Fresh

 

Fresh!

Aaaaaah, the smell of a freshly cleaned house, powder fresh clothing, and sea breeze air freshener. How about all those whiffs that you take in the supermarket when deciding on a fabric softener, toilet cleaner or air freshener?

Many people are unaware that it takes just a few seconds for the toxic ingredients that our skin comes in contact with to be absorbed and enter into our blood streams.

Chemicals in conventional laundry products are linked to a variety of diseases ranging from eczema, allergies, to cancer. Many of the ingredients are toxic and hazardous to your health. Our clothing, bedding, towels and wash cloths all have constant contact with our skin. Remember that our skins can absorb these chemicals leading to chemical overload.

What is hiding in your cleaning products that can be a cause of your allergies or ailments? You may be scrubbing away and killing all the germs, but what effect do these chemicals have on your family’s health?

It might smell clean and sterile, but what fumes are you inhaling in the process while cleaning? What about the lingering smell that you are then exposed to? If you are not doing the cleaning yourselves, then think of your domestic cleaner’s health and wellbeing.

Do you know that bleach irritates the lungs, skin and delicate eye area? It can damage the mucous membranes and contribute to headaches.

There is absolutely nothing “fresh” about air fresheners or room sprays. Do yourselves a favour and read the ingredients on yours. Are there chemical and artificial fragrances that can influence your hormonal system by disrupting the delicate balance?

Cleaning products are not required to provide a full list of ingredients on their labels. They are apparently only required to list the chemicals that are active disinfectants.

What now??

There ARE ways to have a clean and fresh home without using harmful chemicals to help eliminate bacteria, viruses and odours. Vinegar, water, bicarbonate of soda, lemons and citrus peels are all natural cleansers and can even kill mould.

You can make your own air fresheners and room sprays by mixing distilled water (or cooled down boiled water), witch hazel or alcohol and essential oils. Maybe it is time for you to invest in a good diffuser or air purifier using water and essential oils instead of artificial fragrances.

What would you think if I told you that a bacteria called Bacillicus can clean your home? It sounds ridiculous, right? Well, I’ve got news for you! This special strain creates enzymes that then destroy bad bacteria by eating them. This in turn helps to remove dirt grime, stains, mal odours and organic substances. These enzymes work with us, not against us.

The different beneficial enzymes that are produced then target different areas;

*Lipase breaks down fats and grease.

*Amalase breaks down starch which acts as glue for dirt to stick to.

*Protease breaks down protein such as meat.

*Cellulase breaks down food texturisers and thickeners.

*Pectinase breaks down fruit and juice-based stains.

Now these enzymes break down these different components into smaller particles which makes it easier to remove. It’s a double win! The biological population of good bacteria is restored, and the good bacteria eats away the bad bacteria, without leaving harmful chemicals behind.

These enzyme-based cleaners by GreenWorx Bio Cleaning Solutions are useful for biofilm removal. This is a “hood” that bad bacteria hide under which chemicals and medication then struggle to penetrate.  Enzyme cleaners are more effective on biofilms.

Enough of the technical and biological info! GreenWorx enzymatic washing powder is  by far the best I’ve used, leaving colours brighter and more vibrant. Clothes literally feel cleaner without being stripped.

I personally don’t use a fabric softener. I use GreenWorx ‘s washing powder and add a few drops essential oils like Lavender into the fabric softener area of my machine. I use Tea Tree Oil for dog blankets instead of Lavender oil.

Their dishwashing soap is non-drying on hands (For those that don’t use gloves). The enzymes will help soften your skin while washing.

GreenWorx hand sanitiser is non-drying on hands putting good bacteria on your skin while killing off the bad bacteria, without stripping your skin.

Most of their products come in handy spray bottles which make it easy to handle. These can also be refilled. I suggest making a concerted effort to try these amazing products before making your own conclusion.

You can go to the links below to browse their catalogue to find your preferred products.

https://greenworx-mpu.co.za/catalogue

https://greenworx-mpu.co.za

info@greenworx-mpu.co.za

Remember, their bugs eat yours!

Blessings.

Lizelle

 

The Gift of Frankincense

 

The Gift of Frankincense

Frankincense truly is a gift. When I think of all the wonderful benefits that it has, then it almost doesn’t make “cense” not to have it in your home. It really does help with almost any ailment, bump, scratch and symptom.

Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh were gifts to Jesus from the wise men when He was born. Surely gifts to the King from wise men must carry some significant weight? Now whether it was the oil or the resin it doesn’t matter, because this unique, woody, spicy and earthy gift can definitely make a positive impact on anyone’s health.

Frankincense oil is also known as Olibanum and is made from the resin of the Boswellia tree. Resin is a gum-like tree sap that has dried to an almost crystal-like substance. The oil comes from the sap.

I challenge you to make a tick next to the star where your family’s needs are;

*Nasal congestion

*Sore throat

*Anti-inflammatory

*Asthma, bronchitis, mucus buildup

*Anxiety, stress, tension

*Helps clear up colds and flu

*Effective cancer fighting substance

*Decreases fine lines and wrinkles

*Heals scars and wounds

*Helps with feelings of depression, anxiety and tension

*Calming and grounding

*Hay fever

*Pain relief

*Fights tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath

*Osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis relief

*Helps the brain with memory and Dementia

*Headache and migraine relief

I know! I told you that it helps for a myriad of complaints! We have been using Frankincense oil and resin for a few years now, and I really can’t see how we lived without it. We take a piece of resin everyday along with some kind of green powder such as BarleyLife. Click on the link to order BarleyLife powder or capsules here; myaimstore.com/healthamplified

Sometimes we suck and chew on the resin or we swallow it with some water. You start with a match stick tip size and can work your way up to 1 cm piece. I suggest sucking your resin if you suffer from sinus issues, hay fever, tooth decay or gum disease, sore or scratchy throat and blocked or painful ears.

The Ancient Biblical Oil that I prefer is their Frankincense Oil Blend that is a 3% blend in cold pressed olive oil. It is easy to use without prior blending, and kids can also use it straight away. The oils also come in concentrate that still needs to be blended in a carrier oil if you prefer to mix your own.

A very interesting study was done to prove that Frankincense has such strong anti-bacterial properties. A piece of resin was chewed, saliva samples then indicated reduced numbers of microbes. Amazing!

Best of all, it helps to balance hormones and reduce symptoms of PMS, reducing menstrual cramping, nausea, headaches and mood swings. And definitely not just for the ladies if you know what I mean…

For those struggling to break free from the grips of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and any inflammatory gut conditions, this will assist your body on its way to recovery.  

Yes, the Frankincense oil blend is safe to use during pregnancy. A wonderful gift from above for mommies to be. There are quite a few testimonies where it helped ladies with their labour management. Rub over hip and pelvic joints and bones, lower back, stomach and the temples.

Remember to make full use of the oil by cupping your hands and inhaling deeply after an oil application.

I strongly recommend using your Frankincense resin in the morning and applying the oil at night. It will assist you in having a good night’s sleep. If you have a sore throat or some underlying issue, I suggest taking the resin twice a day.

Don’t forget your beauty routine ladies. With its anti-aging benefits and anxiety, stress and tension fighting properties, you’ll definitely be treated from the inside and out. Resin from the inside and a little oil on your face at night. It sounds like a win win to me!

You can order your Frankincense Oil and Resin here:

http://ancientbiblicaloils.co.za?ref=lizellecillie

Many blessings.

Lizelle

Recipe:

Millionaire squares:

Base:

2 cups ground oatmeal

Half cup raw honey

1 cup unsweetened peanut butter

1tsp vanilla

-Mix well in food processor or by hand, press into a lined pan, 1cm in thickness.

Caramel:

1 block pressed dates

Half tin coconut cream

Half tsp cinnamon

-Soak cut up pressed dates in warm water for 15 minutes.

-Discard water.

Place in a small saucepan with the coconut cream.

-Simmer, stir often and mash until smooth.

-Add cinnamon.

-Cool slightly, pour over the base and place in the fridge or freezer.

Topping:

1 Large slab dark chocolate. (We used Bournville.)

1 Tbsp coconut oil

-Melt the chocolate, add in coconut oil and melt.

-Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer.

-Place back in the fridge until just set.

-Carefully slice into squares and place back into the fridge until 15 minutes before serving.

*You can also freeze these in an airtight container.

You’ll feel like a millionaire, fit for a king!!

 

 

 

Sugar Addiction

 

        Sugar Addiction

Yes, yes, we all know by now that we must cut down on sugar because you are already sweet enough… Some live by the motto that you only live once, so indulge in every occasion. Others say when it’s your time to go then it’s your time to go. But there is a difference in living a life where you have energy or when life is literally a drag, doesn’t matter how much time you have.

I do not know about you, but I don’t like to feel unwell, weary, exhausted and on medication. Take responsibility and ownership of your health today and move a few steps closer to abundant energy, clear thinking and stable hormones.

In my previous blog I spoke about sugar, sugar addiction and the negative impact that it has on your physical and emotional state. We need to take action and make changes where we can, without living in further denial and postponing divine health. Be kind to your immune system today.

Are you addicted to sugar? Do some introspection over the next week or so and take notice of where you are consuming sugar, how much of it you are getting in, how it makes you feel and why you are using it. Is it the sweet taste, the temporary sugar high, or are you trying to numb emotional pain and heartache or just plain old boredom? It will help you to keep a food journal for a week or two and writing down when you are having sugar and why. The sugar really does add up.

Are you feeling sad, lonely, angry, frustrated or guilty? It is time to control these emotions and sort them out. Forgiveness is one of the biggest keys to optimal health. Firstly, we need to forgive ourselves for mistakes we’ve made, doesn’t matter how big or small. Then we need to start walking through the process of forgiving others. You will be turning the key that leads to a door of freedom. Where do you think your addiction came in?

Where did your addiction begin? If you start dealing with the emotions then you won’t have to constantly fight the battle inside of you that is the driving force in the first place. We need to take authority over our health and empower yourself by walking through the process. Once you start dealing with this, excess weight will start dropping, cravings will subside and energy levels will increase.

Your body does need refined sugar to make energy, but the correct sugar. Delicious fruit, sweet dates, coconut, whole grains such as oats, brown rice, millet, buckwheat, corn. Start incorporating these ingredients into your lifestyle. The correct carbohydrates will be changed to energy. Then slowly remove all the breads, cakes, biscuits, sugary cereals, refined pastas, chocolates and sweets. Enjoy a good piece of bread now and again, and have some dark chocolate when the craving is overwhelming. (See recipe below.)

Look sugar addiction in the eye and say, no more, your time is up.

If you would like to order whole plant food concentrate powders to help you in your healing process, then you can go to my online AIM shop;

myaimstore.com/healthamplified

For Essential oils and resins you can click on the following link;

http//ancientbiblicaloils.co.za?ref=lizellecillie

 

Recipe:

Fudgy pecan medjool dates:

Medjool dates

Pecan halves

Melted dark chocolate

Coconut oil

Toothpicks

-Slice your dates in halve without cutting right through.

-Place 1 or 2 pecan halves in the centre and close the date.

-Melt the chocolate in a deep bowl and add a few drops melted coconut oil to the chocolate to give it a nice sheen look.

-Place a toothpick into the date to make handling a little easier.

-Dip the date into the melted chocolate. You can use a spoon to help in covering the date.

-Place on a wired rack that has baking paper underneath.

-Remove the toothpicks when the chocolate has set.

-Place in an airtight container.

Blessings

Lizelle

Sugar & Spice

 

Sugar & Spice

Sugar and spice and all things nice! Don’t these words conjure up images of cinnamon sugar pancakes, doughnuts and Christmas cookies!?

Most people naturally gravitate towards sweeter things and it brings joy to most faces. But the joy can be short lived when it turns into rollercoaster emotions, tantrums, lack of concentration and decreased performance levels. Never mind the exhaustion, feelings of depression, muscle pain and cravings the next day.

Most people think twice before they pay for a ripe, juicy mango or paw-paw. How many of you put the same thought into it when buying a chocolate? Society has moulded us and taught us to have sugar from as young as toddler age. It is a mindset. We grow up on rewards of sweets, prizes are chocolates, special occasions are cakes. What about not totally removing it from your diet and being left with feelings of deprivation and rather looking at healthier alternatives or substituting ingredients?

I’m aware of many adults that enjoy treating children and grandchildren with sugary treats. Why not change the treat to a heathier alternative, a day out somewhere or a saltier snack?

The sad part for me is that many adults and grandparents don’t even eat the sugary treats themselves, but give it to those little ones. What they don’t realise, is that they are doing more damage than harm, creating addiction and associating love with sugar.

Our nation is addicted to processed, refined sugar. What example are you setting as parent and grandparent for the younger generations? Look at all the tv commercials and marketing strategies, who is their target market? I’m not talking about the odd indulgence here and there, I’m talking about cereals, snacks, lunch boxes, milky drinks, toys in the sweets etc.

What many people don’t realise, is that you can re-train your tastebuds into not wanting the same amount of sweetness as usual. Instead of replacing sugar with 1:1 ratio sugar alternative, try to reduce the level of sweetness in order to re-train your tastebuds. Change 3 tsp of sugar in your tea, coffee or breakfast to 2 tsp. You can reduce it to 1 tsp the following week. Things might taste bitter or bland the first week or so, until you realise that you were actually after the sugar and not the food or tea in the first place.

By enjoying whole fruit and increasing your fruit intake, you will be getting the right kind of sugar for your brain. Yes, your brain needs the sugar, but in the correct form. Whole fruit also contains fibre, which helps to fill you up, and it acts as a slow release for the sugar. Remember that different fruit have different sugar levels.

Did you know that refined, processed sugar temporarily disrupts your white blood cells that must fight off sickness and disease?

Did you know that sugar disrupts your hormonal system, which is in charge of most functions and systems in your body? Never mind the havoc that it creates on your emotions.

Did you know that disrupted hormones contribute to bad PMS, skin breakouts, weight gain, aggression, irritation, exhaustion and short temper?

Did you know that Candida overgrowth increases with sugar consumption?

What is the SUGAR ADDICTION CYCLE?

*The sugar in your blood spikes.

*Then you feel good, have energy, speak more than usual, feel confident and have a wonderful time.

*The downer sets in. You feel emotional, tantrums start manifesting, you become demanding.

*Exhaustion sets in, short temper and irritation sets in, a feeling of being “hung over”.

*You need more sugar to feel good and capable again.

A must read is a book called “Sugar Shock” by Connie Bennet. It is such an eye opener and you will be able to identify with it in more than one way.

Cinnamon is warming, comforting and a natural sweetener. Cinnamon is my favourite spice, and is not just made for pancakes and Christmas! It can kick a punch in many areas of the body. The oil can be a very potent oil, so use it wisely.

What can cinnamon oil do for you?

*Anti-inflammatory, eases joint pains

*Anti-microbial

*Cleansing

*Helps with neurological disorders

*Helps to regulate blood sugar levels

*Fights parasites

*Stimulates the immune system

*Alleviates menstrual cramps

*Helps with blood circulation

*Warms the body

*Natural acne treatment

*Natural aphrodisiac

A had a Russian friend in a previous town where we stayed who taught me to drink Cinnamon tea. You place cinnamon sticks in a flask and then cover it with boiling water. You then enjoy it a few hours later. Now I have tweaked it a bit. I use 2 Rooibos tea bags with 2 cinnamon sticks in a litre flask. Let everything infuse and steep for at least 2 hours. Enjoy a quarter to half a cup every now and again. If you have too much at a time, it can dry out your mucous membranes. You won’t believe how sweet it tastes!!

Sugar is addictive, and advertising campaigns are fuel on an existing fire. Break the cycle and don’t let sugar break you. In my next blog, I will be helping you to transition to a sweeter life, without sugar.

If you would like to order my favourite essential oil, you can go to my Ancient Biblical Oils link:

Ancientbiblicaloils.co.za?ref=lizellecillie

AIM’s GlucoChrom helps to support healthy blood sugar levels. This is a unique combination of chromium, bitter melon etc, to alleviate fatigue, irritability and cravings. These natural ingredients make cells more receptive to insulin improving the overall processing of insulin.

AIM’s Barleylife, Just Carrots and Redibeets are all-natural plant powder concentrates packed with enzymes, essential amino acids, anti-inflammatory support, immune boosting to give you a good foundation, especially when transitioning to a healthier lifestyle.

You can order the above AIM products from my AIM store here:

www.myaimstore.com/healthamplified

If you would like to ask me any questions, need advice, would like to book a consultation privately or online, you are welcome to send me an email at healthamplified@outlook.com

Many blessings.

Lizelle

 

 

 

Spinal Treatment

 

Spinal Treatment

This is such an important blog, that I have to run it again.

When I first heard of a spinal treatment, I was a bit sceptical. I’m a firm believer that plants and plant oils have healing properties. But to apply 3 different oils in layers and expect specific results, almost sounded too good to be true.

 

You see, nerves branch out from the spinal column throughout your body. The same as where nerves come together underneath the feet. So certain areas can be targeted in your body by stimulating specific areas in your feet. You are actually just touching the nerves that run to specific organs or areas. Now add an essential oil with specific benefits, and it is medicine that gets transferred to that area.

 

Nerves can have blockages caused by chemicals, toxins and heavy metals etc. If your nerves are “blocked”, and information gets scrambled, then how is it supposed to function optimally?

Now the spinal treatment is done by applying 3 layers of essential oils mixed into a carrier oil.

 

The first oil that you apply, is from the group of oils called a Phenol. This is a cleansing oil. You need to clean out or help the body to remove unwanted substances that are stuck in the cell receptor sights. This is usually a spicy or irritating oil example Cinnamon oil.

 

The second layer of oil that you apply along your spine, is from the Sesquiterpene group of essential oils. This is the “deprogramming” stage. Scrambled or miswritten information gets deprogrammed. It is also an oil that helps to repair damaged cell receptor sights done by chemicals or heavy metals. Chemical substances don't “fit” because they don’t have the same structure, thus causing mild to severe damage. Examples of oils from this category are myrrh and lavender oils.

 

The third and final layer is for reprogramming. This is from the Monoterpene group. After the cell receptor sights have been cleansed and deprogrammed, it is time to reprogramme. This group of oils also tend to inhibit accumulation of toxins, and helps discharge existing toxins from the liver and kidneys. These are mostly citrus, pine and Frankincense oils.

 

In short;

 

Step 1: Cleansing

             Example: Cinnamon oil blend

 

Step 2: Deprogramming and repair/rebuild

            Example: Myrrh oil blend

 

Step 3: Reprogramming

            Example: Frankincense oil blend

 

Method:

 

Make sure that you have a good quality essential oil. Have someone apply 1-3 blended drops of Step 1 along your spine. The area covered should be from the base of your neck down to your coccyx. Then you repeat the process with a step 2 oil. Take in mind that it is not a massage, but an application done with gentle yet firm strokes. Then you apply the 3^rd and final oil blend.

If you don’t have someone to help you with the application, then you can do the treatment by applying the oils in different layers underneath the feet.

 

This spinal treatment can be done once a week for a few months to cleanse, repair and reprogramme nerves etc. Remember that the nerves are there to bring communication between different areas in your body. If there are blockages, then messages can be delayed or misinterpreted. If you have an illness or serious condition, this process can be repeated every 3 days for the first 2 or 3 weeks. Then change it to once a week. Make sure to inhale some of the oil that is left over on your hands, as this helps with the healing process in your body.

 

You will experience detoxifying symptoms within the first few applications. Make sure to rest, drink enough water and eat a predominantly plant-based diet.

This treatment can benefit anyone, because everyone needs proper cell and nerve communication in their bodies. It will help your body to reset itself, combatting sickness, disease, inflammation, digestive issues, tiredness and sluggishness.

 

I think it is time to speed up the “internet signals” in our bodies and improve delayed communication, so that we can all get our work done!

Click on the link below where you will be able to order Cinnamon, Myrrh and Frankincense oil blends to do your treatment.

 

Ancientbiblicaloils.co.za?ref=lizellecillie

 

Blessings.

 

Lizelle

 

Recipe:

 

Dark chocolate hazelnut “fudge”

 

300g hazelnuts

Three quarter cup cocoa powder (organic if possible)

1 cup ground sunflower seeds

1tsp cinnamon powder

2 cups dates (soaked in warm water for 30 min)

Half a cup melted coconut oil

 

-Roast hazelnuts around 20 min at 160 degrees Celsius.

-Remove skins by rubbing nuts together in a clean dish towel.

-Place nuts in a food processor, grind until a fine paste.

-Add seeds, soaked dates (removed from water), cinnamon and cocoa.

-Switch food processor on until ingredients are well mixed and dates are fine. Scrape down sides.

-Add melted coconut oil. Mix until it forms a “dough”.

-Press flat in a sprayed cookie pan, 1cm thick.

-Place in the freezer until solid. Cut into squares before it is too hard.

-Once solid, transfer to the fridge. Keep in an airtight container.

 

Mushroom Mania - Part 2

 

Mushroom Mania

Mushrooms in coffee, tea, hot chocolate, shakes, soap… Yes, you heard me right, it’s Mushroom Mania! I chatted about the wonderful world of mushrooms in my previous blog. Today I would like to introduce you to a product line called Organo.

What makes Organo Gold products so interesting, is an ingredient known as Ganoderma Lucidum. As mentioned in my previous blog, this is a mushroom that is used extensively in traditional Asian medicine that has tremendous health benefits, including increased vigor and stamina. I’m sure that all of you will agree that we all need more of that!

The agricultural and food scientists at Organo and its partners start off with organically grown Ganoderma. Using the latest technologies, they gently dry, sterilize and process the mushroom with its tough, wood-like cap into a fine powder. After the mushrooms have been transformed, they are added to create gourmet coffee, tea, hot chocolate and OGFenix shakes for you.

Coffee connoisseurs will appreciate the robust, yet smooth flavour of quality Arabica and Robusta beans, all enhanced with rich Ganoderma Lucidum. From a classic Black, to the King of coffee, Gourmet Latte, Gourmet Mocha with its cocoa-tinged coffee aroma, or a Café Supreme with Ginseng, Ganoderma and Maca.

With its elegant and sophisticated packaging, you will feel like you are royalty. Individually packaged sachets being the only thing that makes these beverages “instant”. This will impress any guest! Remember, the Ganoderma Lucidum or Red Reishi mushrooms were kept for Kings and Emperors in Ancient China. It is available to you!

For those a little more interested in hugs, marshmallows and hot chocolate, then think of indulging in Organo’s Gourmet Hot Cocoa. A rich Dutch cocoa infused with Ganoderma Lucidum to bring comfort, warmth and a silky smooth texture. An added bonus is a very low caffeine content.

How about an invigorating cup of Organic Green Tea? This flavourful tea combines organic green tea leaves and Ganoderma Lucidum mushrooms.

Red Tea is a revitalizing tea blend with red tea leaves, Ganoderma Lucidum and Cordyceps militaris mushrooms. (Please have a look at my previous blog to find out more about this particular mushroom.) This is not rooibos tea leaves, but a refreshing and uplifting Red Tea to enjoy any time of the day.

For those that take their coffee seriously, then make way for their Espresso range. A very stimulating and sophisticated coffee, all containing the Ganoderma mushroom.

Can’t do caffeine or cutting down? Organo catered for you too! Introducing Espresso Zero. A bold, distinctive aroma to give you the coffee experience without the zing of caffeine, or too much of it anyway.

OGFenix is an exclusive protein shake mix that combines a concentrated whey protein along with vitamins, minerals, pre-biotic fibre and Ganoderma Lucidum. Ideal for people that are on the go, short on time or when off to the gym.

Pure Ganoderma Lucidum is also available in “Spore Powder”, “Mycelium/baby” mushroom, or the mature Ganoderma Lucidum form, all with its own unique benefits and selectively placed in a capsule for you.

With 90% of the world consuming some sort of beverage daily, I’m sure you’ll find one that will work for you. Quite a nice thought to sip on your favourite beverage while benefiting from Ganoderma Lucidum’s extensive list of health benefits.

And last but not least, the Organo Essentials Premium Cleansing Soap Bar. A cold pressed, nourishing soap containing apricot seeds, coconut oil, Ganoderma Lucidum mushroom extract, grape seeds and glycerine to name a few. This exclusive cleansing bar also contains glutathione that is an anti-oxidant able to prevent damage caused by free radicals, heavy metals etc. This helps in brightening and lightening your complexion.

Which one sounds like a winner to you, or do you want to go mushroom manic and try all of them!?

Go to healthbaristajaco.myorganogold.com

If you have any questions, need advice or would like to book a consultation with me, you can email me at:

healthamplified@outlook.com

Blessings.

Lizelle

 

Marvelous Mushrooms

 

Marvelous Mushrooms

A very good friend of mine recently made a very special group of ladies the best mushroom risotto ever! A mushroom is a marvelous vegetable, and can elevate any dish.

 

Button mushrooms, Portobello mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, porcini mushrooms… The list is so varied, each with its own unique taste, property and health benefits. Some people prefer the mild, smooth taste of a button mushroom while others like myself prefer the “meaty,” robust, intense taste of mushrooms that are darker in colour.

 

Our first taste of a truffle was in the Netherlands. It was during a cheese tasting that we could experience the taste of cheese with specks of truffle in. The taste was wonderful, but almost familiar. My husband’s first reaction was, “It tastes like droe wors!” A proudly South African dried meat sausage with spices. I once heard a quote about the truffle being the Mozart of mushrooms. Isn’t that a lovely description!? We’ve had truffle infused olive oil during an olive tasting in Cape Town, South Africa before. But truffle specked cheese was next level for us!

Back home I found a “truffle pesto” at a very affordable price. I think it has more cheese, cashews and olive oil in and about 1% truffle. But it was definitely a step closer to tasting the true truffle. I’m probably unleashing the foodie in you, right!

Let’s get back from foodie heaven into the bare ground…

Ganoderma Lucidum, also known as the “king of herbs”, is seen as the powerhouse of mushrooms. This is a large, dark mushroom with a glossy exterior and a woody texture. The latin word lucidus means “shiny” or “brilliant and refers to the varnished appearance of the surface of the mushroom.

For thousands of years, Ganoderma lucidum has been recognized by practitioners of traditional Asian medicine as the highest ranked mushroom for its potency. In China, the Ganoderma lucidum is also called Lingzhi, whereas Japan the name is Reishi or Mannentake. This mushroom has been used for over 2000 years and was documented in ancient scripts.

Their long brown stems and orange-coloured caps make them a spectacular sight, but because these grow on wood in heavily forested areas, they can be hard to see.

The different components of the Ganoderma mushroom that are used for different benefits are the spores (seeds ready to pollinate), the Mycelium (baby or early harvest) and the lucidum or cap part of the mushroom. This is also known as the mature mushroom and is usually harvested at its peak of maturity, around 8 months of age.

While the mushroom themselves can be eaten fresh, it is also common to use powdered forms of the mushroom or extracts that contain these specific molecules.

Now for my favourite part, the health benefits:

·    Reishi can affect the genes in white blood cells, which are very important for your immune system.

·    May alter inflammation levels.

·    Increases the activity of white blood cells also called natural killer cells.

·    These natural killer cells fight infection and cancer in the body.

·    Improves lymphocyte function, and is an excellent addition for athletes that are exposed to stressful conditions.

·    Improves overall vitality and vigor in both male and female.

Another fantastic beneficial mushroom is the Cordyceps Synensis and -Militaris mushroom. These long slender stemmed mushrooms have been used for centuries to treat fatigue, sickness, kidney disease, low sex drive, aging, asthma and depression. It also helps with improved liver function as well as athletic performance.

Supplements and products containing the Ganoderma lucidum or Red Reishi and Cordyceps extract have become increasingly popular due to their many health benefits.

The actual mushroom is not freely available in the fruit and vegetable section of your local grocery store. That is why it is put in capsule or powder form so that everyone can access it and enjoy the benefits.

There is however not enough reliable information about the safety of taking cordyceps if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

With mushrooms being kept for emperors, kings and only the elite few in ancient times, why not tap into the full benefits where you can also be able to experience the vigor and vitality that was once reserved for royalty.

Look out for my next blog where I’ll be sharing a bit more on this interesting topic!

You can have a peak at some products containing these mushrooms so long…

healthbaristajaco.organogold.com

Blessings.

Lizelle