 8 glasses of water in a day. Guava is an excellent source of water with 81% of the fruit comprising of water. In this way, it plays an important role in skin hydration.

31. Cholesterol- Free And Low In Carbs- Another reason that guava is such a great weight loss food is because it is free of cholesterol and very low in digestible carbohydrates (3). It is one of the best fruits to add to your diet when you want it to be low in carbs. Being cholesterol-free, it protects you from many diseases, including heart disease.

32. Antitumor and Cancer controlling properties- Guava contains a high amount of lycopene (5204 micrograms) which is carotenoid phytonutrients. Lycopene has an anti-tumor and anti-cancer property.Lycopene protects from oxygen free radicals as it actively fights to neutralize it. So eating guava will help to combat prostate cancer. Guava is a rich source of antioxidants, phytonutrients and flavonoid that make it highly beneficial to protect from cancer. It contains a high amount of Vitamin C which protects from oxygen free radicals. Free radicals are produced due to oxidative stress. These free radicals damage cells DNA that turns it into a cancer cell. But antioxidants neutralize these free radicals and acts as a shield to protect DNA from free radicals. As we know the main cause of cancer is free radicals and the damage caused by them to DNA marks the onset of cancer. Guava contains antioxidants that protect from free radicals and lycopene prevents tumor growth. So with both these nutrient guava becomes the healthiest food to prevent cancer. Lycopene is effective to protect from prostate cancer. Guava antioxidants combination of Vitamin C and beta-carotene are effective to protect from breast, skin, stomach, oral cavity, pancreas, rectum, cervix and lung cancer due to its dense antioxidants. It also contains dietary fiber that help to clean toxins from the colon. Thus, it reduces the effects of toxin in the colon and protect from colon cancer.

33. Treatment Of Blackheads And Skin Itchiness- In case of blackheads, you can blend the leaves of the guava fruit with little water and apply it as a scrub on your nose to remove blackheads. Guava leaves can also rid you of skin itchiness as they contain allergy blocking compounds.

34. Combats Hair Loss- Being extremely rich in vitamin C, guava is one of those fruits that promote healthy hair growth. It also helps in combating hair loss problems.

35. Balancing Electrolyte- Guava contains enough Potassium to fulfill about 9% of our daily requirement. Potassium is required to maintain sodium and fluid level in the body also known as an electrolyte. The electrolyte is a composition of minerals like Potassium, Sodium and Chloride and is necessary to transmit the electrical impulses through the body. These electrically charged particles carry neurotransmission and enable muscle function. Many sports persons, after a heavily charged session of exercise and practice experience severe cramps. Those cramps are a direct result of the loss of electrolyte through sweating. So food items rich in these minerals is recommended before and after the physical exertion. Guavas can make a great before or after snack in these robust sessions because they are light, have a bit of fiber and contribute in balancing the electrolyte in the body.

36. Blood Pressure and Blood Production- The Potassium and Vitamin C have an important role to play in overall cardiac health. Potassium is a key element in maintaining the rhythm and function of all the muscles in our body including the heart. The beat of heart lets the blood flow in and out of the heart is muscle contraction. The balance of this rhythm is maintained by potassium that is plentiful in Guava. Apart from muscle function the Vitamin C helps in growth and repair of body tissue and cartilage resulting in healthy blood vessels. This way, together Potassium and Vitamin C regulate blood pressure and help in normalizing the blood flow through the body. Guava also contains vitamins like Vitamin E, K, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, Vitamin B6 and minerals like copper, manganese and magnesium that are important for blood formation. Also due to the high content of Vitamin C, guava increases body’s capacity to absorb iron.

37. Diarrhea and dysentery- Guava is very rich in astringents (compounds that make your gums feel tighter and fresher). After you chew guava leaves, eat a raw guava, or use some guava-based toothpaste), your mouth feels healthier, and the astringent qualities also add substance to loose bowels and reduce symptoms of diarrhea. These astringents are alkaline in nature and have disinfectant and anti-bacterial properties, thus helping to cure dysentery by inhibiting microbial growth and removing extra mucus from the intestines.

Furthermore, other nutrients in guava such as vitamin-C, Carotenoids and potassium, strengthen and tone the digestive system while simultaneously disinfecting it. Guava is also beneficial in treating gastroenteritisfor the same reasons stated above.

Other benefits: There are so many health benefits of guava, it is hard to know where to begin. It is important to know that guava helps control diabetes and protects the prostate. The juice of guava leaves has been known to cure toothaches, swollen gums and oral ulcers, and the juice speeds up the healing process of wounds when applied externally. Finally, it reduces the frequency of convulsions, epilepsy, and bacterial infections.

As with many alternative foods and supplements, there is little risk in eating them in natural form, but you must do your due diligence when taking it in medical forms. Be cautious when adding any new medicinal form of guava into your diet, and it is better to stick to eating guava in its natural form as a raw fruit.

Tips for Usage (Cooking/ Eating)

As stated earlier, guava is a nutritious fruit with edible seeds and skin. Several varieties are available with each variety having a unique flavor and aroma. Before proceeding to eat guavas, it is necessary to wash them in cold running water to remove any dust and insecticide residues. The floral ends and remnants ire. sepals should be removed and the tips ends should be cut with a sharp knife. Guavas can then be cubed or sliced like an apple. Guavas should be eaten with their skin on as the edible rind contains abundant amounts of vitamin C. Even the seeds can be eaten; and are very tasty and crunchy. Besides being eaten raw, guavas are often cooked to eliminate their strong odor as some people do not like it. Given below are some tips and recipes to enjoy this exotic fruit.

1. Guava juice and nectar are refreshing drinks and are often used as an ingredient in cold or frozen drinks or in mixed liquor beverages.

2. Due to its unique flavor, guavas are often used to make jelly. They have a high content of pectin, a chemical substance that helps jelly to set. The juice from half-ripe guavas can be combined with hibiscus flowers or low pectin fruits to make jelly. Guavas are sometimes also used in butter, jams, marmalades, and preserves.

3. Fresh guavas can be simply sliced and topped with a little sugar and cream. Guava cubes can be added to other tropical fruits in a salad. Guavas can also be used with cheeses or in apple dishes or as sauces for meat and poultry. Another way to eat a guava is to simply cut it in half and sprinkle with a little lemon juice; and eat flesh and seeds with a spoon, discarding the skin.

4. Freshly extracted juice of pinkish or reddish fleshed guava is not only sweet and yummy but also rich in vitamins. In fact, it can give a tough competition to any refreshment. You can easily prepare it at home. Wash and peel a guava. Add some sugar, ½ inch ginger (optional) and cold water; and blend it in a blender or juicer. Filter out the hard seeds and add some ice cubes while serving. This juice is quite tasty and refreshing, especially in hot weather.

5. You can prepare a cool and refreshing drink by combining guava pulp and lemonade with a dash of lemon juice and sugar syrup. For this purpose, take about 8 large guavas, peel and cut them into big pieces and blend them in a blender with very little water. After removing and straining, add 4 teaspoons lemon juice, sugar syrup and a few drops of light pink color. Mix well and keep it in a bottle. While serving, add 1 teaspoon of this mixture and 3 ice cubes to ½ a bottle of lemonade.

6. You can prepare a delicious salad by combining roasted guava with feta cheese. For this purpose, cut the guavas into thin round slices and marinate them with some chopped parsley, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, black pepper powder and salt. Roast the slices till they turn golden brown and caramelize the pine nuts with honey. Mix the roasted slices of guava with caramelized pine nuts, lettuce leaves and cubes of feta cheese. Pour this dressing on the salad and garnish with chopped parsley and feta cheese. It can be served cold.

7. Guava can be combined with apple to prepare a delicious curry. For this purpose, take two apples and two guavas; and cut them into big pieces. Melt two tablespoons ghee in a pot and put 3 cloves and 3 cinnamon pieces. Roast 10 to 12 raisins and 4 to 5 cashew nuts for two minutes and then add the guavas and apples. Cook for some time and add 2 tablespoons red chili powder, 1 ½ tablespoons turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon coriander seeds powder and cumin seeds powder; and some salt and sugar. Remove and stir the mixture.

8. The sweet taste and strong fragrance of Florida pink guava make it suitable for dessert type dishes. Guava kheer is one such dessert that is quiet simple to prepare. All you need.to do is pressure cook the guava and remove the seeds. Sieve it through a strainer. Adding sugar and milk to the pulp, bring it to a boil. When the sugar gets dissolved, add cardamom powder and garnish with roasted dry fruits.
-BK Rubytha Huntarigo Batiller of HERBAL PLANTS BENEFITS A LOT WHICH IS GOOD FOR OUR HUMAN BODY