Brew up a bounty of healthful benefit with coffee

A surprising trend is cropping up among the general population: drinking coffee as a powerful health promoting beverage. Not only does coffee help to boost energy and clarify the mind, research has shown it to be an important source of antioxidants. To maximize the benefit and minimize potential health risk, it is vital for individuals to be selective about the coffee they consume.

Coffee: An unexpected health-giving food

A clue to coffee's exceptional antioxidant content is found in its extreme growing environment and harvesting measures. Thought to have originated near the Horn of Africa, the coffee plant grows in some of the hottest and highest regions in the world, often times near the equator. These severe climates force the coffee plant to create formidable antioxidants that protect it from high levels of ultraviolet radiation.

Mushroom found on birch tree holds promise as a potent anti-cancer tonic

A little known mushroom is establishing a solid reputation in medical circles as a powerful defense against cancer. Although relatively unheard of in mainstream media, the chaga mushroom has been used in folk medicine for generations. Research has shown chaga to be extremely effective in protecting cellular DNA from damaging free radicals. It also has anti-tumor and immune stimulating benefits.

Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is a fungus that grows on birch and other hardwood trees. The variety that is found on birch is believed to be the most potent because of its high concentration of betulinic acid which is toxic to cancer cells. Chaga is unusual in the mushroom world as it resembles porous wood and is black and hard - similar to lumpy charcoal. Natives of China, Siberia, Finland, Japan, Poland, and North America have all recognized chaga's importance for centuries. Russian author and Nobel laureate Alexandr Solzhenitsyn is given credit for introducing chaga to the West where the principal character in his novel Cancer Ward is cured of his illness by the mushroom.

Pumpkin and Black Rice Tamale with Superfood Cilantro Sauce

Just in time for All Hallows' Eve, festive black and orange tamales. Both pumpkin and black rice are known in Chinese medicine as being particularly helpful for the autumn and winter months. Pumpkin is grounding and rich while black rice nourishes the kidney's. Learn more about all the amazing health benefits of pumpkin here.

Rekindle a zest for life with adrenal health

A silent and little known epidemic is causing fatigue, weight-gain, and chronic illness in fast-paced America. This pervasive syndrome is linked with two small glands known as the adrenals. Responsible for producing more than 50 crucial hormones, the health of the adrenal glands is imperative for well-being. By tending to the adrenals through diet, supplementation, and stress reduction, vibrancy and health are restored.

The adrenal glands are located directly above the kidneys and are involved in many important functions of the body. Progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), cortisol, and adrenaline are among the many hormones secreted by these glands. Cortisol in particular is significant in the management of stress. When the adrenal glands are healthy and creating proper levels of cortisol, the body is able to contend with stress in an appropriate and balanced way. However, if cortisol levels are too high the immune system is compromised, increasing the likelihood of cancer and infection. Too low of cortisol levels and the immune system becomes overactive, leading to autoimmune disease. Additional functions of the adrenal glands include energy production within the body, regulating blood pressure, fluid and electrolyte balance, and stabilizing blood sugar levels.

This is your brain on NutraSweet - and it isn't pretty

Got milk? A better question would be: Got seizures, migraine headaches, brain tumors or depression? If the dairy industry has its way, a major cause of these disorders in the form of aspartame could soon be a common ingredient in the milk supply. Bear in mind this is the chemical that has been linked with a laundry list of health issues, many of which are neurological. In light of the proposed new FDA rule that would allow artificial sweeteners like aspartame to be covertly included in dairy products, we have to consider: Is this really a chemical we want hidden within a popular food staple?

Legally lace food with poison and profit

Boycott botox and discover nature's fountain of youth

Instead of drastic surgical procedures, dangerous injections, or chemical ridden creams, many are turning to natural treatments to ease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By utilizing a few simple techniques that can be implemented at home, the complexion is revitalized. Skin becomes radiant through the use of herbs, facial massage and diet.

Select medicinal plants are especially beneficial for the health of the skin. Hawthorn berry and the Ayurvedic herb ashwagandha are both powerful anti-aging tonics. Hawthorn protects against solar radiation and helps to oxygenate tissue while ashwagandha is a formidable antioxidant.

Topical oils naturally support beautiful skin as well. Essential oils of cypress, grapefruit, lemon, and peppermint stimulate the lymphatic system, thereby promoting detoxification and healthful skin. Rose helps to improve moisture retention and tone, whereas lavender tends to be astringent and tightens pores. Due to their concentrated nature, essential oils always need to be diluted in a carrier such as jojoba, almond, or olive oil.