“One of the first conditions of happiness is that the link between Man and Nature shall not be broken.” Leo Tolstoy.
The above quote allows me to share my interest in naturalism through gardening. It has also encouraged my extended reading interests to herbs, their uses, their proper growing needs, but especially their minor medicinal uses. This interest not only has become a delightful hobby of mine over a period of many years, but has developed into quite a world-wide trend. I know I am not alone!
Initially inspired by an acquaintance who gave me some of her over-grown peppermint, I rooted it, planted it, cared for it, and watched it grow in leaps and bounds. The scent alone, wafting through my kitchen window, was all I needed to become further encouraged and enamored with other herbs. My research led to a search of retail herb suppliers and my herb garden began!
One of the many articles that crossed my desk one day is called “How Herbs and Vitamins May Benefit Your Health” by Daniel Trecroci. http://www.dlife.com/diabetes_resources/experts/trecroci_bio This article encouraged my way of thinking about natural healing and awareness by incorporating fresh herbs and herbal supplements into my diabetic diet.
Not all the herbs I grow are for assistance in managing my diabetes. Some I grow because of their scents; others I grow for a loved one who suffers with ringing in the ears; another who has acne problems; a friend with allergies; stomach ailments; still other herbs because ot their tastes and aromas. I use them like spices and with spices, one enhancing the flavor(s) of another. I learned how to do this by reading books and articles = research. You can too!
The use of the herb ‘fennel’ is one example. For me, fennel has become a favorite herb when made into a hot or cold tea. It has a light and licorice-y flavor. Its natural qualities have truly gotten rid of my stomach upsets. Used with the natural sweetener called Stevia, it is one of the many herb plants that I grow. I use it when picked fresh from my garden or after it has been dehydrated and stored for the winter months.
Using herbs with the treatment of diabetes is a fairly new and positive factor. For instance, Dr. Jerry Gerson has been a diabetes specialist for approximately 45 years. He came across an “Indian herbal formula that has given millions of people with blood sugar problems hope and help.” http://www.healthgrades.com/directory_search/physician/profiles/dr-md-reports/dr-jerry-gerson-md-da629340 Furthermore, he has been quoted sauing “This formula has the entire medical community talking about its ability to normalize blood sugar.”
Things that make you go “hmm!”
As for purchasing supplements (aka: vitamins), I prefer to purchase those with a certain phrases written on the label: a “Natural Source” made with “Certified Organic” ingredients. From Vitamin A through the gamut of so many other supplements throughout the English alphabet, I have used them at one time or another. I can attest to their wonderous qualities and effects. When I have finished with one, I’ll try something new. Usually I go back to my original purchase. For instance, I am never without Vitamins E and D and the supplements pycogenol, white willow bark, evening primrose oil or acidophilus.
Read, read, and read some more! Help yourself through research! My constant research into self-help has lead me to growing the herb form or purchasing supplements.
Many of what I choose to ingest works well for one ailment of another; or to inhibit the onslaught of another ailment due to diabetes and its complications. There are herbs, vitamins and supplements available on the market for neuropthay, another for retinopathy, circulation, digestion, brain function, menopause, pre-menstrual syndrome, and a host of uncomfortable and questional bothers.
YOU need to be resourceful when researching for yourself and your predicaments or pre-dispositions. Believe in yourself! All this helps me to help myslef; it is as simple as that!
Sincerely, A. K. Buckroth, Author, Speaker, mydiabeticsoul.com.