Month: July 2019

3 Years Plant Based

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I can’t let this month slip by without noting that July is an anniversary month for me. I am 3 years plant based. In July 2016 I made a decision that radically changed my life. What an amazing journey.

Read my first year update, to appreciate the many changes I have experienced.

Year 2 update is here, with more incredible healing.

And now, on to what 3 years plant based has brought.

3 Years Plant Based title meme

Healing During Year Three

The first two years plant based created dramatic changes in my health. With such remarkable changes, there is no way I’ll ever return to my old way of eating a typical American diet.

I continue my routine of lemon/lime water, celery juice and fruit smoothies in the mornings and veggies, fruits, legumes, nuts and seeds for lunch, dinner and snacks. Water and herbal teas are my drinks of choice.

The health changes have not been as dramatic this year, as most of my ailments and chronic conditions have healed. However healing continues.

3 Years Plant Based DinnerA typical plant based meal.

Year Three Changes

  • hair continues to darken
  • healthier skin, nails and hair
  • discoloration on lips gone
  • ability to fight inflammation more quickly
  • greater awareness of what my body needs, for optimal health
  • greater awareness of what my body does NOT want or need
  • improved liver function
  • improved mental clarity and focus
  • greater flexibility

Still working on:

  • full range of motion in left knee
  • strength in both knees

The area that still requires further healing is around my left knee. I’ve fallen twice this year. The first time, in January, a grocery bag caught on the front door knob as I walked by, laden down with too many bags. I twisted my left knee badly as I fell into a nearby chair. The second time, three weeks ago, I slipped on a small puddle of water in the kitchen. I went completely down onto the floor, pinning my left leg beneath me.

This is what 3 years plant based has taught me though. I can quickly support my body by increasing inflammation fighting foods and herbs. Doing so restores mobility and eliminates pain. I am so grateful for the knowledge I’ve acquired, that helps me maintain optimal health and wellbeing.

3 Years Plant Based DillOne of my favorite herbs…dill.

Higher Awareness

What I’ve noticed most this past year is an increased awareness of several things.

Herbs and foraging for wild edibles is something I continue to learn about and enjoy. I grow many herbs in my garden that are wonderful for cooking and creating healing teas with. I have fun combining fresh herbs to make delicious tea blends.

Experiencing my own healing increases my compassion for others who are suffering. It has been my privilege to assist people who are hurting or looking for help with health challenges.

Greater opportunities for sharing my healing story appeared this year. My mother and I were included in Woman’s World Magazine in a feature about the healing power of celery juice. A second national magazine has contacted me about an article this fall.

I shared part of my journey as a guest on my first podcast. And I’ve done several interviews with other bloggers. I’m so grateful for these avenues that allow me to offer hope and healing to others.

And finally, beyond my healing and helping others heal, I have a greater awareness of the health of our planet. I’ve already reduced the use of chemicals in my home and garden. Recently I’ve begun eliminating one-use plastics from my life. This is an ongoing desire, to reduce waste and lessen the strain upon our resources.

In the same way that I must love myself before I can love others, I needed to heal myself before I could offer healing to others and to the earth.

3 Years Plant Based Honeysuckle TeaA delightful wild edible, honeysuckle tea provides many healing benefits.

To Continued Good Health

My healing journey continues. As I feel gratitude for improved health, I want to express thankfulness to Anthony William for guidance and to my family for supporting me as I heal. I deeply appreciate two people especially, as they have journeyed alongside me.

My mom is experiencing her own dramatic health shifts. We’ve shared many adventures along the way, learning and healing together.

And Greg makes my journey easier. His choice to become plant based as well encourages me and makes food and meal prep simpler. His health has improved greatly and continues to shift. I’m proud of him.

I’m thrilled to be 3 years plant based. It’s a lifestyle that I embrace with incredible joy. It’s become a tradition to snap an commemorative photo of my journey with Redbud Tree in my yard. We have both overcome so much. We’ve both become stronger. This year, the tree leafed out beautifully, creating a full canopy for the first time since the 2011 tornado. I feel so connected to this resilient tree. For the first time in many years, I feel beautifully whole. Redbud Tree and I are healthy.

3 Years Plant Based Cindy

Check out my storefront, for Anthony’s books and many health related items

Cindy’s Amazon Storefront

 

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Healing With Dill

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As a child, my only association with the dill herb was with pickles. I don’t remember my mom or grandmother adding dill to potato salads or other dishes. However, as my appreciation for plants continues to grow, this aromatic herb ranks high on my list of favorites.

Dills grows in my herb garden. I add it to potato dishes, salads, dressings and other recipes. I’ve yet to brew dill tea, but why not? The more I study this herb, the more I love it and appreciate its health benefits.

Join me in healing with dill.

Healing with Dill title meme

Origins of Dill

Dill, also commonly called dill weed, originated in the Mediterranean region. It’s been used medicinally and as a spice since ancient times. Dill, which means “calm” or “soothe”, is related to parsley, cumin and the bay leaf.

Long ago dill was primarily used to calm the digestive system and soothe colicky babies. Greek doctors treated wounds with it and believed the herb delivered courage to those who consumed it.

Dill grows 16 – 30 inches tall. The thin leaves are delicate, finely divided and very soft. It blooms in clusters of yellow or white flowers.

Fresh dill weed contains fiber, protein, manganese, folate, calcium, iron and vitamins A and C.

Baked Potato with Dill and Chives

Healing with Dill

Health benefits of dill include:

Protects Against Free Radicals

Dill helps antioxidants to attach to oxidized molecules that damage the body.

Aids Digestion

The fatty acids in dill soothe an upset stomach and improves the whole digestive system. The herb increases energy levels as well.

Lowers Cholesterol

Dill lowers bad cholesterol and helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Relieves Depression

The herb has antidepressant and analgesic benefits, without the negative side effects of drugs.

May Help with Epilepsy

Dill leaf extract shows promise as an anticonvulsant, which aids in the treatment of epilepsy.

Possesses Antimicrobial Properties

Dill fights fungi, bacteria and mold, making it helpful against fungal and bacterial infections.

Sweetens the Breath

For centuries, people have chewed on the leaves of the dill herb to freshen breath and cleanse the mouth.

Helps to Relieve Menstrual Cramps

Dill weed reduces menstrual discomfort and pain.

Relieves Arthritis Pain

Dill is an anti-inflammatory that reduces inflammation and the associated pain of disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and arthritis.

Using Dill

Dill weed is available in fresh or dried form at most grocery stores. It is also fairly easy to grow. The herb prefers a sunny location and thrives well in heat. Due to massive amounts of rain this spring, I moved my dill plant into a container. The water drains more quickly, keeping the soil from getting boggy.

Use fresh or dried dill in potato or veggie recipes, soups, salads and sauces. One of my favorite uses for fresh or dried dill is as a seasoning on oven roasted potatoes. Dice up four potatoes and place in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon coconut oil, and a teaspoon each of dill, rosemary and thyme. Stir well to coat potatoes. Roast on a parchment paper covered baking sheet in 400 degree oven for 40 minutes.

I also love the simplicity of snipping fresh dill and chives from my garden to top a plain baked potato. Delicious! It is also easy to prepare a wonderful DIY salad dressing using Sir Kensington’s Fabanaise, fresh or dried dill and lemon juice.

Try these great recipes as well, featuring dill:

Radish, Cucumber & Dill Salad

Cucumber, Tomato & Dill Salad

What’s Next with Dill

I love dill so much. I’m not only healing with dill, I’m learning how to use the herb in ways that go far beyond pickles. Dill tea is definitely on my list of herbal teas to try. I’ll let you know when I experience it!

Dill Weed

Purchase dried dill below:


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Health Benefits of Purslane

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In this next installment in the Wild Edibles series, let me introduce you to another health boosting weed. Purslane, like cleavers, commonly grows in backyards and gardens, and along sidewalks and pathways.

I found this wild edible by accident this afternoon, growing near my tomato plants. However, the plant announced itself in a peculiar way before that. I  recently dreamed that I found purslane growing near my front deck. Recognizing its value, I felt thrilled by the discovery and in my dream, I told others about the health benefits of purslane.

A sense of deja vu came over me today, when I spied several plants growing in my raised vegetable bed, which happens to be near my front deck. I looked around to see if there was anyone to share this discovery with!

Health Benefits of Purslane title meme

What is Purslane?

Although considered a weed by many, purslane is a member of the succulent family. The herb goes by other names, including duckweed, fatweed and pursley. Originally from India, the healing herb is now found across the US and in Asia, Central Europe and the Mediterranean. It typically appears in spring and thrives throughout the summer.

Purslane has smooth, reddish stems and leaves that cluster at stem joints and ends. Tiny yellow flowers can appear at any time during the growing season although the blooms only last for a few hours. I observed that the leaves of the plant close together as the sun sets.

Another identifying characteristic of purslane is the juice from the leaves. Tear a leaf in two. If the juice is clear, the plant is a purslane. If the juice is white, it’s a different plant that is not to be consumed.

Often removed from gardens as a weed, purslane has many healing properties, making it a plant worthy of attention.

Health Benefits of Purslane in the Garden

Health Benefits

Purslane is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins A, B6, C and E, magnesium, manganese, calcium, potassium, iron, copper and phosphorus. It also offers disease fighting antioxidants and plant based omega-3 fatty acids.

Benefits include:

Source of Beta-Carotene

Purslane provides beta-carotene, a pigment that the body converts to vitamin A. This potent antioxidant helps to maintain healthy skin, neurological function and excellent eyesight. Beta-carotene prevents chronic disease by protecting the body from the damage of free radicals. It also supports respiratory and pulmonary function.

Lowers Inflammation

Purslane’s high vitamin C content helps to neutralize free radicals as well, reducing inflammation throughout the body and lowering the risk for chronic disease. Vitamin C boosts the immune system, improves heart health and promotes glowing skin. In addition, vitamin C lowers the risk of death from stroke or heart disease and reduces levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

Supports Bone Health

Purslane provides a great vegan source of omega-3 fatty acids. These improve heart health, reduce inflammation, improve mental health and support bone health.

Fights Diabetes

Research suggests that consuming purslane helps to lower systolic blood pressure and improve glucose levels, making it a companion treatment for type 2 diabetes.

Treats Intestinal Disorders

Purslane’s organic compounds help to treat intestinal disorders, from diarrhea to intestinal bleeding to hemorrhoids.

Improves Circulation

The iron and copper in purslane helps to stimulate the production of red blood cells. These minerals boost circulation by delivering more oxygen to essential parts of the body. Iron and copper also increase healing within cells and organs and improves hair growth.

Health Benefits of Purslane Tea

How to Enjoy Purslane

The leaves and stems of the purslane plant are edible. Add raw leaves and stems to salads or steam them lightly with other greens. Purslane can be added to soups, stews, sauces and smoothies.

The leaves and stems also make an excellent tea. Steep a small bunch of purslane in very hot water for 15 minutes. Sweeten with raw organic honey, if desired, or add a squeeze of lime juice.

Purslane is crunchy and slightly peppery, with a fresh, spinach like flavor. I created purslane tea this evening, to sip on as I wrote my blog post. The flavor is mild with a hint of that peppery taste.

Health Benefits of Purslane Herb

No Longer Just a Weed

I’m glad I dreamed about purslane. The dream created a heightened sense of awareness about the plant, so that when I discovered it today, I recognized it.

I no longer see dandelions, cleavers, plantain, clover and purslane as weeds. Instead, I honor them as healing assets in my garden. They are herbs that I did not plant, and yet their value is just as great.

The purslane plants remain in my vegetable garden, for me to appreciate and harvest. I look forward to enjoying occasional cups of freshly prepared purslane tea and adding the leaves to salads.

Health Benefits of Purslane

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Health Benefits of Silica

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Silica is an essential element that the body needs. This mineral rebuilds and maintains collagen, a fibrous tissue that literally holds our bodies together. Collagen is one of the key building blocks in skin, hair and nails as well.

Silica is also crucial for its bone building and bone protecting characteristics.

Health Benefits of Silica

We Need Silica as We Age

As children, our silica levels are higher. However, as we grow older, those levels drop. And as silica levels decline we develop signs of aging. In fact, many problems associated with growing older are a result of the body’s inability to maintain an adequate amount of collagen.

The symptoms typically associated with aging, due to low levels of silica and loss of collagen, include:

  • joint deterioration and disease
  • brittle bones
  • hardening of the arteries
  • dry skin
  • loose, wrinkled skin
  • poor digestion and digestive issues
  • weakening of teeth and gums
  • organ atrophy
  • memory loss

Health Benefits of Silica Cherries

Health Benefits of Silica

The health benefits of silica are a result of building up the mineral in the body.

Benefits include:

  • improves bone density and bone flexibility
  • helps to heal degenerative bone diseases such as osteoporosis, osteopenia and age-related bone loss
  • improves healing of broken bones, dislocated joints and pulled muscles
  • strengthens teeth, gums, joints, tendons, ligaments and connective tissue
  • builds up connective tissues of the brain, nerve cells and spinal cord
  • improves memory
  • stabilizes the release of insulin from the pancreas
  • heals and prevents brittle nails
  • revitalizes dry, dull hair and skin
  • encourages growth of thick and healthy hair
  • increases luster and shine of hair
  • repairs damaged skin, loose skin and wrinkles due to loss of collagen
  • increases the benefits of vitamin D, glucosamine and calcium
  • decreases the formation of plaque, which lowers the risks of heart attack and stroke
  • protects mucous membranes
  • prevents aluminum toxicity by bonding with aluminum and preventing its absorption in the digestive tract
  • strengthens stomach and digestive tract muscles and tissues

Health Benefits of Silica Carrots

Sources of Silica

The typical American diet does not provide adequate amounts of silica. There are, however, a number of foods that are naturally high in silica. To increase levels of silica in the body, add these foods as often as possible:

Fruits

Veggies

Herbs

Nuts

  • almonds
  • peanuts

Combine fruits in salads and smoothies. Chop the veggies and create a nutritious  salad or steam them together.

The easiest way to enjoy the herbs is to create teas. Nettle leaf is especially rich in silica. Purchase horsetail, nettle leaf, red raspberry leaf and rose hips in dried, loose leaf form to brew as tea. And take advantage of dandelions growing in the yard. Add the leaves and flowers to salads, brew a fresh tea or create dandelion infused water.

Health Benefits of Silica Dandelion

Silica as a Supplement

Additionally, silica can be purchased as a supplement. I’m always a proponent of getting what my body needs from food sources. However, I do take crucial supplements too, to ensure the highest level of health and vitality.

MegaHydrate is a powerful source of silica and antioxidants that also hydrates the body at a cellular level. The supplement neutralizes free radicals and promotes energy production and metabolic activity. Order it by clicking the photo below.

I have reached that point in my life where age-related issues can surface. However, I’ve already learned that I do not have to resign myself to poor health. I choose to take an active role in maintaining my health and preventing diseases.

Through wholesome plant based foods and high quality supplements, I am creating health and vitality. Silica is definitely an important mineral to include in my diet.


 

Click on photo above to order MegaHydrate

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10 DIY Seasoning Blends

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As a follow up to the post about MSG sensitivity, today’s post offers 10 DIY seasoning blends you can make at home.

There are advantages to creating your own blends. If herbs and spices are bought in bulk, making your own seasoning is cheaper. The flavor of DIY seasoning blends is usually more robust. However, the primary reason for making your own blends is the most crucial…you know exactly what’s in your seasonings. Blending your own makes it possible to eliminate unnecessary…and unhealthy…additives such as MSG, extra sodium, sugar, chemicals, fillers and preservatives.

10 DIY Seasoning Blends

10 DIY Seasoning Blends

Herbal Blend

  • 4 tablespoons dried rosemary
  • 4 tablespoons dried thyme
  • 4 tablespoons dried dill
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt (optional)

Combine all ingredients and store in an air tight container. Sprinkle on roasted veggies and potato wedges, or add 1 tablespoon of seasoning to rice and lentil dishes.

This is one of my favorite seasoning blends. I love it with oven roasted potatoes.

Simple Seasoning Salt

  • 4 tablespoons onion powder
  • 4 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 4 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt

Combine all ingredients in an air tight container. Use 3 – 4 teaspoons of seasoning for roasted veggies, potato and sweet potato wedges, soups, sauces and bean dishes.

The first blend I ever created, this one is great on oven roasted potato or sweet potato wedges.

Spicy Seasoning Blend

  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric

Mix all ingredients together and store in an air tight container. Sprinkle on oven roasted veggies and potatoes or use 1 tablespoon of mix in soups and stir fries.

10 DIY Seasoning Blends Swirl

Curry Blend

  • 1/2 cup paprika
  • 1/4 cup cumin
  • 2 tablespoons ground mustard
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (less for lower heat level)
  • 2 tablespoons ground coriander
  • 1/4 cup turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Combine all ingredients and store in an air tight container. Use 1 – 3 teaspoons in recipes such as curried lentils, bean dishes, rice dishes, stir fries and roasted veggies.

Chili Seasoning

  • 2 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Mix all ingredients together and store in an air tight container. Use 2 – 3 teaspoons for chili recipes. This is especially good for veggie or bean chilis.

Italian Seasoning

  • 4 teaspoons basil
  • 4 teaspoons oregano
  • 4 teaspoons rosemary
  • 4 teaspoons thyme

Combine all ingredients in an air tight container. Use 1 – 2 teaspoons, or to taste, in homemade spaghetti sauce, soups, veggies, oven roasted  potatoes, eggplant and other Italian recipes.

10 DIY Seasoning Blends Herbs

Ranch Dressing Mix

  • 1/4 cup dried parsley
  • 1 tablespoon dill
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt

Combine all ingredients and store in an air tight container. Season roasted veggies or potatoes with 1 – 2 teaspoons seasoning. To make ranch dressing, mix 1 tablespoon of mix with 1/2 cup of vegan sugar free mayo like Sir Kensington’s Fabanaise and 1/4 cup almond or coconut milk.

Bulk Herbs and Spices

Tips for DIY Seasoning Blends

For convenience and to save money, I purchase dried herbs and spices in bulk, at Natural Grocers. Packages of herbs and spices are often available at health food shops and health conscious grocery stores.

Large containers of herbs and spices can be purchased at warehouse style retailers as well, however check those labels. Even if they say NO MSG, they can contain additives such as modified food starch, preservatives, partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, soy, gluten and artificial colors and/or flavors. We don’t need those either!

The bags of spices and herbs I purchase have one ingredient…the dried herb or spice.

Store blends in glass containers, mason jars with lids, or empty spice jars that you re-use. The DIY seasoning blends will keep for up to a year, if kept in a cool, dark place or in the fridge.

Enjoy Your DIY Seasoning Blends

There’s another advantage to making your own seasonings. You can customize the blends to suit your personal tastes. Love garlic powder? Add more. Don’t like oregano? Cut down the amount or leave it out. Love other herbs and spices? Play around with these recipes or create your own DIY seasoning blends. And have the peace of mind of knowing you are creating something healthy and additive free.

10 DIY Seasoning Blends

Purchase Dried Herbs Below


 


 

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