Tag: Traditional remedies

The World Health Organization has classified areca nut, the primary ingredient in supari, as a Group 1 carcinogen for humans. This places the popular cultural and traditional chewable, commonly known as supari, in the same risk category as tobacco and alcohol.

Historically known as the 'poor man's protein,' sattu has been a dietary staple in India for centuries, used for its potent nutritional value and versatility. The key question many have is: is sattu good in winter or summer, or is it beneficial all year round?

Fermented foods have been a staple in diets around the world for centuries, and recent research is confirming their health-promoting properties. Traditionally prepared fermented rice, a popular breakfast in many cultures, is rich in microflora and often considered a natural probiotic. The fermentation process cultivates lactic acid bacteria, which are known to benefit the gut microbiome, making the rice not only more nutritious but also easier to digest.

Millions of social media users are trying the trend of applying castor oil to their belly buttons, claiming a range of health benefits. But does castor oil in the belly actually work, or is this popular folk remedy more about feel-good folklore than scientific proof?

Traditionally consumed for its cooling properties and numerous health benefits, Paruthi Paal is a cherished beverage in Tamil Nadu, India. But a common question for those monitoring their stimulant intake is, 'Is there caffeine in Paruthi Paal?' This article delves into the composition of this traditional drink to provide a definitive answer and explore its many healthful qualities.

Gram for gram, jaggery contains almost the same amount of calories as refined sugar, yet it is often praised as a healthier alternative. The primary reason why is jaggery more healthy than sugar lies in its minimal processing, which helps it retain a higher content of natural minerals and antioxidants.

Hippocrates, the 'father of modern medicine,' is frequently credited with the saying, "Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food," but historical research shows this precise phrasing is a modern misquotation. The concept behind it, however, is a cornerstone of his and other ancient medical practices, emphasizing diet's foundational role in health and disease prevention. This philosophical idea has ancient roots extending far beyond Greek civilization to many cultures worldwide.

Across the Balkans, a shot of rakija is believed to aid digestion, with some historical sources documenting its use for medicinal purposes dating back to the Middle Ages. This tradition runs deep, but how does the perceived effectiveness of this strong fruit brandy stand up to modern science?

With a history stretching back thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, licorice root has long been valued for its therapeutic properties. Brewing this powerful herb as a tea offers a naturally sweet and flavorful way to access its potential health benefits, particularly for digestive and respiratory health.

In one reported mass poisoning event in Tanzania, seven people, including a three-year-old child, died after consuming sea turtle meat, a danger that also applies to ingesting turtle blood. This tragic reality starkly contrasts with the myth that consuming turtle blood is good for you, a belief that is not only scientifically unfounded but incredibly dangerous.