Cherries Health Benefits

Cherries are a very tasty and nutritious fruit. They contain many vitamins, minerals and compounds which have many health benefits. The word cherry refers to both the tree and the fleshy fruit (drupe) that contains a single stony seed. Cherry belongs to the family Rosaceae, genus Prunus, along with almonds, peaches, plums, apricots and bird cherries. The cherries selected for eating are derived primarily from two species – the wild cherry, which has given rise to the Sweet Cherry to which most cherry cultivars belong, and the Sour Cherry, used mainly for cooking. Besides fruit, cherries have attractive flowers, and are commonly planted for their flower display in spring. Several Asian cherries are particularly noted for their attractive flowers. The Japanese sakura, in particular, is a national symbol and is celebrated in the yearly Hanami Festival.

Cherries contain anthocyanins, the red pigment in berries, which help reduce pain and inflammation. Anthocyanins are also potent antioxidants. Cherries contain high levels of melatonin. Besides being an anti-oxidant, melatonin has also been shown to be important for the function of the immune system. The skin of the cherries holds most of the essential antioxidants vital to their health benefits. There is considerable interest, at present in the use of fresh cherries or cherry juice to treat gout, a painful, inflammatory condition affecting the joints. Although a good source of vitamins, they are not as high in vitamin C or vitamin A as fruits like strawberries or blackcurrants but its the presence of other antioxidants and compounds that are responsible for the many health benefits of cherries. Cherries are low in calories, low in fat and contain a high percentage of water.Increasing water consumption will boost energy levels and help increase the metabolism. Many people are discovering the benefits of eating high water fruits like cherries for help in losing weight. Cherries help stimulate the secretion of digestive juices and of the urine and are effective cleansers of the liver and kidneys. Cherries are particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of colon cancer

Cherry tastes sweet and sour. It is used in many deserts, drinks, cookies, cake, pastry, shakes, ice creams, pies, jams and jellies as flavoring. It can be used for gelatin desserts, punch or sherbtet, and has been added as an ascorbic acid supplement to other fruit juices. The fruits may be made into syrup or, with added pectin made into jelly, jam, and other preserves.

Coconut

The coconut palm  is a member of the family Arecaceae (palm family). It is large, growing up to 30m in height, with pinnate leaves. The term coconut refers to the fruit of the palm. The palm is grown throughout the tropical world, for its decorative as well as for its culinary and non-culinary uses.
The coconut is a dry nut known as a fibrous drupe. The husk is composed of fibers called coir and there is an inner stone. The endocarp is the hardest part. It has three germination pores, visible on the outside surface once the husk is removed. Although coconut meat contains less fat than other dry nuts such as peanuts and almonds, it is noted for its high amount of saturated fat. The endosperm surrounds a hollow interior space, filled with air and often a liquid referred to a s coconut water, not to be confused with coconut milk. Coconut water from the unripe coconut, however, can be drunk fresh.
The white, fleshy part of the seed is edible and used fresh or dried in cooking. The cavity is filled with coconut water which contains sugar, fiber, proteins antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Coconut water provides as isotonic electrolyte balance, and is a highly nutritious food source. It is used as a refreshing drink throughout the humid tropics and in isotonic sports drinks. The roots are used as a mouth wash, and a medicine for dysentery. A frayed out piece of root can also be used as a tooth brush.
Coconut oil contains lauric acid.  The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin which is claimed to help in dealing with viruses and bacteria causing diseases such as herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV. It helps in fighting harmful bacteria such as listeria monocytogenes and heliobacter pylori, and harmful protozoa such as giardia lamblia. As a result of these various health benefits of coconut oil, though its exact mechanism of action was unknown, it has been extensively used in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicinal system.
Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrition for hair.  Regular massage of coconut oil helps prevent dandruff and gives shine to the hair.  It acts as an effective moisturizer on all types of skins including dry skin.  There is no chance of having any adverse side effects on the skin with the application of coconut oil.  Coconut oil helps in preventing premature aging and degenerative diseases due to its antioxidant properties. Coconut oil is very effective against a variety of infections due to its antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.  Coconut oil helps in preventing kidney and gall bladder diseases. It also helps in dissolving kidney stones.  Coconut oil also helps in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections.
Coconut water can be used as an intravenous fluid. Oil can be extracted from the fresh flesh, and used in many ways, including as a medicine and in cosmetics, or as a direct replacement for diesel fuel. The leaves provide materials for baskets and roofing. The husk and shells can be used for fuel and are a source of charcoal. The stiff leaflet midribs can be used to make cooking skewers or are bound into bundies, brooms and brushes.  Dried coconut leaves can be burned to ash, which can be harvested for lime. Dried half shells are used as the bodies of musical instruments. Coconut trunks are used for building bridges, and are preferred for their straightness, strength and salt resistance.
Coconut milk is made by processing grated coconut with hot water or milk, which extracts the oil and aromatic compounds. When refrigerated and left to set, coconut cream will rise to the top and separate the milk.
The sap derived from incising the flower cluster of the coconut is fermented to produce palm wine, also known as toddy. The sap can also be reduced by boiling to create a sweet syrup or candy. Coconut water is great for poaching eggs or fish. It is also suitable for adding a tangy taste to soups, meat and poultry. Coconut milk blends beautifully with many dishes, including curries soups and sauces.

Botanical Name : Cocos nucifera

Chives

Chives is the smallest species of the onion family alliceae. They bloom in May and June. The pretty lavender-pink globular flower heads of chives not only beautify the garden, but they can also be used as a garnish for salad dishes. It grows in clumps rather than as individual plants. Its species name dervives from the Greek word skhoinos(sedge) and prason(onion). Its English name chive is derived from the French word cive derived from cepa being the Latin word for onion. The Romans seem to have believed that chives could relieve a sore throat and sunburns. Chives are native to the cool regions of Europe and Asia. Now they grow wild in North America, especially around the Great Lakes region. They can even be found growing wild in your backyard lawn. Chives are a popular hardy garden plant that grows from 8 to 15 inches tall. Chives can be used for control of high blood pressure. The whole plant has a beneficial effect on the digestive system and blood circulation. It improves appetite, is a digestive, a hypotensive and a tonic. It possesses anti-bacterial properties and is used in Vietnam in the treatment of cough, sore throat, asthma dysentery and dyspepsia. When added to the diet on a regular basis chives help reduce blood cholesterol. The seed contains alkaloids and saponins. It is used in the treatment of spermatorrhoea, haematuria, incontinence and lumbago. The most prominent vitamin contained in chives is vitamin K. They also contains vitamins A and C. Calcium is the most prominent mineral. Chives are known to be a mild anti-inflammatory. The health benefit of chives is that it reduces the risk of several types of cancers. The leaves are shredded (straws) for use as a condiment in fish, potato and soup preparations. Chives are widely used in traditional dishes in France and Sweden. The flowers may also be used to garnish various dishes. Chives are one of the finest herbs of French cuisine, which also include tarragon, chervil and /or parsley. Both the leaves and the stalks of the flowers are used as flavouring similar to chives green onions or garlic and as a stir fry ingredient. In China, they are often used to make dumplings with a combination of eff, shrimp and pork. The flowers may also be used as a spice. Chives are usually used fresh and are a common addition to baked potatoes, cream soups, and egg dishes. Chives have been cultivated since earliest times and are universally important as vegetables, flavorings, and medicinal plants. Chives are widely used in stews and soups, especially potato and asparagus soups. The chopped leaves can be sprinkled in salads or used to flavor various sauces, dips, soy mayonnaise, and sour cream. Chives can also be used to garnish cottage cheese, and potatoes. botanical name : Allium schoenoprasum

Radish

Radish can be eaten raw or cooked . The most common use of radishes is garnishing or it is used as an ingredient in green salads. Radishes are root vegetables that resemble beets or turnips in appearance and texture, but have a distinct flavor. It is the root of a plant classified in the mustard family.

The flavor of radish varies from mild to peppery and pungent, depending on the variety.  Radishes are available all year long, and are at their peak from June through September. There are five main varieties of radishes Red Glode, daikons, Black, white Icicles, California Mammoth White. 

Radishes and their greens provide an excellent source of vitamin C and a powerful antioxidant. It has anti-inflammatory properties too.  Radish leaves are a good source of calcium.  Radishes contain cancer-protective properties.  The sulphur based chemicals present in radish increase the flow of bile.  This improves the health of gall bladder.  Radish can protect as against ailments like  Jaundice, piles, urinary disorders, weightloss  cancer Leucoderma, skin disorders, kidney disorders and insect bites.

Radishes are usually eaten raw or in salads.  They are primarily used in Japanese and Indian cooking. To retain the freshness and crunchiness it is advised to soak Radish in cold water. Radishes come in a number of varieties of shapes, sizes and colours.

Botanicalname: Raphanus sativus

Nutritious and Healthy food

Healthy and nutritious food is very important for maintaining a good health. Healthy food involves, regular and timely food, juices, nuts, snacks and much more. A balanced diet, good food habits are essential for a healthy life. In the normal course of life, we forget to take necessary nutrition that is required for our body and hence we tend to get into many life style diseases. It is very essential for a person to know and understand the benefits of nature's creation like fruits, vegetables, nuts,etc. You can find useful articles on nutrition and health benefits of various fruits and vegetables. Read on and add these to your daily life. The value of food is more when it is taken in a systematic manner and also by understanding the benefits of every bite we take.

Custard Apple - Health Benefits: Custard Apple promotes digestion and cures diarrhoea Apples are rich in vitamins and helps to reduce risks of colon cancer, prostrate cancer and lung cancer. Radishes and their greens provide an excellent source of vitamin C and a powerful antioxidant. It has anti-inflammatory properties too.  Radish leaves are a good source of calcium.  Radishes contain cancer-protective properties.  Chives are known for their beneficial effect on the digestive system and blood pressure. Chives are said to reduce the risk of several types of cancers. Coconut is known for its antifungal, anti bacterial properties: Coconut oil forms the base of many Ayurvedic medicinal preparations. Cherries reduce pain and inflammation: Cherries are good source of many vitamins, minerals and are tasty to eat. Plums lowers age-related macular degeneration: Plums are sweet, juicy and are a good source of Vitamin c, Vitamin A, Vitamin B2 and Potassium. Spinach when cooked is an excellent source of Iron and Calcium: It is recommended for pregnant women in the first 3 months for its folic acid contents.. Beetroots rich in potassium and fiber: Beetroots contains good amount of folate, potassium and manganese. They are less in calories and are effective in curing skin problems. Cauliflower is good for the heart and reduces the risk of cancer: Cauliflower is highly nutritious and is effective in curing many ailments. It is rich in folate and is good for pregnant woman. Mangoes are rich in Iron and Vitamins: Mangoes supply ample potassium, making them ideal for hypertensive patients or anyone looking to replenish energy after physical activity Tomatoes reduce the risk of heart attack: Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene. Lycopene is a potent antioxidant. Musk Melon - Tropical Delight : Musk melon is a tropical fruit which is been cultivated for a very long time. It is a rich source of vitamin 'C' and is effective in reducing body heat. Cabbage helps cure ulcers and prevents colon cancer: Cabbage is a well known common vegetable. Its is low in calories and is long known for its healing properties. Bitter Gourd - Health Benefits: Bitter Gourd is a tropical vegetable. It is a well known cure for diabetes. Avocado - for fitness and health : Avocado is rich in pottasium content. The fruit is also a good source of vitamins. Papaya - A rich source of Minerals and Fibre : Papaya has high nutritional benefits. It is rich in Anti-oxidants, Minerals and Fibre. It also helps in Skin Treatments. Oats - Fibre food that cures constipation : Oats have some unique fatty acids and antioxidants which together with Vitamin E slow cell damage. Nutritional benefits of Watermelon : Watermelon is highly refreshing during summer. It does not contain cholesterol and helps in eye sight also. Nutritional benefits of Banana : Banana helps in the treatment of Depression, Anemia, Blood Pressure, Brain power, Constipation, etc. Almond: A highly Nutritious fruit : Consumption of Almond lowers cholesterol levels, reduces the risk of lifestyle diseases and gives overall wellness Egg: A nutritious food : Egg is a healthy and nutritious food. Lecithin in eggs prevents the absorption of cholesterol of egg and other sources too Calcium: The bone builder: Calcium Builds Strong Bones. Get calcium from greens, beans, or fortified foods. Vitamin D controls your body's use of calcium. Healthy food for Stress Free Life: Nutritious and balanced diet is a must to free ourself from the physical and mental diseases and relieve stress Mushrooms - A highly nutritious food: Mushrooms are rich in minerals, vitamin D (ergosterol), thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), dietary fibre as well as all the essential amino acids and are low in fat and calories. Gooseberry (Amla) : Rich in Vitamin C: Amla or Gooseberry has many nutritious benefits. The amla has been found to be the most abundant source of Vitamin C in the plant kingdom Health Benefits of Zucchini : Zucchini when consumed regularly helps maintain blood pressure at normal levels.

Apples for Health

The proverb "An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Apples come in all shades of reds, greens, yellows. Apples are fat, sodium, and cholesterol free. Apples are delicious and a natural mouth freshener. Apples are a source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber such as pectin actually helps to prevent cholesterol buildup in the lining of blood vessel walls, thus reducing the incident of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

It is a good to eat apples with their skin. Almost half of the vitamin C content is just underneath the skin. Most of apple's fragrance cells are also concentrated in the skin. Apple juice is good as a nutritious drink but excellent in overcoming a liverish feeling, in helping sort out digestive disturbances and for flushing the kidneys. Many of these health providing properties are retained in cider vinegar, so if you cannot obtain apples to prepare your juice you can use instead two teaspoonfuls of cider vinegar in a glass of water. Apples may reduce the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer apples contain relatively low amounts of Vitamin C as well as several other antioxidant compounds. The fiber content, while less than in most other fruits, helps regulate bowel movements and may thus reduce the risk of colon cancer. They also reduce the risk of heart disease, promote weight loss and controls cholesterol.

Apples are a good source of dietary fibre and vitamin C. Most of the apples fibre is contained in its skin. It contains numerous nutrients, including carbohydrates, sugar, sodium, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids and more unfortunately, in conventionally grown apples, the apple skin is also the part most likely to contain pesticide residues. Since pelling results in the loss of its valuable fibre, choose organically grown apples whenever possible. Rinse apples under clear running water like you would any fruit. To prevent browning when slicing apples for a recipe, simply put the slices in a bowl of cold water to which a spoonful of lemon juice has been added.