Healthy benefits of epazote explained

Friday, December 20, 2013 by: Sandeep Godiyal
Tags: epazote, health benefits, medicinal herbs

(NaturalNews) Epazote is a herb used in many Mexican dishes. While the taste may take some time to get used to, this herb is packed with nutrients that include essentials such as vitamin A, B and C as well as zinc, copper, iron, potassium, complex carbohydrates and fiber. In addition to seasoning food, this herb is used in many different types of medicines. It can be used to treat conditions such as respiratory infection, malaria, chorea and asthma and can even kill worms found in the intestines. Epazote can also help prevent many diseases including osteoporosis and Alzheimer's. This herb is commonly used to prevent and treat gas as well as calm the stomach. In countries such as Mexico, epazote is used to treat and prevent serious diseases.

Daily uses for epazote

Epazote is found in many different types of traditional Mexican food dishes. It is often cooked in dishes that contain beans, soups, enchiladas and mole sauces. For people who do not know how to make these dishes or do not have the time to cook them from scratch everyday, there are some simpler ways to use epazote when cooking. This herb can be used in fresh salsas and salads. It can be used in dishes that call for fennel or anise since this herb has a similar taste. If a person is making a green smoothie, epazote can be added to that for a touch of flavor. While this herb does have a lot of beneficial properties, it should be used sparingly due to its strong flavor. A sprig or two is usually more than enough to get the health benefits without overpowering a dish.

An essential oil called oil of chenpodium can be derived from epazote. Only a drop or two of this oil is needed to get the health benefits. Those considering consuming the oil should exercise caution, as it contains a heavy concentration of potentially toxic chemicals which may cause kidney and liver damage and adversely affect the heart and the immune system. Epazote can be added to many dishes that contain beans to help a person fight off stomach discomfort and to help prevent gas. If a person eats too much epazote at one time, it may be poisonous. This is especially true for the flower and seeds of the herb. Pregnant or nursing women should not consume epazote. If a person puts just a sprinkle on their food and a little bit in the recipe, they will not only enjoy the taste but get the health benefits as well.

Heath and epazote

When a person is suffering from an illness, instead of using medications with harmful side effects they should use an all natural alternative. The herb epazote is packed with many nutrients and can not only make an ill person feel better but prevent certain illnesses as well.

Sources:

http://www.nutrition-and-you.com

http://omtimes.com

http://www.anniesremedy.com

http://science.naturalnews.com

About the author:
Sandeep has written many health field articles for both Internet and print publication. He currently writing for insurancetips4u.co.

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