Broccoli and cauliflower, members of the cabbage family, are little powerhouses of health. Other health-supporting cabbage family members, also known as cruciferous vegetables, are Brussels sprouts, cabbage, collard greens, kale, and turnips. Multiple studies confirms that an increasing consumption of all fruits and vegetables, especially cruciferous vegetables, helps lower the risks of chronic diseases such as cancers, in particular lung, colon, breast, prostate and ovarian cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Broccoli and cauliflower are an excellent source of vitamin C, beta-carotene ...

IFOAM, the International Federation of Organic Movements, encouraged farmers worldwide to adopt organic agriculture methods, governments to integrate investment and support for organic agriculture. Further, IFOAM denounced the abuse of water by corporations in industrial agricultural systems. During the16th annual Organic World Congress in Modena, Italy, IFOAM said that degradation of drylands is caused by over cultivation, overgrazing and deforestation, and results in soil exhaustion and soil erosion. It diminishes soil productivity, reduces food production and deprives land of its vegetative ...

Berries, small in size and vibrant in colour, are associated with amazing health benefits. They are packed with phytochemicals and flavonoids, as well as vitamins, minerals and fibre. Eating a diet rich in blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries and strawberries may help to reduce the risk for certain cancers. One cup of strawberries contains over 100 mg of vitamin C, almost as much as a cup of orange juice. Raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, elderberry, blueberry and bilberry have been found to significantly inhibit H. pylori bacteria. Researchers believe ...

The exotic and beautiful islands in the South Pacific are home of tamanu oil (Calophyllum inophyllum), a plant oil which has been used traditionally as a healing aid for centuries, but is just entering the North-American and European markets. The tamanu tree, a member of the mangosteen family, grows up to 30 meters tall. It produces dark green leaves, and aromatic white flowers with yellow centres. The apricot-sized fruit has a large nut with green skin. For the oil production the fruit nuts are collected and cracked open. The yellowish nut kernel contains little oil. However, after ...

Did you know that camping and spending time outdoors can actually benefit your health? In fact, there are many health benefits that come with a good camping trip. Camping brings us back to the basics. It provides an escape from the daily grind. And it allows us to connect with nature and appreciate the simple basic needs of life. Camping is an escape from the daily rat race. Stress levels can significantly decrease in nature, without all the worries and routines of everyday life. Leave the huzzle, noise and pollution of the city behind you for a few days. Weekend get-aways ...

In the market for a new shower curtain? Here`s some information you might want to consider before heading to the store. Often wondered about the smell of a newly purchased vinyl shower curtain? According to researchers at Center for Health, Environment, and Justice, many vinyl shower sold at major retailers across the country emit toxic chemicals that can cause serious health problems, such as damage to the liver, as well as to the central nervous, respiratory and reproductive systems. Vinyl shower curtains sold at 19 retailers across the country have been linked to serious health ...

A balcony garden provides city dwellers with their own green space for relaxation and gardening pleasure. Balcony, terrace and rooftop gardens also add much needed urban plant diversity for insects, including butterflies and bees. With a bit of creativity and planning you can soon have your personal little green oasis. Balcony gardening, just like any type of landscaping, is best when planned beforehand. Consider the space at hand, the exposure to sun and wind, as well as walls and fences available for hanging baskets and climbing vines. If you lack sunlight, remember light and heat can be ...

Honey has been used as a natural remedy for thousands of years. Nature’s nutritious sweetener contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, and is also used to nourish skin and hair. Honey is used topically as antiseptic to disinfect and speed the healing process in sore throats, wounds, ulcers scrapes and burns. Some of the healing proponents and antibacterial agents in honey are enzymes, antioxidants and flavonoids. A spoonful of honey is more effective than cough syrup containing DM for children over 12 months old, according to Archives of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. ...

Infrared energy, also known as radiant heat, is a form of energy that heats objects directly through a process called conversion, without having to heat the air in between. Our sun is the principal source of radiant energy. Far-infrared rays are part of the sunlight spectrum which is invisible to the naked eye. They are also known as biogenetic rays. Scientists have proven that these rays promote the growth and health of living cells in humans, animals and plants. Far-infrared light penetrates beyond the skin level and is absorbed by cells below, whereas visible light is mostly bounced ...

A series of recent studies shows an interesting link between certain foods and drinks and the prevention of damage through the sun on our skin. While reducing your exposure to the bright sun and wearing thin, long layered clothing are still the best choices to avoid skin damage and sun burns, there are a number of foods that can help to heal and restore. Just turn to your kitchen and feed your skin. White, green and black tea, in particular with lemon, have been found to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Exposure to the harmful ultraviolet radiation UVB can cause ...