Origin and history of spearmint

The number of different types of mint can hardly be overlooked. The most important main species include green mint, Mentha spicata, the pennyroyal, Mentha pulegium, the field mint, Mentha arvensis, and of course the highly mentholated peppermint, Mentha piperita. Whether apple, orange or pineapple mint, sage or Thuringian mint: each has its own aroma and individual appearance. the spearmint, Mentha spicata, belongs to the mint genus (Mentha) in the mint family (Lamiaceae) and has been known as a beneficial herb in Mediterranean countries since ancient times. In addition to the designation Spearmint is Mentha spicata in region-specific forms also known as spearmint, horse mint, spearmint or nana mint (mint in Persian-Arabic: Nana / Turkish: Nane).

Mint is native to the temperate zones of the world, primarily in North America, Europe and Asia, but is now cultivated worldwide. It is said that the Romans brought the herb to England and that English sailors at sea used mint leaves to keep their drinking water fresh for longer. North America's colonists planted the perennial, herbaceous plant in their settlements. It grows best in semi-shade in nutrient-rich, moist soil and reaches a height of between 30 and 130 cm. The plant forms offshoots and can thus multiply quickly. In order to better control its growth, it can also be cultivated in containers such as tubs - to do this, bury the container and let it protrude a few centimeters from the ground (root barrier).

In Arabia's desert areas, the tea of the nana mint (Mentha spicata var. crispa) with its relaxing and gently cooling effect with the most important drinks. The tea is preferably prepared from fresh leaves and drunk very hot and sweetened. Mixed with black or green tea, it is a real source of energy.

Feel-good aroma and taste of mint

As a versatile culinary herb, the numerous mint species are now valued all over the world. With its particularly aromatic taste, mint gives many dishes and drinks a refreshing touch, especially in summer. The aroma of spearmint, Mentha spicata, is rather mild, finely minty.

The essential oil contained in the leaves is menthol-free and consists largely of carvone. A versatile bioactive compound found in a modified form primarily in cumin. Peppermint, Mentha piperita, on the other hand, has a typically cooling, slightly hot to burning mint taste, which is due to the main ingredient menthol (4).

Use the positive effects of spearmint

As a spice, the fresh or dried herb is ideal for meat and fish dishes. Especially in England, the famous mint sauce is served with roast lamb. Distillate from the spearmint herb is mainly used in the liqueur, chewing gum and candy industries. Thanks to its complex spectrum of bioactive compounds, the essential oil can Mentha spicata can also be used in a variety of ways for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.

In studies, scientists were able to use the essential oil of Mentha spicata demonstrate high effectiveness against pathogens (antimicrobial activity), which may be due to the high carvone content (2). Carvone has calcium channel blocker properties and has a pronounced antispasmodic (spasmolytic) effect. It can therefore be used in the treatment of muscle spasms (1).

Spearmint oil has a strong anti-inflammatory and sputum-promoting (mucolytic) effect. It is used for inhalation in bronchitis as well as for wound healing. Inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, bile stasis, indigestion or fungal diseases are also among the areas of application (3).

applications

Preparation of the relaxing spearmint tea:

Pour about 3/4 liter of boiling water over 6 teaspoons of fresh mint leaves. Cover and let the tea steep for 5 minutes (so that no essential oils evaporate), then drain and sweeten to taste. Mint tea taken in small sips can Relieve stomach pain, bloating and headaches. Prepared tea will keep in the fridge in a closed container for up to two days. In order to use the positive effects of mint, about three cups should be drunk per day.

The herbal infusion can also be used as a gargle solution to relieve an irritated throat and to freshen your breath.

Rubbing tense muscles:

For external use of essential oils on the skin means a higher dose rarely one greater impact! Therapists recommend mixing a small dose of essential oils, for example in a 1-3 percent dilution, with a good quality massage oil such as almond, jojoba or coconut oil. 5-8 drops of spearmint oil diluted in at least 30 ml of massage oil can relieve sore muscles and cramps thanks to its circulation-enhancing properties.

Fragrant break for more joy in everyday life:

As a room fragrance are a few drops Organic green mint oil in the aroma lamp, nebuliser or in the inhaler pen is sufficient. Spearmint essential oil is said to increase alertness and sharpen thought processes (1).

Caution: essential oils are concentrates that may only be used diluted! Some of the ingredients in spearmint essential oil are classified as hazardous to health. Mint essential oil is not suitable for internal use in pregnant women, infants and young children. For external use in small children and infants, the concentration should be less than 0.5%.

The information provided here has been carefully prepared. They have a purely informative character and contain no Health or healing promises. Consult a doctor or other competent person before beginning any application or therapy.

Which AgilNature® products contain mint?

Origin and history of green tea

The history of green tea looks back on a long tradition and extends over a period of more than 5000 years. A legend says that in 2737 BC green tea was discovered by the Chinese emperor Chen Nung at the time. A leaf of a wild tea bush blew into a bowl of hot water. This is how the first infusion came about. In the beginning, the Chinese only used green tea as a remedy, and it became the epitome of vitality, health and longevity. Only a few centuries later was the valuable green tea discovered as a luxury food and drinking tea became part of everyday culture.

Green tea is made from the same plant (Camellia sinensis) won like black tea. To make green tea, the leaves are simply dried. For black tea, the leaves are fermented, giving them the special black color. During fermentation, however, exactly the health-promoting ingredients of the tea - the so-called polyphenols - are broken down. If the tea is unfermented, i.e. green, the polyphenols are retained to a greater extent.

Green tea also has a stimulating effect on the body and gives the body back the energy it needs when losing weight. Because when you lose weight, you often feel tired and exhausted.

The results of numerous scientific studies prove the slimming effect of green tea:

Green tea as a radical scavenger

Green tea is considered an antioxidant: it can protect our cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress - caused by so-called free radicals - plays an important role in the aging process. The more the body is exposed to oxidative stress, the faster the aging process begins. The formation of aggressive and highly reactive free radicals is unavoidable. The human body needs oxygen to live. Important metabolic processes for generating energy are not possible without oxygen. However, free radicals are formed during these complex processes. If the formation of free radicals exceeds a healthy concentration, one speaks of "oxidative stress".  Free radicals in the body can be rendered harmless with the help of so-called antioxidants. Antioxidants bind themselves with the free radicals - that's why they are also called free radical scavengers. The polyphenols contained in green tea are important free radical scavengers metabolism can contribute.

The results of numerous scientific studies prove the positive effect of green tea on the blood vessels:

• Green tea extract improves vascular function in healthy women (7)
• Green tea catechins lower levels of oxidized LDL (8)
• Green tea protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation even in smokers (9)

Your daily green tea needs

Origin of the plant

Hibiscus (Hibiscus spec.) becomes in German marshmallow called. The plant is mainly distributed in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Hibiscus belongs to the mallow family. Hibiscus is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 m tall, is an annual with lobed leaves. The mostly yellow flowers have a five-lobed inner calyx and a columnar outer calyx. After fading, the flowers enter the harvest stage, they are fleshy and red. The blossoms of the hibiscus and the calyxes are used in tea drinks in whole or cut form.

Caffeine-free refreshment

The dried petals give the tea a refreshing and slightly sour taste.

Hibiscus in folk medicine

In folk medicine, hibiscus is valued as an immune cure against colds, positive properties for catarrh, circulatory problems, circulatory disorders, loss of appetite, and inflammatory skin problems. In addition, extracts from the flower have a laxative and antibacterial effect. One explanation for the laxative effect could lie in the fruit acids – including hibiscus acid (1) (allohydroxycitric acid lactone). These are not resorbed in the intestine, i.e. not absorbed into the bloodstream, and thus lead to an increased accumulation of water in the intestine. The hibiscus flowers are also included in various ointments and decoctions used to treat allergic inflammatory reactions of the skin and other skin ailments. In African folk medicine, it is considered an antispasmodic, antibacterial, cholagogue and diuretic. In addition to being used therapeutically, hibiscus flowers are primarily used as a sour, caffeine-free soft drink (2).

Which AgilNature® products contain hibiscus?

Literature:

1. "Hibiscus" - wikipedia.de. Retrieved on 05/31/2016 from https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hibiskus
2. "Hibiscus: effects, side effects, interactions - gesundheit.de". Gesundheit.de. Retrieved on May 31, 2016 from http://www.gesundheit.de/lexika/heilpflanzen-lexikon/hibiscus-effekt

Origin and history of ginger

If you ever want a fresh piece of ginger (Zingiber officinale) has bitten, who knows what the tuber has in it. It's not just the tongue that burns. The cheeks turn red, the nose runs and a feeling of warmth floods the body. Confucius already appreciated the hot tuber and is said to have seasoned all his dishes with it. Today, ginger is known worldwide as a spice and is particularly popular in the kitchens of its tropical cultivation areas. However, there is much more to it than a refreshingly hot taste. That is why ginger has been an integral part of traditional medicine in China and India for more than 2500 years and is used for rheumatic complaints, nausea, stomach ache, headaches and colds.

Ginger - miracle bulb against pain

Gingerols are chemically similar to acetylsalicylic acid (found in aspirin) and inhibit the same enzyme in the body called cyclooxygenase (1). This explains the analgesic effect of ginger. The key advantage of ginger is that it does not cause stomach problems compared to other typical pain relievers. The positive effect of ginger on joint health has been proven in more than 100 studies.

Ginger - helps in cures

Ginger stimulates the metabolism and thus supports the biotransformation of the body. Ginger warms the entire organism, which also increases the temperature in the liver. This has a positive effect on the liver and bile metabolism. Thus, the liver is supported (4). The antioxidant properties of ginger help neutralize free radicals that are produced during various metabolic processes. Ginger is also important for good digestion as it increases the activity of digestive enzymes. Ginger also has antispasmodic and flatulent properties and can soothe the stomach and intestines.

Ginger reduces pain associated with joint problems

In one study, 75 patients suffering from joint problems in their knees or hips were given either ginger extract or ibuprofen for 3 weeks. There is a significant improvement in both groups. In contrast to the ibuprofen group, no side effects were found in the ginger group (3).

In another study, 46 patients took ginger powder. More than three quarters of the study participants reported less pain. In addition, the ginger supports the swelling of the inflamed, painful joints.

The positive effect of ginger on joint health has also been proven by many other studies.

Origin of Lapacho tea

Lapacho tea consists of the inner bark of the Lapacho tree, which is peeled off and grated once or twice a year. The lapacho tree (Tabebuia avellaneda or Tabebuia impetiiginosa) is found across much of South and Central America. There are dozens of regional subspecies of this plant. It is very adaptable, robust and relatively undemanding.

taste

The infusion from the Lapacho bark is very tasty, pleasantly smoky, reminiscent of vanilla and a little bit of cinnamon.

Lapacho tea and its effects

It has been proven that Lapacho tea contains many vitamins, minerals and plant substances such as calcium, potassium and iron as well as - in addition to the bioactive substance 'lapachol' - also trace elements such as barium, strontium, iodine and boron. Lapacho tea has an antibacterial and diuretic effect , antifungal and anti-inflammatory.

Lapacho tea is used as a medicinal and pleasure tea, especially for many chronic problems.

Which AgilNature® products contain Lapacho?

Literature:

Lübeck, Walter: Healing with Lapacho tea, the healing power of the "divine tree", wind horse.

Origin and History of Rhodiola

The Rhodiola rosea, also Rosenwurz, called golden root or arctic root, is an alpine plant from the thick-leafed family (Crassulaceae). It grows in the arctic regions of Europe and Asia. The conditions of the high-altitude habitat with long winters and barren soils are harsh.

Only thanks to a large number of strengthening and protective ingredients was the robust little plant able to adapt to the harsh climate. These special ingredients of Rhodiola rosea also have many positive and useful properties for humans. Rhodiola rosea has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, especially in Russia and Scandinavia, to increase performance and relieve symptoms of fatigue. Rhodiola rosea is one of the most important adaptogens.

What is an adaptogen?

Adaptogens are plants that general resistance of the organism to stress and stressors raise. They help the organism to adapt to stressful situations and can alleviate stress-induced symptoms. Through their harmonizing function, adaptogens can help the organism to maintain its inner balance. A body in balance can deal better with stressful situations in the long term (see Figure 1).

Rhodiola - natural resilience and energy in stressful situations

Studies have found that Rhodiola rosea reduce physical and mental stress can (1). Thanks to its adaptogenic and stimulating properties, Rhodiola rosea increases tolerance to stress while giving more energy (2). Rhodiola rosea reduces the release of stress hormones (2) and has a positive effect on the signal substances (neurotransmitters) of the nerve cells and the activity of the central nervous system (3). In addition, Rhodiola rosea improves the blood flow in the brain. This will make the promote mental performance and concentration. Additionally, Rhodiola rosea has been shown to have antioxidant, antidepressant, and anti-anxiety properties (2). Rhodiola rosea is recommended for relieving physical and mental symptoms associated with stress and overwork, such as fatigue, exhaustion, irritability, and tension (2). Rosavin is one of the most important bioactive substances in plants.

Your daily need for rhodiola

There is no official recommendation yet. Study results suggest a daily intake of 50 mg Rhodiola extract. It is important to use high quality Rhodiola rosea Extrakte to resort to, which are standardized on the ingredient rosavin.

Origin and History of Stevia

The stevia plant (Stevia rebaudiana) originally comes from the Amambay highlands in Paraguay and has a long tradition. For centuries will Stevia Used by the Guarani Indians to sweeten food and drinks. That is why it is also called "sweet herb" or "honey herb". In Japan, the special properties of stevia were recognized early on. Stevia has been used there for more than forty years natural sweetener used in drinks and food. Due to its health-promoting properties, stevia was also used by the indigenous people of Paraguay as a traditional remedy for diabetes and high blood pressure estimated.

Stevia - natural sweetness without calories

Of course cuties without the disadvantages of sugar - for a long time that was just a dream in this country. This is actually possible with stevia. The advantages of stevia - especially when it comes to losing weight - have finally been recognized in Europe. The leaves of the South American sweet cabbage are so sweet that they can easily replace conventional sugar. The reason for the incredible sweetening power are the special ingredients in the leaves Steviosidethat even up up to 300 times sweeter than cane sugar are (1).

Which AgilNature® products contain steviol glycosides from stevia?

Literature:

1. Chatsudthipong et al. (2009): Stevioside and related compounds: therapeutic benefits beyond sweetness. Pharmacol Ther. 2009 Jan; 12(1): 41-54.y

Origin and history of lemongrass

lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) is native to India and is an evergreen herbaceous plant. The growth height is 1 to 2 meters. The leaves develop an aromatic scent. Fresh and lemony with a hint of rose scent.

The beneficial properties of lemongrass

Lemongrass is valued in folk medicine for its antibacterial, invigorating, diuretic and blood-cleansing effects. Lemongrass used in tea can reduce appetite, help relieve stress and fatigue, and contribute to general well-being.

Literature:

1. Bäumler, Siegfried (2006): Medicinal plants in practice today. Munich: Elsevier, Urban &Fischer.

Bamboo is a type of grass and is arguably the fastest growing plant in the world. A growth of 10cm per day is common, some species even grow up to 5cm per hour. The miracle tube not only grows quickly, it is also extremely stretchy and extremely stable and at the same time light as a feather. Thanks to its high flexural strength, it has been popular as a building material in China for thousands of years. In China there are bamboo bridges that have been spanning rivers for 1000 years. Bamboo houses are even considered earthquake-proof due to their high flexibility and elasticity.

People also use the strengthening properties of bamboo for their health. A thousand years ago, monks used bamboo (Bambusa arundinacea) to produce a silicon-rich substance called tabashir, which is still used today as a traditional remedy in Eastern medicine.

Bamboo - natural silicon for bone structure

Silicon is an important trace element, of which the human body contains about 1 to 2g.(1) In nature, silicon is never found in its pure form, but always in combination with oxygen as silicon dioxide. In combination with water it is called silicic acid. Bamboo is one of the best sources of natural silicon dioxide. Is is a real silicon accumulator,

because it needs silicon for its extreme strength and flexibility. Our body loses around 10-40mg of silicon every day through excretions, sloughing of the skin and cutting hair and nails. With age, the body's ability to absorb silicon decreases. (1) Therefore, the silicon content in the tissues decreases with increasing age. Appropriate nutritional supplementation can help to normalize silicon levels in the tissues again. (2)

Silicon is important for bone formation, it is characterized by a strengthening function. Primarily, silicon appears to promote the synthesis and stabilization of collagen. If there is a silicon deficiency, less collagen is formed in the bones (3). Collagen is the basic building material for bones and is important for bone formation. Just as steel girders support a building, collagen fibers form the supporting framework in bone. If a house lacks steel beams, it would crumble under even a small load. It's the same with bones: without collagen, they lose elasticity and become brittle.

Your daily need for silicon

So far there is no official recommendation for the daily silicon requirement. As a dietary supplement, an intake of 10-20 mg silicon per day is recommended. The natural silicon from bamboo is particularly well tolerated and can be easily absorbed by the body.

Study Findings: High dietary silicon intake improves bone health

Increased bone density plays a central role in bone formation and the prevention of osteoporosis.

Which AgilNature® products contain bamboo?

Literature:

1. Holzer G, Holzer LA (2011): Silicon and its importance for bone metabolism. Swiss Journal of Nutritional Medicine 1/11: 34-37.
2. Holzer G, Holzer LA (2008): Silicon in the therapy of osteoporosis. J Miner Metabolism. 2008; 15(2)
3. Seaborn CD, Nielsen FH. (2002): Silicon deprivation decreases collagen formation in wounds and bone, and ornithine transaminase enzyme activity in liver. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2002 Dec; 89(3):251-61
4. Jugdaohsingh R et al. (2004): Dietary silicon intake is positively associated with bone mineral density in men and premenopausal women of the Framingham Offspring cohort. J Bone Miner Res. 2004 Feb; 19(2):297-307
5. Jugdaohsingh R. (2007):Silicon and bone health. J Nutr Health Aging. 2007; 11(2): 99–110.

Origin and history of Aronia

It is hardly known and yet it is one of the nutritionally most valuable berries in our culture: the purple-black aronia berry. Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) originally comes from eastern North America. The Native Americans were the first to recognize the healing power of the small berries and use them for themselves. Due to current studies and remarkable research results, the "medicine cabinet" of the Indians has now been rediscovered. In particular, its high antioxidant potential and the ability to protect our cells from oxidative stress make the Aronia a valuable power fruit.

Oxidative stress - what is it?

The human body needs oxygen to live. Important metabolic processes for generating energy are not possible without oxygen. During these complex processes, however, unavoidable ones arise In betweenProducts of oxygen, the highly reactive and are aggressive. They are called free radicals. Stress, cigarette smoke, alcohol, air pollution and UV light can promote the formation of free radicals. But sporting activity can also lead to an increased formation of free radicals. (1) If the formation of free radicals exceeds a healthy concentration, one speaks of "oxidative stress".

Too much free radicals can damage or even destroy body cells. Permanent oxidative stress can promote the development of various diseases.(1) Many diseases in western industrialized nations can be traced back to free radicals. (5) Premature aging, the development of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, Alzheimer's and age-related eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration (AMD) are considered possible consequences of permanent oxidative stress. (4).

Antioxidants - Natural protection for the cells

Free radicals in the body can be rendered harmless with the help of so-called antioxidants. Antioxidants bind themselves with the free radicals - that's why they are also called free radical scavengers. It is important that the body is regularly supplied with sufficient antioxidants "from the outside", as the body cannot produce them itself. Vitamins C and E and the trace element zinc are considered effective antioxidants. However, even more effective are the plant substances anthocyanins as a natural cell protection, which are mainly contained in dark berries. (4).

Aronia - power berry for active cell protection

Current research has determined that, compared to other berries, aronia has the highest content of so-called free-radical scavengers, which is why it can have an extremely cell-protecting effect in the organism. It outshines the antioxidant superfruits pomegranate and cranberry (Fig. 1). The dark violet pigments, the so-called anthocyanins, of the berries are responsible for this antioxidant power. Compared to other fruits, aronia has the highest content of anthocyanins and thus the highest content of health-promoting antioxidants for active cell protection, as confirmed by the Cancer Research Institute in Heidelberg and the Institute for Nutritional Physiology.(1)

Anthocyanins have a number of positive preventive effects on health and also have a positive effect on the immune system. They are considered powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective.(6)

A study conducted on rowers showed that aronia protects against oxidative damage during exercise. The aronia juice is said to be able to limit exercise-related oxidative damage to the red blood cells. The authors of this study suspect that aronia anthocyanins support the body's antioxidant defense system (2).

Dark berries protect against infections

US researchers have found that some migratory birds have found a tried and tested way of protecting themselves against infection: before they fly between summer and winter territories, they do a little preventative diet and ingest excessive amounts of dark berries, which are rich in antioxidants and such contribute to strengthening the immune system. The long journey from north to south means enormous physical strain for the birds and not only saps the strength of the birds, but also challenges the body's own protective mechanisms. Because the exertion that the animals have to perform leads to increased oxidative stress, which is triggered by free radicals. This would make migratory birds more susceptible to infection and inflammation(3).

Which AgilNature® products contain Aronia?

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Annex XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EG) No. 1169/2011.** No recommendation available.

Literature:

1. Mehrwald R. (2007): The high antioxidant potential of the native Aronia berry (Aronia melanocarpa). Comed 05/07: 1-4
2. Pilaczynska-Szczesniak L. et al (2005): The influence of chokeberry juice supplementation on the reduction of oxidative stress resulting from an incremental rowing ergometer. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2005 Feb; 15 (1): 48-58
3. http://bigdeal2010.wordpress.com/so-wird-aronia-von-der-natur-genutzt/
4. Kandler-Schmitt B. (2009): Antioxidants - Colorful protection troops. Pharmacy magazine. 1. February 2009, pages 52-53
5. www.aroniabeere.de/aronia/aroniapflanze/gesundheit.php
6. Watzl B. et al (2002): Anthocyane. Nutrition Review 49 (2002) Issue 4