Turmeric - The King of Spices

This spice is one of nature’s natural healing wonders whether it is used topically on the skin for healing and anti- aging treatments or as part of a culinary delight.

Turmeric is a member of the ginger family. In its raw form it looks like ginger root and can be eaten raw, although I do not recommend it as the raw root will stain your teeth immediately. However it is more easily found dried in the spice section in your local grocery store.

This spice has a myriad of uses. Turmeric is typically used in traditional Indian curries, breads, vegetables and meat dishes. You will notice the turmeric leaves these dishes with a warm, rich golden hue.

Turmeric’s natural antioxidant, antibacterial and anti- inflammatory properties have been used to treat skin disorders such as acne, eczema and rosacea. It has been reported to reduces skin pigmentation and even out skin tone. In India it is used for many anti-aging and healing treatments. When used as a face cleanser it reduces unwanted facial hair. Its antiseptic properties make it a natural option for healing minor cuts, abrasions and burns.

A pinch of turmeric added to a natural chemical free face mask will leave you with a glowing complexion. Turmeric has been reported to be beneficial in treating health challenges from cancer to Alzheimer’s to rheumatoid arthritis.

There are so many ways to incorporate this spice into your daily diet. It can be added to your tea or coffee in the morning, sprinkled on salad dressings, marinades or simply mix it with raw honey a drop of olive oil and eat it right off the spoon.

If you suffer from gallbladder issues you should not take turmeric. 

http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03001/Three-Reasons-to-Eat-Turmeric.html 

http://www.cancer.gov/newscenter/cancerresearchnews/2011/UCLAStudyTurmeric 

http://parkinsonsand5htp.blogspot.com/2012/05/curcumin-cure-all.html#more 

Edemame Soy Beans - Great for the weight watchers

For those of you watching your weight this is a great satisfying snack, that will not leave you craving for something sweet 5 minutes later. They are also a nice addition to salads, soups,
pasta or served as a side dish.

These delicious green beans are said to have originated in China, and have been a favorite in Asia for centuries. Edamame are extremely high in antioxidants and low in fat. They are regarded as a complete protein. This means they contain all nine amino acids the human body requires. They are very popular with the vegetarian and vegan community for that reason.

You will find Edamame in the frozen section of your grocery store. They can be purchased either with the shells on or off, it is your preference. They are cooked from frozen with a dash of salt and take a couple of minutes to cook.

Edamame beans make a great after school snack and they are fun to eat because you pop them out of the pods and into your mouth with your fingers. 

Simply Strawberries

Traditionally this delicious, vibrant fruit is in season from June until about mid August. Strawberry picking is a great weekend activity for young children. There is nothing like breathing fresh countryside air.

Take the opportunity show your children how strawberries grow. Let them experience nature and taste how sweet real food can be.   

When picking strawberries make sure they are ripe. That means they should be bright, fire engine red and medium in size about 1 1/2 inches from tip to stem. Beware, once picked they will not ripen like other fruit.   

Strawberries are loaded with high levels of antioxidants, are low in calories, cholesterol free and are a good source of manganese and potassium. The strawberry is 90% water, has low sugar content and is commonly used to aid in weight loss.   

This is a wonderful fruit added to salads, grilled white fish, chicken, any grain dish (hot or cold), breakfast cereal and smoothies.   Strawberries can be lightly grilled with a pinch of garlic, salt and black pepper. They will sweeten any dish and you may find they take the place of your favorite salad dressing.   

Happy strawberry picking!   

I look forward to reading your comments.