Calcium deficiency and imbalance is a growing concern and a concern to many; and those who aren't concerned probably should be. Calcium deficiency is contributes to the prevalence of many horrible health concerns that affect more than the bones and teeth. Calcium deficiencies can even be a factor in some gastrointestinal disorders, some studies have even included it as a characteristic of celiac disease. (more…)
Each year, millions of people in the United States have gallstone-related pain. However, it may surprise many of these individuals to discover they are, in fact, experiencing the presence of liver stones. Liver stones are the less publicized cousins of the gallstone, as the two are essentially the same. Ultimately, location defines the difference between the two. To help reduce the risk of suffering from this painful condition, everyone should understand how the liver functions and what can be done to support its health. (more…)
Agaricus blazei Murrill is an edible Brazilian mushroom with a low-calorie content and high nutrient density. The mushroom, which originates in a small Brazilian village called Piedade, contains minerals, fibers, vitamins, and amino acids. (more…)
Brazilian pepper tree is a shrubby tree that’s found on several continents, but native to Central and South America. The leaves and bark contain many active compounds including alkaloids and essential oil. The plant has a long history of use by peoples throughout its native area. Peruvians use the sap as a topical cleanser against germs, Argentinians use it for respiratory ailments and urinary tract irritations. In Brazil, extracts from the bark are used in herbal medicine to address cardiovascular concerns, harmful organisms, and fungus. (more…)
Jatoba (Hymenaea courbaril) is a tree indigenous to the Amazon rainforest and Central America that can grow up to 90 feet tall and contributes to the rainforest canopy. Jatoba produces a dense, hardwood that is durable and termite resistant, making it very useful for carpentry, flooring, and furniture. One of the most interesting things about wild jatoba is that when the tree's life cycle is finished and the tree dies, unlike most other rainforest trees, the wood of the jatoba tree does not rot. (more…)
