Full Circle Digital Magazine August 2013 | Page 28

M O T H E R N AT U R E N U R T U R E S • F I E R Y S P I C E S • D R E VA M I H A L FIERY TO WARM YOU THIS WINTER by Dr Eva Mihal, Moya Naturopathy & Wellness Centre SPICES The best and most honest immune boosting advice is to keep your life simple and stress free. A strong immune system requires the healthy involvement of the lymphatic system; especially the cervical, mammary and axillary lymph nodes, as well as the spleen and the thymus gland. Your immune system protects your body from pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, food and environmental toxins. A weak immune system may cause you to feel sluggish and fatigued, reducing your body’s ability to ward off infections. Immune cells are produced largely by the thymus gland and spleen and distributed through the body via the lymph vessels to the lymph nodes, providing protection from infection. However, immune cells can be damaged by unstable oxygen or free radicals, generated by poor nutrition, smoking and exposure to toxins. Spices enhance immunity Herbs and Spices have the highest known antioxidant content of all foods. Furthermore, by stimulating digestive enzyme production, they improve nutrient absorption. • Indian Tumeric • Cumin • Coriander • Fennel • Ginger • Black Pepper • Cinnamon • Cardamom Mix spices with a tablespoon of cold pressed vegetable oil or coconut cream and heat on a very low flame until the aroma is released. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning. Apply the warmed spice mix to cooked rice, vegetables, or other dishes before serving. Taken regularly with each main meal of the day, spices will help boost your immune system and enhance digestion. Apple Cider Vinegar Tips on how to stay healthy this winter is known to have anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and antiviral properties. It contains important minerals, trace elements, and amino acids, as well as roughage in the form of apple pectin. Mix a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with a teaspoon of raw untreated honey in warm water and take on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. 1 2 Three Step Spleen Detox Drink 8 to 12 glasses of water a day with a slice of a lemon in each glass. The water cleanses the spleen and blood, the lemon assists in clearing the lymphatic system and liver. Stretch daily. Stretching is essential in clearing the lymphatic system and supporting lymphatic drainage. Yoga, in particular, focuses on poses to cleanse and recharge the internal organs. – Join our Yoga classes at Moya! Take 10 drops of the Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) tincture (add to water and/ or herbal tea), to support the lymphatic system and encourage lymphatic cleansing. 3 FULL CIRCLE DIGITAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2013