“Living pharmacies” are a natural source of nutrition and health

When most people hear the word “pharmacy” they don’t envision beautiful, lush gardens.

Malaysian villages are home to medicinal gardens that act as natural living pharmacies full of plants they use as a source of nutrition and health.

One of the components of these living pharmacies is the mangosteen fruit, which is valued for more than its exotic flavor, which mimics a fusion of a passion fruit and a peach. Malays believe mangosteens to contain powerful antioxidants known as xanthones, which may provide an immune boost while also standing up to bacterial and viral infections.

In the Malay world, male sexual prowess and stamina are closely related to man’s spirit.

The herb tongkat ali has traditionally been consumed by Malay men to increase overall energy, support sexual potency, boost metabolism and improve fertility. Luckily, tongkat ali is available to us in supplement form: Physta™ is a patented freeze-dried water extract form of Tongkat Ali. It was developed in collaboration with the MIT Research Center, and is the primary active ingredient in Tenaga.

Healing herbs and spices you should have in your pantry

Herbs and spices may have more to offer than just flavor! Some are believed to carry some impressive healing benefits as well. We think everyone should include the following herbs and spices in their pantries. We’ve also searched the Internet for a few tasty ideas for incorporating them into your diet:

Curry—Curry contains turmeric, the yellow spice that gives curry its distinctive color. Turmeric’s active component is called curcumin, which is associated with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor and anti-amyloid properties. (Amyloids are plaque-like proteins that build up in brain tissue and are thought to be responsible for diseases like Alzheimer’s and rheumatoid arthritis.) Try chicken curry for a tried-and-true favorite.

Ginger—No wonder your mother gave you ginger ale when you felt sick to your stomach as a child: Ginger is believed to help relieve nausea. It’s also thought to provide some relief from headaches, menstrual cramps, muscles soreness and arthritis. A gingery grilled salmon salad makes for a light, delicious meal that offers up ginger’s healing benefits.

Cardamom— Cardamom is thought to increase circulation as well as improve energy, digestion, asthma and bronchitis. It’s also believed to fight halitosis, perk up a bad mood and even function as an aphrodisiac. (If the aphrodisiac belief is true, we sure hope the bad breath-fighting qualities are as well!) Try baking up some cinnamon cardamom snickerdoodles for some sweet natural healing.

Garlic—Besides offering protection from Count Dracula, garlic may also support healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Garlic is also thought to have antibacterial properties. It’s up to you to decide if the health benefits are worth the stinky breath, though! A delicious garlic-centric side dish that can accent pretty much any meal is garlic green beans.

Fennel seed—Fennel helps digestion in a couple ways: It stimulates the production of gastric juices and also soothes the nervous system, regulating the action of the muscles that line the intestine. Check out this recipe for beef tenderloins with ancho and fennel seeds: The combination of ground ancho, fennel seeds and star anise make for a brilliantly mouthwatering flavor fusion.

Cinnamon—Cinnamon may support healthy blood sugar levels and is also thought to detoxify the system. Did we also mention that it may support brain function and have antiseptic properties as well? While these benefits aren’t proven, sprinkling a little cinnamon on your oatmeal or toast adds a sweet kick (and possibly some impressive healing properties) to your morning. If you’re not watching your waistline you could also treat your taste buds to a cinnamon roll.

Using Herbs to Boost Your Immune System

Source: Natural News


In many countries throughout the world herbs are used as a primary healthcare tool. Much of the therapeutic aspects of modern medicine were taken from the study of ancient herbal remedies. Unfortunately, medicine has manipulated these natural plant-based properties and synthetically altered them. This process has produced toxic and often lethal side effects. The natural herbs themselves when used correctly are able to synergize with our natural systems to enhance function, coordination, and overall balance within the body.


Herbs are never meant to "treat" or "cure" an ailment. The critical philosophical understanding is that the body's internal defense and ability to heal itself is strong enough to overcome any particular illness. Sickness comes about when the body is out of balance with its environment and unable to successfully adapt. Herbs are intended to clear up any sort of imbalance allowing the body to function optimally.


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Keeping the Cold Out

Source: Natural Health

Cue the daily green tea drinking and popping of multi-vitamins and herbal supplements—flu season is almost upon us here in the U.S. In the most recent issue of Natural Health, writer Amy Paturel offers up five tips for boosting immunity and beating the common cold.

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