Madhavi Trivedi spells out foods and herbs that balance, cleanse, nourish, protect, purify and strengthen our bodies

Aloe Vera can be used externally to restore skin tissue and to aid in healing burns, wounds, ulcers and sores. As a food supplement, it facilitates digestion, aids in blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions and helps cleanse the digestive tract by exerting a soothing, balancing effect.

Also, Anise, or 'saunf', eaten after food aids digestion and reduces 'gas' in the stomach. It increases the milk flow in nursing mothers. And, Ashwagandha, the Indian herb known for its ability to increase vitality, endurance and stamina, promotes longevity and strengthens the immune system. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Easily one of the most potent tonic aphrodisiacs in the entire botanical kingdom.

Brewer's yeast is the active yeast used to make beer and specifically to make nutritional supplements. It helps the body maintain normal blood sugar and cholesterol levels, break down carbohydrates, fats and proteins, provide the body with energy, supports the nervous system, helps maintain the muscles used for digestion, and keeps skin, hair, eyes, mouth and liver in good condition.

Cinnamon is a folk remedy for colds, flatulence and nausea. It settles an upset stomach and alleviates diarrhoea. Also stimulates appetite in anorexics. Also, clove oil, application of which helps relieve toothaches. Cumin or 'jeera', has a cooling effect on the digestive system.

Dry fruits
They come in many varieties. Dates are natural and nutritive sweets that provide a high level of carbohydrates, fibre, calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamins (C and B3).

Dried apricots are rich in Vitamin A, extremely high in fibre and carbohydrate content, and an excellent source of potassium.
Dried figs are very important for their fibre, and carbohydrate, mineral (sodium, magnesium, calcium and iron) and vitamin content.
Prunes provide important vitamins and minerals (especially iron), carbohydrates and, above all, fibre.
Raisins provide a high level of carbohydrates and fibre and are also recommended for their calcium, phosphorous, sodium and iron.

EPA
Oily fish like mackerel, salmon, tuna, sardines, herring, and lake trout contain EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid), both omega-3-fatty acids. These help protect against heart attacks by making clot formation less likely. Omega-3-fatty acids also protect against diabetes, cancers, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases like arthritis, psoriasis and ulcerative colitis. Aim to eat 100 grams of fish at least two to three times a week. Vegetarians can get their omega-3-fatty acids from rapeseed, mustard or soyabean oils or foods like green leafy vegetables, pulses, whole wheat, bajra and spices like fenugreek and mustard.

Fenugreek or 'Methi' is used to ease stomach ailments. Ointments and lotions with fenugreek treat skin irritations. It is also beneficial in the treatment of diabetes and arthritis.
Also, Flaxseeds, is a good source of soluble fibre, protein, phytosterols, magnesium, zinc and linolenic acid (an omega-3 fatty acid).

Garlic is effective against bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. Also, a preventive for colds, flu and other infections. Relieves gas pains and expels worms. Recent research shows that garlic can reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels in blood, reduce clots and lower blood pressure. It is also a potential anti-cancer agent.
Also, Ginger and its extracts aid digestion, help relieve stomachaches and promote circulation. Powdered ginger is very effective in treating motion sickness. Fresh mashed ginger root, when applied to burns, eases the pain. Ginseng enhances general health, stimulates the nervous system, sharpens the mind, reduces stress, treats impotence and extends longevity.

Herbs That Heal
Adusa leaf extracts are used to treat coughs and colds.

Basil, or 'tulsi', is an ideal remedy to ease coughs and colds and to expel worms. Basil tea relieves gas, stomach cramps, vomiting and constipation.

Licorice is used to treat cough and cold because of its expectorant, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective in treating gastric ulcers, constipation and chronic hepatitis, stimulating the adrenal glands and preventing tooth decay. usually caused by sugar.

Peppermint has an anti-spasmodic and carminative effect. It provides relief in digestion, nausea and intestinal gas. Peppermint tea is recommended for headaches, as a mild sedative, and to treat some upper respiratory conditions. Oil of peppermint, when applied externally, relieves muscle and nerve pain.

Isoflavones show tremendous potential to fight diseases and to prevent the build-up of arterial plaque, which reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. They may help reduce breast and prostate cancers, fight osteoporosis and relieve menopausal symptoms. Soy products, beans, peas, nuts, grain products, coffee, tea and certain herbs such as red clover are good sources of isoflavones.

Jaggery, or 'Gur', is pure, unrefined whole sugar, containing the natural goodness of minerals and vitamins inherently present in sugarcane juice.

Kelp is large, leafy brown algae that belongs to the seaweed family and grows in the colder waters of the world's oceans. It is a good source of marine minerals - including potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron - as well as iodine.

Lemon balm is widely used in herbal teas, both as a flavouring agent and for its carminative and sedative properties. It is recommended to induce perspiration and relieve the fever caused by colds and flu, and ease menstrual cramps, insomnia, headaches and nervousness.

Mustard, or 'rai' has long been used as a remedy against arthritis, rheumatism, inflammation and toothache. And, Moong sprouts and other pulses are rich in protein, carbohydrate, the B-vitamins, fibre and low in fat, which is mostly of the unsaturated kind. Fresh pulses and sprouts also contain Vitamin C. Soya bean sprouts contain are also a good source of iron, calcium and isoflavones.