Perennial Greens

Continued from Yesterday

Herbs are Green, Too

Dorsey-Kockler noted alfalfa’s heart-health research may still be “green,” i.e., not developed, but studies on green botanicals are not lacking, she said. “Green tea has some of the most prolific health research behind its health benefits. While it has not yet achieved a qualified health claim, green tea has demonstrated very strong antioxidant protection against certain chronic diseases, may aid in weight loss, and also acts as an energy stimulant. Ginkgo biloba is another popular green herb with widely studied cognitive benefits, including reduction of depression, anxiety, dementia; it has also been found to support memory function.” Further, she added matcha is an innovative green-food ingredient that has been showing up in a variety of foods. “The allure of matcha, ‘the finest green tea,’ is the way it is grown (in the shade), harvested and manufactured (using special granite); the fine, jade-colored powder easily blends into foods and beverages. This allows all of the antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fibers to be consumed versus being whisked away in a regular green tea bag after steeping. Additionally, as the plants are grown in the shade, they accumulate high levels of L-theanine, which binds with the tea caffeine and slows its absorption, allowing for a more steady energy release versus a spike.”

Continued Tomorrow

http://www.naturalproductsinsider.com/articles/2010/11/perennial-greens.aspx

http://www.depsyl.com/ 

http://back2basicnutrition.com/

http://bionutritionalresearch.olhblogspace.com/