Common Health Disorders You Can Improve with Medicinal Cookery

1) Pumpkin seeds contain huge amounts of natural zinc, which not only help regulate hormones, but control certain functions in the immune system, allowing wounds to heal quicker. They are incredibly rich in omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids, so by increasing this intake, they can notably reduce the appearance of redness, making spots look less affected than they are.

2) Sunflower seeds are also very high in fatty acid and contain very powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

3) Hemp seeds contain a high source of omega 6 fatty acid, which plays a vital role in skin health, as it controls water loss through the skin.

1) Carrots and butternut squash contain a source of vitamin A – a vital nutrient for skin health, which regulates how much oil your skin produces and at what rate. Vitamin A also protects the skin against UV damage, helps repair it and can minimise inflammation.

2) Celery is a great all-round detoxifier and cleanser, helping to send waste products and toxins for removal via the liver and kidney. This, in turn, helps to keep the skin clearer, allowing it to appear brighter and healthier, as well as reducing healing time.

3) Onion is a rich source of sulphur and quercetin. These help reduce redness and the appearance of skin.

4) Ginger is extremely useful for any inflammation problem in the body, so as most common skin conditions, from eczema and psoriasis though to acne involve inflammation, ginger should be a staple in your food diet.

5) Chickpeas are very high in fibre, which helps clear waste, giving skin a natural glow.

6) Tomatoes help protect the skin from sun damage and reduce inflammation.

7) Spinach regulates oil production in the skin and works as an anti-inflammatory.

1) Peppermint helps to regulate your bowl activity and restore contractions.

2) Bay leaves help to break down excessive gas in the digestive system.

3) Liquorice root helps with many dietary complaints like IBS and colitis as it reduces inflammation and soothes swollen surfaces.

4) Basil kills simple organisms to aid digestion.

1) Beetroot’s deep purple pigment helps the liver to quickly remove toxins, such as alcohol.

2) Onions and leeks decrease the number of bad bacteria in the gut and encourage the growth of good bacteria.

3) Fennel helps to relieve the spasms and cramping of diarrhea.

4) Rocket has a very bitter taste, which causes the gall bladder to release more bile, which helps with digestion and absorption of fats.

1) Celery has a high source of magnesium, which regulates the relaxation of all muscles in the body. It also increases urinary output; meaning once you’ve been to the toilet, there is less fluid in your body, including blood. With less volume of blood within a vessel, your blood pressure decreases. This effect doesn’t last all day though, so celery should be a regular part of your diet.

2) Ginger helps to enhance blood flow circulation and lowers blood pressure.

3) Carrots work as an anti-inflammatory food and are incredibly protective to the cardiovascular system.

4) Chillis can help widen the blood vessels, increasing the flow around the body. It contains a chemical, which causes a sudden and forceful relaxation of the blood vessel wall (where you might have experienced flushing and redness) and a notable drop in blood pressure.

5) Garlic helps to reduce the blood’s ability to clot and encourages the production of ‘good’ HTL cholesterol.

6) Red peppers contain a vivid colour pigment that is a powerful antioxidant and plays a significant role in preventing artery disease.

1) Apples are not only known for lowering cholesterol; they have a natural gelling agent which binds cholesterol and carries it out of the body via the bowel.

2) The rind and pith of an orange protect the lining of blood vessels from damage.

1) Pineapple works as an ant-inflammatory.

1) Celery is a very potent anti-inflammatory and painkiller. Granted, it doesn’t work in the same way as ibuprofen, but added to your daily diet, can enhance the benefits of your medication.

2) Red cabbage reduces inflammation in any tissues by supplying an antioxidant buffer.

3) Sweet potatoes are a significant ant-inflammatory ingredient and are high in vitamin A.

1) Parsley and dandelion leaves increase urinary output, which helps the body   to remove waste products from the joints quickly.

To learn more about medicinal eating, read Medicinal Cookery: How you can benefit from nature’s edible pharmacy by Dale Pinnock