CELERY SEED

Celery Seed is an excellent diuretic that promotes the flow of urine through the kidneys and increases uric acid excretions, helping to clear toxins from the system. This is especially good for gout, where excess uric acid crystals collect in the joints. Its diuretic action may also relieve bladder disorders, cystitis and other kidney problems including stones and gravel. Early herbalists used it as a cleansing tonic after the stagnation of winter, and herbalists in France today use the extract to relieve retention of urine. Celery Seed may support a healthy heart. Its diuretic properties help to rid the body of excess water through increased urine flow, including the release of fluid surrounding the heart, which helps to reduce the heart's workload.
Celery Seed is considered beneficial for easing the discomfort and degeneration of the body joints frequently associated with age. Its anti-inflammatory properties also appear to help those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout and neuralgia, and its diuretic qualities help flush impurities (including uric acid and other toxins) from the kidneys, which frequently cause these ailments. Although Celery is said to be a stimulant (particularly in kidney function), it is also known as a sedative that will calm stressed nerves and promote restfulness and sleep.
Celery Seed is thought to have a calming effect on the digestive system, enhancing appetite, relieving gas and indigestion. Celery Seed is a popular folk remedy for promoting the onset of menstruation.

Getting Enough Vitamin D in the Winter Months

As evidence of the health benefits of Vitamin D continues to grow, running out and catching a few rays of sunshine has never felt healthier. However, here in the northern hemisphere the days of sunshine are fast diminishing and it’s time for Canadians to start looking elsewhere for their daily vitamin D fix. In the past, vitamin D was known to reduce the risks of osteoporosis, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. Now there’s strong data to suggest it’s a formidable weapon in the fight against cancer. Avoiding overload, how much vitamin D is too much is debatable. You don't want to overdo it, because too much vitamin D in the body can cause vomiting, raise blood levels of calcium causing confusion, and cause heart rhythm abnormalities. Health Canada warns exceeding the recommended limit could lead to an overdose that can cause kidney stones as well as damage to the heart, lungs and blood vessels. Health Canada advises against more than 2,000 IU a day. But remember, six months from now (we hope), getting vitamin D from sources such as foods and lamps won't be a worry. We’ll be able to reap the sun’s benefits by simply going for a walk in the sunshine. One thing that won’t help you get your daily dose of vitamin D is standing outside in the winter time, you can’t make vitamin D in your skin in the winter time. A study involving Edmonton residents, for six months of the year, they were unable to make vitamin D in their skin. Stand naked outside from the time the sun rises until it sets, freeze every appendage on your body and you will not make vitamin D."

Ginger Root

Ginger root is a natural cure-all. It can ease numerous conditions including; muscle pain, queasiness and cold symptoms. New research has also shown it to be rich in antioxidants, which help soothe inflammation from migraines, menstrual cramps and arthritis. "It's a natural alternative to over-the-counter painkillers because it doesn't irritate the digestive-tract wall like ibuprofen and ASA do. Ginger can help relieve queasiness from motion sickness to morning sickness to hangovers. Ginger can help sedate the digestive tract and stimulate stomach acid production to aid with digestion. Ginger can help soothe arthritis, joint pain, general muscle soreness, menstrual cramps and migraines. The immune-boosting properties of ginger make it ideal for prevention and treatment