Green Tea – For Body and Soul

Tea is a beverage that holds special places in our heart.  Ask any tea drinker and they will tell you that tea will calm them down and indeed calm the spirit.

Research suggests that green tea in particular may have a more special place in our hearts.  It is thought that it may actually help relax your arteries, therefore reducing the risk for heart disease and blood clots.

When the arteries are relaxed, blood flow will increase which will in turn reduce the risk of cardiac disease.

Green tea is not only great for your heart but it is also a great antioxidant.  Green tea is rich in potent antioxidants called polyphenols.  Researchers suggest that polyphenols help reduce the risk of breast, stomach, colon, prostate and other cancers.

Green tea is also a natural antiseptic and skin protector.  When applied to the skin it will help relieve itching, swelling, sunburns and at times puffy eyelids.

Brew yourself a pot of green tea, relax in a comfy chair with a good book and relax your body and soul.

For more healthy tips: be sure to visit Dr. Mommy Health Tips

Solution for Canker Sores

Canker sores, seems like a curse if you suffer from them.  Did you know that a little licorice might help?

In a recent study, researchers gave licorice-laced adhesive patches to 23 adults suffering from canker sores.  Seven days after the initial application, sores were less painful and had decreased in size.  Those in the study that did not receive the patches saw their sores increase by 13 percent.

A culprit for canker sores seems to be stress and hormonal changes.  According to Jennifer Phillips, ND, ‘the licorice helps to knit the tissue back together and heal the sore.’

An at home solution can be found in your local natural-foods store.  Steep a tablespoon of dried licoric root in a cup of simmering water for 15 minutes.  Strain the solution and let cool at room temperature.  Rinse your mouth with the tea and watch your sores decrease and size and become less painful.