| |
|
|
With a foot of snow outside covering my garden, I must admit that all too often I find myself sitting in front of the fire with my Seeds of Change catalog and dreaming about Spring. When planning your garden, in addition to growing plants that you enjoy eating, why not plant a healing garden? Below are a few plants that do really well in our area and have tremendous health benefits.
Carrots ~ Quite frequently used in cancer treatment, carrots are low in fat, abundant in vitamins, and minerals. Organic quality carrots are rich in the antioxidant beta-carotene, and contain an essential oil, which kills parasites and unhealthy intestinal bacteria. According to Chinese Medicine, carrots have properties, which reduce tumors. Two carrots provide roughly four times the RDA of vitamin A. They also provide excellent levels of vitamin K, biotin, fiber, and good levels of vitamin C, B6, potassium and thiamine.
Beets ~ Beets belong to the same family as chard and spinach. Both roots and tops have properties, which cleanse the liver and blood. Beetroot is valued in Chinese Medicine for its ability to strengthen the heart and calm the spirit. Beets are often recommended for constipation. They have long been used for their medicinal value for treatment of liver disorders. They are rich in Vitamin A and C. The roots are an excellent source of folic acid and a very good source of fiber, manganese and potassium. The greens and roots are a good source of phosphorus, iron, and vitamin B6.
Garlic ~ Garlic has been used throughout history as an infection fighter and appears to provide protection against heart disease. It is a rich source of the potent anti-cancer bioflavonoid quercetin. Garlic is an excellent source of B6. It is also a very good source of other minerals, including phosphorous, calcium, potassium, iron and copper. Garlic contains large quantities of anti-viral, antibiotic, and anti-fungal compounds. To receive the most benefits from garlic, it should be eaten raw.
Radishes ~ Both common and diakon radishes cleanse the thick toxic mucus residues of animal products. They are a good source of vitamin C. Radish leaves contain six times the amount of vitamin C of the root and also are a good source of calcium. They are a member of the cruciferous vegetable family and share the same cancer protective actions of its cousins, kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage and broccoli. Radishes contain a variety of sulfur-based chemicals that increase the flow of bile, helping to maintain a healthy gallbladder and liver and are very beneficial for use as a natural diuretic.
Asparagus ~ Asparagus is detoxifying and a valuable diuretic for removing cellular edema and dampness. It increases blood circulation and has an abundance of vitamin C and A and is an excellent source of potassium, vitamin K, folic acid and B6. Traditionally, it has been used in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism.
Robin Gentry McGee is a board certified Holistic Health and Wellness Counselor. Robin specializes in working with her clients through Healing with Whole Foods. She can be reached at 937-271-0381. Her next Cooking with Whole Foods cooking class at Harmony Farm is Thursday, April 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
|
|
