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Long-term Benadryl Use Takes Scary Toll on Brain Health, New Study Suggests

AHA Publisher — Wed, 01 May 2024 05:05:26 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Allergies seem as ubiquitous as the air we breathe. Trusty antihistamines, like Benadryl, have long been a go-to solution. Yet, beneath its comforting relief lies a potentially harrowing reality. A new study has emerged, shedding light on a startling revelation: prolonged Benadryl use may exact a terrifying toll on brain health. As millions reach for this seemingly innocuous medication, the findings prompt a sobering reconsideration of the long-term consequences lurking within our medicine cabinets. Did You Know? Benadryl May Pose Serious Risk to Your Brain The study referenced, conducted on a Korean national cohort, examined the management of overactive bladders primarily with anticholinergics. Researchers analyzed nationwide population cohorts consisting of those newly diagnosed with overactive bladder syndrome who started medication use in the half-decade between 2015 and 2020. What does Benadryl have to do with this, you ask? While Benadryl was not specifically included in the study, it’s important to note that antihistamines like Benadryl share similar anticholinergic effects with the drugs examined. Findings from this analysis revealed an increased risk of new-onset dementia associated with anticholinergic usage, which could extend to medications like Benadryl due to their anticholinergic properties. This raises concerns about the potential cognitive risks associated with long-term use of such medications. Alarming Study Links Anticholinergic Medications to Dementia Risk In total, the study analyzed data from 3,452,705 individuals. Among them, 671,974 participants used a beta-3 agonist, while 1,943,414 strictly used anticholinergics. Additionally, 837,317 study participants received both treatment modalities in combination. The unexpected findings revealed that using anticholinergics alone increased the risk of dementia when compared with the use of beta-3 agonists. Furthermore, the risk of dementia was found to increase with higher doses of anticholinergics. Moreover, the study identified other anticholinergic medications, such as propiverine, fesoterodine, tolterodine, and solifenacin, as also associated with an increased risk of dementia. Additionally, the combination of different treatment modalities taken together significantly heightened the risk of dementia. Alleviate Seasonal Discomforts Without Pharmaceuticals As the seasons transition, so do the allergens in the air, often leading to seasonal irritations for many individuals. Natural remedies provide a gentle and holistic alternative for those seeking relief without resorting to conventional medications. Here are some natural ways to alleviate seasonal irritations and boost your health: Local honey: Many swear by consuming local honey as a natural allergy remedy. The theory is that taking small amounts of local pollen through honey may help desensitize the body to allergens over time. Incorporating a teaspoon of local honey into your daily routine may relieve allergy symptoms. Saline nasal irrigation: Saline nasal irrigation, neti pot, or saline nasal spray are simple yet effective ways to flush out allergens and irritants from the nasal passages. Regular irrigation can help reduce nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose associated with allergies. Steam inhalation: Steam infused with essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint can help open nasal passages and relieve congestion. Quercetin-rich foods: Quercetin, a natural plant compound with anti-inflammatory properties, is found in foods like onions, apples, citrus fruits, and berries. Adding these foods to your diet may help reduce allergy symptoms by stabilizing mast cells and reducing histamine release. You may also want to supplement with vitamin C and quercetin. Butterbur: Butterbur, an herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, has traditionally been used to treat allergies and migraines. Studies suggest that butterbur extract may help by reducing inflammation and inhibiting histamine release. While seasonal allergies can be a nuisance, there’s no need to suffer in silence or rely solely on drugs like Benadryl. Natural remedies can help alleviate allergy symptoms while nurturing your body and promoting overall health. Sources for this article include: Sciencedirect.com To read the original article click here.

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Quinoa Crispy Bars (Better Than Rice Crispy Treats!)

AHA Publisher — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 07:00:57 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – Crispy treats: they sound so cute and friendly and yummy. It’s unfortunate that they’re essentially made of rice, sugar, butter and marshmallows — lots of it. But what if I told you there was a way to enjoy the dessert guilt-free? Goodbye, rice krispies, hello Quinoa Crispy Treats! This healthified version replaces the rice with protein-rich quinoa and sweetens things up the natural way thanks to healing raw honey. And instead of using gobs of butter, the quinoa crispy bars are held together with almond and sunflower seed butters. Yum! Not only is this quinoa bar tasty, it’s also the perfect energy bar. It delivers 235 calories per serving, with 24 grams of healthy carbs, 14 grams of healthy fats and 6 grams of protein. Try this new take on an old treat tonight. How to Make Quinoa Crispy Bars Start by lining an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper. In a small pot over very low heat (honey should never be heated up much at all), melt add the coconut oil, honey, almond butter and sunflower seed butter. Remove the pot from heat once the mixture has melted and sprinkle with the sea salt and cinnamon. Then pour it all into the waiting baking dish. Stir the puffed quinoa through the almond butter mixture, making sure all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. With a spatula, even out the quinoa crispy mix so it’s all level. Then place the baking pan in the freezer, letting the crispy bar set for 20 minutes or so. When you’re ready to serve, remove the quinoa crispy bars from the freezer and cut immediately. Serve while still frozen. These are healthy quinoa bars are delicious and so easy to make. Kids love to help make them — and eat them, of course! Quinoa Crispy Bars Recipe This healthy version of rice krispy treats replaces the rice with protein-rich quinoa and sweetens things up the natural way thanks to healing honey. And instead of using gobs of butter, the quinoa crispy treats are held together with almond and sunflower seed butters. Yum! INGREDIENTS 1 cup unsalted almond butter ½ cup sunflower seed butter ½ cup raw honey 3 tablespoons coconut oil ½ teaspoon sea salt ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon 3 cups puffed quinoa or millet INSTRUCTIONS Prepare a 8×8 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper and set aside. In a small pot at very low heat, melt almond butter, sunbutter, honey and coconut oil. Remove from heat and scrap into a mixing bowl. Stir in sea salt and cinnamon. Add in puffed quinoa and stir until well incorporated. Pour mixture into prepared dish. Spread out mixture with a spatula to make an even layer in the dish. Freeze for 20 minutes or longer until set. When ready to serve, remove from freezer and cut immediately. Serve frozen. To read the original article click here.

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Honey Water Benefits + How to Make It

AHA Publisher — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:00:01 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Although it does contain sugar and a considerable amount of calories, honey is a rich source of nutrients, including enzymes, vitamins and minerals. That’s why you may want to add honey water to your beverage selection. Of course, honey can be used to add a sweet, unique flavor to things like tea, yogurt or oatmeal, and it’s also capable of providing some impressive health benefits due to its unique compounds. If you’re looking to support your immune system and digestion, why should you drink honey with water? High-quality honey, such as raw honey and Manuka honey, is known to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, according to studies. This explains why honey water benefits — especially when you add some fresh lemon juice, turmeric or cinnamon — can include soothing an upset stomach, sore throat and much more. Benefits of Drinking Honey Water Honey is a sweet, vicious substance that is created by certain types of honeybees that extract nutrient-rich nectar from flowers. Raw honey is a crude form of honey immediately taken out of the cells of the honeycombs within a beehive. It isn’t pasteurized or heated to very high temperatures, keeping its enzymes and pollen intact. Plus, it commonly contains bee pollen and propolis, which are both two very positive health additions. Raw honey contains a whopping 22 amino acids, 27 minerals and 5,000 enzymes. Minerals it contains include: iron zinc potassium calcium phosphorous magnesium selenium Additionally, it provides vitamin B6, thiamine, riboflavin, pantothenic acid and niacin. For even more benefits, Manuka honey (sourced from New Zealand) is a great choice, since it’s very high in antimicrobial compounds, including methylglyoxal. Potential benefits of drinking honey water include: Assisting in weight loss, especially if you consume it in place of sugary drinks such as high-calorie energy or coffee drinks Keeping you hydrated Supporting digestion, such as by combating constipation or acid reflux symptoms Easing a sore throat or cough — try it as a natural alternative to cough syrups and cough medications Promoting restful sleep thanks to honey carbs, which can release the calming neurotransmitter serotonin Decreasing a bloated stomach Reducing nausea (especially if you add ginger) Aiding in immune system function and fighting oxidative stress, particularly if you use Manuka or raw honey, which have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties Reducing allergies — honey (especially locally produced types) contains enzymes and other compounds that help your body acclimate to allergens, including pollens Giving you energy, such a before a workout, thanks to its sugar and carbohydrates — some studies show honey even improves exercise recovery and promotes bone formation Possibly helping normalize cholesterol levels, such as by increasing levels of HDL or “good” cholesterol Does honey water reduce belly fat? Or is the sugar actually likely to contribute to weight gain? When consumed in moderate amounts, honey water may help you maintain a healthy eight or even lose weight. For sake of comparison, one serving of honey water contains about six to 12 grams of sugar and 25 to 50 calories, while a can of soda typically contains about 30 grams of sugar and over 100 calories. In general, drinking enough water and staying hydrated can also help manage your appetite and potentially reduce cravings. Some people find that drinking lots of water makes them feel fuller — plus it can help reduce bloating by assisting in elimination. When combined, benefits of cinnamon and honey can also include supporting healthy blood sugar levels and fighting allergies, since cinnamon is rich in polyphenols and other antioxidants. Additionally, cinnamon has anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, anticancer and lipid-lowering effects. How to Make Many people like to drink honey water on an empty stomach first thing the morning to get their digestive systems working, but honey water with cinnamon, turmeric and milk can also make a good bedtime treat. (This concoction is also called moon milk.) Other good times to have a cup include pre-workout (the carbs can help fuel your muscles boost your energy) or when your’e feeling sick, such as with a stomachache or soar throat. How much honey water should you drink each day? Because of the sugar content, limit your daily intake of honey to about one tablespoon daily. You might choose to have one to three cups of honey water daily with about one teaspoon of honey in each cup. To make honey water at home: Stir about one teaspoon of honey (preferably organic, raw or Manuka types) into 8 ounces of warm water, but avoid boiling water, which can ruin some of the honey’s delicate nutrients. You might also try adding a half teaspoon of powdered cinnamon and/or the same amount of turmeric. Other ingredients to try using in order to make a “secret detox drink” include apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper and fresh lemon juice, which can all support digestion and a healthy metabolism. Risks and Side Effects Honey is safe for internal and topical use, but like all foods, some people may react adversely. If you experience skin irritation, stomach pain, sweating, diarrhea or nausea after using it, stop consuming it right away. Infants under one should not be given honey due to potential allergic reactions. If you plan to use honey as part of your daily health regime and you already take medications, talk to your doctor about possible interactions. Conclusion Honey, especially organic, raw and Manuka honey, is high in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, bee pollen, antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds. Honey water benefits include reducing bloating, constipation and acid reflux; easing a sore throat, cough and colds; supporting a healthy immune response; decreasing allergies; fighting free radical damage; and beating cravings for sweets. Consume about one to three cups daily, with about one teaspoon of high-quality honey per serving. Try some first thing in the morning, before a workout or before bed with some warm milk. Other healthy additions include turmeric, cinnamon and apple cider vinegar. To read the original article click here.

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Benefits of Honey and Cinnamon: Are 2 Superfoods Better Than 1?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 07:00:02 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Honey and cinnamon have been used since ancient times to support human health and wellness. Honey has a rich history dating back to ancient Greek, Roman, Vedic and Egyptian texts, while cinnamon has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic folk medicine for over 2,000 years. We know that, individually, both cinnamon and honey possess powerful therapeutic properties. What about when you use them together? If one is good by itself, does that mean that the two combined can be even more beneficial? Here’s what you need to know about the combination of honey and cinnamon. Benefits of Cinnamon 1. Rich in Antioxidants A major benefit of cinnamon is its antioxidant content. This helps reduce free radical damage and slow the aging process. Researchers have identified at least 41 different compounds in cinnamon with health-promoting capabilities. 2. Has Antimicrobial Properties Because cinnamon has antimicrobial properties, it can be used to optimize oral hygiene, fight infections and support skin health. Research suggests that it helps improve bad breath and tooth decay, ease respiratory issues like the common cold and sore throat, and soothe skin irritation, redness and swelling. 3. Relieves Inflammation The flavonoids in cinnamon have been proven to help alleviate inflammation, reduce swelling, ease muscle soreness and lessen the severity of allergic reactions. 4. Protects Heart Health Research shows that cinnamon may reduce several of the most common risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels and high blood pressure. It may be a helpful blood coagulant that helps the body form blood clots and promotes circulation. 5. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Studies indicate that cinnamon has anti-diabetic effects and can lower blood sugar levels and improve sensitivity to the hormone insulin. This is what makes it one of the best foods for diabetics. 6. Supports Brain Function Antioxidants in cinnamon have been found to help defend against the development of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Benefits of Honey 1. Helps Fight Allergies The bee pollen in honey helps boost immunity and can improve allergy symptoms with a concept called immunotherapy. Studies indicate that consuming local pollen reduces a person’s sensitivity over time, thereby reducing allergy symptoms. 2. Provides Antioxidants A daily dose of honey provides health-promoting antioxidants that help block free radicals in the body and prevent a number of diseases. Research shows that consuming honey increases levels of disease-fighting polyphenols in the blood and other antioxidants that support enzyme activity. 3. Supports Sleep Honey helps promote restorative sleep. It helps restock the liver’s glycogen supply and prevents the brain from searching for fuel, which can keep you up at night. Eating honey also promotes the release of melatonin in the brain by stimulating the release tryptophan. 4. Relieves Cough Research suggests that a single dose of honey can reduce mucus secretion and coughs. One study found that honey was just as effective as diphenhydramine and dextromethorphan, two ingredients that are commonly used in over-the-counter cough medicines. 5. Aids Wound Healing Studies show that honey is an antibacterial agent that aids wound healing and creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria. It can be used for the treatment of wounds, burns and skin ulcers. How Honey and Cinnamon Work Together Honey and cinnamon both possess powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This is why they’ve been used in ancient medicine to relieve a slew of health conditions. The reasons these two superfoods create such a powerful effect on the body vary but generally center on their ability to control inflammation, combat free radicals and boost immune function. When used together, cinnamon powder and honey offer a range health benefits, improving cholesterol and immune system health, while aiding weight loss and fighting heart disease. The compounds found in both foods come together to have the best effects, making them a perfect addition to tea, recipes or even a glass of water. Here’s a rundown of their combined health benefits for weight, heart health and more: 1. Combat Allergies Cinnamon and honey both help fight allergies and allergy symptoms. A perfect example of how cinnamon can help with allergies can be seen in a study that evaluated its ability to control the powerful allergen house mites. This allergen has become a global problem, and researchers from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment found that at least 45 percent of young people with asthma are allergic to house dust mites. Researchers from Egypt tested the effect that various essential oils had in killing the highly allergic house mite and found that cinnamon was the most potent agent. This is due to cinnamon’s component cinnamaldehyde. Note: Cinnamon oil is toxic to cats and shouldn’t be used in cat households. Honey also serves as a natural therapeutic agent for fighting allergies. Ingesting just a teaspoon of local raw honey every day can boost your immune system and fight allergies by helping build a tolerance to local pollen. The International Archives of Allergy and Immunology published an article that analyzed this theory and discovered that preseasonal use of birch pollen honey helped people with birch pollen allergies by lowering total symptoms by 60 percent. Those treated with honey experienced twice as many asymptomatic days, had 70 percent fewer days with severe symptoms and used 50 percent less antihistamines compared to the group that took conventional medications for allergies. 2. Improve Diabetes Symptoms Cinnamon and honey together can be beneficial for healthy blood sugar management. Research published in the journal Nutrition Research suggests that up to 1,500 milligrams of cinnamon supplementation benefits the lipid profile, liver enzymes, insulin resistance and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in diabetics and people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients. According to a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, honey has been observed to cause a lower elevation of plasma glucose levels in diabetics compared to dextrose and sucrose. Some suggest that the insulin-boosting power of cinnamon can counteract this glucose elevation in honey, which would make your honey and cinnamon mixture a low glycemic indexfood. 3. Fight Acne and Skin Infections Because of the combination’s antimicrobial capacity, cinnamon oil mixed with honey is used all over the world to treat skin conditions, such as acne and skin issues. Researchers from Iran even discovered that the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of honey are actually more potent in treating wounds and burns and result in less skin problems than conventional medicine. A 2017 study published in Phytotherapy Research found that cinnamon essential oil significantly inhibited the production of several inflammatory biomarkers that are involved in skin inflammation and tissue remodeling. It works as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can help soothe some skin conditions and improve the immune response. 4. Relieve Common Cold and Other Respiratory Issues The cinnamon-honey combination helps relieve common cold and respiratory symptoms, like sore throat, by fighting infections, boosting immunity and providing antioxidants. In a study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine, cinnamon essential oil was found to be highly effective in slowing the growth of a number of bacteria and fungi. The study showed that cinnamon oil inhibits the growth of E. coli, candida and staph aureus — all microorganisms that can cause a number of diseases, including the common cold. Research shows that honey is better than no treatment in reducing the frequency of cough and may even be more effective than diphenhydramine, an antihistamine. Plus, there’s evidence that honey is loaded with protective antioxidants that help fight respiratory conditions and many other health issues. Regularly combining cinnamon’s antimicrobial properties with immune-boosting raw honey boosts the body’s immunity and ability to fight off respiratory infections like the common cold. If you happen to get some kind of respiratory condition, consuming cinnamon and honey may help shorten your recovery time. 5. Fight UTIs Cinnamomum zeylanicum works as a powerful antibacterial agent, and research shows that it effectively inhibits the growth of gram-negative bacteria like E. coli, the main cause of urinary tract infections. A lab study conducted in Algeria found that when honey was tested against 11 multi-drug-resistant bacterial strains that were isolated from urinary tract infections of pregnant women, it exhibited potent antibacterial activity. Ingesting a combination of cinnamon powder and honey not only helps destroy the bacteria within the urinary tract, but it may also inhibit the growth of germs living in the bladder, thereby working as a potential preventative measure against bladder infections. 6. Soothe Digestive Issues Honey and cinnamon have become quite popular in managing digestive issues, such as constipation, nausea and ulcers. This makes sense, as these superfoods have been used as natural remedies for digestive ailments by our ancestors. Honey has proved to be a predigested nectar, so it is easy for the body to break it down. That can soothe an aggravated system. Cinnamon has antimicrobial characteristics that have helped countless people with bacterial overload in their digestive systems. This is especially true for people suffering from an E. coli infection, like a UTI. 7. Boost Energy Cinnamon and honey feature beneficial compounds that help boost energy. Chinese folk medicine has used cinnamon to promote healthy energy flow for centuries, and because of its insulin-boosting property, cinnamon has been known to give people energy as it stabilizes your blood sugar and improves insulin action in the brain. Honey is packed with micronutrients and antioxidants that help boost energy levels, fight inflammation and reduce signs of aging. When you take a teaspoon mixture of the two, you get a low-glycemic boost to help fuel your body, whether you just need a pick-me-up or you’re trying to get through a workout. 8. Treat Gingivitis The past few years, several studies have come out showing that Manuka honey can help treat gingivitis and periodontal disease. Due to its superior antimicrobial properties, researchers from the School of Dentistry at the University of Otago in New Zealand discovered that chewing or sucking on a Manuka honey product not only caused a 35 percent decrease in plaque, but it led to a 35 percent reduction in bleeding sites in people suffering from gingivitis. When combined with the powerful antimicrobial cinnamon, regular use of the amazing mixture can do wonders to your choppers. Honey and cinnamon benefits are proving to be a winning combination when it comes to dental health. How to Use One of the easiest ways to use honey and cinnamon to boost your health is to simply combine a half teaspoon of powdered cinnamon with a teaspoon of organic raw honey and ingest the mixture once daily. You can add this combination to water or use it to make an energizing and immune-boosting drink. This secret detox drink, for example, is also made with cinnamon and honey, along with other detoxifying ingredients like apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper and lemon juice. Of course, there are many other ways to use cinnamon and honey in your cooking and add it to your diet. They can be added to your smoothie, used to make herbal tea and added to your homemade baked goods. This delicious gluten-free coffee cake is made with both cinnamon and honey. You can also apply cinnamon powder (or one to two drops of cinnamon oil) and honey to your skin to fight acne and skin issues. Simply create a paste by combining the two ingredients. Then apply it onto the area of concern before bed so it can sit for several hours. However, before using honey and cinnamon topically, do a patch test to make sure that your skin won’t have any adverse reactions. Risks and Side Effects Cinnamon and honey are safe for internal and topical use, but like all foods, some people may react adversely. If you experience skin irritation, stomach pain, sweating, diarrhea or nausea after using cinnamon or honey, stop taking right away. If you use cinnamon essential oil, remember that a small amount (one to two drops) goes a long way. Perform a patch test on your skin before...

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THIS Sugar-Alternative May Lead the Charge Against Deadly Antibiotic Resistance

AHA Publisher — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 07:00:20 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Every year, at least 2.8 million Americans develop an antibiotic-resistant infection – and more than 35,000 of them lose their lives. Scientists warn that certain bacteria have become resistant to existing antimicrobial treatments, causing common infections to become difficult – or even impossible – to treat. This frightening situation has led the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to label antibiotic resistance as one of the biggest public health challenges of our time – and has triggered a scramble among researchers to develop alternative antimicrobial strategies. Now, it appears that an ordinary nutrient and sweetener could hold the key. A 2020 review published in Antibiotics sheds new light on the antibacterial properties of honey and proposes it as an effective alternative therapy against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Let’s take a look at how honey combats disease-causing microbes. Nature’s Intelligence in Action: Honey’s Constituents Work Together to Destroy Pathogens Researchers say that no single ingredient can account for the remarkable antibacterial properties of honey. Rather, dozens of compounds work synergistically, each increasing the power of the others. For example, honey contains over 30 organic acids, including acetic, butyric, and gluconic acids. The resultant acidity and low pH create an unfavorable environment for microbial growth right from the start. Various polyphenols and flavonoids also contribute to antimicrobial effects. In addition, honey’s high sugar and low water content create osmotic pressure and stress on microorganisms. Honey also produces hydrogen peroxide – a powerful antibacterial agent in its own right – and contains a compound known as methylglyoxal (MGO). The main antibacterial compound in Manuka honey, MGO is considered one of the most effective pathogen-destroying constituents of honey. Finally, honey contains an antimicrobial peptide known as bee defensin-1. Researchers think bee defensin works by creating pores within bacterial cell membranes, thereby causing cell death. While the purpose of defensin in bees is to fight devastating larval infections, this remarkable peptide also strongly inhibits a variety of pathogens, including B. subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. The Potent Antibacterial Properties of Honey Extend to MRSA and Hard-to-Treat Biofilms According to the review’s authors, honey can inhibit a wide variety of pathogens, including E. coli, multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa, and methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Promisingly, honey even works against vancomycin-resistant S. aureus – currently, one of the foremost pathogens to infect chronic wounds. And, it wasn’t only in test tubes that honey displayed its powers. The team cited a case in which Manuka honey promoted effective wound healing against a leg ulcer colonized by MRSA. Honey has also been shown to act against biofilms, layered communities of bacteria that are notoriously difficult to dislodge and treat. “Honey is effective in disturbing the biofilm strengthening in both drug-sensitive and drug-resistant bacteria,” the authors declared. In addition to helping prevent communities of bacterial species from forming in the first place, honey significantly inhibits the metabolic activity of existing biofilms. While the researchers advised using medical-grade Manuka honey, they noted that “common” honey samples – including Canadian sweet clover, blueberry, and buckwheat honey – also acted as antibacterial agents, with action against E. coli, S. aureus, and MRSA. By the way, research suggests that bacteria do not become resistant to honey. Honey’s hundreds of compounds, all working synergistically, make the development of “honey-resistance” difficult, if not impossible. Research Has Shown That Medicinal Honey Promotes Healing of Burns and Other Wounds In one 2011 review, the authors evaluated 26 different studies and concluded that for mild to moderate superficial and partial thickness burns, honey was more effective than conventional treatment for reducing microbial colonization and speeding healing. Now, a decade later, even more research on honey’s therapeutic effects has accumulated. Honey is currently acknowledged as an effective treatment for diabetic foot ulcers (serious complications of diabetes that can lead to amputation). In fact, in one study published in International Wound Journal, Manuka honey-infused dressings healed an impressive 97 percent of patients’ diabetic ulcers – and accomplished this more speedily and effectively than conventional dressings! Some natural health experts advise using medical-grade honey on inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Naturally, you should consult your own integrative doctor before using topical honey to treat skin disorders or any other condition. Keep in mind that the review authors stressed that honey used for medical purposes must be free of pesticides, heavy metals, and spores – and guaranteed in its antibacterial efficacy and safety for patients. The Delicious Takeaway: Consuming Honey Pays Off in Sweet Health Dividends Of course, you can also obtain health benefits from honey merely by eating it. Studies have shown that honey has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. In fact, in two separate studies, buckwheat honey was found to significantly boost the body’s antioxidant capabilities. Honey may also lower blood pressure, reduce harmful LDL cholesterol and decrease fats in the blood while raising levels of beneficial HDL cholesterol. Surprisingly, some studies show that honey can even play a role in promoting weight loss. When consumed in modest amounts, honey can be a part of a healthy diet, particularly when used as an alternative to white sugar. (If you have prediabetes or diabetes, you should seek guidance from your nutritionist or physician.) Many natural health experts advise Manuka honey as the most therapeutic, but other varieties have been shown to benefit health as well. Because of honey’s content of calories and sugars, daily amounts should not exceed two tablespoons for women and three for men. In general: the darker the honey, the more polyphenols it contains – and the higher the antioxidant value. As researchers work towards more effective ways of fighting the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, there is little doubt that honey will play an important role. Sources for this article include: CDC.gov Sciencedaily.com ACS.org Wiley.com Healthline.com Healthline.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Study Suggests Healing Properties of Honey and Nigella Sativa Expedites Viral Clearance in COVID-19 Patients

AHA Publisher — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 08:00:01 +0000

Susha Cheriyedath, M.Sc. via News-Medical Net – The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted over 50 million people so far and has claimed more than 1.25 million lives globally. As the virus continues to spread, with many countries experiencing second waves right now, we still do not have an effective vaccine against COVID-19. This makes finding an effective drug to treat the disease very important, and scientists worldwide are racing against time to find therapeutic solutions that will help treat COVID-19 patients. An ideal treatment would speed up symptomatic recovery, decrease viral load, and expedite viral clearance and reduce mortality. Although certain treatments such as hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, dexamethasone, remdesivir, antibody therapies, and convalescent plasma have shown some efficacy, an effective treatment to fight severe COVID-19 is still not a reality. Keeping this in mind, a team of researchers from various institutes across Pakistan, Chile, Canada, and the USA recently conducted a clinical trial to investigate the potential effectiveness of a combination of honey and Nigella sativa (HNS) in treating COVID-19 patients. Their study is published on the preprint server medRxiv* prior to the scientific peer review process*. Since previous studies show that both components of HNS have proven anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulatory effects, the researchers wanted to assess the efficacy of HNS in fighting COVID-19. Healing Properties of Honey and Nigella Sativa Honey has been reported to have beneficial effects against many viruses, including herpes simplex virus (HSV), rubella virus, Hepatitis virus, and Varicella Zoster virus. It is also effective against many multidrug-resistant bacterial strains, especially when used along with antibiotics. In addition to its immunity-boosting effects that stimulate innate as well as adaptive immune responses, honey has been shown to be beneficial in fighting upper respiratory tract infections. Nigella sativa is a medicinal plant commonly known as Black Cumin and has been proven to have anti-viral properties against many viruses, including mouse cytomegalovirus and HCV. In vitro studies have shown that it can decrease the replication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Some of its components have a high affinity to many SARS-CoV-2 proteins and enzymes. A Randomized, Controlled Trial to Study the Action of HNS Against COVID-19 The researchers performed a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial in patients with COVID-19 of varying severity. Randomized patients received either a combination of 1 gm/kg/day of honey and 80 mg/kg/day of Nigella sativa or placebo for 13 days. Viral clearance, symptoms, alleviation, and 30-day mortality were some of the outcomes. “The trial results show that the use of HNS in COVID-19 patients promotes viral clearance and reduces the severity of the disease.” Of the 313 patients, part of the study cohort, 210 patients with moderate symptoms and 103 with severe COVID-19 underwent randomization. Among these patients, 107 received HNS, and 103 moderate cases received a placebo. Fifty severe COVID-19 patients were given HNS, and 53 severe cases received placebo. Administration of HNS led to alleviation of symptoms by day 3 in moderate cases and day 7 in severe cases. “Anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, cardio-protective and broncho-dilatory properties of HNS make it even more beneficial in diabetic, hypertensive, cardiac and asthmatic patients who have a higher COVID-19 associated mortality.” HNS could be an affordable, home-based, OTC treatment option for COVID-19 patients The study results show that HNS helped with symptoms alleviation and viral clearance and reduced mortality in patients with moderate and severe disease. According to the team, HNS can be used as a safe and effective therapy in COVID-19 patients as it promotes quicker recovery and survival. Thus, they concluded that HNS represents an affordable therapeutic option and can be used alone or in combination with other therapies to fight COVID-19. Some benefits of this potential treatment option are its ‘over the counter’ availability, affordability – less than $5 for the entire treatment course, and ease of administration as it can be a home-based remedy. Moreover, HNS can also be used in combination with other drugs for increased efficacy. The authors believe that this treatment will significantly reduce the burden on global health care systems. “A multinational study with larger sample size is required to investigate potential variations in responses to the treatment in COVID-19 patients from different racial and ethnic origins.” *Important Notice medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. Journal reference: Efficacy of honey and Nigella sativa against COVID-19: HNS-COVID-PK Trial Sohaib Ashraf, Shoaib Ashraf, Muhammad Ahmad Imran, Moneeb Ashraf, Larab Kalsoom, Uzma Nasim Siddiqui, Muhammad Ghufran, Nighat Majeed, Iqra Farooq, Zaighum Habib, Abubakar Hilal, Zain-ul-Abdin, Ayesha Khaqan, Muhammad Kiwan Akram, Sidra Ashraf, Rutaba Akmal, Sundas Rafique, Khawar Nawaz, Shahroze Arshad, Sohail Ahmad, Kanwal Hayat, Ali Arshad, Muhammad Faisal Nadeem, Muhammad Hassan, Abeer-bin-Awais, Muhammad Azam, Muhammad Suhail, Sibgha Zulfiqar, Imran Anwar, Saulat Sarfraz, Ayesha Hamayoun, Amber Malik, Hui Zheng, Talha Mahmood, Mahmood Ayyaz, Ali Ahmad, Muhammad Ashraf, Qazi Abdul Saboor, Mateen Izhar medRxiv 2020.10.30.20217364; doi: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.10.30.20217364, https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.10.30.20217364v2 To read the original article click here.

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Sweet Potato Brownies Recipe

AHA Publisher — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 07:00:18 +0000

Dr. Axe – Brownies are one of my favorite desserts. How could they not be: they’re chocolatey, creamy and simple to make. But are they healthy? Well, with these sweet potato brownies, you don’t have to worry anymore. Why Your Brownies Need Sweet Potatoes You might be confused about how sweet potatoes could play a role in a homemade brownie recipe. Do they make the brownies taste like vegetables? Will the brownies be the wrong texture? Worst of all, will anyone know that there are sweet potatoes in these brownies?! The answer is no! In fact, these sweet potatoes are one of the secret weapons in this brownie recipe. Adding the vegetable means you’ll get all the benefits of sweet potato nutrition each time you take a bite out of these brownies. I’m talking nearly 700 percent of your daily value of vitamin A and tons of antioxidants, which keep your skin looking awesome. They also lower inflammation and cholesterol levels — plus, sweet potatoes taste great! But these sweet potato brownies have another secret ingredient: avocados. Benefit-rich avocados are one of my favorite foods, and I love them in baked goods as well. They add healthy fats, protein and a super creamy texture. And no, avocados won’t turn these brownies green! How to Make Sweet Potato Brownies Let’s whip up these sweet potato brownies! INGREDIENTS: 1 avocado 1 cup cooked sweet potato purée ½ cup applesauce ¼–½ cup honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 eggs ¼ cup coconut flour 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder ½ cup cacao powder ½ teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon baking soda Frosting ¼ cup honey ½ cup sprouted almond butter ¼ cup cacao powder ½ cup coconut milk sea salt DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease 8×8 pan with coconut oil and line it with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine avocado, sweet potato, applesauce, honey and vanilla. Once creamy, add in cacao powder. Add in eggs one at a time. In a separate bowl, combine coconut flour, arrowroot flour, salt and baking soda. Combine both mixtures until smooth. Transfer to greased pan and bake for 25–35 minutes. While baking, combine the last 5 ingredients listed in a separate bowl and mix until creamy and smooth. Once the brownies are done baking and have cooled, frost with this mixture. One batch makes approximately nine of these chocolate sweet potato brownies. Want something a little extra? Try topping the brownies with mini dark chocolate chips. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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The Best Gluten-Free Banana Bread Recipe

AHA Publisher — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 07:00:41 +0000

Dr. Axe – Banana bread is one of those recipes that everyone loves but are often apprehensive about making at home. Every coffee shop I drop into seems to sell overpriced slices of the stuff! Get ready to be surprised by how simple making nutrition-rich banana bread at home really is — and how good for you it can be. My super moist gluten-free banana bread is a recipe that everyone (even gluten lovers!) will enjoy. What’s Wrong with Regular Banana Bread? You might wonder what the point of making a gluten-free banana bread is. Why mess with a classic? Unfortunately, like so many recipes we’ve grown up with, classic homemade banana bread, even the homemade versions, aren’t very good for you. For starters, they’re usually made with a whole lot of white flour. Refined carbohydrates like those don’t add any nutritional value and can be difficult for your body to break down. And then there’s the sugar. Traditional banana bread has a ton of refined sugar in it, leading you to a sugar high followed by a sugar crash. Sugar is one of the top “foods” that causes inflammation in the body, which is linked to everything from Crohn’s disease and allergies to heart disease, diabetes and high cholesterol levels. Finally, while I enjoy organic butter when it adds something to a dish, normal banana bread recipes can have up to a cup of the stuff. There’s just no need when you have this gluten-free banana bread that tastes amazing and is healthy — and ready to be baked. Gluten-Free Banana Bread Nutrition Facts One serving of this Paleo, gluten-free banana bread recipe contains approximately: (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10) 194 calories 7 grams protein 12 grams fat 17 grams carbohydrates 3 grams fiber 10 grams sugar 149.08 milligrams sodium 61.67 milligrams cholesterol 68.33 milligrams magnesium (16.3 percent DV) 1.41 milligrams iron (7.8 percent DV) 0.11 milligrams vitamin B6 (6.5 percent DV) 63.58 milligrams calcium (4.9 percent DV) 2.97 milligrams vitamin C (3.3 percent DV) 131.58 milligrams potassium (2.8 percent DV) INGREDIENTS: 4 eggs 3 medium overly ripe bananas, mashed ¼ cup honey ¼ cup coconut milk 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 teaspoons baking soda 2¼ cups almond flour ½ teaspoon sea salt ½ teaspoon cinnamon 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a standard loaf pan and set aside. In a bowl, mix eggs, banana, honey, coconut milk, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine baking soda, almond flour, sea salt and cinnamon. Combine both mixtures and stir until well incorporated. Add in apple cider vinegar and stir until it is distributed throughout the mixture. Pour batter into greased loaf pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes. How to Make Super Moist Gluten-Free Banana Bread My Paleo banana bread recipe keeps all the best parts about banana bread while making it a bit more nutritious. We’ll use almond flour, a heart-healthy, low-carb alternative to all-purpose white flour. You can also experiment with a Paleo flour blend, which incorporates various flours such as almond, coconut, tapioca and arrowroot flours, for this recipe. Incorporating overripe bananas makes this bread sweet, but we’ll add honey to make sure your sweet tooth is satisfied. If you’re hesitant to heat honey, you can also try maple syrup or a natural granular sugar like coconut sugar. Just be sure to use less of these! Instead of butter, we’ll get that same silky texture with coconut milk while keeping this recipe dairy-free. Now this is a banana bread you can indulge in without feeling bad! Serve the banana bread either warm or cooled — both are delicious! You can even add this recipe to your list of dishes to meal prep on Sunday to enjoy throughout the week for breakfast or with your cup of coffee. If you want to reheat it, simple pop it in the oven for a couple minutes. You’ll keep more of the moisture by eating it cool, though. This article has been modified. To read the original article click here. For more articles by Dr. Axe click here.

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Australian Honey Has Exceptionally High Levels of Antibacterial Activity

AHA Publisher — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0000

University of Technology Sydney via News Medical-Net – Australia has at least seven Leptospermum species that produce honey with exceptionally high levels of antibacterial activity, providing the scientific basis to facilitate the entry of Australian honey producers into premium medicinal markets. That’s according to a new report led by University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Professor Liz Harry, in conjunction with researchers from the University of Sydney and University of the Sunshine Coast. Funded by the AgriFutures™ Honey Bee & Pollination Program, Professor Harry, Director of the UTS ithree institute, and the collaborative research team tested more than 5000 honey samples and 2000 nectar samples, covering more than 50 species of Leptospermum. Praised for its antibacterial and healing properties, medical-grade honey sourced from Leptospermum plants has become a modern treatment for wounds and skin infections. The latest study found at least seven Australian Leptospermum species produced medical-grade honey with exceptionally high antibacterial activity and many other Leptospermum species that produced honeys with therapeutically beneficial activity, as well as others that would fall under high-value premium table honeys. UTS Research Associate Dr Nural Cokcetin said the research pinpointed several Australian regions, such as south-east Queensland, northern New South Wales and western Tasmania, as ‘hot spots’ to yield these high value honeys. “Australia has 84 of the 87 species of Leptospermum. Yet before this study, the antimicrobial activity of our Leptospermum species was almost unknown, both locally and globally. “The research puts Australian honey producers on the world stage, positioning them as a leading and potentially abundant source of medical grade and high-value Leptospermum honey.” Dr Nural Cokcetin, UTS Research Associate The report found that specific chemical components relating to antibacterial activity of several Australian Leptospermum honeys was similar to that of its Manuka counterpart in New Zealand. It also discovered that appropriate storage conditions of Australian Leptospermum honey was vital to reach its full potential, and outlined key differences between anti-fungal and antibacterial traits. AgriFutures™ Honey Bee & Pollination Manager, Research Annelies McGaw said the latest research was an important step in enhancing the worth and profitability of Australian honey. “The research provides scientific evidence to support marketing claims that enable Australian honey producers to gain access to premium therapeutic-based markets,” said Ms McGaw. “Its findings are an important tool to help build the sustainability of Australia’s beekeeping industry. It also presents a stimulus for diversification of commercial honey production in Australia.” Ms McGaw said the research team had communicated findings extensively and generated significant interest from members in the beekeeping industry, as well as in scientific and medical fields. “The report shows that Australian honey could play a pivotal role in the clinical prevention and management of health conditions, such as skin and wound infections,” said Ms McGaw. “More broadly, it provides key recommendations to further advance the value of Australian honey and make it easier for beekeepers, consumers and the medical community to understand its importance.” To read the original article click here.

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