Health
How Black Seed Oil Supports Immune System Health Naturally
Discover how black seed oil enhances immune system health, reduces inflammation, and supports overall wellness naturally. Learn the science behind this powerful supplement.
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Black Seed Oil and Your Lungs
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes For centuries, black seed oil has been called the “magic seed of Egypt.” Found in ancient tombs and praised in Middle Eastern texts, this dark, peppery oil has long been used to ease coughs, chest tightness, and breathing troubles. Now, science is catching up—showing how this traditional remedy might support your lungs, reduce inflammation, and help you breathe easier every day. Quick Look Early studies say black seed oil can make breathing easier for people with asthma and swollen airways [1][2]. The oil’s main active ingredient, thymoquinone, calms lung swelling and fights harmful germs [3][4]. A daily ½–1 teaspoon is the most common amount used in research on adults [5]. Black seed oil is a popular natural remedy for asthma relief and a simple lung health tip shared in many cultures. Table of Contents What Is Black Seed Oil? History and Traditional Uses What Makes the Oil Work? How It May Help Your Breathing Step‑By‑Step Guide to Using Black Seed Oil Lung‑Friendly Habits to Pair With the Oil Just for Fun - Black Seed Oil for Dogs Safety Tips and Possible Side Effects Questions & Answers Key Takeaways References 1. What Is Black Seed Oil? Black seed oil comes from tiny black seeds of the Nigella sativa plant. The plant grows in South and Southwest Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. Farmers press the seeds to squeeze out a dark, slightly spicy oil. People have called these seeds “blessed seeds” because they have been used for many health problems for more than 2,000 years. 2. History and Traditional Uses Old writings from Egypt, Greece, and Persia mention Nigella sativa as a helper for stomach aches, runny noses, and chest tightness. Traditional healers often mixed the oil with honey or warm water for coughs. This long story of use sparks today’s growing interest in black seed oil for breathing problems. In modern times, the oil is used in food, skin creams, and do‑it‑yourself home remedies. Its strong taste and smell come from natural plant chemicals that also give health benefits. 3. What Makes the Oil Work? The star compound in black seed oil is thymoquinone. Lab and animal tests show thymoquinone can: Lower signals that cause swelling in body tissues [1]. Protect cells from harmful free radicals [4]. Slow down or stop certain germs and molds [3]. These actions may explain why some people feel better when they use the oil for asthma, bronchitis, or chest congestion. 4. How It May Help Your Breathing Calms Swelling in the Air Tubes When lungs are sore or puffy, breathing can feel like sucking air through a tiny straw. In one study, adults with partly‑controlled asthma took black seed oil every day for four weeks. Their swollen airways got calmer, and they blew air out more easily [1]. Helps People With Asthma Feel Better Another study with 80 adults looked at black seed oil for asthma symptoms. After a month, the people taking the oil had higher scores on an asthma test and needed fewer rescue puffs of their inhaler [2]. Additional small trials echo these findings [1]. Fights Bad Germs That Cause Lung Infections Sometimes colds or the flu let bacteria move into the lungs. Test‑tube work shows black seed oil can slow down Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae—two germs that can lead to bronchitis [3]. This does not replace antibiotics but may give an extra shield while you heal. Shields Lung Cells From Smoke and Pollution In animal tests, thymoquinone protected lung tissue against smoke damage. It raised the level of good enzymes that clean up toxins and lowered scarring in lung sacs [4]. For city dwellers breathing dusty or smoky air, this finding hints at help from black seed oil for lung detox. 5. Step‑By‑Step Guide to Using Black Seed Oil Below is a friendly plan you can follow at home. Start Small: Begin with ½ teaspoon (about 2.5 mL) once a day with food. The strong taste is easier to handle when mixed into yogurt or drizzled on toast. Listen to Your Body: After one week, if you feel okay, you may try 1 teaspoon (about 5 mL) daily. Do not rush higher. Stay Steady: Benefits often show after 2–4 weeks of steady use [2]. Pick a time—like breakfast—so you remember. Topical Chest Rub: For calming aroma, mix a few drops of black seed oil with a little olive or coconut oil. Rub gently on the chest before bed. The smell can open stuffy noses. Track Changes: Keep a small breathing journal. Write down any coughing, wheezing, or how many times you use an inhaler. Show this to your doctor. 6. Lung‑Friendly Habits to Pair With the Oil Black seed oil works best when teamed up with healthy daily actions. Practice Belly Breathing: Put one hand on your stomach. Breathe in slowly through your nose, feeling the abdomen rise. Breathe out slowly through tight lips. Do this for five minutes each day. Keep Air Clean: Stay away from second‑hand smoke, candles with heavy scents, and dusty rooms. Use a Humidifier: Dry air can irritate lungs. Aim for 40–50 % room humidity if you live in a dry place. Eat Anti‑Inflammatory Foods: Add ginger, garlic, berries, and leafy greens to your plate. These foods help the body fight swelling. Stay Active: Light exercise like walking or swimming makes lungs stronger. 7. Just for Fun - Black Seed Oil for Dogs Research on black seed oil in pets is still new, yet early studies on healthy adult dogs show promising results. A 2020 study found that adding a small daily amount of Nigella sativa oil improved antioxidant levels and boosted certain immune cells in dogs [6]. Holistic veterinarians and pet parents also use the oil to help itchy skin, seasonal allergies, and overall wellness. How much should my dog get? Dog Weight Daily Oil Amount 5–20 lb (2–9 kg) ⅛ teaspoon 21–50 lb (10–23 kg) ¼ teaspoon 51–90 lb (23–41 kg) ½ teaspoon over 90 lb (41 + kg) ¾ teaspoon Start at the low end of the range. Mix the oil into wet food so it is easy to swallow. Watch for loose stools; if this happens, cut the amount in half. Why might it help dogs? Shinier coat & calmer skin: The oil’s healthy fats and antioxidants can ease dry, itchy spots. Comfortable breathing: Like in people, the oil may calm airway swelling, making walks easier on dogs with mild allergies. Immune balance: Thymoquinone supports natural killer cells and healthy inflammation levels [6]. Always check with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement, especially if your dog is on medicine or is pregnant. 8. Safety Tips and Possible Side Effects Black seed oil is usually gentle on the body, but mild tummy upset or heartburn can happen if you take too much. Rarely, people may get a skin rash after rubbing the oil on their chest. Stop use if you feel dizzy, very sick, or notice hives. Pregnant or Nursing: Ask your doctor first, because strong herbs may not be safe for babies. Medical Conditions: If you take medicine for high blood sugar or blood pressure, let your doctor know before starting the oil. The oil can gently lower both sugar and pressure in some people. Stop Before Surgery: Thymoquinone may slow blood clotting. Pause the oil two weeks before any planned surgery. 9. Frequently Asked Questions Can black seed oil cure asthma? No. It may help lower symptoms, but inhalers and doctor visits are still needed [1][2]. When will I feel a change? Many users report easier breathing in 2–4 weeks [2]. Keep using it daily and note any progress. Is it OK to use long‑term? Studies as long as 12 weeks found the oil safe in adults at 1 teaspoon a day [5]. We do not have strong data beyond that. Does it taste bad? The flavor is spicy and earthy. Mixing with juice or food can mask the taste. Can I cook with it? Yes, but heat may lower some of its helpful parts. Use it raw or add after cooking. 10. Key Takeaways Black seed oil is an age‑old herbal remedy now supported by early modern research. Small clinical trials and lab studies show it may calm airway swelling, fight germs, and protect lung tissue [1][3][4]. A simple daily dose of ½–1 teaspoon, paired with lung‑friendly habits, offers an easy at‑home approach for breathing support [5]. Evidence is still emerging; always talk with a healthcare professional before starting any new remedy for you—or your pet. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Ready to Try Black Seed Oil? If you’re looking for a high-quality, cold-pressed black seed oil you can trust, try Nourishing Nutrients Organic Black Cumin Seed Oil. It’s made from 100% pure Nigella sativa seeds—no fillers, no additives—just clean, potent support for your lungs, immune system, and overall well-being. Add it to your daily routine and feel the difference. DisclaimerThe information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Statements about black seed oil have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition. 11. References Salem, A. M., et al. (2017). Annals of Saudi Medicine, 37(1), 64‑71. https://doi.org/10.5144/0256‑4947.2017.64 Koshak, A., et al. (2017). Phytotherapy Research, 31(3), 403‑409. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5761 Shabsoug, B., et al. (2008). Journal of Immunotoxicology, 5(3), 279‑285. Alzohairy, M. A., et al. (2021). Molecules, 26(11), 3218. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26113218 Healthline. (2024, June 15). Black seed oil: Benefits, dosage, and side effects. Al‑Ghamdi, M. S., & Al‑Nedawi, K. N. (2020). Effects of Nigella sativa oil on antioxidant status and immunity in healthy dogs. Veterinary World, 13(10), 2108‑2114.
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Citrus Bergamot’s Secret Weapon: Polyphenols for Heart, Gut, and Metabolism
Curious about polyphenols and why everyone's talking about them? In this science-backed article, we break down how Citrus Bergamot, a polyphenol-rich superfruit from Italy, supports inflammation, heart health, and gut balance—especially when paired with fiber. Learn why this potent antioxidant source may be the best-kept secret in natural cholesterol support and weight management, and how our USDA Organic Citrus Bergamot supplement stands apart from the rest.
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The Surprising Benefits of Using Pearl Powder: 7 Science-Backed Reasons It Must Be Added to Your Health and Beauty Routine
Discover why pearl powder is more than just a timeless beauty secret. Backed by modern science and centuries of traditional use, this natural supplement supports glowing skin, stronger bones, sharper brain function, and antioxidant protection—from the inside out. In this article, you’ll learn 7 powerful, research-backed reasons to add freshwater pearl powder to your health and beauty routine today.
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How Mushrooms Support Immune Function & Stress Resilience
From ancient Chinese medicine to modern wellness trends, there’s a reason mushrooms have earned a reputation as powerful allies in promoting resilience and vitality. But in recent years, their popularity has surged exponentially thanks to modern science finally discovering their real health benefits. These fungi are packed with bioactive compounds that support the immune system and help the body combat stress. Here's all the reasons you shouldn’t be missing out on the benefits of these natural adaptogens, and how you can make sure to harness the best of them in your every-day life. The Science Behind Mushrooms It’s no secret that mushrooms are rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B, vitamin D, selenium, and potent antioxidants like ergothioneine. But what most people may not know is that they are also classified as adaptogens, as they help the body regulate stress and restore balance. They do this mainly by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (the system responsible for managing stress and immune function). These compounds also contribute heavily towards cellular health, energy production, and overall immune resilience. How Mushrooms Support Immune Function Beta-Glucans And Anti-Oxidants: The Immune System’s Best Friend Beta-glucans, found in Mushrooms, act as immunity modulators and naturally stimulate immune cells such as macrophages and white blood cells, which enhances the body’s ability to fight infections and other diseases that target your immune system. Mushrooms also contain powerful antioxidants like ergothioneine and selenium, which help to combat oxidative stress (a condition where the body struggles to detoxify the effects of free radicals), which happens to be one of the largest factors behind a deteriorating immune system. These compounds from the mushrooms work towards repairing cell damage, reducing inflammation in your body and enhancing immune resilience. Immune-Boosting Mushrooms Reishi: Known as the "mushroom of immortality," Reishi supports immune balance and contains anti-cancer properties, as studies have shown that it inhabits the growth of cancer cells. Shiitake: Rich in beta-glucans, Shiitake mushrooms enhance immune response and promote cardiovascular health. They are also a good source of vitamins, as they contain B vitamins (B2, B3, B5, B6), vitamin D, and even minerals such as copper, selenium, and zinc. Maitake: These mushrooms are celebrated for their ability to stimulate white blood cell activity and fortifying the body's defence mechanisms. How Mushrooms Enhance Stress Resilience Most adaptogens help the body maintain homeostasis during stressful situations. For example, chronic stress can lead to excess cortisol production, which can weaken the immune system and cause fatigue. Adaptogens help reduce cortisol in your body, which allows the body to recover more effectively from stress with no side effects. Lion’s Mane Mushrooms, Cordyceps and Chaga are all potent antioxidants that help reduce the side-effects of stress in your body and reduce overall fatigue levels too. Nourishing Nutrients Organic Mushroom Powder As amazing as mushrooms are, it’s not feasible to incorporate them in your diet. Some mushrooms are only available seasonally, and species like Shiitake and Maitake are hard to find outside speciality stores, which aren’t easy to come by. And even if you manage to source them, mushrooms take a lot of cleaning and preparation time. However, organic mushroom supplements are a good option for those who are interested in taking full advantage of the benefits of mushrooms, without any of the hassle. Nourishing Nutrients’ Organic Mushroom Powder offers a potent blend of Reishi, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga, and Wood Ear mushrooms with maximized benefits to suit your needs. High Potency: Contains over 30% Beta-D Glucans, making it significantly more effective than standard mushroom powders. Pure & Organic: Sourced from wild mountain regions and select farms, free from fillers, chemicals, and GMOs. Superior Extraction: The 14:1 extract ratio ensures maximum bioavailability, utilizing only the fruiting body of the mushrooms. 3rd Party Tested: Verified for purity and potency, ensuring a safe and effective product.
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The Power of Black Seed Oil for Immunity & Inflammation
In the realm of natural remedies, superfoods exist, and then there are the ancient, time-tested elixirs. Black seed oil is one of them. Traditional medical practitioners have employed black seed oil for many centuries throughout global healthcare practices dating back to ancient Egyptian medicine and classical Ayurvedic practices. The black seed derived from Nigella sativa plants brings many valuable nutrients to humans as it holds both anti-inflammatory substances and antioxidants along with immune-stimulating properties. Historically known as the seed of blessing it brings invaluable compounds to the body. Modern life factors such as stress and processed foods alongside environmental pollutants wear down our immune system resulting in persistent inflammation that triggers multiple health issues including joint pain and gastrointestinal distress alongside skin problems. Black seed oil allows natural body restoration that helps build protective mechanisms while supporting wellness in general. What is Black Seed Oil? The production of black seed oil originates from Nigella sativa seeds which are better recognized as black cumin or kalonji seeds of the southwest Asian plant species. Black seed stands as a tiny but mighty power source that contains antioxidants together with essential fatty acids alongside possibly active medical compounds called thymoquinone. Black Seed Oil for Immunity: Your Natural Defense Shield Your immune system is your body’s way of defending itself, and black seed oil keeps it working at peak capacity. Here’s why: Black seed oil contains high levels of thymoquinone that decrease oxidative stress to minimize immune system suppression. Medical reports indicate that black seed oil possesses dual antiviral and antibacterial capabilities as well as immune-enhancing properties which helps fight flu and cold infections. Research indicates that black seed oil makes immune cells work better and this leads to a body system that fights off external infections more effectively. Whether you’re fighting seasonal sniffles or simply want to boost your system, black seed oil can provide your immune system with the boost it needs. Black Seed Oil vs. Inflammation: A Natural Remedy Chronic inflammation is the root of all the ailments of today—think joint pain, digestive issues, and even skin conditions. The natural anti-inflammatory characteristics of black seed oil create an appealing remedy for medical treatment. Black seed oil seems to provide relief from arthritis pain together with reducing muscle sore The anti-inflammatory compounds help solve digestive issues and provide relief from IBS symptoms as well as bloating. Black seed oil demonstrates its anti-inflammatory properties by naturally treating acne and eczema while fighting bacterial infections on the skin. Why Choose Nourishing Nutrients' Black Seed Oil When it comes to black seed oil, you should have the best—and Nourishing Nutrients' Black Seed Oil gives you the purest, most potent formula so you can realize its full potential. The natural goodness in our black seed oil stems from its abundance of antioxidants together with essential fatty acids and potent thymoquinone compounds. The extraction process uses a gentle cold-press method which preserves nutrients in their original state to achieve maximum strength without any additives or fillers. No heat, no chemicals—just pure natural goodness of black seed. The multiple uses of our black cumin oil include consuming it orally for immune system enhancement and heart and digestion support while you can also apply it topically for skin smoothing and hair health and pain relief and use it in smoothies, tea and dressings for total health benefits. All our batches undergo purity testing at the 3rd party laboratory because we strive to provide nothing less than pure toxin-free black seed oil to our customers with each serving. Small Seed, Big Impact Black seed oil is more than an old wives' tale—it's a science-supported powerhouse with actual benefits to immunity and inflammation. Whether you want to give your body's defenses a boost, calm chronic pain, or get your skin glowing, this small seed is a big winner. The bad news? It costs money. The good news? A tried-and-true, all-natural solution that fits seamlessly into your routine. So why wait? A teaspoon a day might be the easy, efficient addition your routine has been missing.
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Mushrooms- Deliciously beneficial!
If you are aware of the trendy (yet beneficial) "Functional Foods," or if you want to get positive health benefits while also devouring your favorite foods, this article is just for you! As the name suggests, Functional Foods do not only excite your taste buds but also help your body function in a positive manner by giving you the right amount of nutrients that prevent your body from diseases and weaknesses. One such very common (not to mention, yummy) kitchen ingredient is the "Mushrooms." In addition, the fungi that are very fondly consumed along with steaks in many Italian dishes and as sauces to add that extra oomph to our meals also hold many medicinal benefits. Therefore, it's safe to say that this kitchen ingredient gives you the best of both worlds. When consumed the right kind, they can prove to be one of the richest sources of anti-cancer antiviral, antidiabetic, and immunomodulation agents. Moreover, as per functional food science, mushrooms are a good source of vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, ascorbic acid, niacin, and biotin. Although, as per studies, only 10% of mushrooms have been discovered so far, and out of which, not all are edible. We would like to mention some of the top medicinal mushrooms. 1. Anti-Cancer properties: A wide range of purified biochemicals is obtained from mushrooms and used to combat diseases as well as improve the overall health of the body. The Reishi mushroom or the "Ganoderma Lucidum" grows in hot and humid habitats of Asia and has been very frequently used in Eastern Medicine. This type of mushroom gives a boost to white blood cells, resulting in increasing immunity of the body-the first and foremost requirement for the body to shield itself from all kinds of external virus attacks and fatal diseases. The *natural killer cells* boosted by the use of Reishi mushrooms can help fight against cancer and other infections in the human body. Although the most effective use of these mushrooms is supported by the already-infected bodies or in cancer patients, studies show that they can benefit healthy bodies too. While it is a magnificent and effective way of dealing with diseases, researchers recommend its use along with other medicines targeted for the disease instead of substituting them with this mushroom. Some studies also show that reishi mushrooms can help decrease anxiety and depression, control blood sugar level and heart health as well. However, more authentic research is being carried out to back this fact. 2. Anti-Diabetic properties: Dietary Fiber is a prominent source of controlling blood sugar levels in the body. Since mushrooms constitute a great percentage of dietary fiber, they help reduce the risk of diabetes as well prove to be effective in controlling blood sugar levels in already diabetic patients. Reishi mushroom alone has more than 400 nutrients and is a rich source of fiber. Blood Sugar Control is one of the major reason mushrooms were used in ancient medicine and are still widely used and cultivated all over the world for their tremendous health benefits. 3. Antioxidants Antioxidants present in natural food are a sought-after ingredient in preventive medicine. In general, antioxidants help neutralize the free radicals in the body- the molecules produced after your exposure to some sort of radiation, smoking, or just by the mere breakdown of food. These substances can potentially harm your body by developing cancer cells, heart problems, and a wide range of diseases. Mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and hence help you maintain the Antioxidants-Free Radical order in the body. It is essential for our body to balance the number of free radicals with antioxidants. If the count of our antioxidants is outnumbered, it results in oxidative stress, which leads to DNA destruction and eventually cell’s death. 4. Energy Boost and improvement of Bodily Functions: Some species of mushrooms are a very good nutritional source, providing selenium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin D, proteins, and fiber while being low-fat, low-cal, and low in carbohydrates. These outstanding health benefits rank them as an overall healthy food staple, apart from being a culinary food attraction. Like the Reishi Mushrooms in Eastern medicine, Cordyceps Sinensis has been used in Chinese and Tibetan medicine. It is an exquisite hybrid composed of a caterpillar and fungus found in Sikkim at altitudes above 3,800 m. According to the Locals, it is believed to cure all known diseases by improving routine body functions such as sleeping patterns, endurance, and appetite. It’s also believed to provide an energy boost to the consumers. These mushrooms cater to a plethora of diseases, from cough to bronchitis to heart and liver problems, cholesterol to hepatitis, and fatigue to weakness-it has got you covered on almost all fronts. 5. Immunomodulatory agents As the current ongoing pandemic has schooled us all about the benefits of having a good immune system, it’s about time we start consuming organic substances that act as immunomodulatory agents and aid us in fighting a number of diseases, infections, and viruses. Mushrooms are one of the highly recommended food items proven to prepare a strong defence system for the body. A wide variety of fungi fall in the “mushrooms as medicine” category. Chaga, Reishi, Cordyceps, turkey tail, shiitake, lion’s mane, and maitake are all antioxidants and immunomodulatory agents. 6. Source of Beta-D Glucan: If you are wondering why mushroom has been used in medicines for centuries, it is primarily because of its one very special component (among countless others) -Beta D Glucan. It is formed in the cell wall of mushrooms and has proven to be a strong agent against suppressing tumors in the body. The Mushroom Beta Glucans- MBGS, are also effective to be used for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. Many kinds of research proved Beta Glucan to effectively activate the immune response in order to defend the body from bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. In simple terms, tumors spread further in the body by affecting surrounding tissues and hence forming secondary tumors in other parts of the body apart from the area where it originated. Beta-D Glucan prevents the cells from further harm by modifying the body's biological response and hence modulating the host immune system. Beta D Glucans are also widely used for treating heart diseases and high cholesterol levels in the body. 7. Anti-Inflammatory Agents: Is there anything that mushrooms can’t bring to the table? No, we don’t think so! They also act as inflammatory agents for chronic inflammation, with the help of their constituents such as selenium, vitamin D, potassium and beta glucans. Most health experts advise to consume mushrooms alongside other medicines for achieving overall well-being of the body or just improve health conditions. Combating inflammation results in avoiding the risk of getting cancer, Parkinson's disease, and dementia. 8. Remedy for Cough and Cold: Since mushrooms are widely used as medicines due to their antiviral properties, they happen to combat cough, common flu and cold. A cup of warm Mushroom tea can prove to be a quick remedy when you have attacked by the most common yet the most annoying virus, influenza or commonly known as “flu”. Mushrooms usually grow in the wild and while doing so, incorporate in them a number of compounds that can help them fight against the environmental bacteria and viruses. This property makes them an excellent immune-boosting food that is delicious yet effective against potential diseases. 8. Your guide to good skin: Mushrooms, as per studies, also help reduce acne and eczema due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Particularly, Reishi mushroom, helps cure acne alongside reducing stress, insomnia and fatigue. Due to its wide spectrum of health benefits, its medicinal benefits have been used since ancient times. Today, modern medicine considers mushrooms a staple when it comes to functional foods. Several varieties of mushrooms are used in anti-aging creams, face masks and other skin care products as they help minimize pores, hydrates the skin, exfoliates the skin, reduces blemishes and boosts vitamins giving you facial glow. 9. Stops hair loss: Stops hair loss: Mushrooms are high in iron and can meet your daily iron needs, preventing anemia and other health problems. A mushroom-rich diet can help prevent hair loss and promote the growth of new hair. Mushrooms are also known for their high copper content, which helps to slow down greying. Reishi mushrooms, which have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, can help to prevent balding and premature hair loss. Anti-inflammatory chemicals found in reishi mushrooms helps to protect damaged hair. They also increase hair growth by improving blood circulation in the scalp. Bottom Line: There are numerous methods to include mushroom medicine into your daily routine. Mushrooms are considered advantageous as a preventive treatment to promote immuno-stimulation against infections, as well as for their many other health benefits.
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Food for Immune System Booster: 5 Foods That Strengthen Your Immune System
In this unprecedented global pandemic, you may be wondering what you can do to naturally strengthen your immune system. Did you know that you can use food for an immune system booster? Several nutrition-packed foods may help bolster your natural immunity, making it easier for your body to ward off harmful bacteria or viruses. Although eating these foods can’t prevent COVID-19 or any other disease, they are rich in compounds that can naturally give your immune system a boost. Here are 5 foods you can eat as immune system boosters. 1. Mushrooms Mushrooms have earned their status as a superfood. They have adaptogenic and nootropic properties, meaning they may help boost your brain function and your overall wellness. In addition, they have several potentially immune-boosting properties as well. Mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory antioxidants, which can help ward off unstable free radical compounds and reverse some of the cellular damage caused by these compounds. They are also rich in vitamin D, which plays a key role in immune health (1). In fact, one high-quality 4-week study of 52 adults found that eating 5-10 grams of shiitake mushrooms daily resulted in increased immune cell production and decreased inflammation (2). Mushrooms can be added to a variety of dishes, but they’re excellent in stir-fries, salads, and soups. They can also be used as a meat substitute if you’re following a vegan or vegetarian diet. If you dislike the taste of mushrooms, you could try using a mushroom powder, like Nourishing Nutrients Superfood 10. It's made from 10 different types of organic mushrooms and can be added to coffee or other drinks, allowing you to get the benefits of mushrooms even if you dislike the taste. 2. Sea Moss Sea moss, or Irish moss, is a type of red algae that grows on rocks on the coasts of Europe, North American, and the Caribbean Islands. It’s rich in minerals that may help boost your immune health, like potassium and iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral found in sea moss. It’s an essential component of your thyroid hormones and helps regulate thyroid health. It’s also a potent antioxidant, meaning it can help prevent and reverse some of the cellular damage caused by free radicals (5). Potassium, another mineral, may help regulate the body’s resistance to tumor growth. However, more research is needed regarding this possibility (6). Sea moss also contains a number of other compounds that may help your immune system, like antioxidants and vitamins. Sea moss is used in some Irish and Jamaican recipes, but most people choose to supplement with it instead of eat it. It’s can be added to foods, drinks, or smoothies, or taken alone. To reap some of the benefits of sea moss, you can try a sea moss supplement. 3. Bone Broth Bone broth is a broth made from the bones of animals—usually chicken, pork, or beef bones. Unlike a regular soup stock, bone broth is cooked slowly—allowing all of the compounds found in the bone to infuse into the broth. The result is a rich, deep-flavored broth that is packed with nutrition. Bone broth contains collagen, a type of protein found in your skin and connective tissues that can help promote healing (7). It also contains three key amino acids—or building blocks of protein—that may boost immune health: arginine, glutamine, and cysteine. Glutamine in particular appears to increase the proliferation of immune cells, potentially promoting a stronger immune response to perceived threats (8, 9). Finally, research may even support the idea that chicken soup can help when you’re sick. Homemade chicken soup is typically made from a broth using simmered chicken bones, so it provides some of the same benefits as bone broth. Homemade chicken soup may help you get over a cold faster and, according to a study from the 1970s, improve nasal congestion (10, 11). You can buy bone broth at most stores or make it yourself using the leftover bones from meat you cook. 4. Black garlic Black garlic is a type of aged garlic that’s bursting with flavor. It’s also long been used in traditional medicine. The strictly-regulated aging process that it goes through over weeks or months caramelizes the natural sugars found in the garlic, turning it black and giving it a sticky texture and milder, sweeter flavor than raw garlic. Black garlic contains a compound called allicin, which provides many of its potentially immune-boosting benefits. Allicin is antimicrobial—meaning it can kill certain disease-causing cells, at least in test-tube studies. It’s also anti-inflammatory, and may help improve heart health (3, 4). Enjoy black garlic in any recipe you’d use raw garlic in. It’s got a great, rich flavor that meshes well with most types of food. 5. Strawberries Strawberries are a healthy and delicious fruit, low in sugar and high in fiber. They’re a great addition to any diet. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, an essential, anti-inflammatory nutrient that exerts many positive effects on the immune system. It can decrease inflammation and promote the neutralization of unstable free radical compounds, and promote the proliferation and effectiveness of your body’s immune cells (12). Strawberries are great on their own, but also an excellent addition to smoothies and salads. Conclusion These foods—rich in antioxidants, nutrients, and other healthy compounds—may help equip your body to ward off infection and illness. They can serve as natural foods for an immune system booster. If you’re strapped for time and unable to cook healthy meals regularly, you can also try the mushroom extract supplement by Nourishing Nutrients for all of the benefits of these foods in a super-convenient form. References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29146352/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25866155/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25153873/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30537531/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28103777/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30923211/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29601617/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17403271/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30360490/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11035691/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/359266/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29099763/
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The Superfood Qualities Of Mushrooms And Why You Should Add Them To Your Diet
Author- Barbie Ritzman The term "superfood," depending on where you live has been around for a while. I see it everywhere in California, but locally I only see it at some of the Mom & Pop health food stores. But the wonderful thing is you can go online for these Superfoods, to places like Nourishing Nutrients, which makes it convenient. For 2019, I decided to go back to a trainer friend of mine. While I can’t drive to workout with him any longer in person, he did put together an excellent plan for me, and one of them included adding some Superfoods to my daily diet. Now I know you are probably wondering what the Heck Is A Superfood? Well to put it simply, the term Superfood refers to foods that offer maximum nutritional benefits with minimal calories, which is why they are great to add to other foods, especially a protein shake, smoothie, and soups. Not only do Superfoods have minimal calories, but the benefit is they are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and boy do I love me some antioxidants! The Antioxidant Benefits Of Superfoods Being a woman in her forties, I need as many rich antioxidants that I can get as they are amazing at helping to neutralize free radicals in our bodies. Free radicals can wreak havoc on the body especially the skin as they cause damage to the cellular structure. This damage can speed up the skin's aging, by breaking down the skin’s collagen, which can lead to premature aging with sagging, wrinkled skin and who the heck wants that? Antioxidant molecules found in superfoods, can decrease and in some cases reverse the effects of free radicals, which is one reason I am all about them! But it doesn’t stop there. Superfoods are great at basically supercharging your health, immunity boosting, and more! The Superfood Qualities Of Mushrooms And Why You Should Add Them To Your Diet One Superfood that I am implementing into my diet is a product from Nourishing Nutrients, SUPERFOOD 10 Organic Mushroom Powder Extract. The benefits of mushrooms are huge. They have a great deal of nutritional value, are full of micronutrients, are low in carbohydrates and sodium and high in fiber and potassium (more than a banana), oh and they have no fat! Nourishing Nutrients Superfood 10 Mushroom Powder Extract Blend This Superfood blend has 10 different mushrooms. The extract powder is derived from Ancient Chinese Medicinal Techniques. Dating back to 400A.D. This powder is: Hot water extract (no alcohol used) USDA certified organic Made in an FDA registered facility Gluten Free 100% WHOLE FRUITING BODIES, NO mycelium (grain) Free from fillers, grains & mycelium Vegan-friendly Mostly Wild mountain harvested mushrooms NOT genetically engineered mushrooms 10 PURE MUSHROOM EXTRACTS to include: Reishi, Chaga, Maitake, Cordyceps, Shiitake, Lions Mane, TurkeyTail, Oyster, Phellinus linteus, and Wood Ear Mushroom. What Are The Benefits And Uses Of Mushroom Powder Extract If you’re interested in adding more mushrooms to your diet, this powder is a fantastic way to do it. It can be mixed into your food in a variety of ways very easily. Mushrooms add a nutty taste and can be added to some of the below. Ways To Add More Mushrooms To Your Diet Coffee Tea Hot Cocoa Smoothie Breaksfast Superfood Bowls Protein drinks Oatmeal Add to food & broth to enhance their flavors As a meat substitute In soups, sautés, salad dressings and so much more! Click Here For Hot Cocoa Recipe Benefits Of Adding Mushrooms To Your Diet A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help you live a longer, healthier life. The product from Nourishing nutrients has many benefits, helping with things such as… Obesity (Mushrooms are prebiotic, which means they nourish the healthy bacteria in your gut, which could also help treat obesity) Protects the cells from free radicals Improves mood- mental focus & lowers stress Immunity boosting & cell health supporting Detoxifying Energy & endurance Increase satiety and reduces appetite Packed with fiber Vitamin Rich: Vitamin C that can help to boost immunity and lower inflammation in the body. Vitamin A which can assist with detoxifying the body, improving skin and hair health. Excellent source of Potassium. Potassium works with sodium to help your body maintain a proper water and electrolyte balance. Hence helping with things like lowering your blood pressure, dehydration, muscle cramps, and much more! Overall consuming more superfood mushrooms may be one of the most important foods you can eat to improve your health and using a product like Nourishing Nutrients 10 Pure Mushroom Powder Extract makes it easier to consume! Author- Barbie Ritzman
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