The Right Way to Eat Broccoli for Healing 

You probably have broccoli in your fridge right now, ready to be tossed into your next meal. It’s one of those go-to vegetables that’s perfect in everything from casseroles to salads. What if I told you that broccoli has been used for centuries, not just for its delicious taste, but also for its healing properties? It’s an ancient superfood with modern health benefits.

Packed with nutrients, it’s a natural remedy that can support everything from detoxification to bone health. 

Let’s dive into the incredible benefits of broccoli as a natural remedy! 

History Lesson 

Broccoli traces its origins to the Mediterranean region. Its medicinal and health-promoting properties were recognized by ancient civilizations, including the Romans and Greeks, who valued it for its ability to promote vitality and aid digestion. 

1. Digestion and Gut Health 

Broccoli has a high fiber content, making it the perfect food to aid digestion and prevent constipation. It also acts as a prebiotic, which means it feeds beneficial bacteria in your gut to keep it healthy. 

Note: Steamed broccoli is particularly beneficial because it is soft on the stomach and retains fiber. 

2. Immune System Support 

When you think of foods with vitamin C, fruit probably comes to mind before any vegetables. You may be surprised to learn that broccoli has a high vitamin C content. Along with other infection-fighting minerals, like zinc and selenium, adding broccoli to your diet can reduce infections and support a healthy immune system. 

3. Liver Health and Detoxification 

Broccoli contains sulforaphane and chlorophyll, minerals that are synergistic-meaning that they have a greater effect when combined. The sulforaphane removes harmful toxins from your liver by activating detoxification enzymes, then, the chlorophyll cleanses your blood and neutralizes the toxins. Broccoli’s detoxification properties keep your liver and overall body young and healthy!

4. Heart Health and Blood Sugar Regulation 

The high fiber content in broccoli can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation and even prevent blood sugar spikes! The sulforaphane in broccoli can improve your sensitivity to insulin, making it beneficial for diabetes, and protect against damage to your blood vessels. Broccoli is a great ingredient and tool to maintain a healthy heart and regulate your blood sugar. 

5. Supports Bone Health 

Broccoli is rich in nutrients like calcium, vitamin K and magnesium, all essential for strong bones and preventing osteoporosis (a condition where bones become extremely weak). Broccoli also supports and promotes bone regeneration due to its high levels of sulforaphane. 

6. Anti-Aging and Skin Health 

The antioxidants and vitamins in broccoli help to keep your skin looking youthful and clear. Its high vitamin C levels boost collagen production, which aids in keeping your skin firm and prevents wrinkles. The antioxidants protect your skin against UV damage and can help clear acne breakouts. 

4 Recipes to Use Broccoli in Everyday Life 

1. Broccoli Smoothie 

This easy recipe is great for strengthening immunity, cleansing your liver and flushing out toxins. Blend it up for a daily smoothie. 

Ingredients 

• Raw broccoli and/or broccoli sprouts 
• Cucumber 
• Green apple 
• Ginger 
• Lemon juice 
• Coconut water 

You can mix up ingredients depending on what you like best. For best detox results, drink in the morning or on an empty stomach.

   2. Broccoli Soup 

The high fiber in broccoli soothes digestion and prevents constipation. It is a great way to support the overall health of your gut. 

Ingredients 

• Chopped broccoli 
• Carrots 
• Chopped onions 
• Garlic clove 
• Vegetable broth 
• Olive oil 
• Salt and pepper 

Keep the olive oil in a pot, sauté the onions and garlic until it is fragrant. Then, add carrots, broccoli and broth. Let that simmer for about 15 minutes and then blend until smooth. For the best digestion support, eat this soup warm right before bed. 

3. Broccoli Juice 

The fiber and antioxidants in broccoli can regulate blood sugar levels and support heart health. Making a juice is an easy way to soak up all of these natural medicinal effects. 

Ingredients 

• Raw broccoli 
• Spinach 
• Cucumber 
• Green apple 
• Water 

Blend all of these ingredients until they are smooth, strain the juice and drink once daily. 

4. Broccoli Face Mask 

The vitamins and antioxidants in broccoli can fight acne, reduce wrinkles and even brighten your skin for a youthful glow! 

Ingredients

• Steamed and mashed broccoli 
• Honey 
• Plain yogurt 

Mix these ingredients into a paste, apply it to your face, leave on for about 15 minutes and then rinse with warm water. For the best results on your skin, use this homemade face mask twice a week. 

Broccoli is a great vegetable to start or add to your garden. The official plant name for broccoli is brassica oleracea. 

How to Grow Broccoli at Home 

• Plant in a sunny area: Broccoli needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day in order to grow and survive. 
• Start from seeds: Start the plant indoors and move to outside when you see a few leaves growing. When transplanting to your garden, plant the seedlings one to two feet apart. ● Watering: Plants should be kept moist and watered about an inch per week. ● Harvesting: Cut the heads of the broccoli off when they are firm (about 60 to 90 days after planting). 

Broccoli has always been an important and delicious vegetable – but now we know just how many natural health benefits it contains! It’s the perfect choice of vegetable to add to your garden and your cooking. 

If you have any ideas or suggestions on what natural remedies and herbs work best, please reach out! I love learning new uses for these powerful plants and herbs! 

Explore our whole page of natural remedies! Here at GreenDesert.org, we’re always looking to grow our community. If you have ideas, please share them!

The Power of Thyme: Exploring Uses for Health and Healing

 Love thyme for so many reasons – the smell, taste, the way it looks in the garden… but most of all for its natural healing abilities. I’m guessing that most of you probably have thyme in your kitchens and use it in many of your recipes.

For centuries, thyme has been used as a medicinal herb, offering accessible and straightforward home remedies.

So, what are the natural benefits of thyme and how do you use it? Let’s talk about it!

A Quick History Lesson

Thyme was first used by the ancient Egyptians, in their embalming processes, and Greeks believed that thyme was a symbol of courage and was used as a remedy for various ailments.

1. Improves Respiratory Health

If you’re experiencing a cough or congestion, thyme is a great way to open your airways and loosen mucus. Thyme is an expectorant, which increases the production of saliva and thins mucus.

How Use It:

• Boil a pot of water, then turn off burner
• Add a sprig of thyme
• Let it soak in the hot water for about 10 minutes
• Remove from heat and pour yourself a cup of tea

Optional Additional Ingredients:

• Ginger
• Honey
• Berries
• Lemon
• Garlic

This natural herbal tea is great for loosening mucus. To see the best result, drink 2-3 cups a day.

2. Reduces Cold and Flu Symptoms

One of the main properties in thyme is thymol, which has strong antibacterial and antiviral effects. What does that mean? Well, thyme can help fight off viruses and bacteria that cause your cold and flu. This healing herb’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce inflammation and irritation in your nose, throat and chest. While thyme tea will reduce cold and flu symptoms, there are additional uses to knock your symptoms out!

How to Use It:

• Boil a pot of water
• Add a few (2-3) thyme sprigs
• Place a towel over your head and the pot as you lean over the pot
• Breathe deeply for 5-10 minutes

Another way to accomplish this steam inhalation technique is to make a thyme steam bath. You can do this by adding a few sprigs of thyme to your warm bath. These techniques soothe inflammation in your lungs and throat, and ease respiratory discomfort and congestion.

3. Helps Heal and Reduces Severity of Cold Sores

Cold sores are blisters around the mouth and lips, caused by the HSV-1 virus. The antiviral properties in thymol can reduce the severity of your cold sores and prevent them from spreading.

How to Use It:

• Place a few sprigs of thyme (or about a 1⁄4 cup of dried thyme) in a jar
• Cover thyme with olive or coconut oil
• Seal the jar
• Sit the jar in a warm and sunny spot for 1-2 weeks and shake the jar every other day
• After 1-2 weeks, strain out the thyme and store it in a new, clean jar
• Apply thyme oil to your cold sore as needed

This simple thyme essential oil recipe helps get rid of cold sores due to its antimicrobial properties. You can also dilute store-bought thyme essential oil with coconut, olive or almond oil and apply it directly to your cold sores 2-3 times a day.

4. Supports Digestive Health

The carminative (gas-relieving) and antispasmodic (reduces cramps and pain) properties of thyme make it the perfect remedy for digestive discomfort and health.

How to Use It:

• Place a small handful of dried thyme in a jar
• Add about 5 ounces of high-proof alcohol (vodka, brandy, etc.)
• Seal and shake the jar
• Store the jar in a dark and cool place for 2-3 weeks and shake every 1-2 days
• After 2-3 weeks, strain out the thyme
• Transfer the strained liquid, or tincture, into a dropper or clean jar and store in a dark and cool place
• Take 20-30 drops of the tincture a day to support digestive health

The above tincture recipe supports digestion and gas relief. You can also add the tincture drops to water, tea or juice to help the taste.

Practical Tips for Using Thyme in Everyday Life

• Tea: Brew thyme-infused tea to support digestive and respiratory health. It can also help with

your skin health, menstrual pain cold, symptoms and even anxiety!

• Inhalation: Boil thyme to clear congestion and help with cold and flu symptoms.
• Cooking: Add thyme to soups, stews, chicken and drinks for a natural immunity boost.
• Oil: Use either store-bought or homemade thyme essential oil sparingly. It can be applied

topically or used in aromatherapy to reduce anxiety and stress.

How to Grow Thyme at Home

Get creative and grow your own thyme! The official plant name is Thymus vulgaris.

• Plant in a sunny spot: Thyme thrives in the sun and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

• Use well-draining soil: Thyme does not like soggy soil! Ensure your thyme has proper drainage.
• Water moderately: Thyme prefers dry conditions and, once established, is drought-tolerant and doesn’t need as much watering. Water only once the soil feels dry but avoid overwatering.
• Prune and Harvest: Trim long stems regularly to promote growth. After a few months, or once your thyme has matured, snip just above the leaf nodes (where the leaves grow) so the thyme will continue to grow.

Thyme has many natural health benefits and remedies. The above recipes can be used in combination with other medicinal herbs to relieve stress, muscle pain, cold symptoms and menstrual cramps. They can also support digestive health, your immune system and your skin health. The good news is that thyme is a perennial plant, meaning that once it’s established, it will keep growing without the need to replant.

I love learning new uses for these herbs and what remedies work best, so, please share your thoughts and suggestions!

Explore our whole page of natural remedies! Here at GreenDesert.org, we’re always looking to grow our community. If you have ideas, please share them!

Bacopa: The Ancient Herb for Brain Health

Overview

Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi, is a perennial herb native to wetland areas and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Rich in bacosides and antioxidants, it is widely recognized for its cognitive-boosting properties (Livayur).

Medicinal Benefits

1. Improves Cognitive Function: Bacopa enhances memory, learning, and information retention (Perfect Keto).
2. Reduces Anxiety & Stress: Known for its adaptogenic properties, Bacopa helps regulate stress and cortisol levels (Healthy-Flakes).
3. Protects Brain Health: Its antioxidants protect against oxidative stress, potentially aiding in neuroprotection (ivayur).

How to Use

• Tea: Steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
• Capsules: Take 300–450 mg of standardized extract daily.
• Tincture: Use 2–3 mL in water or juice.
•  

How to Grow Bacopa

Since Bacopa seeds can be slow to germinate, starting with seedlings is ideal for most gardeners. Here’s how to grow it indoors:

Side Effects & Precautions

• Possible side effects include nausea, fatigue, or upset stomach.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid Bacopa (Healthy-Flakes).

Did You Know?

Research suggests Bacopa could be beneficial for ADHD, Alzheimer’s, and lowering blood pressure.

We have an entire page of natural remedies. If you have natural remedies you choose, please share them — it takes a community!

Discover the Healing Power of Sage: From Hot Flashes to Cold Sores

When you think of sage you may think of burning it in your house to help get rid of bad energy, or using the herb for its yummy flavor in your favorite recipes.  But there is so much more to this small plant than you may think.

One of the more common varieties of sage, Salvia officinalis — also known as common sage, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine because it’s loaded with vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants… all known for protecting our bodies against disease.

And there are several ways to get the benefits… whether it be dried, or taken internally as a liquid, capsule, spray, tea, as a topical, or even cooked.

This blog shows you why you want to use sage and how to use it safely.

Antioxidants

Sage is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties so that in itself makes sage a powerhouse. Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage your cells and contribute to development of chronic diseases).  So if antioxidants are neutralizing those free radicals, naturally it helps prevent them from causing harm to the body. Some of the specific antioxidants found in sage:

• Rosmarinic and ellagic acids — known for their anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and antibacterial properties
• Quercetin and Flavonoids — shown to reduce inflammation, protect against heart disease, cancer and improve brain function

Colds, coughs and other respiratory issues

Sage has antibacterial, astringent, and antiseptic properties! This can help soothe that sore throat and that nasty cough from your lungs.  Sage will help with inflammation in turn making that annoying common cold feel better faster.

To use sage for a cough, make a tea!  Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried sage leaves in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.  Try drinking 1-2 cups per day to help alleviate symptoms.

You can also add a few fresh or dried sage leaves to a pot of hot water.  Inhale the steam to help clear congestion.

Oral Health

The antimicrobial effects also can help prevent cavities in your mouth because it can kill the bacteria that causes dental plaque and gum diesease.  The astringent properties in sage may help tighten the gums and reduce inflammation.

You’ll find several recipes online to make a mouthwash using sage:

• Bring a cup of water to a boil
• Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried sage leaves to the pot and let them steep for 5 – 10 minutes
• Strain the sage leaves out of the water, allow it to cool
• Transfer your sage mouthwash to a container and store in the fridge til you’re ready to swish.

Menopause

Sage has been used traditionally to help alleviate menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, dryness and irritability.

It is thought that some compounds in sage have certain estrogen-like properties that can trick your body.

To use sage for menopause symptoms, make a tea just as you would for a cough!  Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried sage leaves in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.  Try drinking 1-2 cups per day to help alleviate symptoms.

Another option to reduce hot flashes is to add a few fresh or dried sage leaves to a pot of hot water and inhaling the steam.

Cold Sore

Because of the antiviral and antimicrobial properties found in sage, the herb can help reduce inflammation and kill the virus that causes cold sores.

To use sage for cold sores, make tea!  But this time you’re not drinking it.  Once the tea has cooled, use a cotton swab to apply the tea to the affected area.

Another option is to mix a few drops of sage essential oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the affected area.  I’ve read that adding rhubarb to the mix tends to work better.

There are tons of other ways to reap the benefits of sage including making tinctures and it’s also available in capsule form.  We can’t forget cooking with it.  It is generally believed that the medicinal benefits of sage are retained when it’s cooked, one reason why it’s been used fresh and dried in a variety of dishes for centuries.   

But keep in mind, the concentration of beneficial compounds in sage may vary depending on how it is prepared and consumed.  For example, sage tea is likely to have a higher concentration of beneficial compounds that sage that is cooked and consumed as part of a dish.

You can grow it!

Another benefit, it’s relatively easy for you to grow your own! It’s a hardy perennial plant that is native to the Mediterranean region, but it can be grown in other parts of the world too, including right here in Phoenix.  The plant likes a sunny location with well-draining soil.  And they don’t need much space so you can even plant them in pots and use them fresh or dry.

If you decide to grow a plant, let us know and send photos.

We have an entire page of natural remedies. If you have natural remedies you choose, please share them — it takes a community!

Things No One Ever Told You About Eucalyptus: a blog about the benefits and dangers of eucalyptus.

Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree native to Australia.  You might be most familiar with eucalyptus plants as a favorite food of the koala.  Once you learn about its medicinal properties, it may become a favorite for you too.

The leaves of the eucalyptus tree contain oils that are believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. These oils are commonly used in a variety of products, including throat lozenges, rubs, and inhalants.

One of the most common uses for eucalyptus is as a decongestant. When the oils are inhaled, they can help to clear nasal passages and relieve congestion caused by colds, flu, and allergies. Eucalyptus inhalants can be found in the form of oils, sprays, and steam inhalants. To use eucalyptus as a decongestant, simply add a few drops of the oil to a large bowl of hot, steaming water, throw a towel over your head and inhale the steam. Alternatively, you can use a eucalyptus inhalant spray or apply eucalyptus oil to a cloth and inhale the scent. However, it is important to use eucalyptus oil in moderation and to dilute it with a carrier oil, such as almond oil or coconut oil, before applying it to a cloth.

In addition to its use as a decongestant, eucalyptus is also believed to have pain-relieving properties. It is commonly used to treat muscle aches, arthritis, and other types of chronic pain. Eucalyptus can be applied topically in the form of creams, gels, and rubs, or it can be taken orally in the form of supplements.

Eucalyptus is also believed to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a popular choice for the treatment of wounds and skin infections. It is commonly used in the form of a cream or ointment and can be applied directly to the affected area.

One fact that many people may not know about eucalyptus is that it is often used as a natural pest control. The strong scent of the eucalyptus oil is believed to repel insects, including mosquitoes, flies, and fleas. Eucalyptus oil can be applied topically or diffused using an essential oil diffuser to keep pests at bay.

In conclusion, eucalyptus is a versatile and effective natural remedy that can be used to treat a wide range of ailments, including congestion, pain, and skin infections. Its strong, refreshing scent makes it a popular choice for use in a variety of products, including inhalants, creams, and diffusers.

** As with anything, moderation and following instructions are key.    

Eucalyptus oil is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, it can be toxic if ingested in large amounts or if it comes into contact with the eyes. Ingesting eucalyptus oil can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If ingested in large amounts, eucalyptus oil can cause more serious symptoms, including dizziness, drowsiness, and even coma.

The safe use of eucalyptus oil depends on several factors, including the intended use of the oil and the person using it. Here are some general guidelines for the safe use of eucalyptus oil:

• Topical use: When used topically, eucalyptus oil should be diluted with a carrier oil, such as almond oil or coconut oil. A dilution of 2-5% eucalyptus oil is generally considered safe for adults. This means that for every 1 ounce (30 mL) of carrier oil, you should use no more than 15-30 drops of eucalyptus oil.
• Inhalation: Eucalyptus oil can be inhaled to help clear congestion and relieve other respiratory symptoms. When using eucalyptus oil for inhalation, it is generally safe to use a few drops of the oil in a bowl of hot water or in an essential oil diffuser. Avoid inhaling eucalyptus oil directly from the bottle, as this can be irritating to the respiratory system.
• Oral consumption: Eucalyptus oil should not be taken orally unless directed by a healthcare provider. If you are considering taking eucalyptus oil orally, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider first to determine the safe dosage for your specific needs.

** It is always a good idea to start with a low concentration of eucalyptus oil and gradually increase the amount if needed. If you experience any adverse reactions after using eucalyptus oil, stop using it immediately and seek medical attention.

CAN YOU GROW IT?

If you’re like me, always looking for ways to be more self sufficient, you may be thinking about growing it.  Great news… it’s feasible.  In its natural Australian environment, it can grow to nearly 60 feet, a little bigger than I think I can handle.  Fortunately, when planting eucalyptus in home gardens, it stays much smaller… around six to ten feet high. Being that is native to Australia, it is well adapted to dry, hot conditions.  Keep in mind, eucalyptus can be sensitive to frost and may not survive in areas with cold winters.

If you decide to plant a tree, let us know and send photos.

We have an entire page of natural remedies. If you have natural remedies you choose, please share them — it takes a community!