Cayenne Pepper Benefits Your Gut, Heart and More

Many of us have used cayenne pepper to add a little spice to our meals, but did you know that it has the power to change your health? It has been used for both food and medicine for the last 9,000 years!

Cayenne pepper can stimulate your body's circulation and reduce acidity; it's a powerful, spicy little pepper that offers many health benefits.

The fruit of the capsicum plant contains a chemical called capsaicin. Using capsaicin for different health ailments is more common than ever.

What Is Cayenne Pepper?

Cayenne is a shrub that originated in Central and South America and now grows in subtropical and tropical climates. Its hollow fruit grows into long pods that turn red, orange or yellow when they ripen.

Cayenne chili peppers (or Capsicum frutescens) belong to the genus Capsicum and come from a similar cultivar of Capsicum annuum. Capsicum is an herb, and the fruit of the capsicum plant is used to make medicine.

Cayenne pepper is typically added to food in either its natural or powdered form, and some people use it as a cream or capsule in order to take advantage of its detoxifying properties.

Cayenne pepper benefits are numerous. It's used to help digestion, including heal upset stomach, slow intestinal gas, stop stomach pain, stop diarrhea and as a natural remedy for cramps.

It's also used for conditions of the heart and blood vessels — including to improve poor circulation, reverse excessive blood clotting, lower high cholesterol and prevent heart disease.

When consumed, cayenne pepper has the power to relieve a toothache, seasickness, alcoholism, malaria and fever. It's also used to help people who have difficulty swallowing.

When applied topically, cayenne pepper benefits the skin, too.

Currently, it's being studied to test its ability to reduce pain sensations when applied to the skin, and research indicates that it would be effective as a remedy for headaches (including migraines), potential solution for osteoarthritis and other painful conditions.

Many of these cayenne pepper benefits are possible because of the plant's active compound capsaicin. This molecule works by binding to a vanilloid receptor known as TRPV1, which triggers a mild inflammatory reaction that's meant to repair injured cells.

Nutrition Facts

Cayenne pepper contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin E, potassium, manganese and flavonoids which provide its powerful antioxidant properties.

On the Scoville Rating Scale, cayenne pepper is rated typically anywhere from 30,000 to 190,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). (Pure capsaicin has the highest SHU rating.)

Here are the cayenne pepper nutrition facts, listed in recommended daily values. One teaspoon (about two grams) of cayenne pepper contains approximately:

• 5.6 calories
• 1 gram carbohydrates
• 0.2 grams protein
• 0.3 grams fat
• 0.5 grams fiber
• 728 international units vitamin A (15 percent DV)
• 0.5 milligrams vitamin E (3 percent DV)
• 1.3 milligrams vitamin C (2 percent DV)
• 1.4 micrograms vitamin K (2 percent DV)

Health Benefits

1. Helps Digestion

One of the major cayenne pepper benefits is the positive effect it has on the digestive system.

Cayenne pepper helps produce saliva, which is important for excellent digestion as well as preventing bad breath. Research suggests that consuming cayenne pepper stimulates our salivary glands, which is needed to begin the digestive process.

Cayenne pepper also stimulates the flow of enzyme production, which is essential for our digestive system to work properly. It also stimulates gastric juices that aid the body's ability to metabolize food and toxins.

2. Relieves Migraine Pain

Researchers suggest that cayenne pepper, due to its spice, is able to stimulate a pain response in a different part of the body. Once this happens, the brain puts its attention on that new site and will no longer concentrate on the pain in the head, which causes the migraine headache.

After this initial pain reaction from the cayenne pepper, the nerve fibers have a depleted substance P, or pain chemical, and the sensation of pain is lessened.

With cayenne compounds, you're basically tricking your body to feel pain somewhere else, so that the head is no longer the main focus for pain chemicals.

3. Prevents Blood Clots

Blood clots are blockages in your arteries and blood vessels that limit blood flow through your circulatory system.

Cayenne encourages fibrinolytic activity and helps prevent blood clots. This is also the reason why cayenne pepper is effective in preventing heart attacks.

Studies indicate that the capsaicin in cayenne pepper helps to clear away artery-narrowing lipid deposits, and dilates arteries and blood vessels to clear away clots.

4. Provides Detox Support

Cayenne pepper benefits include its ability to stimulate circulation and eliminate acidity.

According to research published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, cayenne pepper restores the circulatory system by opening the capillaries and regulating blood sugar; it also helps the digestive system that moves bacteria and toxins out of the body.

Research conducted in the Netherlands suggests that cayenne pepper also increases body temperature and boosts your metabolism.

5. Relieves Joint and Nerve Pain

Cayenne power has very powerful pain-relieving properties when applied to the skin. It reduces the amount of substance P, a chemical that carries pain messages to the brain. When there is less substance P, the pain messages no longer reach the brain and you feel relief.

Studies have found that cayenne pepper relieves pain after surgery, such as a mastectomy or an amputation.

It also alleviates pain from nerve damage in the feet or legs from diabetes, lower back injuries, neuropathy, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as fibromyalgia symptoms like joint or muscle pain.

6. Supports Weight Loss

A study published in PloS One found that consuming cayenne pepper for breakfast creates less appetite, so people eat less calories during the day.

It also burns excess fat because it's a metabolic booster. As one of the key anti-inflammatory foods, cayenne pepper benefits also include weight loss.

Cayenne pepper has the power to soothe inflammation and bloating that comes from allergies, food sensitivities and infections.

7. Works as Anti-Irritant

Cayenne pepper benefits include its anti-irritant properties, making it effective in easing ulcers, upset stomachs, cough and even potentially stop diarrhea.

The common belief is that cayenne pepper, when consumed in excessive amounts, leads to gastric ulcers because of its irritant and acid-secreting nature.

People with ulcers are actually advised to limit or avoid using cayenne pepper; however, investigations carried out in recent years have revealed that chili, or its active principle capsaicin, is not the cause for the formation of ulcer symptoms but a benefactor.

Studies have found that cayenne pepper does not stimulate, but inhibits acid secretion, stimulates alkali and mucus secretions and particularly gastric mucosal blood flow, which helps in the prevention and healing of ulcers.

8. Treats Psoriasis

Psoriasis occurs when skin cells replicate too quickly, and it results in swollen patches under the skin covered with whitish scales on top. The scaly patches are areas of inflammation and excessive skin production.

Two trials showed that 0.025 percent capsaicin (cayenne pepper) cream used topically is effective in treating psoriasis.

The first study showed a significant decrease in scaling and redness during a six-week period in 44 patients with moderate and severe psoriasis.

The second was a double-blind study of 197 patients, which found that psoriasis was treated with the capsaicin cream four times daily for six weeks, with a significant decrease in scaling, thickness, redness and itching.

9. Boosts Metabolism

Cayenne pepper benefits also include its ability to regulate your metabolism, according to a review published in Open Heart.

It has been found to effectively suppress hunger and normalize glucose levels. It also keeps blood pressure levels normalized, and helps the body lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

10. Fights Cold and Flu

Cayenne pepper benefits include being full of beta carotene and antioxidants that support your immune system.

It aids in breaking up and moving congested mucus, and once this nasty mucus leaves the body, the symptoms of the flu or cold will diminish.

Besides helping as a natural remedy for the flu, cayenne pepper also raises your body temperature, which makes you sweat and increases the activity of your immune system. As a vitamin C food, cayenne pepper may also help you to kick that nasty cold.

11. Source of Vitamin A

Vitamin A plays a critical role in maintaining healthy vision, neurological function and healthy skin; it is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation by fighting free radicals.

Studies have repeatedly shown that antioxidants like vitamin A are vital to good health and longevity; they benefit eye health, boost immunity and foster cell growth.

Lucky for us, cayenne pepper is a great source of vitamin A; in fact, with just two teaspoons of cayenne pepper, you are getting your fill of vitamin A for the day!

12. Contains Vitamin E

Vitamin E benefits include helping many organs in the body function properly and is extremely useful in naturally slowing the aging process.

This important and beneficial vitamin has the power to balance cholesterol, fight free radicals, repair damaged skin, balance hormones, repair damaged skin and hair, improve vision and increase energy levels … and cayenne pepper is an important provider of vitamin E.

13. Prevents Allergies

Because cayenne is an anti-inflammatory agent, it has the power to prevent allergies and the symptoms related to allergies. A food allergy, for example, is a measurable response to consuming a specific food.

Food allergies, or intolerances, can be caused by a condition known as leaky gut (intestinal permeability), when proteins and food particles pass through the gut and cause systemic body inflammation.

Leaky gut is like having the gates broken from your intestines to your bloodstream so that toxins, microbes and undigested food particles can now get through. When this happens, it causes inflammation throughout your body, leading to a variety of diseases.

14. Possible Anti-Cancer Agent

Studies suggest that capsaicin may have a role as a natural remedy for cancer, including in the management of prostate cancer.

One study conducted at University of California at Los Angeles School of Medicine found that this important ingredient in cayenne pepper is able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and prevent the activation of new dangerous formations.

There is also data from California's Loma Linda University that suggests that cayenne pepper benefits include being effective in helping prevent lung cancer in smokers.

Cayenne pepper's high amounts of capsaicin serves as a substance that can stop the formation of tobacco induced tumors in the lung. Similar effects have also been found in liver tumors when they were exposed to cayenne pepper.

15. Anti-Fungal Properties

The final cayenne pepper benefit is its ability to kill fungus and prevent the formation of fungal pathogens. Cayenne pepper was investigated to determine its in vitro antifungal activity, and the results found that it was active against 16 different fungal strains, including Candida.

Candida is a fungus that aids with nutrient absorption and digestion, when in proper levels in the body. When it overproduces, however, the typical candida symptoms may appear.

This includes hormone imbalance, joint pain, digestive problems and a weak immune system.

How to Use

Cayenne peppers are available year-round in supermarkets or health food stores. You can find them in fresh, dried or powdered form.

Because powdered cayenne pepper is sometimes a mix a poorer quality herbs, it's best to buy cayenne peppers fresh; however, if you are using dried or powered pepper, the health benefits are still awesome.

Just be sure to buy your powder from a trusted company. Go for powders that are authentic and branded products — there are even organic options.

In the store, look for raw, fresh chilies that have a brilliant red color and a healthy stem. Make sure there aren't any spots, mold or spoiled tips.

The pepper should look wholesome and firm. Once at home, store your peppers inside the refrigerator in a plastic bag; they will stay fresh for about a week.

Dry peppers are also available at the supermarket, especially health food stores. Dry peppers can be stored using airtight containers in a cool and dark place.

Dried cayenne peppers can be milled to powder using a hand mill.

Fresh cayenne chili peppers can be used to make spicy drinks, sauce, chutney or can even be used for pickling. Make sure you wash them well first — you want to use any dirt, sand or fungicides.

Interesting Facts

The chili originated in Central and South America. It's named after the capital city of the French Guiana, Cayenne. From seeds found on the floors of caves that were ancient human dwellings and from ancient fossil feces, scientists have found that people were eating peppers as early as 7000 B.C.

Cayenne is one of the main foods of the Hunzas in Asia, along with apricots and their pits, millet and other simple foods. These people live to over a hundred years of age, which some say is because of their natural immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory foods that they consume daily.

Cayenne peppers were even growing in the Hawaiian Islands in as early as 1897; these smaller and more pungent fruits were called Hawaiian Chili Peppers.

Today, you can find cayenne pepper all over the world, and it now has a reputation for its health benefits.

An interesting and popular detox and weight loss regime recently has been the cayenne pepper diet, which is a cleanse that flushes toxins from the body. The diet consists of a lemon and cayenne drink that is consumed about six times a day, and this lasts for about 10 days.

The drink recipe calls for two tablespoons of lemon or lime juice, two tablespoons of real maple syrup, a pinch of cayenne pepper and eight ounces of water.

Risks, Side Effects and Interactions

Medicinal lotions and creams that contain capsicum extract are known to be safe for most adults when applied to the skin and consumed. The active chemical in capsicum, capsaicin, is approved by the FDA as an over-the-counter product, so it can be sold without a prescription.

When applied topically, cayenne pepper side effects may include skin irritation, burning and itching. It can also be extremely irritating to the eyes, nose and throat, so be careful when using cayenne pepper on sensitive skin or around the eyes.

When consumed in moderate doses, side effects can include upset stomach and irritation, sweating, flushing and runny nose.

Because cayenne pepper may increase bleeding during and after surgery, it's best to stop using cayenne pepper as a natural medication at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Medications that slow blood clotting, such as anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, interact with cayenne pepper and should be avoided if you are using cayenne pepper as a natural health remedy.

Some medications that slow blood clotting include:

aspirin
clopidogrel
diclofenac
ibuprofen
naproxen
warfarin
Capsicum can also increase how much theophylline a bronchodilator that can treat asthma and other lung problems — the body can absorb. Therefore, taking capsicum alongside theophylline might increase the effects and side effects of theophylline.

It's wise not to use cayenne pepper on children under the age of two. It can be irritating and may lead to a negative reaction, especially on the skin.

Final Thoughts

Cayenne is a shrub that grows long pods called chili peppers. The pepper's active ingredient, capsaicin, is valued for its therapeutic effects.

Cayenne pepper is consumed in whole and powder forms for its health benefits. You'll find capsaicin supplements or topical creams online or in health food stores.

Some of the most well-known cayenne pepper benefits include its ability to aid digestion, relieve migraines, prevent blood clots, promote detoxification, relieve pain, support weight loss and boost metabolism.

Hemp Seeds Benefits for Pain, Weight Loss and More

For a long time, hemp seeds were ignored for their nutritional benefits because of hemp's botanical relationship to medicinal varieties of cannabis. People are often confused about hemp seed nutrition and whether or not the seeds contain cannabinoids, like CBD.

The truth is that hemp seeds don't cause any psychotropic reactions and instead may provide significant health benefits because of the fatty acids and essential amino acids present in the seeds.

Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant that actually has a long history of use in the U.S. Unfortunately, since the 1950s it's been lumped into the same category as marijuana (or cannabis) because it contains a small amount of naturally occurring tetrahydrocannabinoids (THC), and its use has been marginalized to a great extent.

But when eating hemp seeds or hemp seed oil, the cannabinoids aren't present. Cannabinoids like CBD and THC are found in the leaves and flowers of the plant but not in the seeds.

Instead, this superfood is consumed for its omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and its antioxidant effects.

So if you're looking to improve digestion, balance hormones and improve metabolism, then hemp seeds may just be the superfood you're looking for.

What Are Hemp Seeds?

Hemp seeds, or hemp hearts, are the seeds of the hemp plant, or Cannabis sativa. They are technically nuts but are referred to as seeds or hearts.

Each part of the hemp plant offers different compounds and the seeds are no different. There's plenty of confusion about the many parts of hemp and their uses, especially as the market continues to grow.

There are hemp seeds, hempseed oil, hemp extracts, CBD oils and more.

Hemp is actually one of the most widely utilized and diverse industrial crops in the world. It's used for industrial purposes because of its durable natural fibers and for its nutritional content.

Hemp seed oil, or hemp oil, is made by pressing hemp seeds. Unlike CBD oil, which is used to treat pain and issues, hemp seeds are commercially manufactured products that don't contain cannabinoids.

Hemp hearts are an excellent source of nutrients, especially unsaturated fatty acids and essential amino acids. Research shows that the benefits of hemp seeds include their ability to alleviate constipation, support cardiovascular health, improve dermatological issues and ameliorate gastrointestinal diseases.

Health Benefits

1. Rich in GLA

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is a necessary building block for some prostaglandins hormone-like chemicals in the body that help smooth muscles, control inflammation and body temperature, and are vital to other body functions.

Research published in the European Journal of Pharmacology indicates that GLA-supplemented diets attenuate inflammatory responses.

GLA and GLA-rich foods like hemp seeds have also been observed to help people with:

• ADHD
• Breast pain
• Diabetes and diabetic neuropathy
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Multiple sclerosis
• Obesity
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Skin allergies

2. May Alleviate Arthritis and Joint Pain

Research has shown that hemp hearts and hemp seed oil can be helpful in relieving rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology took a look at hemp seed oil's effects on arthritis. What researchers found was hemp seed oil treatment lowered the survival rate of MH7A rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synovial cells, and at certain doses it even promoted cell death.

They concluded that hemp seed oil has anti-arthritic effects, which can help patients suffering from its symptoms.

3. May Aid Weight Loss

Consuming seeds from the hemp plant works as a natural appetite suppressant and can help you feel full longer and reduce sugar cravings.

Adding these seeds, and other high-fiber foods, to meals or smoothies may help curb excess hunger. This is partly due to the fiber content, which promotes satiety and in turn aids weight loss.

According to a systematic review published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, fiber intake is associated with a lower body weight. This can likely be due to satiety and energy intake after eating a meal high in fiber.

4. Improves Digestive Health

High in insoluble and soluble fiber, hemp hearts provide more than enough bulk to keep your gastrointestinal system regular. Additionally, this healthy mixture of roughage feeds the probiotics in your gut and helps secure a robust immune system.

One of the benefits of high-fiber foods is their ability to help relieve constipation.

A study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology and conducted at Hong Kong Baptist University's School of Chinese Medicine comprised two parts: a placebo-controlled clinical study and dose determination study. Subjects were studied in a two-week run-in, eight-week treatment and eight-week follow-up plan who had excessive syndrome of constipation and were given hemp seed pills.

The researchers found that a dose of 7.5 grams was more effective and therapeutic than doses of 2.5 or five grams, and that the hemp seed pill treatment was effective for relieving functional constipation.

5. Boosts Hair, Skin and Nail Health

Hemp seed benefits for skin and hair go a long way in improving dry, red, flaking skin.

Mostly used in high-end cosmetic products, hemp oil is oftentimes included in lip balms, lotions and soaps. The oil in hemp seeds penetrates the inner layers of the skin and promotes healthy cell growth the recipe for smooth, soft skin.

In fact, researchers studying the effects of oil extracted from hemp hearts on atopic dermatitis, or eczema, a skin condition that causes inflammation and dry skin, found that patients' symptoms improved with the use of the oil.

Since the oil is also good for skin disorders, such as psoriasis and eczema, it's also a good idea to add the plant's seeds to your diet to maximize these benefits. You can also make a homemade skin cream combining hemp seed oil, shea butter and essential oils like lavender.

6. Reduces Inflammation

Because of its perfect fatty acid profile of omega-3 fats and GLA, hemp seed helps to naturally reduce inflammation levels and strengthen the immune system.

Research published in ACS Omega indicates that hempseed has immunomodulating, antioxidant and anti-aging effects.

7. Heart Health

Some of the key ingredients in building a healthy heart include fiber, plant-based protein, healthy fats and eating less sugar. Hemp seeds help in doing all of these things.

Research in animals and humans strongly suggests that hemp seeds can improve cardiovascular health and high blood pressure.

Adding one to two tablespoons of hemp seeds to a morning smoothie may help to naturally lower blood pressure, reduce LDL cholesterol, raise HDL cholesterol and improve triglycerides.

Nutrition Facts

Researchers agree that hemp hearts provides an excellent source of nutrition. Here are some key facts about the incredible health benefits this superfood offers:

• Excellent 3:1 balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote cardiovascular health.
• High in GLA, an essential omega-6 fatty acid that's been proven to naturally balance hormones.
• Perfect protein not only containing all 20 amino acids, but also each of the nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce.

According to the USDA, 28 grams (about 2 tablespoons) of hemp seeds contains about:

• 161 calories
• 3.3 grams carbohydrates
• 9.2 grams protein
• 12.3 grams fat
• 2 grams fiber
• 2.8 milligrams manganese (140 percent DV)
• 15.4 milligrams vitamin E (77 percent DV)
• 300 milligrams magnesium (75 percent DV)
• 405 milligrams phosphorus (41 percent DV)
• 5 milligrams zinc (34 percent DV)
• 3.9 milligrams iron (22 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram copper (7 percent DV)

Hemp Seeds vs. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds pack much of the same nutritional punch as hemp seeds. However, hemp seeds have a more well-rounded nutrition profile.

That said, chia seeds have a bit more fiber than hemp seeds, with five grams of fiber per tablespoon.

Both types of seeds can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, baked goods and other recipes.

Side Effects and Drug Interactions

There really aren't any hemp seed side effects. Hemp hearts are high in nutrition and aren’t known to cause any drug interactions with common medications.

If you take anticoagulants, you may want to be more cautious about consuming hemp seeds because they inhibit blood platelets and may cause a bleeding risk.

If you have concerns about possible interactions with any medications, check with your healthcare provider.

Final Thoughts

Hemp seeds, or hemp hearts, have an excellent nutrition profile and are a healthy addition to most diets. Although hemp seeds come from the Cannabis sativa plant species, they do not contain cannabinoids like CBD and THC.

The benefits of hemp seeds include improving symptoms of arthritis and joint pain, improving heart and digestive health, promoting hair, skin and nail health, and boosting the immune system.

It's easy to incorporate hemp hearts into your diet. They can be added to any smoothie or breakfast bowl. You'll also find nut butter, hemp milk and protein powder made from the seeds.

These seeds are not known to cause interactions with any common medications, but they may cause a risk if consumed by someone who is taking an anticoagulant medication. Check with your doctor if you are concerned about any possible drug interactions or hemp seed side effects.

Ginger Tea Benefits for Health, Plus Best Recipe

Fresh ginger tea and similar tonics have been used across the globe as natural remedies for symptoms like nausea for thousands of years, due to the plant's unique medicinal properties. Records show that thee Ancient Chinese, Romans, Greeks, Arabs all relied upon ginger root in one way or another, at a time when anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory medications didn't exist.

While it's certainly possible to find dried ginger tea bags in most grocery stores, there's nothing like fresh ginger tea for helping with digestion and other ailments.

If you've never made homemade herbal tea at home before, it might seem intimidating, but it's in fact really easy to steep ginger in hot water in order to release its therapeutic compounds.

Why Is Ginger So Good for You?

However, it's only in recent years that we've begun to uncover exactly why ginger is so good for you and the powerful effect that it can have on your health.

Research shows that ginger contains many valuable compounds like gingerol, shogaol, paradol and zingerone. Gingerol, in particular, is believed to account for most of the beneficial effects of ginger.

Some studies have found that gingerol can even effectively inhibit inflammation. While inflammation is a perfectly normal immune response, chronic inflammation is believed to be at the root of conditions like cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Thanks to its gingerol content, ginger makes the list of top anti-inflammatory foods and has been used as a natural treatment for many inflammatory conditions, ranging from arthritis to Alzheimer's.

Not only that, but ginger has also been found to be effective in fighting against pathogenic strains of viruses, fungi and bacteria that contribute to disease.

Recent studies have continued to unearth the many ways that ginger affects health, and so far it has been shown to boast some impressive benefits. From relieving nausea to boosting brain health, enhancing weight loss and controlling blood sugar, a cup or two of ginger tea each day has the potential to make a big impact on your health.

Benefits

1. Soothes the Stomach

Ginger has been used as a natural remedy for nausea, motion sickness and morning sickness for centuries. If you're feeling a bit queasy, sipping on a hot cup of ginger root tea may be just what you need.

One study out of Thailand showed that ginger was able to decrease both nausea and vomiting in pregnant women. Plus, another study in 2012 out of the University of Rochester Medical Center even found that ginger reduced nausea severity caused by chemotherapy in adult cancer patients. To maximize the nausea-fighting potential, try adding some lemon or mint to your tea as well.

2. Enhances Immunity

Whether you're starting to feel a bit under the weather or you have a full-blown case of the sniffles, ginger tea may be able to help give your immune system a much-needed boost. In fact, many people use ginger tea for cold symptoms, allergies and infections as an effective natural remedy.

Ginger contains compounds like gingerols, shogaol and paradols, which can help fight free radicals, reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic disease, according to some test-tube studies.

Ginger root also has powerful antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Test-tube studies suggest that it may effectively protect against respiratory tract infections, fungal infections and even gum disease.

3. Protects Brain Health

Thanks to its ability to reduce inflammation, some research has found that ginger root benefits the health of your brain and could help protect against neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's.

A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine showed that taking ginger extract for two months improved attention and cognitive function in middle-aged women. Similarly, a 2011 animal study found that ginger protected against brain damage and improved memory in rats.

4. Eases Pain

If you suffer from chronic pain in your joints or muscles, you may want to consider adding a cup of ginger tea into your routine. Ginger has been shown to alleviate inflammation, reduce muscle and joint pain, and even decrease the severity of menstrual cramps.

One study published in Arthritis and Rheumatism showed that ginger extract was able to significantly reduce knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. In the study, 261 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were divided into a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter, parallel-group, with one getting ginger extract and the other the control. After six weeks, the percentage of responders experiencing a reduction in knee pain on standing was superior in the ginger extract group compared with the control group.

Another study from Georgia College and State University's Department of Kinesiology in 2010 found that ginger decreased exercise-induced muscle pain. Further, research conducted by the Herbal Research Center at Shahed University in Iran also found that taking ginger root extract for five days significantly reduced menstrual pain severity compared to a placebo.



5. Increases Weight Loss

Looking to shed a few pounds? Try starting your day with a warm cup of ginger tea to kick up fat burning and help lose weight fast.

A 2017 review looked at 27 articles and found that ginger may be able to aid in weight loss by increasing fat breakdown, blocking fat absorption and suppressing appetite.

Another study published in the European Journal of Nutrition also found that hot tea consumption was associated with a lower waist circumference and decreased body mass index. These are just a couple ways ginger tea benefits weight loss.

6. Supports Digestive Health

Some studies have found that ginger can help promote proper digestion by preventing common conditions like indigestion and stomach ulcers.

One study out of Taiwan showed that taking ginger capsules improved gastric motility and actually doubled the speed of stomach emptying to help prevent dyspepsia, or indigestion. Meanwhile, an animal study in 2011 reported that ginger powder protected against the formation of aspirin-induced stomach ulcers in rats.

7. Promotes Blood Sugar Control

Diabetes is a growing health concern around the globe. In fact, according to a 2017 review published by Population Health Management, the prevalence of diabetes is expected to increase by 54 percent between 2015 and 2030.

Ginger tea may be beneficial when it comes to maintaining normal blood sugar levels. A study in Iran supplemented 22 participants with ginger daily and found that it led to decreased fasting blood sugar and better long-term blood sugar control.

Another study in 2014 showed that ginger powder improved blood sugar as well as insulin resistance in people with diabetes.

8. Keeps Cholesterol in Check

High cholesterol can build up in the blood, clogging blood vessels and increasing your risk of heart disease. Some studies have found that ginger may lower cholesterol levels to help protect the health of your heart.

An animal study conducted by the Department of Pharmacognosy and Medical Plants at Damascus University in Syria in 2013, for example, showed that ginger extract reduced total and bad LDL cholesterol with nearly the same effectiveness as a common medication used to lower cholesterol in rats.

Plus, another study published in the Saudi Medical Journal found that ginger significantly decreased triglycerides, total cholesterol and bad LDL cholesterol compared to a placebo.

Risks and Side Effects

Although uncommon, some people may have an allergy to ginger. If you experience any food allergy symptoms, such as hives, itching or swelling, after drinking ginger tea, discontinue use immediately and talk to your doctor.

Additionally, ginger tea has been associated with mild side effects like heartburn, diarrhea and stomach pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, decrease consumption and consult with a health care practitioner if you have any concerns.

For best results, it's recommended to stick to one to three cups of ginger tea per day to maximize ginger tea benefits and minimize the risk of adverse side effects.

Final Thoughts

• Ginger contains gingerol, which is responsible for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and therefore all the wonderful ginger tea benefits.
• Brewing your own ginger tea at home using fresh ginger is a simple way to take advantage of the many health benefits of ginger.
• Ginger tea benefits include reduced nausea, improved immunity, better brain and digestive health, lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, pain relief, and increased weight loss.
• Stick to one to three cups of ginger tea daily, and couple it with a nutritious diet and active lifestyle to enhance your health even more.

Moringa Benefits Hormonal Balance, Digestion, Diabetes & More

Although this plant was initially discovered for its beneficial properties thousands of years ago, only recently has moringa (sometimes called the Ben oil tree) become known as one of the most impressive herbal supplements to hit the holistic health market.

In fact, in 2008 the National Institute of Health called moringa (moringa oleifera) the plant of the year, acknowledging that perhaps like no other single species, this plant has the potential to help reverse multiple major environmental problems and provide for many unmet human needs.

What are the health benefits of moringa? To date, over 1,300 studies, articles and reports have focused on moringa benefits, finding that it contains compounds that are especially important in parts of the world where disease outbreak and nutritional deficiencies are common.

Research shows that just about every part of the moringa plant can be utilized in some way, whether it's to make a potent antioxidant tea or produce an oily substance that lubricates and nourishes the skin.

What Is Moringa?

Moringa (moringa oleifera) is known by over 100 names in different languages around the world. This easy-to-grow tropical plant species, native to the Himalayan mountains and parts of India and Africa, comes packed with over 90 protective compounds, including isothiocyanates, flavonoids and phenolic acids.

There are actually believed to be at least a dozen different varieties of the moringa tree, which belong to the plant family Moringaceae. These are fast-growing, tall, leafy plants that produce flowers or pods.

Of all the species, one (moringa oleifera) is by far the most utilized.

Prior to the plant's effects being demonstrated in scientific studies, it was used extensively in traditional medicine practices like Ayurveda medicine for over 4,000 years.

Moringa has gained a reputation for fighting inflammation and combating various effects of malnutrition and aging, earning the nickname the miracle plant.

Benefits of moringa include helping treat a wide variety of conditions, such as:

inflammation-related diseases
cancer
diabetes
anemia
low energy and fatigue
arthritis and other joint pain, such as rheumatism
allergies and asthma
constipation, stomach pains and and diarrhea
epilepsy
stomach and intestinal ulcers or spasms
chronic headaches
heart problems, including high blood pressure
kidney stones
fluid retention
thyroid disorders
low sex drive
bacterial, fungal, viral and parasitic infections
Nutrition Facts

Moringa is a unique plant because almost all parts of it leaves, seeds, flowers/pods, stem and roots  can be used as a source for nutrition and other medicinal properties.

The most popular medicinal use of this plant involves drying and grinding down moringa leaves, where most of the antioxidants are found.

Studies have revealed that moringa powder is loaded with phytochemicals, protein, calcium, beta-carotene, vitamin C and potassium. Because it provides a concentrated source of vitamin A, it's given to thousands of children in third-world countries every year suffering from life-threatening vitamin A deficiency, which is linked to impaired immune function.

Consuming it can also improve intake of trace minerals, amino acids and phenolic compounds. The plant contains a rare and unique combination of disease-preventing phytonutrients, including flavonoids, glucosides, glucosinolates, zeatin, quercetin, beta-sitosterol, caffeoylquinic acid and kaempferol.

Aside from the valuable leaves, the pods of the moringa tree also contain seeds that hold a healing type of oil. Oil from moringa seeds can be used to cook with or put directly onto the surface of the body.

According to Kuli Kuli, an organization that harvests moringa plants in Africa, gram for gram, the plant contains:

two times the amount of protein of yogurt
four times the amount of vitamin A as carrots
three times the amount of potassium as bananas
four times the amount of calcium as cow milk
seven times the amount of vitamin C as oranges

Top 7 Moringa Benefits

1. Provides Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds

Moringa oleifera seems to have similar abilities as certain conventional drugs, only it doesn't pose the same level of risk for experiencing side effects.

According to a report published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, it contains a mix of essential amino acids (the building blocks of proteins), carotenoid phytonutrients (the same kinds found in plants like carrots and tomatoes), antioxidants, such as quercetin, and natural antibacterial compounds that work in the same way as many anti-inflammatory drugs.

Studies have shown that these compounds are protective of the heart, natural circulatory stimulants, and possess antitumor, anti-epileptic, anti-ulcer, antispasmodic, antihypertensive and antidiabetic effects.

Moringa powder is high in several powerful anti-aging compounds that lower the effects of free radicals, oxidative stress and inflammation. These are associated with a reduced risk for chronic diseases, such as stomach, lung or colon cancer; diabetes; hypertension; and age-related eye disorders.

2. Balances Hormones and Slows the Effects of Aging

A 2014 study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology tested the effects of moringa (sometimes also called drumstick) along with amaranth leaves (Amaranthus tricolor) on levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in menopausal adult women. Researchers wanted to investigate if these superfoods could help slow the effects of aging by balancing hormones naturally.

Levels of antioxidant status, including serum retinol, serum ascorbic acid, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde, were analyzed before and after supplementation, along with fasting blood glucose and haemoglobin levels.

Results showed that supplementing with moringa and amaranth caused significant increases in antioxidant status along with significant decreases in markers of oxidative stress. Better fasting blood glucose control and positive increases in haemoglobin were also found.

Can moringa help you sexually? There's some evidence it may boost libido and work like a natural birth control compound, according to some animal studies.

Although it's historically been used as a natural aphrodisiac, it actually seems to help reduce rates of conception. That said, it can boost the immune system during pregnancy and also increase breast milk production/lactation, according to some studies.

3. Helps Improve Digestive Health

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, moringa has been used in ancient systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda, to prevent or treat stomach ulcers, liver disease, kidney damage, fungal or yeast infections (such as candida), digestive complaints, and infections.

A common use of moringa oil is helping to boost liver function, therefore detoxifying the body of harmful substances, such as heavy metal toxins. It might also be capable of helping fight kidney stones, urinary tract infections, constipation, fluid retention/edema and diarrhea.

4. Balances Blood Sugar Levels, Helping Fight Diabetes

Moringa contains a type of acid called chlorogenic acid, which has been shown to help control blood sugar levels and allow cells to take up or release glucose (sugar) as needed. This gives it natural antidiabetic and hormone-balancing properties.

Aside from chloregnic acid, compounds called isothiocyanates that are present in moringa leaf have also been tied to natural protection against diabetes.

A study that appeared in the International Journal of Food Science Technology found that this plant had positive effects on blood sugar control and insulin levels in patients with diabetes when eaten as part of a high-carbohydrate meal.

Separate studies have demonstrated that antidiabetic activities of low doses of moringa seed powder (50–100 milligrams per kilogram body weight) help increase antioxidant status and enzyme production within the liver, pancreas and kidneys of rats and prevent damage compared to control groups.

High levels of immunoglobulin (IgA, IgG), fasting blood sugar and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) — three markers seen in diabetics — were also found to decrease as a result of moringa given to rats with diabetes.

Can moringa help you lose weight? Because it can improve insulin sensitivity and hormone balance, it may offer some advantages to those following a weight loss plan.

5. Protects and Nourishes the Skin

Several popular uses of moringa oil are to help retain skin's moisture, speed up wound healing, and soothe dry or burnt skin.

Moringa contains natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral compounds that protect the skin from various forms of infections. Some of the common ways it is used on the skin include reducing athlete's foot, eliminating odors, reducing inflammation associated with acne breakouts, treating pockets of infection or abscesses, getting rid of dandruff, fighting gum disease (gingivitis), and helping heal bites, burns, viral warts and wounds.

The oil is applied directly to the skin as a drying, astringent agent used to kill bacteria, but at the same time, when used regularly it's known to act like a lubricant and hydrate the skin by restoring its natural moisture barrier. It's a common ingredient used in food manufacturing and perfumes because it prevents spoilage by killing bacteria — plus it has a pleasant smell and reduces odors.

6. Helps Stabilize Your Mood and Protects Brain Health

As a high-protein food and a rich source of the amino acid tryptophan, moringa supports neurotransmitter functions, including those that produce the feel good hormone serotonin.

It's also rich in antioxidants and compounds that may improve thyroid health, which makes it beneficial for maintaining high energy levels plus fighting fatigue, depression, low libido, moods swings and insomnia.

7. Good for the Environment (Water and Topsoil)

A noteworthy characteristic of the moringa plant is that it's capable of growing in depleted or dry soils where many other types of beneficial plants or trees cannot survive. This is precisely why certain undernourished populations living in third-world countries, such as Somalia or India, have benefited from it during times of famine.

Aside from providing important nutrients, it is used to help restore fertile soil, aid in forest restoration efforts and filter water.

One interesting use of the seeds is for water purification. Combining moringa with water helps impurities cling to the seeds so they can be removed, leaving behind better quality water that's lower in toxins.

Salt also seems to bind to moringa, which is beneficial for producing fresh-tasting water.

Some studies have shown that 0.2 grams of ground moringa seed can turn one liter of contaminated water into safe drinking water. This is due to the coagulating actions of certain ingredients in the plant that absorb bacteria.

Risks and Side Effects

What are the side effects of taking moringa? Because it's completely natural and free from chemical additives (when you buy a pure, high-quality brand), when taken by mouth or used on the skin it seems to be very well-tolerated.

Moringa side effects are still possible and may include:

lower blood pressure
slowed heart rate
uterine contractions
cell mutations when high amounts of seeds are consumed
interference with fertility
Leaves, fruit, oil and seeds from the moringa tree have been consumed safely for centuries, but today there are various forms of supplements or extracts sold, so it's important to buy the purest kind you can find and to read ingredient labels carefully.

During pregnancy or when breastfeeding, it's best to avoid moringa extract, root or high doses of supplements since not enough research has been done to show it's safe. It's possible that chemicals within the plant's root, bark and flowers can lead to contractions of the uterus, which can cause complications during pregnancy.

How to Use It

As you can probably tell by now, this plant can be used in many different ways in order to utilize all the available moringa benefits. Because of the long transport time needed to ship moringa from parts of Africa or Asia where it's grown, in the U.S. it's usually sold in powder or capsule form, which prolongs its shelf life.

An interesting characteristic of moringa? It's said to taste like a mix between horseradish and asparagus. It might not have the most appealing flavor, but it's a supplement with one of the the richest supplies of vital nutrients in the world.

Dosage Recommendations

There's no recommended or required dosage of moringa at this time since it's only an herbal supplement and not an essential nutrient. That said, there's some evidence that the optimum dose for humans has been calculated to be 29 milligrams per kilogram of body weight.

It's recommended that you start by taking half a teaspoon of dried moringa orally per day for three to five days, increasing your intake slowly over two weeks as you get acclimated to its effects.

Most people choose to take moringa every several days but not every single day for long duration of time, since it can can cause laxative effects and an upset stomach when overused.

Here are the most common ways to use moringa to get the best moringa benefits possible:

Dried moringa leaves or moringa powder: It takes roughly seven pounds of moringa leaves to make one pound of dried moringa powder. The leaves are considered the most potent parts of the plant, containing the most antioxidants and available macronutrients. Follow dosage directions carefully, taking up to six grams daily for up to three weeks at a time (which has been shown to be safe, according to studies).

Moringa tea: This type of moringa is made from dried leaves steeped in hot water, just like many other beneficial herbal teas. The most nutrient-dense types are organic and dried slowly under low temperatures, which helps preserve delicate compounds. Avoid boiling the leaves to help retain the nutrients best, and don't cook with moringa if possible.

Moringa seeds: The pods and flowers appear to have a high phenolic content along with proteins and fatty acids. These are the parts of the plant used to purify water and add protein to low-nutrient diets. Look for them added to creams, capsules and powders. The immature green pods of the plant are often called drumsticks and are prepared similarly to green beans. The seeds inside the pods are removed and roasted or dried just like nuts to preserve their freshness.

Moringa oil: The oil from seeds is sometimes called Ben oil. Look for it in natural creams or lotions. Keep the oil in a cool, dark place away from high temperatures or the sun.

Moringa vs. Matcha

Both of these superfoods have several things in common: They provide antioxidants, fight inflammation, slow down aging, protect brain and heart health, and increase immune function.

The two are similar in terms of their appearance and uses, since both are made into potent powders or teas.

They do have some notable differences when it comes to their nutrient profiles. While comparable in terms of calories, gram for gram moringa has more fiber, protein, calcium, sodium, vitamin C and vitamin A than matcha does.

One of the biggest differences between moringa and matcha green tea is in regard to amino acid concentration. Moringa leaves are a surprisingly great source of protein since they provide nine essential amino acids required for human protein synthesis: histidine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine. This is one reason why organizations like the World Health Organization rely on moringa to supplement low-calorie diets and prevent deficiencies.

In matcha's defense, on the other hand, matcha tea (which contains roughly 15 times more active ingredients than any other conventional green tea) provides numerous antioxidants and high doses of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a type of powerful catechin that's known to protect brain health. Moringa is not known to provide EGCG, which means both plants used together can have even more benefits.



Conclusion

What is moringa good for? In 2008 the National Institute of Health called moringa (moringa oleifera) the plant of the year. Moringa health benefits include providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, balancing hormones and slowing the effects of aging, improving digestive health, balancing blood sugar levels and helping fight diabetes, protecting and nourishing the skin, and helping stabilize mood and protect brain health.

There are actually believed to be at least a dozen different varieties of this plant, but one (moringa oleifera) is by far the most utilized.

Most commonly, supplements are made from dried moringa leaf which forms a powder. Other forms include tea and oil/tincture.

It's a great source of nutrients including antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, calcium and even amino acids.

Honeydew: 10 Benefits + How to Choose a Ripe Melon

Although it's often confused with cantaloupe or just called melon so not to make a distinction - honeydew is actually a nutrient-rich, hydrating, low-calorie and deliciously sweet fruit.

It may have a reputation as the tasteless melon, and sometimes when it's mindlessly added to a fruit salad it may be the only fruit left standing.

But when honeydew melon is picked from the vine once it's mature and cut open when it's ripe, the flavor is there. In fact, it's known to be the sweetest of all melons in the grocery store.

On top of that, it's packed with health-promoting nutrients, including vitamin C (providing over 40 percent of your daily value), B vitamins, potassium and magnesium - similar to cantaloupe nutrition. It's a low-calorie food that provides fiber, water and a little sweetness that can help satisfy those afternoon sugar cravings that you've been fighting and that's not all.

What Is Honeydew Melon?

Honeydew, a creamy, yellowish and oval-shaped fruit, is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes other vine-growing foods like cucumbers, squash, pumpkin and watermelon, and its scientific name is Cucumis melo.

Here are some facts about honeydew melon:

• It can be described as sweet, luscious and juicy.
• It has a distinct aroma, especially when it's ripe, that has fresh and sweet-floral characters.
• Its peak growing season is in the late summer through early winter, which is later than its cousin cantaloupe.
• It's typically about six to nine inches long and generally weighs four to eight pounds.
• The flesh of a honeydew melon is usually pale green, and the peel ranges in color from a creamy yellow to green.
• Most of the honeydew melons you see in your local supermarket come from California, where they are in season from August until October.
• There are two types of honeydew: White honeydew has smooth, white skin and pale green flesh, and yellow honeydew has golden skin and green flesh. The white honeydews are said to be sweeter because they have a higher sugar content.
• According to the ASPCA, honeydew is non-toxic and safe for dogs, cats and horses to eat.

When it comes to honeydew nutrition, this melon contains carotenoids, including beta-carotene and phytoene, that are responsible for many of the fruit's health benefits, like its ability to reduce inflammation, inhibit oxidative stress and boost cardiovascular health.

It's also rich in vitamin C and contains other important nutrients that allow for the proper function of our immune, digestive and cardiovascular systems.

Eating honeydew melon can even help boost cognitive health and prevent mood disorders, like depression.

Nutrition Facts

Honeydew is a low-calorie fruit that's rich in fiber and vitamin C. It also contains important nutrients like potassium, B vitamins and magnesium.

A one-cup serving (about 177 grams) of honeydew contains about:

63.7 calories
16.1 grams carbohydrates
1 gram protein
0.2 gram fat
1.4 grams fiber
31.9 milligrams vitamin C (53 percent DV)
404 milligrams potassium (12 percent DV)
0.2 milligram vitamin B6 (8 percent DV)
33.6 micrograms folate (8 percent DV)
5.1 micrograms vitamin K (6 percent DV)
0.1 milligram thiamine (4 percent DV)
0.7 milligram niacin (4 percent DV)
17.7 milligrams magnesium (4 percent DV)
In addition, this melon provides vitamin A, pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc and selenium.

Health Benefits

1. Great Source of Vitamin C

A cup of honeydew contains over 40 percent of your daily recommended value of vitamin C. This means that it provides beneficial antioxidants that help reduce the risk of inflammation and disease.

Eating vitamin C foods, like fruits and vegetables, can help improve your immunity, boost the health of your skin, promote your heart health and improve inflammatory conditions.

The vitamin C found in honeydew also plays an important role in a number of metabolic functions, like the activation of folic acid and conversion of cholesterol to bile acids. Research shows that vitamin C benefits serious conditions like diabetes, atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative disease and cancer.

2. Low in Calories and Helps Weight Loss

Not only is honeydew low in calories, containing only 64 in one cup, but it's the sweetest of all melon varieties. You can fulfill that craving for something sweet by snacking on some honeydew, while still sticking to your daily calorie goals.

High-volume, low-calorie foods like this fruit serve as the perfect snacks or additions to meals when you are trying to lose or maintain weight. Plus, because honeydew offers a range of nutrients, like vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, magnesium and B vitamins, you know that you're staying well-nourished, which can sometimes be an issue when you're following a low-calorie diet.

3. Boosts Skin Health

The carotenoids and vitamin C found in honeydew make the fruit beneficial for your skin.
Studies indicate that vitamin C stimulates collagen synthesis and assists in antioxidant protection against UV-induced skin damage. Vitamin C also plays a role in wound healing, skin elasticity and general skin repair.

Adding honeydew melon and other fruits and vegetables containing high amounts of vitamin C promotes glowing, even-toned and healthy skin.

4. Rich in Fiber

One cup of honeydew contains 1.4 grams of fiber, which we need to help regulate digestion and cholesterol levels.

Why is a high-fiber diet so important? Studies highlight that it passes through your digestive system and, along the way, takes with it wastes, toxins, fat and cholesterol particles.

Eating fiber improves the health of your gut and aids your digestive system, keeping you regular. Honeydew contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which means that it actually makes you feel full longer and adds bulk to your stool, helping ease issues like constipation.

5. Helps You Stay Hydrated

Approximately 90 percent of honeydew is made up of water - so eating a cup or two of this low-calorie fruit not only makes you feel full.

This is because of its fiber content and because you can eat a bigger volume without going over your calorie goals.

In addition to this, honeydew also helps you stay hydrated. That's exactly why it's an excellent snack on hot summer days or after a workout.

6. Provides Potassium

A cup of honeydew contains about 9 percent of your daily value of potassium, which is awesome considering that potassium is an essential nutrient for electrolyte balance in the body and helps decrease muscle cramps, reduce your risk of stroke and even alleviate high blood pressure.

Research suggests that eating potassium-rich foods can also help increase bone density and ward off conditions affecting your bones, like osteoporosis.

7. Supports Brain Function

Honeydew provides both vitamin B6 and folate, two B vitamins that are important for brain development and function.

A review published in Nutrients provides evidence that low folate and vitamin B6 levels are associated with poor cognitive function and can increase your risk of developing neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Plus, these B vitamins help improve your mood. Vitamin B6 benefits mood because it helps make the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine your happy hormones that control your mood, ability to concentrate and energy levels.

Research shows that preventing or reversing a folate deficiency can reduce your risk of developing mood disorders like depression.

8. Helps Boost the Immune System

Honeydew is a great source of vitamin C, which contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions against pathogens that can make us sick.

Vitamin C also promotes oxidant scavenging activity in the skin, protecting us against environmental oxidative stress.

When we don't get enough vitamin C in our diets, it can result in impaired immunity and higher susceptibility to infections, which has been shown in studies. By adding honeydew and other foods rich in vitamin C to your diet, you can naturally boost your immune system.

9. Promotes Heart Health

Studies show that higher carotenoid intake is associated with significant reductions in the risk of cardiovascular disease. The carotenoids found in honeydew are beneficial for protecting our arteries against inflammation, blockages and free radical damage.

Research also displays that carotenoids (like the beta-carotene found in honeydew) may also help lower blood pressure, reduce non-HDL plasma cholesterol levels, prevent atherosclerosis, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and improve insulin sensitivity.

10. Has Cancer-Protective Effects

Honeydew melon is a source of carotenoids like beta-carotene that have anti-inflammatory and cancer-protective effects.

Research evaluating the role of carotenoids has found that diets high in the compounds are beneficial for a number of reasons, including preventing UV light damage that can lead to melanoma and reducing oxidative stress, a critical factor of the pathogenic process of many chronic disorders, including cancer.

On top of this, carotenoids found in honeydew have chemoprotective properties, according to research, helping protect healthy tissue from the harmful side effects that are caused by some anticancer drugs.



Honeydew vs. Cantaloupe

Honeydew and cantaloupe are both melon fruits that belong to the Cucurbitaceae family. They both provide free radical scavenging antioxidants and a number of health-promoting vitamins and minerals.

Both fruits contain vitamins A, C and K and minerals like potassium, folate, niacin, thiamine and magnesium. But melon to melon, cantaloupe packs a bigger nutritious punch.

A one-cup serving of cantaloupe contains less calories (54 calories in cantaloupe vs. 64 in honeydew), more vitamins A and C, more potassium, more B vitamins, and more magnesium.

That said, both cantaloupe and honeydew boast a range of health benefits, including their ability to boost cardiovascular health, promote healthy skin, boost the immune system, aid digestion and protect cognitive health.

Plus, both melons are on the Environmental Working Group's list of the clean 15, which is a list of the produce that's least likely to be contaminated by pesticides, as opposed to the dirty dozen that are the most likely to be contaminated.

Here's a difference between the two melons - honeydew and cantaloupe have different peak months, with cantaloupe having a peak season between April through August and honeydew's season beginning in August and lasting until October.

Although a ripe honeydew is known to have a sweeter taste, honeydew melons are sometimes picked before they have matured, and they won't mature off the vine, so that leaves them tasting pretty bland. For that reason, people often believe that cantaloupe is the tastier melon.

Risks and Side Effects

Honeydew nutrition is pretty impressive, but as is the case with most healthy foods, it best when consumed in moderation. Adding a cup of melon to your plate or incorporating it into a recipe comes with little risks or side effects.

When you consume too much honeydew, you may experience elevated blood sugar levels and even some digestive issues, like diarrhea.

In some cases, a honeydew allergy is possible. If you develop a rash, hives, mouth itching, cramps, troubling breathing, nausea or diarrhea after eating honeydew, avoid it completely and consult your health care professional.

Final Thoughts

Honeydew, a creamy, yellowish and oval-shaped fruit, is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes other vine-growing foods like cucumbers, squash, pumpkin and watermelon.

It is known to be the sweetest of all melons, and it has a distinct aroma, especially when it's ripe, that has fresh and sweet-floral characters.

This melon contains carotenoids, including beta-carotene and phytoene, and it provides vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, folate, magnesium, thiamine and vitamin K.

Benefits of this melon include its ability to help with weight loss, skin health, hydration, brain function, immunity, heart health and even protection against certain cancers.

To detect whether or not a melon is ready to eat, look for honeydews that have a pale cream rind, feel too heavy for their size and have a noticeable sweet smell.

Noni Juice: The Superfruit Beverage that Boosts Immunity

While lesser known than superfruits like acai berry or pomegranate, noni is a fruit that's earned its name as a superfood due to its many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

More specifically, noni juice has demonstrated a range of potentially beneficial effects as an anti-inflammatory drink in research studies, although leaves and seeds from the fruit are also consumed.

What are the benefits of taking noni juice? Researchers are now investigating whether it may help treat common chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Additionally, there's evidence it can be helpful for those dealing with joint pain, inflammatory skin conditions and digestive issues.

What Is Noni Juice?

Noni is a small, evergreen tree found in the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, Australia and India that often grows among lava flows. It's been used in folklore medicine for at least an estimated 2,000 years.

What is noni juice made out of? The noni tree, which goes by the scientific name Morinda citrifolia, grows a fruit that is bumpy and yellowish-white in color. The tree belongs to the Rubiaceae plant family, the same one that produces coffee beans.

Like many other fruits, noni fruit is squeezed into a juice and sold as such, but you can also get it as a juice concentrate or as a powder supplement. It's often found in combination with grape juice because this helps hide the unpleasantly bitter taste it possesses.

Noni juice and fruit isn't the only part of this tree that’s used to make medicine and supplements; the leaves, flowers, stems, bark and roots are also utilized in herbal and traditional systems of medicine. These parts are processed in various ways to make capsules, tablets and teas.

The popularity of noni as a supplement has grown mainly due to the high level of flavonoid antioxidants it contains, which provide far-reaching benefits due to lowering oxidative stress.

Health Benefits

1. Packs an Antioxidant Punch

Noni and grapeseed oil are two sources that provide a variety of antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, beta-carotene, catechins and flavonoids. Foods that provide antioxidants help reduce damage caused to cells due to oxidative stress, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Because oxidative stress is linked to so many health problems, benefits of noni juice may include lowering your risk for cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and age-related macular degeneration. Recently, it's also been associated with reductions in obesity and obesity-associated metabolic dysfunction, thanks to its positive influence on the microbiome and gut health.

2. May Fight Pain Associated with Tumors

Can noni juice cure cancer? While there isn't evidence that it's a cancer treatment, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that noni - as well as ginkgo biloba, isoflavones, pomegranate and grapeseed extract  may be cancer-fighting foods that can help with prevention by supporting the immune system.

In particular, the anticancer properties of anthraquinones, such as ucidin, alizarin, and rubiadin, make noni a superfruit of interest.

Anthraquinones, which are naturally occurring phenolic compounds, have been found to possibly prevent glucose from entering tumor cells, preventing metastasis, ultimately leading to cell death. This, in turn, is helpful in slowing the growth of cancer cells. Though research suggests that these compounds may help reduce pain and fatigue associated with cancer, it does not seem to reduce tumor size.

Anthraquinones are most commonly found in noni seeds and leaves. Unfortunately, a study published by Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that some products containing noni may lack anthraquinones due to processing methods.

3. Combats Inflammation and Boosts Immunity

Research in the Journal of Natural Products showed that fermented noni fruit juice contains a new fatty acid, a new ascorbic acid derivative, and a new iridoid glycoside, a metabolite important for metabolism, along with 13 other compounds.

The study demonstrated detoxification benefits of noni due to the presence of enzymes known as quinone reductase. This suggests that noni juice can act as a strong anti-inflammatory food.

These traits may help reduce the effects of arthritis, according to research studies. By adding noni juice into your diet, you may be able to reduce symptoms tied to inflammation such as joint pain.

Additionally, the amino acids found in noni can help boost the immune system. Noni contains 17 amino acids, but the serine, arginine and methionine found in noni are particularly useful in keeping the body strong.

4. May Help Reduce Cholesterol and Blood Pressure

In a study conducted on cigarette smokers, a group known to be at particularly high risk for compromised heart health, findings revealed much lower cholesterol levels and triglycerides after the smokers consumed noni for 30 days.

Overall findings demonstrate that noni juice benefits the cardiovascular system by lowering inflammation in the body. There's also evidence that it can help to decrease high blood pressure. It seems to support maintenance of normal blood pressure thanks to its antioxidant activity and positive effects on inflammation pathways.

Finally, this fruit has been associated with improved tolerance for exercise and endurance, while decreasing joint pain and fatigue, according to a 2018 study. This implies that it may help people stick to healthy habits that can benefit both their weight and heart.

5. Might Prevent Parasitic Disease

Because of the rich supply of phenolic and aromatic compounds it contains, drinking noni juice may help prevent parasitic diseases, such as the type called leishmaniasis that occurs most often in tropical areas and southern Europe.

Researchers are now interested in using foods and natural supplements to provide protection against parasites since drug resistance and complications caused by medications are becoming more common.

Nutrition Facts

According to publications released by the University of Hawaii, 100 grams of pure noni juice contains about:

15 calories
3.5 grams carbohydrates
1.5 grams sugar
34 milligrams vitamin C (15 percent DV)
Noni fruit also provides small amounts of B vitamins, folate, calcium and potassium, in addition to certain fatty acids and amino acids (serine, arginine and methionine).

And most importantly, as explained above, it provides powerful antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, beta-carotene, catechins, and more.

Interesting Facts

Noni goes by several names around the world, including morinda, Indian mulberry, hog apple and canary wood. Its Latin name, however, is Morinda citrifolia.

The noni tree has many traditional uses in tropical countries, where various parts were used to treat intestinal issues, wounds and injuries to the skin, and swollen parts of the body affected by arthritis or poultices. Tahitian-sourced noni juice is also associated with reported health benefits including increased energy, improved well-being, fewer infections, improved sleep, and reduced asthma symptoms.

In recent years, this fruit has become a pretty big moneymaker, representing a $3 billion industry. A plant pathologist, Scot Nelson, from the University of Hawaii at Manoa's College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, claims at around $1 per fluid ounce, noni is responsible for one of the world's highest profit-margins for juice beverages.

In addition to the juice, noni has become a popular supplement, mostly found dried and in powder. To achieve this, a patent reports that it starts from picking the fruit from the tree to a lengthy process of drying the leaves and eventually grinding them into a fine powder.

How to Use

Where can you buy noni juice? Some of the most popular types are grown in Hawaii, Polynesian Islands, and Tahiti and Costa Rica. If you aren't visiting these countries, look for noni products in health food stores or online.

Noni products are sold all over the world, especially in North America, Mexico, Asia and Australia where the supplements have gained popularity.

Most often it's consumed as a healing tonic by drinking the juice.

In addition to its fruit juice, noni is made into fruit leather. It's made from the fruit's dehydrated pulp and crushed leaves and can be found in natural medicines and cosmetics.

It's also sometimes consumed as a supplement in powder form or capsules.

Noni oil is another option; it's produced from pressed seeds and used topically in many products, including shampoos.

How to drink noni juice:

This fruit juice is usually combined with other juices to improve the taste.
Noni may remind you of a mango in size and color, but it doesn't contain the sweetness that the mango holds. The fruit is bitter, and this is why it's really more of a healing tonic than a refreshing juice beverage.

You can juice fresh noni fruit at home if you have a juicer, or you can purchase already-made noni juice at specialty grocery stores or online. Some juices are fermented which can result in higher concentrations of healthy bacteria, although studies suggest the level of microbiological substances and antioxidants depends on the exact type of noni and processing methods used.

How much should you drink? Most people should aim to stick to about 6 to 8 ounces daily, which has been associated with health improvements and won't contribute too much sugar to your diet. That being said, up to 25 ounces daily seems to be safe for most adults, as demonstrated in certain studies.

More research is needed overall, as there are many claims about this fruit that are unsupported by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Some reports indicate that it may cause liver problems and should be avoided if you have liver disease. Make sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider if you're taking medications to manage a chronic disease.

Though there have been reports of toxicity concerns of noni, it's been concluded that noni juice probably won't cause complications due to toxicity. Regardless, it's best to check with your doctor, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or experiencing any health complications.

Final Thoughts

What is noni juice? It's a fruit juice made from a bitter fruit that grows on a tropical plant in the same plant family as coffee. It's high in antioxidants, as well as some amino acids and vitamin C.

It's often found in combination with grape juice, since this helps hide the unpleasantly bitter taste it possesses.

It can also be found in various forms: juice, powdered capsules, tablets, teas, and dried fruit leathers.

Benefits of noni juice may include: lowering joint pain and skin conditions, supporting the immune system, boosting heart health, and protecting against risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes such as high cholesterol, blood pressure and triglycerides.

While it's usually well-tolerated, noni juice side effects are possible when you consume too much. Stick to small servings of about 8 ounces daily.