Saffron (Crocus sativus) is much more than a rich and warm flavoring agent in foods and cosmetics. It is known to relax the mind and lift your mood, thanks to its components safranal and crocin, which can run the communication system in the brain more efficiently. It also helps relieve stress by reducing the levelsContinue reading “Saffron”
Tag Archives: mood
Jasmine
Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is a flower that lends its unique fragrance to the cosmetic industry. But that’s not all. Had as a tea, whether mixed with green or black tea, jasmine could offer other health benefits. In a light tea, linalool, an aromatic compound in jasmine, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, slowing down your heartContinue reading “Jasmine”
Green Tea
Green tea, considered a healthy tea worldwide, comes from the Camellia sinensis plant which also yields black and oolong tea. While a small amount of caffeine makes it a gentle pick-me-up, EGCG and L-theanine are the main weapons in its arsenal. The “jitters” characteristic of caffeine can be countered by L-theanine, which increases GABA levelsContinue reading “Green Tea”
Fennel
The seeds of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) are an oft-used digestive aid. They protect the stomach lining from corrosive acids and scavenge harmful cell-damaging molecules. Fennel may be especially kind to postmenopausal women who have low estrogen since it has an estrogen mimic called anethole which can sit on GABA A receptors and exert a similarContinue reading “Fennel”
Brain Function: Balance vs. Imbalance
Your brain is your body’s master switch. If it’s not functioning at its best, several other parts of your body aren’t too. Brain function and mental health are typically governed by your innate metabolic personality or prakruti. In fact, your brain activity reflects your prakruti. For instance, in ‘light and quick’ people, the frontal executiveContinue reading “Brain Function: Balance vs. Imbalance”
Get Set, Meditate
If you care about your mind, you must have meditated – at least once in your life. Dig back into that memory and tell us what type of a meditator you are. The fidget: you just can’t sit still! Hasn’t it been ages already? The sleeper: did you just snore? The planner: this sitting idleContinue reading “Get Set, Meditate”