- Onions – Onions were introduced to America by Christopher Columbus in 1492. Studies have shown that onions protect against stomach cancer, prostate cancer, and esophageal (throat) cancer. Onions also help build stronger bones; compounds in onions help increase calcium absorption from food and block the cells that break down bones (like pharmaceutical drugs without the side effects). Onions are also full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds which are helpful in treating allergies.
- Garlic – Garlic is one of the oldest medicines on the planet, mentioned prominently in the world’s oldest medical text, the Ebers Papyrus. Garlic has been shown to lower cholesterol, prevent blood clots, lower blood pressure, be an antioxidant, and kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
- Ginger – In Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine), ginger is considered a universal remedy. Studies have shown benefits to the digestive system, the heart and blood vessels, with fevers and in pain relief. Ginger soothes upset stomachs and relieves nausea (in one study, even better than Dramamine). Other benefits include inhibiting cancer cells and boosting the immune system, and it is also effective against bacteria and viruses.
- Honey – Honey is a precious thing. One bee over her lifetime will only produce one-twelfth of a teaspoon of honey. Honey is formed when bees gather pollen from flowers and mix it with enzymes found in their saliva. Honey, if unprocessed (raw, unheated, and unfiltered), is packed with nutrients and enzymes. Honey has been shown to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
- Oregano – Oregano is rich in nutrients and has the highest antioxidant activity found in any herb to date (four times more than blueberries). Oregano is effective against bacteria, fungus, and parasites, and has been shown to prevent mutations in our DNA and fight cancer.
Making Medicine
- Onion juice, ginger, and honey (for coughs) – Blend half an onion with two teaspoons of honey and one teaspoon of ginger for 20-30 seconds. Take 1-2 tablespoons 1-3 times per day.
- Oregano & garlic tea (for coughs and chest colds) – Boil three tablespoons of dried oregano and three cloves of chopped garlic in four cups of water for 10 minutes, then allow to cool for 10 minutes. Cover your head with a towel (to keep the steam in) and lean over the steam breathing deeply for 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn yourself; if the steam feels painful to your face, it is too hot. The treatment can be repeated as often as needed, re-heating the water to a steam. The liquid itself should also be drunk, ½ cup every two hours (sweeten with honey as needed).
- Onion, garlic, and honey (immune booster) – Chop up one onion and a head of garlic and soak in two cups of honey overnight. Eat a teaspoon of the honey 1-3 times per day as a good preventative against colds and flus.
What are your thoughts? Have you used the items in your kitchen as medicine? We’d love to hear your thoughts, please post your comments below.