Dates (Khajoor)

(Hakeem Hashmi Syed)

Muslims generally break their fast by eating dates. Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) is reported to have said: "if anyone of you is fasting, let him break his fast with dates. In case he does not have them, then with water. Verily water is a purifier."

The Prophet used to break his fast by eating some dates before offering Maghrib prayer, and if ripe dates were not available, he used to substitute them with some dried grapes. When they too were not available, he used to have a few sips of water, according to some reports. Modern science has proved that dates are part of a healthy diet. They contain sugar, fat and proteins, as well as important vitamins. Hence the great importance attached to them by the Prophet.

Dates are also rich in natural fibres. Modern medicine has shown that they are effective in preventing abdominal cancer. They also surpass other fruits in the sheer variety of their constituents. They contain oil, calcium, sulphur, iron, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, copper and magnesium. In other words, one date is a minimum of a balanced and healthy diet. Arabs usually combine dates with milk and yogurt or bread, butter and fish. This combination indeed makes a self-sufficient and tasty diet for both mind and body. Dates and date palms have been mentioned in the Holy Qur'an 20 times, thus showing their importance. The Prophet likened a good Muslim to the date palm, saying, "Among trees, there is a tree like a Muslim. Its leaves do not fall."

Sayyidah Mariam (the Virgin Mary) mother of Jesus (Pbuh) had dates as her food when she felt labour pains and during confinement. They are definitely the "crown of sweets," and ideal food which is easy to digest, and within half an hour of taking it, the tired body regains a renewed vigour. The reason for this is that a shortage of sugar in the blood is the main factor that makes people feel hungry and not an empty stomach as is often assumed. When the body absorbs the nutritional essence of a few dates, the feeling of hunger becomes appeased. When one breaking the fast with dates takes some other food afterwards, he cannot eat much. It would seem that breaking the fast with dates then helps one avoid excessive eating.

Experiments have also shown that dates contain some stimulants that strengthen the muscles of the uterus in the last months of pregnancy. This helps the dilation of the uterus at the time of delivery on one hand and reduces the bleeding after delivery on the other. Dieticians consider dates as the best food for women in confinement and those who are breast-feeding. This is because dates contain elements that assist in alleviating depression in mothers and enriching the breast-milk with all the elements needed to make the child healthy and resistant to disease. The Prophet (Pbuh) has emphasized the importance of dates and their effectiveness in the growth of the fetus. He has also recommended they be given to women. Modern dietary institute now recommend dates to be given to children suffering from a nervous nature or hyperactivity. The Prophet (Pbuh) has also recommended dates as a medicine for heart troubles, according to some reports. Modern science has also proved the effectiveness of date, in preventing diseases of the respiratory system.

Sayyidah Ayisha, (R.A.) wife of Prophet (Pbuh), used to prescribe dates for those suffering from giddiness. It is now well known that a fall in the level of the sugar in the blood and low blood pressure are among the causes of giddiness. She was also reported to have used dates combined with cucumber to treat her over-slim condition! She said, "they've tried to fatten me giving me everything. But I did not become fat. Then they fattened me with cucumber and ripe dates and I gained!" Ayisha was quite correct, as we now know that one kilogram of dates contains nearly 3,000 calories which alone are sufficient to supply the minimum daily requirements of an active man for one full day.

Dates are rich in several vitamins and minerals. When the level of trace elements falls in the body, the health of the blood vessels is affected leading to an increased heart-rate and a consequent inability to perform its function with normal efficiency. As dates are also rich in calcium, they help strengthen the bones. When the calcium content in the body decreases, children are affected with rickets and the bones of adults become brittle and weak.

Dates are also important in keeping up the health of eyes. It is quite effective in guarding against night-blindness. In the early years of Islam, dates served as food for Muslim warriors. They used to carry them in special bags hung at their sides. They are the best stimulant for muscles and so the best food for a warrior about to engage in battle.

The Prophet (Pbuh) used to combine dates with bread sometimes. At other times he mixed ripe dates with cucumber, or dates combined with ghee. He used to take all varieties of dates, but he preferred the variety called Ajwah.

Zaitoon (Olive): Cure for Seventy Diseases

Zaitoon (Olive) the sign of peace and friendship in this world, has its description in Holy Qur’an Allah Taala says

By the fig and olive
And the mount of Sinai
And the city of security
We have indeed created man in the best of moulds
Then do we abase him (to be) the lowest of low
Except such as believe and do righteous deeds for they shall have a reward unfailing
What then, can after this, make you deny the last judgment
Is not Allah the wisest of judges” (The Fig, Surah 95)

The plant of olive reaches the height of 3 meters, leaves are bright green and very attractive and the fruits are of bright bluish or violet color, possesses a metallic taste. It is known from old ages. During the excavation of ancient Egyptian graves, vessels full of olive oil were found with other articles. According to the scholars of Hadith, on subsidence of Toofan-E-Nooh (The Great Flood of Noah), when water level came down, the first thing on the earth that was seen was the olive plant.

The plant is extensively found in Asia Minor, Palestine, Roman territory, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Italy, North Africa, Algeria, Tunisia, California, Mexico, Peru and South zone of Australia. Usually it is imported from Spain, Italy, France, Turkey and Greece. Though olive fruits are very nutritious it is not usually eaten due to its metallic taste. Rather pickles of its fruits are largely consumed in Europe. The fruit preserved in vinegar is imported from Greece and liked very much in Europe and in Arabian countries.

Olive oil is a good preservative for other eatables too. Sardine and other fishes are tinned and preserved in olive oil. The smokeless burning of olive oil is a peculiar feature, which produces a bright light. Holy Qur’an stresses the importance of Zaitoon on several occasions: (141-M-AlInaam-6), (99-K-AlInaam-6), (11-K-AlNahl-16), (AlNoor-35), (Moominoon).

Hazrat Sayyed Al-Ansari narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) said “Eat the olive oil and massage it over your bodies since it is a holy (mubarak) tree.” (Tirmizi, Ibn Maja)

Hazrat Alqama Bin Amir narrates that Prophet (Pbuh) said, “ There is olive oil for you, eat it, massage over your body, since it is effective in Heamorrhoids (Piles).” (Ibn Al-Jozi, Zanbi)

Hazrat Aqba Bin Amir narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) stated, “You have the olive oil from this Holy (mubarak) tree, treat yourself with this, since it cures the Anal fissure (Basoor).”

Khalid Bin Saad narrates, “I came to Madinah with Ghalib Bin Al Jabr. Ghalib became ill during the journey. Ibn Abi Ateeq came to see him and told a narration from Hazrat Aisha that the Prophet (Pbuh) told about the cure in Kalonji. We crushed a few seeds of Kalonji and mixed it with olive oil and dropped in both nostrils, after which Ghalib became healthy.” (Ibn Maja, Bukhari)

Hazrath Abu Hurairah narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) stated, “Eat the olive oil and apply it (locally), since there is cure for seventy diseases in it, one of them is Leprosy.” (Abu Naim)

Hazrat Zaid Bin Arqam narrates, “ We have been directed by the Prophet (Pbuh) that we should treat the Pleurisy with Qust-e-Behri (Qust Sheerin) and olive oil.” (Tirmizi, sanadeAhmed, Ibn Maja)

Olive oil has a place in Govt Pharmacopoeia of USA and Britain (British Pharmacopoeia). Both of these countries have given prime importance to olive oil for the treatment of various ailments and have fixed standard parameters to evaluate its purity.

It contains Palmate Acid, Oleic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Steanic Acid, Myristic Acid and Glycerides. It is not dissolved in water but in Alcohol, Ether, Chloroform and Liquid Paraffin.

The adulterant very often used in the olive are of the seeds of Tea Plant, Arachis oil in the market samples of olive oil. Sometimes Machine Gun oil and refined Mobile oil are also found.

Olive oil is extracted from the ripened fruits. The unripe and over ripe fruits contain less amount of the oil. The fruits are processed three times. Successively, the first round oil is the best in quality, golden in colour, with a light fragrance and known as virgin oil. Some varieties of olive oil remained unchanged in its effectiveness for years together. It contains therapeutic potential even if it is a thousand years old. Despite the prime importance and holiness given by Qur’an and Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) no work has been done to find out its efficacy for the ailments other than the Hemorrhoid, Anal fissure, Skin diseases, pleurisy and leprosy, which are already described by the Prophet (Pbuh) , whereas the Prophet (Pbuh) himself says that it contains cure for seventy diseases.

According to Ibn Al-Qayyim the red coloured oil is better than blackish one. It is an exhilarant, glows up the facial complexion, provides prevention against poisons, regulates the digestive process, expels the intestinal parasites, makes the hair lustrous and minimizes the aging problems. The massage of olive oil with common salt over the gums is a remedy for several diseases of gums and teeth. The local application of olive oil or the water extracted from the crushed olive oil leaves is effective on boils, rashes and itching. The chronic ulcers and boils, which show difficult, healing condition, are healed up with the use of olive oil locally.

According to Hakeem Hashmi Syed it strengthens the hairs and body, hence could be used as a good tonic in old age problems and to delay the aging process. It is also useful in sexual weakness. Combination of normal saline with olive oil is highly effective in burns cases.

The decoction of olive leaves in water is effective against mouth and lip ulcers and allergic dermatitis also.
The concentrated aqueous extract of olive leaves and fruits is very effective against dental cavities and application of this solution shows very good effects on Leukoplaquea in mouth.
This solution is applied with vinegar on Alopecia, grows the hair and removes the Alopecia.
It is also stated that the local application of this extract removes the scars of small pox and boils.
The powder of seeds mixed with butter is effective in brittle nails.
The pickles prepared from olive fruits is a good appetizer and removes constipation.
The smashed leaves are applied locally to check excessive perspiration.
The water extracted from the leaves with honey is used as eardrops and effective in various ear ailments.
The oil procured by burning of olive wood is effective against all fungal infection viz a viz, Ringworm, T.versicolor etc. in addition to Eczema, Psoriasis, Dandruff and Alopecia.
The local application of olive oil on scalp is highly effective against dandruff. It grows the hairs and checks, the loss of hair.
The application of olive oil in eyes relieves the inflammation.
The massage of olive oil over the body tones up the muscles and organs, it relieves muscular pains.
Some physicians also advocate the massage of olive oil for epilepsy.
It relieves the Sciatic and arthritis.
The ointments prepared from olive oil are very good healing agents. It heals the sinus and fistula very quickly. 25ml of olive oil mixed with 250ml of barley water, if taken internally, is highly effective against chronic constipation.
It is a good Diuretic, hence is used in Ascites.
It also removes the kidney stones.
A conventional regimen is also available comprising of olive oil and other herbal drugs having potential against the Gall bladder stones. It is stated that this regimen dissolves and expels the Gall bladder stone.
In view of the researches carried out in USA and England, it is concluded that it is a good nourishing diet during the ailments of kidney, where nitrogen-containing food/proteins in take is contra indicated.

Since, the Prophet (Pbuh) stated that it is a good remedy for Anal fissure, hence for the same complaint patients were advised to take two spoonful of olive oil at bedtime and an ointment was applied on fissure locally at retiring and in morning, prepared from 8 spoonfuls of olive oil and 2 spoonfuls of ground henna leaves. This showed very good effects against the problem. It is a good tonic for hair and maintains the lustre. Its combination with other prescribed drugs of Tibb-al-Nabwi is a good remedy for Psoriasis and Eczema. The impressions of several doctors practicing in Middle East and North Africa reveal that no case was detected of Gastro Intestinal Carcinoma, among those who were used to consuming olive oil. Japanese doctors also endorse this fact and have the opinion that olive oil prevents the incidence of Carcinoma in G.I.T.

The Prophet (Pbuh) stated that it is a good remedy for intestinal inflammations. Therefore it was used in the cases of G.I.T ulcers and found very much effective. It is also observed that no remedy equates the benefits of olive oil in hyper acidity and gas troubles.

The Prophet (Pbuh) recommended the use of olive oil in Pleurisy. Keeping this in view olive oil was administered in various diseases of Respiratory tract and it was observed that the regular users of olive oil were least affected with common cold and coryzha? and pneumonia.

The clinical experiences of well-qualified and highly established doctors in the profession who take a keen interest in Prophet’s medicine reveal that olive oil is a good supportive treatment in Tubercular infection of either site. According to a narration of Kahlid Bin Saad in Ibn Maja, one spoonful of Kalonji was pulverized and mixed with 12 spoonful of olive oil. This suggestion was dropped into the nostrils morning and evening for the cases of chronic cold and epitasis. The results were found highly positive.

Honey

"Make use of the two remedies: honey and the Quran"

Muhammad
[at-sahih al-Bukhari, Tirmidhi, ibn Majah & Baihaqi]

"And the lord inspired the bee, saying: Take your habitations in the mountains and in the trees ad in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you)'. There comes forth from their bellies a drink of varying color wherein is healing for men. Verily in this is indeed a sign for people who think." [16:68-69]

Muhammad has informed us of the great benefits found in honey. In recent years, scientific support is beginning to emerge confirming the beneficial effects of honey on certain medical and surgical conditions as well.
You may not be surprised to learn that Australia a few years ago approved honey as a medicine, beginning to sell it in Pharmacies!

Honey is one of nature's oldest and most treasured sweeteners (even if it does take a little nerve to gather), so we're never surprised when we hear about its benefits as a food source. It has occupied a prominent place in traditional medicines throughout world history. It is known that the ancient Egyptians, Assyrians, Chinese, Greeks and Romans employed honey for wounds and diseases.
In ancient time, honey was seen as a symbol of wealth and happiness. It was associated with strength, beauty and longevity.
Today, honey is widely available in most communities but its medical potential remains grossly underutilized.

Nutritionally, honey is a healthy, easily digestible, natural and energy rich food. It contains carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, enzymes and vitamins. One tablespoon of honey provides 60 calories and contains 11g of carbohydrates, 1mg of calcium, 0.2mg of iron, 0.lmg of vitamin B and 1mg of vitamin C. Honey also contains glucose, fructose and saccharine (70%). Besides the above, copper, iodine, and zinc exist in it in small quantities.

The Prophet has also told us of the healing found within honey for a variety of medical problems, including stomach ailments. One hadith, reported by Bukhari, states that a man came to the Prophet because his brother had a stomach disorder.
The Prophet said "Let him drink honey." The man returned a second time and again the Prophet responded again, "Let him drink honey."
The man returned again, and said "I have done that." The Prophet then responded, "Allah has said the truth, but your brother's stomach has told a lie. Let him drink honey." He drank it and was cured.

Recipes from the Foods mentioned in the Qur'an

Honey Recipes

Olive Recipes

Fig Recipes

Kalonji (Nigella Sativa)

The plants of Kalonji are found throughout India in the form of bushes. The height of the plant is approximately half a meter. It possesses blue flowers. It originated from Turkey and Italy. Later on, it was brought to Asia by physicians and cultivated in India. Seeds are triangular in shape, black in colour and possess a severe pungent smell, contain a considerable amount of oil. It is incorrect that Arabs learnt its use from the Greeks, because before the advent of Islam, no description or record is found about its use. Its therapeutic use was initiated after the advent of Islam, since; Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) mentioned its therapeutic efficacy and potential of cure.

Chemical Composition - seeds contain 1.5% volatile oil, while 37.5% Non volatile oil. In addition to this Albumen, Sugar, Organic acids, Glucoside Melanthin Metarbin and bitter substances are also found. The Glucoside is toxic in nature, hence the use of Kalonji in large doses and prolonged use might be harmful.

Hazrat Abu Hurairah States - “I have heard from Rasool Allah (Pbuh) that there is cure for every disease in black seeds except death and black seeds are shooneez.”

Salim Bin Abdullah narrates with reference to his father Hazrat Abdullah Bin Omar that Rasool Allah (Pbuh) said, “Let fall these black seeds upon you, these contain cure for all diseases except death.”

The same narration is found in Sanad-e-Ahmed from Hazrat Aisha (t) and in Ibn-al-Jozi and Trimizi from Abu Huraira. Hazrat Buraida narrates that Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) stated - “Shooneez is cure for all ailments except death.”

It is stated in the books of seerat that Nabi-e-Akram (Pbuh) himself used to take these seeds for therapeutic purpose but with the syrup of Honey.

Khalid Bin Saad states that he was traveling with Ghalib Bin Jabr, when he fell ill during the journey. Ibn Abi Ateeq (nephew of Hazrat Aisha) came to meet us. On seeing the patient, he took 5 or 7 seeds of Kalonji and ground it, mixed it in olive oil and dropped in both nostrils, Hazrat Aisha told us that Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) stated that there was cure in black seeds for all ailments except sam. I asked him, what was sam? He said “Death”. Ghalib Bin Jabr became healthy with that treatment.

Observations of the scholars of Hadith reveal that shooneez is equally effective for the diseases due to heat and cold. Zahbi states that kalonji removes the obstruction of any part of the body, expels the gases and strengthens the stomach.

It is Emmenagogue, Lactogogue and Diuretic.
It is an Anti-Helminthic, if taken with vinegar.
It is useful in chronic cold. Inhalation of its smell is useful in common cold.
The oil of Kalonji is effective in Alopecia.
Half teaspoonful, if boiled in water and taken, is helpful in Asthma and diffuses the toxic effects of Bee and Wasps.
Continuous use of kalonji is effective in mad dog bites.
Fumigation of kalonji is useful in Respiratory Diseases.
It is useful in Paralysis, Facial Palsy, Migraine, Amnesia and Palpitation.
It is also an Expectorant and Antipyretic.
It normalizes the secretions of stomach and pancreas.
This phenomenon is very much effective and significant in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus.
It expels the Kidney and Urinary Bladder stones, if taken with the syrup of honey.
It is effective in Jaundice if taken with milk.
Its powder if taken with water is effective in treating Haemorrhoids.
If Kalonji seeds are boiled in vinegar and this solution is applied on Gums and Teeth, it removes the Inflammation of the gums and relieves the pain also.
It is also reported that its fine powder is effective if applied in early stages of Cataract.
Kalonji is also used in Skin disorders.
The oil of the seeds is also effective in Earache.
If it is taken with Qust Sheering after breakfast and dinner, it is effective in chronic Dysentery and Asthma.
Qust Sheering is a good medicine for sexual debility, but if it is taken with Kalonji seeds and Habburrashad, it becomes more fortified.
Modern trials have proven that Kalonji seeds alone or in combination with other drugs are highly effective in Diabetes Mellitus, Vitiligo and other Skin ailments.

Barley: Sattoo...Powdered Barley

The Prophet (Pbuh) recommended Barley to cure grief of heart and ailments of kidney

Barley crops are cultivated throughout the country during the season of rabi crops and utilized in various forms including the Barley flour. The plants of barley are very similiar to wheat and the seeds are elongated in shape in comparison to wheat with a covering of light yellow colour. Prophet Muahmmad (Pbuh) liked it very much and used it in various forms such as barley bread, gruel and dough.

During the period of the Prophet (Pbuh) the people either used to eat the Barley bread or to mix the wheat flour with Barley flour to prepare the bread generally. One lad used to sell the preparation from Beet roots and barley at the gate of Masjid-e-Nabwi on every Friday and it is said that holy companions liked this preparation as much as they used to wait for Friday eagerly.

Hazrat Ummul Manzar states that the Prophet (Pbuh) along with Hazrat Ali came to our house, we had the dates and those were presented to them. Both of them ate from those dates. When Hazrat Ali consumed a little of those, the Prophet (Pbuh) said “You recently recovered from illness, hence you are weak, don’t eat more. Therefore, that lady prepared a dish from barley and beet root. Then, the Prophet (Pbuh) told Hazrat Ali “eat from it, it is better for you”. (Ibn-e-Maja, Sanad-e-Ahmed, Tirmizi) This proves that after illness, the preparation made from barley and beet roots is very good tonic for weak persons.

Hazrat Anas Bin Malik states that a tailor invited the Prophet (Pbuh) to meals. He prepared barley bread and meat with pumpkin. The Prophet (Pbuh) very affectionately ate the pumpkin pieces from the curry. (Bukhari, Muslim)

Yousuf Bin Abdullah Bin Salam states that I saw the Prophet taking a piece of barley bread and put a date on it and stated that was bread’s vegetable. (Abu Dawood)

The barley gruel was especially prepared after boiling barley with milk and sweetened with honey. That preparation was called Talbina.

Whenever a person of the family of Rasool Allah fell sick, it was ordered that barley gruel should be prepared for him. He stated “it removes the grief of the patients heart, removes its weakness as any of you removes the dirt from your face after washing it”. (Ibn Maja)

Hazrat Aisha (R.A) used to order preparation of Talbina for sick persons and used to say “though the patient may dislike it, but it is highly beneficial for him. (Bukhari)

Another narration is found on record from Hazrat Aisha Siddiqua (R.A). Whenever anyone complained of loss of appetite to the Prophet (Pbuh) he ordered to use Talbina and stated “By Allah who holds my life, this removes the dirt of your abdomen as one of you removes the dirt of your face by washing it”.

Powdered barley (Sattoo) was very much liked by the Prophet (Pbuh). At the time of victory of Khaibar, the Prophet agreed to marry to Hazrat Safia, the very next day he directed to Hazrat Anas Bin Malik to invite the people to attend the Dawat-e-Walima of Hazrat Safia. According to the narrations of Tirmizi and Ibn Majah the walima comprised of dates and sattoo, but according to Bukhari a confection was prepared from dates, barley and sattoo and served before the guests.

In Nisai, Abu Dawood, Bukhari, Ibn-e-Majah, Tirmizi and Ahmed Bin Hambal, there are 21 hadiths recommending the consumption of Sattoo. Besides this the description of Sattoo is also available in other ahadith.

According to the scholars of hadith barley is very nutritious and provides energy for the body, besides this is also beneficial in pharyngitis and cough. It resolves the inflammation of the stomach (Gastritis), expels the toxins from the body and is a good diuretic. It quenches the thirst. Barley water is a good remedy in kidney problem, to quench the thirst and provide the best nutrition for indisposed and weak persons. preparation of Barley water is described by Ibn Al-Qayyim. According to him, barley with five times water should be boiled, till the contents become 3/4 and the colour of the mixture becomes milky.

Scientists have found the following items during the chemical synthesis of barley - albuminoids, starch, fat, fibre, ash and water. Chemical composition shows that it contains the fat in the form of Leucosine Gluten Albumen, the compound of Nitrogen as palmatic Acid, Salisylic Acid, Phosphoric Acid. Besides, it contains Hypoxanthens. British Pharmacopoeia recommends Malt extract for internal use. It contains 4 per cent Protiens, the enzymes for digestion of carbohydrates and vitamins. Some scientists also indicate the presence of Arsenic in the barley grain.

The ancient physician’s explained various experiences regarding the use of barley. Ibn Sina says that the blood produced by consuming barley is neutral, pure and of low consistency.

According to Firdous Al-Hikmat the suspension prepared from one part of barley and fifteen part of water until after boiling this volume becomes 2/3rd of its basic solution, is beneficial for at least hundred diseases of the body.

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic is an onion, with the bulb made up of cloves instead of layers. The flowers are white to pink in round shaped umbels. Hollow long leaves, can reach up to 2 feet.

Garlic has been used since the days of the Egyptians to treat wounds, infections, tumors, and intestinal parasites.

Anti bacterial, antibiotic, antiseptic, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal ailments, and lowering cholesterol.

Garlic contains 33 sulfur compounds, 17 amino acids, and many other vitamins and minerals. Depending on how garlic is handled depicts which compound is released.

Medical studies have shown that garlic can lower cholesterol, prevent dangerous blood clots, reduce blood pressure, prevent cancer, and protect against bacterial and fungal infections.

In fact, garlic has been used medicinally for at least 3,000 years, but until relatively recently its benefits were considered little more than folklore. According to a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Nov. 28, 1990;264:2614), the therapeutic roles of garlic have been described in more than 1,000 scientific studies.

Beneficial Properties:

Modern scientific research confirms these ancient uses for garlic, including the ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) as well as elevated blood pressure increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Garlic's sulfur-containing compounds, which lend the herb its pungent, spicy aroma, are responsible for many of its healing properties. Specifically, these compounds lower cholesterol by stimulating the release of bile by the gall bladder (bile contains cholesterol and related compounds) and by decreasing the production of cholesterol in the liver. In addition, garlic compounds gently lower blood pressure by slowing the production of the body's own blood pressure raising hormones.

Garlic also possesses the ability to stimulate the immune system. The bulb stimulates the activity of macrophages, white blood cells which engulf the foreign organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and yeast. It increases the activity of the T-helper cells, immune cells which are central to the activity of the entire immune system. Garlic may be particularly effective in treating upper respiratory viral infections due to its immune-enhancing properties and its ability to clear mucous from the lungs.

Garlic also possesses the ability to inhibit the growth of parasites in the intestines, including amoebas which cause dysentery. Garlic has also been used in folk medicine in many parts of the world to treat pinworms, an annoying but generally harmless intestinal parasite.

This amazing herb has also demonstrated the ability to protect against a variety of environmental and other toxins. Garlic's sulfur compounds, in addition to selenium containing compounds, are potent antioxidants which protect cell membranes and DNA from damage. Furthermore scientific studies have shown that garlic stimulates the production of the liver's own detoxifying enzymes which neutralize carcinogens and other toxins.

Cardiovascular System
World Holistic Medicine, New Orleans, reported that garlic can lower blood levels of "total" cholesterol and, particularly, of the dangerous low-density lipoprotein (LDL) form. Jain gave 20 men and women 900 milligrams of garlic powder tablets daily and compared them to 22 people getting just a placebo.

By the end of the 12-week study, total blood cholesterol levels dropped by an average of 6 percent among those taking the garlic tablets, compared with only a 1 percent drop among those taking a placebo. The garlic takers also benefited from an 11 percent decrease in the LDL form of cholesterol, compared with a 3 percent reduction in the placebo group. American Journal of Medicine (June 1994;94:632-5).

Blood thinner
Garlic is also an anticoagulant - a natural blood thinner. Hakeem Hashmi, of the University of Saarlandes, Hamburg, Germany, recently found that garlic could help patients suffering from peripheral arterial occlusive disease, characterized by blood clots in the legs.

Typically, patients with the condition are asked to walk, because increased blood flow reduces the number of clots. However, they are easily discouraged because peripheral arterial occlusive disease causes extreme pain after walking only a short distance.

Hakeem Hashmi Syed gave 32 patients 800 milligrams of garlic powder tablets daily for 12 weeks, while another 32 patients received a placebo. He then measured their "pain-free walking distance." For the first several weeks, both groups of patients progressed about as they would in a typical walking program. As time went on however, patients taking garlic were able to walk about one-third farther without pain.

Blood pressure
The researcher also noted that garlic's benefits, which included decreased blood pressure, could be detected after patients took a single garlic powder capsule. Blood pressure increases in response to the body's production of angiotensen I-converting enzyme (ACE). Some prescription blood pressure drugs work as "ACE inhibitors," blocking formation of the chemical. Garlic contains gamma-glutamylcysteine, a natural ACE inhibitor.

Microbial and Fungal Infections
Scientific research has also confirmed garlic's role as a natural antibiotic. Back in 1983, Lau noted in Medical Hypotheses (12:227-37) that "garlic extract has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against many genera of bacteria and fungi...Because many of the microorganisms susceptible to garlic extract are medically significant, garlic holds a promising position as a broad-spectrum therapeutic agent."

One way garlic works is by promoting phagocytosis, the ability of white blood cells to fight infections. Another is by stimulating other immune cells, such as macrophages and T-cells to fight bacterial and viral infections and to scavenge for cancer cells. described how garlic enhanced the body's "killer cell" activity against the AIDS virus.

Lau has also noted that garlic can combat Candida infections. In one study, he injected an aged garlic extract into mice with Candida infections. After a day, the Candida colonies numbered 400, compared with 3,500 among the mice given only a salt-water solution. After two days, the garlic-treated mice were free of Candida.

Ginger

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a natural spice that is also widely prized for its medicinal properties. Since ancient times, traditional healers in a diverse array of cultures have used this plant primarily to help settle upset stomachs. Chinese herbalists have relied on ginger as a medicine and flavoring for more than 2,500 years. The early Greeks mixed it into breads (hence the first gingerbread), and North American colonists sipped nausea-quelling ginger beer, the precursor of modern ginger ale. Today, many cultures continue to rely on ginger for controlling nausea and also for reducing inflammation.

A botanical relative of marjoram and turmeric, the ginger plant is indigenous to southeast Asia and is now also extensively cultivated in Jamaica and other tropical areas. It's the plant's aromatic rhizome (or underground stem) that's used for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Health Benefits

Ginger's effectiveness as a digestive aid is due largely to its active ingredients: gingerols and shogaols. These substances help to neutralize stomach acids, enhance the secretion of digestive juices (stimulating the appetite), and tone the muscles of the digestive tract. Research confirms the presence of anti-inflammatory properties in ginger as well.

Specifically, ginger may help to:

Relieve nausea. Standard anti-nausea medications often work through the central nervous system, causing drowsiness. Ginger isn't likely to cause this reaction, however, because it acts directly on the digestive tract. In studies of women undergoing major gynecological or exploratory (laparoscopic) surgery, those who took 1 gram of ginger before the procedure experienced significantly less postoperative reaction to anesthesia and surgery--namely, nausea and vomiting--than did those who were given a placebo. Ginger also may be useful in easing the nausea that frequently follows chemotherapy treatments.

Combat motion sickness. In a widely cited study of Danish naval cadets, those given 1 gram of powdered ginger daily had much fewer incidents of cold sweats and vomiting (classic symptoms of seasickness) than did those given a placebo. A number of other studies have demonstrated similar findings concerning ginger's calming effect on motion sickness.

Reduce dizziness. Ginger's anti-nausea action also helps dispel dizziness, particularly when the dizziness is aggravated by motion sickness. Older people, who can be unsteady on their feet, may particularly benefit from ginger's steadying influence.

Limit flatulence. Because ginger soothes the digestive tract, it can be useful in relieving flatulence..

Control chronic pain. Ginger helps indirectly to relieve chronic pain by reducing inflammation by lowering the body's level of natural pain-causing compounds called prostaglandins. Localized chronic pain may also respond well to ginger oil massages.

Ease the pain of muscle aches and rheumatoid arthritis. Ginger oil massaged into sore or aching muscles offers a measure of relief from muscle strain, in part because of the herb's anti-inflammatory properties. When taken in standardized extract form, ginger may additionally lower the level of the body's natural pain-causing compounds called prostaglandins. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may also respond to treatment with ginger, either in massage oil or standardized extract form. In a study of seven women with rheumatoid arthritis, reduced joint swelling and pain were reported following a daily regimen of up to 1 gram of powdered ginger or 5 to 50 grams of fresh ginger.

Minimize symptoms of the common cold, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. Ginger is a natural antihistamine and decongestant. It seems to provide a measure of relief from cold and allergy symptoms by dilating constricted bronchial tubes. It's often included in herbal decongestant blends that are designed for sinusitis and other respiratory complaints.

Green Tea

Legend has it that in ancient times, a Chinese emperor was drinking some hot water when leaves from a nearby tea shrub (Camellia sinensis) dropped into his cup. He apparently liked the soothing drink that resulted from this chance event. And so began what is today a worldwide love affair with tea. It's now second only to water as the most popular drink in the world.

Interestingly, research studies in recent years have confirmed the presence of various healing substances that provide the therapeutic properties long ascribed to the ubiquitous tea leaf. Of particular importance are potent antioxidant chemicals called polyphenols that help guard against many kinds of basic cell damage.

Health Benefits
Green tea is well established as a potent source of healing antioxidants--the same beneficial compounds found in fruits and vegetables. The leaf also boasts the presence of a superstar antioxidant called EGCG (epigallocatechin-gallate) as well as other notable healing substances, including fluoride, catechins, and tannins.

Many of the medicinal claims made for green tea haven't been examined outside a laboratory setting, specifically in clinical trials that assess the plant's health effects in people. On the other hand, the pure research findings are exciting, and there appears to be no harm in integrating this ancient brew into your daily diet.

Ongoing research suggests that thanks to its numerous and varied antioxidant compounds, sipping green tea regularly may help to prevent various types of cancer, guard against heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure, promote longevity, stave off tooth decay (the tea contains the cavity fighter, fluoride), help heal gum infections, and provide a number of other benefits.

Researchers have found that only about 10 ounces of green tea will significantly increase the body's antioxidant capacity for at least two hours.

Because it contains astringent tannin compounds, green tea in moderation can ease indigestion, diarrhea, and other forms of stomach upset. Swiss researchers even have preliminary evidence that green tea accelerates the burning of fat calories in people who are overweight. A small but interesting 1999 study reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation in men who took a green tea extract as opposed to a placebo or caffeine alone.

Specifically, green tea may help to:

Prevent Cancer. The antioxidant EGCG sets in motion a process called apoptosis. Interestingly, the cell death that ensues only affects cancer cells, not healthy ones. EGCG may well enhance the body's natural antioxidant system as well, encouraging the elimination of damaging oxygen molecules called free radicals.

One large-scale study in China found that people who drank as little as one cup of green tea a week for six months had a reduced risk of developing certain kinds of cancers (rectal, pancreatic, and others) than did people who drank green tea less frequently or not at all. Other preliminary research indicates that green tea can help to combat breast, stomach, and skin cancer.

Counter Aging. Given the latest findings on the potent antioxidants in green tea, it's no wonder that this brew has long been touted for promoting long life. Its high antioxidant concentrations apparently enhance longevity by fighting heart disease and cancer, among other ailments. According to epidemiologic studies, Japanese men and women who drink five to 10 cups of green tea daily are more likely to live longer, they are also more likely to stay cancer- and heart disease-free.

Treat Arthritis. Antioxidants in green tea may prevent and reduce the severity of osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that if you consume approximately four cups of green tea a day you may be able to protect yourself from developing arthritis, and if you already have arthritis, consuming green tea can help to diminish the inflammation it causes.

--To get an adequate amount of polyphenols, you need three to four cups of green tea a day.

--Antioxidant researchers say that two 8-ounce cups of green tea contain about as many flavonoids (a type of antioxidant) as a serving of vegetables or fruit.

--For cancer prevention, anti-aging protection, and arthritis pains: Drink 3 or 4 cups of green tea a day.

Guidelines for Use
The healing properties of green tea can be derived from all its forms, but brewing the tea may certainly be the most pleasant way to ingest it. Of course, the taste of green tea may not appeal to everyone. A generous dollop of honey makes it more palatable for some people.

Preparing the tea with loose leaves provides no benefit over tea bags, but do try to find bags that haven't been lying around for months.

For a caffeine-free product, look for decaffeinated green tea.

It doesn't appear to matter what time of day you drink green tea, although doing so throughout the day may be the most beneficial because you get a constant supply of antioxidants. And remember, green tea does contain caffeine, so drink the brew earlier in the day if you find that it keeps you awake at night.

General Interaction
There are no known drug or nutrient interactions associated with green tea.

Claims that high concentrations of vitamin K in green tea leaves can pose blood clotting problems, particularly in people taking anticoagulant medications for heart disease or other problems, have been discounted; the amount of vitamin K in an 8-ounce cup of brewed tea is negligible.

Possible Side Effects
Most of the side effects of green tea are the result of its caffeine content. One cup of brewed tea has about 40 mg of caffeine. If you drink excessive amounts of brewed tea, you may experience caffeine-related irritability, sleeplessness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, or loss of appetite.

Henna

Henna plant (Lawsonia Inermis) is well known in the Arab and Muslims world, extensively grown in India and Sudan, and used mainly for cosmetic purposes.

Over the last many years I have used Henna as medicine after I read the Hadith that the Prophet (PUH) ordered anyone who has been pricked by a thorn or has an ulcer on his leg to put Henna on it.

After many years of experience I have come to call it the Magic Plant and in the following paragraphs I will explain why:

1-It has a great healing effect, it contain many healing substances like Tannin and other Glue like substances.

2-It has anti-microbial effect especially anti-viral effect.

HENNA USES

1 BURNS

Henna when applied to a first or second-degree burn gives very good results:

Decreases pain.
Decreases fluid loss from the burn site, this is important if the burn area is large.
It has anti-microbial effect hence it decreases infection.
Sticks to the burned site until healing is complete.
Easy to apply to the burned site as paste or powdered.
Cheap and available.

2 - HEALING PROPERTIES

Henna promotes wound healing especially chronic wounds and ulcers, I have used it on nuropathic ulcers of the foot and it proved to be very effective. The main factor that promotes healing is not known but I think it has this effect by its nourishing effect on the wound and its anti-microbial properties. If the wound is infected antibiotic cover usually needed.

3 - ANTI-HAEMORHAGIC

I used henna for treatment of Epistaxis, and it proved to be very effective, and give a long lasting cure. And does not need to be applied more than once most of the times, the powder sticks to the bleeding area until healed, it works better than cauterization, which most of the times needs to be repeated and still does not guarantee against that recurrence of the bleeding.

ANTERIOR NOSE BLEED (from little area): treated by applying the powdered henna to bleeding spot, using a ready made ear cleaning stick with its cotton covered end, pack the powder to the site of bleeding, that will stop the bleeding, rarely it needs to be repeated again and that is really magic way of treatment for epistaxis.

POSTERIOR NOSE BLEED: Which is very difficult to treat as every ENT doctor knows, with this Henna powder just ask the patient to sniff the powder through the anterior nostril to make it reach the back of the nose or posterior nostril and by this action the powder will stick to the bleeding area and the bleeding will stop, no more do we need to use posterior nose pack which is a nightmare for the patient and the doctor at the same time. The only side effect of Henna here is that it causes the patient to sneeze a little.

The anti-bleeding effect of Henna could be used on other sites like bleeding duodenal ulcer or esophageal varices . This needs to be tried as far as there are no side effect known.

This anti-bleeding effect may be due to its coagulation like effect or its locally burning effect.

4-ANTI-VIRAL

Henna definitely has an anti-viral effect that became clear by its action on:

Warts:
We have tried it many times especially on warts which are resistant to cryo (Nitrogen liquid) treatment and prove effective, one giant wart measuring 1.5x1.5cm on a child thumb which was resistant to all forms of treatment, at last the child referred to the plastic surgeon for operation, we tried Henna on it, applied every other day over night and in few weeks it disappeared completely. The Dermatologist nurse has a wart on her finger for more than two years that was resistant to liquid nitrogen treatment, we asked her to use henna and got cured. We found it very useful especially on multiple warts. On warts Henna is applied as paste.

Herpes Simplex:
This second is proven and successful effect of Henna on viral infections. We applied it in powdered form to herpes site, we noticed: It dried the vesicles at the site early. It prevents ulceration and crust formation. It prevent secondary infection. Henna is applied on herpes in powdered form.

This anti-viral effect of Henna is very promising, and should be explored further, It could used as treatment for AIDS. It is natural, cheap, and has no side effects even when taken orally.

We have prepared Henna in capsules now at home and used it as a prophylaxis against Flu during last Hajj and we think it helped, as we did not get the infection while most people got Hajj Flu that is usually a severe one. But this is too early to be sure about and needs more trials.

5-OTHER USES OF HENNA:

Henna can be used as a prophylaxis especially to protect diabetic patients feet, I routinely now advice my diabetic patients to use henna at least once a month because:

It helps to heal fissures and cracks in the foot and reduces foot infection.
It improves the skin texture, which look healthier and softer.
It may delay the nuropathic effect of diabetes; in fact it may reverse the early ones. This needs more time to prove.

Henna could be used in the following areas:

1- Back pain

2- for ulcerative colitis as enema.

3- for bleeding duodenal ulcers.

This is our experience with Henna over the last six years or more; the most promising is its anti-viral effect that could prove a breakthrough in modern medicine as a treatment for HIV patients.

Kasni: The Plant of Life

(Wild Cherry, Hindba in Arabic and popularly called Bazrullah)

Kasni is very popular since antiquity as food and medicine in human life.

It is also grown in the fields of Berseem for the purpose of feed for animals by the farmers of India. It is cultivated throughout India but especially in the fields of Western and South India.

It is wildly grown as well as cultivated in Europe. It is marketed under the name, ‘Syrup of Wild Cherry’ in European markets and is very effective in the treatment of cough for children.

Wildly grown Kasni is being used for respiratory troubles. Green leaves of Kasni is being eaten as salad.

The leaves, stem, root and seeds of the plant are being used as drug in different ailments. Kasni is known as Hindba in Arabic and popularly called Bazrullah.

Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas narrates that Rasool Allah says:

“There is Kasni for you, because no part of day passes without showering the drops of Paradise water on it.” (Abu Naim)

The same verse is stated by Mohammed Ahmed Zahbi with reference to Abu Naim as follows “Eat Kasni without shaking it, because no part of the day is passed without showering the paradise water on it.”

Mohammed Bin Abu Bakr Al-Qayyim quoted three Hadiths in relation to Hindba.

"Eat Kasni and do not shake its leaves because no day is passed without showering on it the water of paradise."

"One who ate Kasni and slept, the poison and evil spirit would not affect him".

"None of the leaves of Kasni is there--which has not been showered by the paradise water drops".

The extract of Kasni leaves, if applied on scorpion bite, relieves pain and inflammation. It is useful in cataract if dropped in eyes. The aqueous extract of Kasni roots is a good remedy for eye troubles.

Kasni normalises the temperature, as it cools the hotness as well as removes the coldness by producing heat in the body. It relieves the GIT inflammations. It is very much useful for all digestive problems if taken in vinegar. Crushed leaves of Kasni, if applied on inflamed parts of the body, relieves the pain and inflammation. It removes the obstructions of liver and gall bladder. It is highly useful in jaundice and the effects are more fortified if given with dates and Razyanaj. If olive oil is mixed in the extract of the leaves of Kasni it is very much useful in all cases of poisoning.

The leaves of Kasni remove constipation and if chewed, it relieves mouth bleeding. It is useful in all types of coughs, indigestion and liver disorders. It relieves diarrhoea and dysentery, it becomes more effective if taken with saunf and tukhm-e-kasoos.

It relieves visceral inflammation, hence is very much effective in liver and kidney inflammations. Moreover, it cleans nasal passages and expels stones and removes the obstructions. The headache produced due to hot climate is quite relieved by the application of its leaves with vinegar and sandal on forehead. The same combination is effective in Urticaria and prickly heat.

The gargling with Kasni leaves decoction with salt is useful in sore throat and mouth ulcers. The decoction of Kasni seeds, sandal and sounf with sharbat e banafsha is highly effective against insomnia.

German chemists in 1982 extracted an active principle from Kasni flowers, Cichorin, a Glucoside. The ashes of the plant contain more potassium and less quantity of sodium, calcium, phosphorus, aluminium chloride, carbonate and silicon. And oil is also extracted from the plant which is non-volatile in nature. This oil contains the Palmatic, Oleic, Stearic and Linoleic acids. The roots of the plants contain Tartaric acid, Mannite and Stearin. Besides this, Betaine and Cholin are also found.

The Inulin found in the roots is converted into Inulide tructose after sometime. This phenomenon shows the presence of enzymes in the Kasni plant. Although, it contains bitter substances and mucilage, it has fructose as well.

Khumbi Mann Mushroom (Agaricus campesteris)

It is a self growing Fungus, wildly grows during the rainy season. There are several varieties of this plant, but for the eating purpose only Agaricus campesteris is being used, while other varieties like Psalliota campesteris is not for eating purpose, because all most all species of this plant are toxic in nature. Morphologically the plants are of two types, one which has an umbrella on its shaft but other appears like small balls. The latter is the only variety to eat.

Hazrat Sayeed Bin Zaid narrates that Rasool Allah (SAW) said, “Khumbi is from Mann, its water is a cure for eyes”

The same narration is stated too by Jabir (RA), while Abu Naim narrated the same from Hazrat Aisha and Abdullah Bin Abbas.

Hazrat Abi Sayeed narrates that Rasool Allah (SAW) said, “Khumbi is a part of Mann, Mann actually is from paradise, its water is a cure for eyes.”

Hazrat Sayeed Bin Zaid narrates that Nabi-e-Akram (SAW) said, “Kumbi is from that Mann, which was sent to Bani Israel by Allah Taala. Its water is a cure for the eyes.”

Hazrat Suhaib narrates that Rasool Allah (SAW) said, “Kumbi is here for your benefit, it is from Mann, its water is a cure for the eyes.”

Hazrat Abu Hurrairah narrates that one day Ashab of Nabi-e-Akram (SAW) said that Khumbi was the small pox of the land. Consequently Nabi-e-Akram (SAW) said that Khumbi was from Mann and the water of khumbi was the cure for the ailments of the eyes, while the Ajwa Dates were from Paradise and an antidote for poisons.

Abu Hurrairah states that after this, I took 3/5/7 khumbis, squeezed those and collected the extracted water in a bottle. This water was applied in the eyes of my servant who was suffering from eye trouble and she got cured with that water.

The scholars of Hadith laid down the following conditions and possibilities for the use of Khumbi.

i) The water extracted from Khumbi is itself a drug, it should be used in the same form.

ii) It should not be mixed with other drugs.

iii) According to Hakeem Hashmi Syed the Khumbi water fortifies the effect of other drugs. Example: if it is mixed during the grinding process of surma, this surma strengthens the eye lashes, corrects the refraction defects and sight weakness and relieves any type of inflammation of the eyes.

Chemical composition - According to Muni & Co, the Khumbi contains the following components:

Proteins, Carbohydrates, Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Ferrous, Cobalt, Phosphorus, Sulphur and Chlorine.

Other scholars state that it contains 90% water, 30% Proteins, 5% Carbohydrate and 1% Minerals and vitamins. The active principle of Khumbi is Agaric Fungi Acid. It contains less Sodium and more potassium, hence, can be used by the Hypertensive safely.

The white variety is ideal to eat, while black and red coloured are toxic in nature. Abu Sahal Masihi, the teacher of Sheikh Bu Ali Sina, states it is a cure for almost all diseases of the eye.

If the balls of Khumbi are dried and ground in the form of powder, it is effective in Diarrhoea. It lessens the temperature of the body and reduces the production of Phlegm.

It is also used for weight gain.

Locally, if it is applied on protruded umbilicus of small children with saresham mahi and vinegar, the umbilicus becomes retracted. I

ts local application is also effective in Hernia.

It is a Haematinic too.

Its paste is a good healing agent for wounds.

Now-a-days, Mushrooms have become popular food in the society. Europeans are very fond of the dishes prepared from mushrooms, but it is worthwhile to mention here that Nabi-e-Akram (SAW) told us its advantages and directed us to use it as food and drug hundreds years ago. But unfortunately, it is least used by Muslims in their diet in India. Mushrooms belong to the same family of fungi, from which several Antibiotics have been invented like penicillin, Chloromycetin etc. Modern research has also derived some Antibacterials from mushrooms. These are under trial and possibilities might not be ruled out of their therapeutic place in medical science. Trials have proved that the mushroom water has a potential to kill the bacteria. It is given in Typhoid Typhus and other Fevers with honey and shows very good effects. It is a very good Haemostatic, if applied on the haemorrhagic site of leech bite.

'Get Cure From Methi'

Methi (Fenugreek) is cultivated throughout the country and used as vegetable in various eatables. It is used in Europe, America and Australia as well. Fresh Methi herb does not contain any smell but after drying, it becomes fragrant and possesses a specific type low grade smell. Methi from Qasoor in Punjab is very famous in its fragrance throughout the country and known as Qasoori Methi.

Qasim Bin Abdul Rahman narrates that Rasool Allah (saw) stated “Get cure from Methi (Hulba)” Ibn-al-Qayyim

After the victory of Makkah, when Hazrat Sad Bin Abi Waqqas fell ill then Haris Bin Kaldah, a renowned and well qualified physician of that time directed to prepare “Fariqa” for him by boiling the dates and barley gruel in the Methi water and directed that if be given to the patient luke-warmed with honey morning and evening. This recipe was presented before Nabi-e-Akram (saw). He liked that and the patient got cured. The scholars of Hadith have an opinion that figs might be used in place of dates. But both can’t be taken together. Another narration reveals that the recipe contained the Mulethi (Liquorice) also.

According to the scholars of Al-Hadith the __decoction of Methi seeds is highly beneficial for sore throat, throat pain and Tonsillitis, relieves Dyspnoea (Breathlessness) and the severity of cough. It also relieves the hyper acidity and stomach burning. This action of Methi is highly significant because all the drugs used for cough produce irritation in the stomach, whereas this relieves the cough without producing irritation in the stomach and might be used safely on patients suffering from cough along with dyspepsia.

It relieves the complaints associated with hemorrhoids.

The decoction or the fine powder of methi seeds is an established remedy for dandruff. It tones up the hair and the hair becomes silky and shiny.

Fine powder of methi seeds mixed with honey-bee wax relieves chest pain if applied locally.

The chemical composition of methi seeds depicts that it contains proteins and Amino acids in such a ratio comparable to milk. Besides phosphates, it contains an organic form of iron which is easily absorbable through gastro-intestinal tract. It contains several Alkaloids but Trigonelline is an important one.

The salts relieve the inflammation of urinary tract infections.

On the basis of its chemical composition, it can be used as an expectorant.

In the cases of Nephritis, when dieuresis becomes least, it is a good remedy to increase dieuresis. 5gm of methi seeds powder if taken with water is highly beneficial in dysentery and diarrhoea.

The lukewarm decoction of Methi seeds if taken with honey is beneficial in cough and increases urination.

It is also a good appetiser and might be used in dyspepsia and anorexia.

It also increases milk secretion when it is deficient.

It is a source of iron and B-complex, hence can be used in general weakness.

It is also reported that continuous use of methi seeds is also significant in the treatment of haemorrhoids.

Recent studies show that it is a good remedy for diabetes mellitus.

Several patients who were having raised blood glucose level and were treated with the formulation comprising methi seeds, kalonji and tukhm-e-kasni improved significantly and the blood glucose level became normal.

Some patients of NIDDM were also treated with methi seeds, Berg-e-Neem and Kalonji and showed very good response.

Methi seed is also useful in chronic dysentery and peptic ulcer.

Neem

Azadirachta indica
For centuries, millions have used various parts of the plant:
Neem twigs for cleaning teeth.
Neem cream healing skin disorders.
Neem leaf juice, taken Neem as a tonic,
Neem leaves in beds, books, grain bins, cupboards, and closets to keep away insects.
Various parts of the plant for treatment of ailments like fever, infections and other complaints.
Neem leaf extract substantially increases the state of oxidation in red blood cells
Neem reduces erosion deforestation and controlling the global warming process.

Only in recent years, scientists in the Western countries started believing that this tree could be the source for providing tremendous benefit.

Today, researchers are saying that Neem could be called "a wonder tree" and eventually expect it to benefit everyone on the planet. This tree is expected to usher in a new era in pest control, provide millions with inexpensive medicines, cut down the rate of pollution growth, reduce erosion, deforestation and control the global warming process. This wonder tree has pesticide, germicidal and medicinal properties, and is capable of solving many problems facing mankind today. The wood is termite resistant and is used for carpentry as well as construction work. These trees grow quickly, thrive on marginal and poor soils, and neutralize soil acidity with its alkaline leaves.

Therefore, an increased commercial plantations and agroforestry involving Neem can enhance the economical potential of this tree with positive and large externalities for pesticides, fertilizers, live stocks, dairying and other value-added products

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION AND CULTIVATION

Native to east India and Burma, it grows in much of Southeast Asia and West Africa.

The neem tree (Azadirachta indica) is a fast growing (up to twenty feet in three years) tropical evergreen related to mahogany. Outdoors, in locations where temperatures don't drop much below freezing, it may reach up to 50 feet tall. It will grow where rainfall is as little as 18 inches per year and thrives in areas that experience extreme heat of up to 120 degrees F. They are reported to live for up to 200 years.

The tree is often covered in delicate flowers in the early summer. It has a semi-sweet, olive-sized fruit. The seed inside is rich in oil with tremendous medicinal and botanical properties. The oil is easily obtained by pressing the kernels in a juicer. It generally begins bearing fruit at three to five years, and can produce up to 110 lbs. of fruit annually when mature.

Neem is a tropical tree; it must be protected from hard freezes. In northern climates it may be grown in pots with the care and appearance of the more-common ficus tree. Neem makes an ideal indoor plant because it grows well with a minimum of maintenance. For optimum growth, Neem should be placed near a sunny window during the winter and moved outside during summer months. However, they will survive indoors even if they don't receive any natural light at all. Its blooms are small, white flowers with a very sweet, jasmine-like scent. They are relatively heavy feeders, responding to organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, bone meal and kelp with lush new growth.

Care
Few pests attack the Neem tree and most problems with Neem are directly related to over watering. Several different types of fungal diseases can cause die-back, and slugs that thrive in soggy spaces will eat the bottom leaves of small trees.

Health and Diseases

Ulcers
Resolution of 80% of the cases. Drink one glass three times a day of Neem leaf extract made by boiling 5g of Neem leaves, 15g of brown olives (for taste) in 3 liters of water for 20 minutes.

Gout
Elimination of the problem within one week. Drink one glass three times a day of Neem leaf extract made by boiling 5g of Neem leaves in 2 liters of water for 20 minutes.

Diabetes
Effective at managing the disease and in some cases healing after some time. Drink one glass a day of Neem leaf extract made by boiling 10g of Neem leaves in 2 litters of water for 20 minutes.

Pneumonia
Completely cured in 3 weeks. Drink one glass a day of hot Neem leaf extract made by boiling 2g of Neem leaves in one cup of water for 20 minutes. Chest related cases. Clears the chest within 3 days. Drink one glass a day of hot Neem leaf extract made by boiling 2g of Neem leaves in one cup of water for 20 minutes.

Malaria
Cures the disease completely in one week, very good in persistent cases. Drink one glass three times a day of Neem leaf extract made by boiling 30g of Neem leaves in 3 liters of water for 20 minutes.

Malaria is transmitted from an infected person to a non-infected person by the bites of certain species of mosquito. The insect bite injects gamete into the blood stream where it travels to the kidney to mature. Neem can block the development of the gamete in an infected person. This not only prevents the infected person from developing malaria but also stops the disease from spreading.

Neem leaf extract substantially increases the state of oxidation in red blood cells, preventing normal development of the malaria plasmodia.

Some westerners familiar with Neem often substitute an occasional Neem leaf tea to drinking quinine on trips to malaria-infested areas of Africa and India as a preventive measure. Neem extracts tested by the Malaria Institute were found to repel the mosquito that causes malaria for up to twelve hours. Neem provides protection from not only mosquitoes but also from biting flies, sand fleas and ticks. Because of Neem’s proven effectiveness insect repellents made with Neem are being used in malaria prone tropical countries.

Heart Disease:
High blood pressure, blood clots, high cholesterol levels and arrhythmic heart action are major causes of heart attack. Neem leaf extracts have been shown to reduce clotting, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, slow rapid heartbeat, and inhibit irregularities of the rhythms of the heart. There are also reports that some compounds can produce effects similar to mild sedatives reducing anxiety and other emotional and physical states that can precipitate heart attacks. This may be a calming effect similar to that witnessed with other herbal teas or a psychological result of physiological effects of blood vessel dilation and lower blood pressure.

Hypertension or High blood pressure:
The antihistamine properties of nimbidin in leaf extracts cause blood vessels to dilate and may be responsible for reducing blood pressure. Alcoholic extract of Neem leaf (intravenous) produced a significant and immediate decrease in blood pressure, which lasted for several hours. Another Neem leaf extract, sodium nimbidinate, administered to people with congestive cardiac failure acted successfully as a diuretic.

Cholesterol:
Neem leaf extracts reduced cholesterol levels significantly in recent studies. Alcoholic extract of Neem leaves reduced serum cholesterol by about 30% beginning two hours after administration and kept the level low for an additional four hours until the test ended.

Arrhythmia/rapid heartbeat:
Neem leaf extract exhibited anti-arrhythmic activity, returning to normal within eight minutes of administration, artificially induced arrhythmia. Neem extracts can also decrease abnormally high heart rates.

Psoriasis:
Neem oil is probably the best product currently available for treating psoriasis. It moisturizes and protects the skin while it helps heal the lesions, scaling and irritation. Experiments and reports from patients with psoriasis have shown taking Neem leaf orally combined with topical treatment with Neem extracts and Neem seed oil appear to be at least as effective as coal tar and cortisone in treating psoriasis.

Eczema:
The broad range of beneficial effects neem has on skin makes it one of the better treatments for eczema (dermatitis). Though neem oil is preferred because of the concentration of active compounds, topical applications of even the weaker leaf extracts have cured acute eczema.

Arthritis:
There have been numerous studies on the ability of extracts of neem leaf to reduce the inflammation caused by arthritis. The ailments can be autoimmune disorders, infections, and the result of wear on the joints or simply inflammation. Generally though it is the inflammation or the pain associated with it that is treated regardless of the origin. Neem's antibacterial properties can help kill infectious causes while its inflammation reducing properties and pain-suppressing properties can alleviate the symptoms.

Leaf compounds have been shown to be more potent inhibitors of prostaglandin than aspirin.

Limonoids and catechin in the leaf and seed may provide additional beneficial effects. Other possible explanations point to an inhibition of the release of mediators of acute inflammation.

Rheumatism:
The active constituents in neem leaves have outstanding anti-inflammatory activity, comparable even to the well-known modern drug phenyl butazone and cortisone. They relieve pain by acting on the prostaglandin mechanism and significantly reduce acute paw edema.

Diabetes:
Neem leaf is a traditional herb for treating diabetes and has been scientifically proven effective in treating and preventing diabetes. Diabetes is an incurable, chronic metabolic disorder that develops when the pancreas can no longer produce sufficient insulin. Blood sugar levels rapidly elevate yet the body is unable to use the energy contained in the sugar leading to weakness and eventually unconsciousness. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in people ages 25 to 74, damages nerves, kidneys, the heart and blood vessels and may result in the amputation of limbs.

Oral doses of Neem leaf extracts significantly reduced insulin requirements for non-insulin dependent diabetes. Neem oil has also proven effective and has been able to inhibit increases in blood sugar levels by as much as 45% in test animals.

The Indian government has approved the sale by pharmaceutical companies of Neem tablets for diabetics. (Some of these preparations are really nothing more than powdered Neem leaves.)

Cancer:
Researchers in India, Europe and Japan have now found that polysaccharides and limonoids found in Neem bark, leaves and seed oil reduced tumors and cancers and showed effectiveness against lymphocytic leukemia. In several patents issued in Japan hot water Neem bark extracts showed remarkable effectiveness against several types of tumors. Several of the extracts were equal to or better than the standard anti- cancer agent against solid tumors. Another researcher used an extract of Neem leaves to prevent the adhesion of cancer cells to other cells in the body. Without the ability to stick to other cells, cancers cannot spread through the body and are more easily destroyed by the body's own immune system or by other treatments. In general, Neem is known for its ability to affect cancers. Injections of Neem extract around tumors showed remarkable reduction in size in just a few weeks.

Skin Cancer
A number of reports have been made by patients that skin cancers have disappeared after several months of daily application of a Neem-based cream.

Digestive Disorders
Neem is regularly taken to correct problems with the stomach and bowels. Neem promotes a healthy digestive system by protecting the stomach, aiding in elimination and removing toxins and harmful bacteria.

Heartburn and Indigestion:
They are effective because some Neem extracts reduce the concentration of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Other compounds with apparent prostaglandin inhibition capabilities may also play a part in reducing gastric secretions. At the onset of indigestion traditional Ayurvedic practice is to drink a strong Neem tea made with five Neem leaves along with 1/4 teaspoon each of ginger and baking soda. The mixture is said to protect the stomach and reduce the discomfort.

Peptic and Duodenal Ulcers:
Neem is a generally accepted in the Ayurvedic medical tradition as a therapy for ulcers and gastric discomfort. People throughout the Indian subcontinent take Neem leaves for relief of stomach problems of any sort. Scientific validation of these practices is consistent in studies of the effectiveness of Neem and Neem extracts for gastric relief.

Compounds in Neem have been proven to have anti-ulcerative effects. Oral doses of Neem leaf extracts gave significant protection against peptic ulcers, duodenal ulcers and enhanced the healing process of gastric lesions. Nimbidin from seed extracts taken orally prevented duodenal lesions and peptic ulcers. They provided significant reductions in acid output and peptic activity of gastric fluids. The effects were most pronounced when doses were low (20 to 40 mg/kg) and increased dosages actually reduced the effectiveness of Neem’s anti-ulcerative effects. Neem seed extracts also showed significant healing effects from this compound for existing lesions. Similar compounds have been found in leaf extracts in lesser concentrations.

Gastritis
Neem extracts reduce the concentration of acid in the stomach and have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can provide relief from the effects of gastritis.

Nervous Disorders:
One hour after taking aqueous leaf extracts -- or Neem tea -- weak excitation and increased activity are seen, while decreased activity and lower muscular tone occur after five hours. Nimbidin has a mild suppressive effect on the central nervous system. Neem leaf extracts produce lower activity, respiratory rate and muscle tone passivity as well as dose-dependent hypothermia. The active compounds may be limonoids, because most seem to be able to pass the blood-brain barrier.

Stress:
One of the most recent discoveries for Neem revealed that extracts of Neem leaves have been able to reduce anxiety and stress when ingested in small quantities. In an experiment to see what, if any, effect Neem leaf extract had on anxiety and stress fresh Neem leaves were crushed and the liquid squeezed out to obtain a leaf extract. The extract was then given orally to test animals that were placed in two different standard stress tests and the behavior noted. As controls and for comparison three main sets of animals were used. One group received salt water to act as a base control, another group received diazepam (Valium) and another set received the Neem leaf extract. To determine if Neem leaf extract worked differently at different amounts the Neem extract group was subdivided into sets that received ever-larger doses.

The amazing part of the experiment isn't that Neem can reduce anxiety. That is something that had been reported many times before scientific experimentation finally quantified it. The explanation for Neem’s anti-anxiety effect may rest with its ability to increase the amount of serotonin in the brain. The amazing part is that Neem extracts will only work in small doses. This unique quality of Neem could make Neem extract a safer alternative than drugs currently used for stress that compound their effects with higher doses up to a point where they can become dangerous.

Wound healing
Neem is a healing herb that is famous for its wound healing properties. Cuts, scrapes and poison oak and ivy can be salved with Neem oil lotions..

Other Uses

Natural Insect Repellent:
Neem has been used since antiquity as an insect repellent for both people and food crops.

One compound (salannin) found in Neem leaves, seeds and seed oil is a safer but more effective insect repellent than the widely used chemical ingredient called DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) currently found in most commercial repellents.

For those seeking a safe alternative to potentially dangerous synthetic repellents Neem offers an attractive alternative for the following reasons:

Neem oil is an excellent skin moisturizer while DEET is not recommended for repeated application to the skin, around the face or on the hands of small children.

Neem oil is a natural vegetable oil while DEET is not recommended to be sprayed on furniture, plastics, watch crystals, leather and painted surfaces including automobiles.

DEET may actually dissolve all synthetic fabrics but nylon.

Neem oil has been used safely for centuries while DEET is a synthetic chemical that has only been used for a short time and may pose future unknown health risks.

Agriculture
As scientists scour rainforests in dangerous and inaccessible areas of the world in search of useful plants, the neem tree grows inconspicuously in the front yards of homes and on college campuses throughout south Asia and Africa.

Neem's "soft" pesticide is improving the lives of farmers throughout the tropical range of the neem tree. Substituting crude neem extracts for expensive chemical controls saves both money and lives.

Seedlings and educational programs give farmers the means and methods for easily making a cheap, safe and effective product that protects their crops from over 200 different insect pests, including the desert locust.

Farmers in Mexico and Haiti and shepherds in Australia have begun switching to simple Neem-based sprays from the usual synthetic chemical pest controls. This has allowed the farmers to export mangos and other fruit to the United States without the chemical residues that often stopped their shipments at inspection stations. Neem-based sprays have similarly allowed the shepherds in Australia to produce a pesticide-free wool that is being sold to European buyers for a considerable premium over the standard wool impregnated with chemical pesticides.

Food Storage:
Throughout the tropics much of the food harvested is lost during storage. More affluent farmers can and do spray their stored food crops with chemical pesticides to prevent worms, beetles and other infestations. Neem offers the impoverished farmers and even affluent farmers wanting to replace pesticides a natural and inexpensive alternative. A light coating of Neem oil protects stored food crops for up to twenty months from all types of infestations with no deterioration or loss of palatability.

Soil Amendment - Neem Cake:
After the oil has been pressed from the seed kernels, the remaining material is called "Neem cake." This material has been used for many centuries throughout India as a soil amendment. Experience has taught farmers there that working the leftover Neem cake into the soil of a garden produces larger, healthier plants that have few problems with insect pests.

Several studies were done to find out why plants grew better in soils mixed with neem cake. The studies discovered that Neem cake was richer in plant nutrients than manure, killed damaging nematodes, promoted larger populations of earthworms, helped keep nitrogen in the soil available for the plants, and provided significant protection from insects. This combination of effects provides an almost ideal growing condition for the plants.

Plant pest
By killing nematodes in the soil, a major plant pest is eliminated. Nematodes suck the juices from the roots of plants to the point where they are unable to supply sufficient nutrients to the plant. The plants looks sickly, fail to grow and may eventually die despite sufficient food, water and care. On the other hand, by promoting larger populations of earthworms, Neem cake helps keep the soil loose so that the roots can more easily absorb water and nutrients. Earthworms also enrich the soil by creating readily absorbable nutrients as it feeds on decaying plant material. Neem cake also reduces the nitrification rate of the soil by suppressing nitrifying bacteria such as nitrosomonas and nitrobacter bacteria. This reduces the need for applications of external nutrients. Some studies have shown that mixing Neem cake with regularly scheduled applications of manure can almost double crop yield over manure alone.

Disposable toothbrush
Neem twigs are used daily by millions in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan as disposable toothbrushes. Neem toothpastes and powders are reputed as effective dentrifice products. Extracts of Neem bark are used in some toothpastes and mouthwashes singly or in combination with other herbal extracts. The inhibiting effect of aqueous Neem extract upon bacterial properties influencing plaque formation has recently been confirmed.

Worm killers
Cattle leaf supplements containing Neem leaf powder are worm killers. Creams containing Neem oil is used for animal wound addressing and also act as fly and mosquito repellents. In Kenya, rural farming households have found in Neem an inexpensive way to protect the native chicken from the dreaded New Castle virus disease. Neem seed powder or cake mixed in water and provided for drinking or chicken force fed with Neem cake during epidemic survived, while other died.

Soap
The most common use of Neem oil is for soap production for economical reasons.
If properly used for soap production to harness its general hygiene properties, the resulted product proved to be of great health use. Such medicated soaps with Neem odor are proved to have very effective anti-germ properties.

Beauty aid
Neem is also becoming a popular beauty aid. Few companies are using Neem oil and leaves for production of cosmetics like facial creams, nail polishes, nail oils, shampoos and conditioners etc.

Food
Because of the fear of toxic residues in food products associated with the use of chemical pesticides, there is a growing importance of plant origin, which does not leave any residue. Though many plant chemicals have been reported to be suitable for this, Neem is the only plant from which the bio-pesticides are commercially manufactured, found effective, eco-friendly and acceptable to the farmers. Neem pesticides are now increasingly used in India on crops like cotton, vegetables, fruit trees, coffee, tea, rice and pigeon pea.

In conclusion
Increased commercial plantations and agro-forestry involving Neem can enhance the economical potential of this tree with positive and large externalities for pesticides, fertilizers, livestock, dairying and other value-added products

Thyme
Thyme is “zaatar” in Arabic. Thyme is most popularly used as one of the main ingredients in the spice mix named after it - Zaatar. This mixed zaatar is actually a mix of sumac berries and zataar, however, plain zaatar is also readily available in the Middle East and has many uses that you may not have thought about.

Thyme is a vermifuge and daily consumption of it helps keep worms and other parasites from dwelling in your body. You can eat or drink the tea for this purpose. Eating “mixed zaatar” on a daily basis may not be a bad idea! Especially if you live in a place where you are unsure of water quality or cleanliness.

Eating Zaatar on bread helps you digest the heaviness of the bread and prevents many digestive and allergic reactions related to bread.

A Hadith related by Ibn al-Juzi states that “They fumigated their houses with thyme and frankincense.“ this is because thyme is a fantastic anti-fungal, anti-botic, anti-septic, and anti-microbial agent. It also repels insects. So if you have any illness in the house or any problem spots in your house or yard - think of thyme. A cleverly placed thyme bush is a good addition to any garden.

Drinking the green leafy tea also has many health benefits. A few cups a day will ease menstrual cramps as well as relieve the tenseness and moodiness that often accompanies PMS (or the “MS” itself). Thyme tea is also helpful for stomach problems as well as coughs and fever.

Thyme tea is a wonderfully pleasant tea for children’s coughs as they delight in the flavor. It is also said to alleviate whooping cough and nightmares. It helps in the elimination of phlegm, relieves any pain that may accompany the illness and calms a child’s nerves.

You can also use it for a mild sore throat (for a severe sore throat spray a couple drops of the essential oil mixed with water or herbal tea directly on your throat) and post nasal drip.