We’ve been told that we should keep ourselves hydrated, simply because our body is made of mostly water.  But more importantly it helps to maintain many other functions in our body.  One of the essential functions is our blood pressure.  Blood pressure is assisted through well hydration, but not the only factor to keeping it in the normal range.  

Blood pressure is the source that brings oxygen and nutrients throughout our body.  A force from contracts with every heartbeat from the pumping of the heart that brings circulation.  (Should also be noted that blood pressure is not created solely by the pumping heart.)  Only through circulation of pumping blood will our tissues and organs receive all that it needs.  

Additionally, blood pressure delivers white blood cells, antibody for immunity, clotting platelets and hormones, including insulin.  At the same token, new blood made gets delivered will be able to pick up toxic waste products of metabolism - carbon dioxide we exhale, toxins cleared from our liver and kidneys.  Our body temperature is also carried in the blood.

Hydrating will help the blood to remain at a comfortable consistency and make it easy on the heart to pump.  Many think any kind of fluids will be hydration for our body.  While all liquids provide some form of hydration, but choosing is of essence.  Our blood pressure can go up with some types of beverages and down with others and the just maintain with the proper type of hydration and the proper amount.  Keep in mind that sustaining a healthy blood pressure is not just through hydration - it only helps to keep it leveled.

Generally, high blood pressure is anywhere above 80/120.  The lower number is the diastolic that is the lower pressure in the arteries and during a brief ‘rest’ between heartbeats.  The higher number is the systolic pressure that is measured as the heart contracts. 
Blood pressure can also be low.  The low blood pressure range would anywhere below 60/90.  For both these conditions they require different methods, food, and hydration to bring it back to normal range.

Now, tea is an excellent way to hydrate for maintenance of blood pressure.  Specifically assisting with high blood pressure (when the force of blood pushed against blood vessels is too high), which can be caused by various factors including stress hormone levels, diet, electrolyte balance, medication, and genetics.  High blood pressure is extremely common.  While medicine is commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, but natural remedies are also available: such as tea.

Green tea is known for it’s strong antioxidants: epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG - a catechin, which are natural antioxidants that assist in preventing cell and molecules from damage and reduce formation of free radicals in the body).   Drinking green tea can quickly and effectively reduce the strain on your heart and blood vessels (acting as vasodilator throughout the body). 

Hibiscus tea helps lower blood pressure through the reduction of stress hormones that strains on the cardiovascular system.

Oolong tea is a black tea and it has a rich blend of antioxidants with soothing properties that calms the cardiovascular system.

Garlic tea is a cooking seasoning source that is full of antioxidant and sulfuric compounds that have cardio-protective effect as they reduce inflammation in the arteries and blood vessels.  This effect helps lower blood pressure, furthering the reduction of coronary heart disease and stroke.

Chamomile tea is a known sedative herb that is often used to calm the body and mind before going to sleep.  These same usage are an effective solution for hypertension through relaxing the blood vessels and arteries.  

Nettle tea made from leaves of the nettle plant brewed, the brewing process loses the toxicity and irritable nature of the plant.  Getting rid of the irritable properties gains the anti-inflammatory tea that soothes the body and treats symptoms of hypertension.

Pu-erh tea is an affective source for lowering blood pressure levels but also reduces the cholesterol in the body.  At the same time it will lower your risk of atherosclerosis and heart attacks. 

Teas help lower blood pressure when combines with other medians it will assist more.  For example, listening to classical music after taking any high blood pressure meds or natural foods will help lowering the blood pressure.






source:  
https://www.organicfacts.net/tea-high-blood-pressure.html 
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270644.php 
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022214305001605  
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-green-tea  
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/217219. 
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40618-014-0170-x   
https://academic.oup.com/ajh/article/14/S1/29A/140619. 
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf071629p. 
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874198001573
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-19418-7  

Our joints on our body is what enables us to bend our limbs freely.  The places that have joints are our knees, elbows, ankles, shoulders, back (that contains many many many joints), hips, even fingers.  These joints can bring us pain and or discomfort, just like any body parts.  However, the pain and or discomfort comes from inflammation that arises at the location.  And this can be a short term or long term disability including: arthritis, auto immune disorders, or many others.  

Joint pain affects millions of people every year.  In 2014, 14.6 million Americans were affected by sever joint pain.  NSAID analgesics along with other types of pain medications are a part of pain management programs.  There are also essential oils that are used for joint pain.  Medical practitioners and certified aromatherapist can tell you if the essential oils will interact with that prescribed or over-the-counter (OTC) medication.  

Below are a few essential oils for joint pain relief: 

Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil: 
A spice that we all know well and consume it predominantly in desserts: cinnamon, which is a tropical tree with a large and leathery leaf are found around in southern India and Sri Lanka.  From the tree, both the leaves and the bark are used to extract for the essential oil.   As many other anti-inflammatory essential oils, cinnamon oil contains phenols, primarily eugenol.  Additionally,it has a high level of both cinnamaldehyde and aldehyde. 
Cinnamaldehyde may also be helpful in reducing uric acid, found in gout.  
Avoid using cinnamon oil during pregnancy as it can bring sensitivity to skin and irritate mucous membranes.

Clove Bud Essential Oil: 
Belonging to the evergreen family, clove (syzygium aromatic) has large, glossy leaves with buds that mature to a deep red color.  They are generally found in the region of Indoensia.   Clove bud oil comes from their buds and the leaves.  However, it does have aromatic flowers with a sweet and spicy aroma.  Clove bud oil contains high phenol eugenol that gives its anti-inflammatory properties that may be useful in knee joints of arthritic. 

Virginian Cedarwood Essential Oil: 
Often confused with Atlas cedar wood, Virginian cedar wood has a red heartwood that is a conifer tree that is native to North America.  It contains a woody, sweet, balsamic essential oil.  It is also related to juniper and sharing similarities for use and chemical components of: cedrene ()sesquiterpene) and cedrol (sesquiterpene alcohol).

These chemical components are beneficial in inflammation reduction for arthritis. 
Avoid usage during pregnancy as it can cause skin sensitivity.  

Helichrysum Essential Oil: 
A Mediterranean region bright yellow flower and narrow silver leaves are a aromatic herb with rich honey-like scent.  Even when dried out, they will retain their color.  This plant contains both enroll and nearly acetate that gives their anti-inflammatory and healing properties.  Generally used for wound healing and inflammation associated with joint pain. This is a common certified aromatherapists to address bruises and sprains.  
(Mix with lavender oil to address joint pain and inflammation - using sunflower as a carrier oil)

With any of these four essential oils, it is recommended to use a vegetable oil to dilute before applying to skin: 
>> dilute 2% for regular 
>> 65+ years of age:  use 1% dilution
>> Pregnangcy/ youth:  consult certified aromatherapist before any usage

​







sources: 
https://www.naturallivingideas.com/essential-oils-for-joint-pain/  
https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/news/20161006/number-of-americans-with-severe-joint-pain-keeps-rising 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23037170 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18693097 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3168704/ 

Hibiscus is a vivant flower that can be found in various different hues ranging from pink to red to yellow to white to peach to purple.  Generally in the shape of large conspicuous trumpet-shaped, having usually at least five petals and more. They are found in the tropical warm climate and subtropical regions throughout the world.  This flower is made into tea and can be served in both hot and cold.  Another name of hibiscus tea is known as Agua de Jamaica, prepared by boiling parts of the plant.  Ruby red or deep magenta is the color of the tea.  The tea has a tart flavor with vitamin C content and caffeine free.  

With hibiscus tea comes the health benefits of treating high blood sugar and high cholesterol, digestive and immune systems disturbed, inflamed problems and liver diseases, as well as cancer.  Hibiscus tea also speeds up metabolism and aids in healthy gradual weight loss.  It does also contain other vitamins as niacin and folate.  Aside from vitamins, it also contains minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc) and antioxidants.  

Hibiscus tea contains anthocyanin that manages elevated blood pressure, colds, and urinary tract infections (UTI).   A study from American Heart Association (AHA) published in November 2008 stating it would lower blood pressure in pre-hypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults.  At Tufts University in Boston, a study showed a drop in 10 points in blood pressure.  One needs to regularly consume three cups a day for a few weeks.  Also note that this tea is a diuretic properties which includes urination.  This effect simultaneously lowers the blood pressure.

Carbohydrates have been known to bring weight gain.  It’s been. Shown that hibiscus tea lowers the absorption of both starch and glucose.  Specifically it inhibits amylase production that absorbs carbohydrates and starch.  

LDL cholesterol is the bad cholesterol that damages the body by giving way of heart diseases.  Hibiscus tea helps lowering LDL cholesterol from both the hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties. Consequently also helping those with blood sugar disorders like diabetes.

The antioxidant properties mentioned earlier helps in treating liver diseases.  It protects the body through the neutralization of the free radicals that is present in body tissues and cells.  

In the same token, as it neutralizes the free radicals in the body, it contains hibiscus protocatechuic acid.  This is the property that is anti-tumor and antioxidant properties.  A study done in medical and dental college in Taiwan suggests it will slow down the growth of cancerous cells by inducing apoptosis, programmed cell death.  Other studies have shown that hibiscus extract  inhibits the growth of skin cancer cells.

And of course, a common benefactor of hibiscus tea is the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent that are known as vitamin C.  Vitamin C is an essential nutrient necessary to boost and stimulate the activity of the immune system.  Stronger immune system will prevent one from catching the cold and flu.  

Here’s a benefit for all ladies… it helps to relieve menstrual pain, restoring hormonal balance. And the byproduct is that it reduces symptoms of mood swings, depression, and overeating.   

From the diuretic properties of the tea, it improves digestion through regularizes both urination and bowel movements.  Also treating constipation and improve gastrointestinal system to avoid colorectal cancer.  As a result, it will aid in weight loss.

While it is a diuretic beverage but it does satiate thirst.  This is a useable ingredient for sports drinks.  It does cool the body down very quickly.   

As many benefits as hibiscus tea has it also has it’s side effects.  As we discussed prior that it lowers blood pressure, therefore those with hypotension should not consume this often.  As it may cause fairness, dizziness, and even damage the heart or brain if consumed by people with low blood pressure.  

Hibiscus tea has also an impact on pregnancy and fertility.  It is not recommended for those who are pregnant, as it tends to have an emmevnagogic effect and will stimulate menstruation, blood flow in the uterus and pelvic region.  Medline Plus study showed that if can cause shakiness, constipation, and stomach discomfort.  For those who are taking birth control pills or hormone treatment should consult with a specialist before drinking hibiscus tea. 

Another caution for those who have diabetes, as it does lower blood sugar but if one is planning to undergo surgery they should consult with your doctor prior to drinking this.  

Now, as mentioned above, while the tea brings benefits to health.  It is important to note that these health benefits come because of the potent properties the tea holds.  Therefore, some may feel intoxicated or experience hallucinations after drinking hibiscus tea.  It is important to know how your body reacts to the tea and how it may or may effect your body.  

Lastly, hibiscus tea is a flower.  Therefore with consumption it is possible for some to develop allergic reactions such as itchy red eyes, sinus, or hay fever.











sources:
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/beverage/hibiscus-tea.html 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hibiscus 
https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/140/2/298/4600320 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20018807  
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1950274/ 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19678781 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10762726 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10856425 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5198834/  
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/health/news/4567107/Hibiscus-tea-could-help-cut-blood-pressure.html 
https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2002.t01-1-01009.x 

Peppermint is actually a hybrid of both water mint and spearmint.  This has been used in multiple items ranging from candies and soaps coming from concentrated oil (essential oil) inside the plant.  However, peppermint was only recognized in the late 17th century.  This is utilized through leaf for tea, or capsules, or as an extract.  The oil when in concentrate form can be toxic when taken in large quantities at once.  

Peppermint has many benefits, and one of them is that it soothes and relaxes the tissues in the GI tracts. It has been shown to ease stomach pain even for kids, and others have shown that it relieves nausea and vomiting.  When taken in capsules it can ease the side effects of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) like gas, stomach pain, constipation, and diarrhea.  Studies have indicated the improvement of using peppermint oil for patients with IBS.

It relieves GI and stomach issues.  Moving further down on the human anatomy, it also helps relieve the abdominal cramps for women during menstrual cycle.  While peppermint has no affect on the amount of blood loss, it does ease the intensity and shortens the length of period pain for some.  

Additionally, it also helps with headaches due to the active ingredient within.  Simply by applying it to your forehead and temples, it will relieve the tension of headaches.  A limited evidence suggests that it might be helpful to use this topically during the strike of a headache.

Another place that we will find peppermint in is through mouth wash.  Not only does it freshen the breath but it does also have its antibacterial properties to get rid of the germs that causes the smell.  Peppermint will form a film on your teeth and heals to keep the bacteria away and keep teeth in healthy form.  

While it freshens breath and also keeps bacteria away, it will also fight off the common cold or the infected mucus that sets up shop in the sinuses from the antimicrobial powers peppermint contains.  Though the oil and plant does contain anti-microbial components, it has not been fully conclusive on this matter.  

Overall, peppermint is a good source to fight bacteria.  This extent to the food borne bacteria of E. coli, listeria, and salmonella.  Studies saw that with peppermint it ceases the growth of these bacterias.  Even kills the Staphylococcus aureus, which is a bacteria that causes skin infections, pneumonia, meningitis, and more.  

Peppermint oil can also help in weightless.  There have been studies that show it may make you feel less hungry and eat less. This will in turn lead to weight loss.  

Another big benefactor of peppermint is the help of it gives during allergy season from the rosmarinic acid within.  This lowers the body’s histamine reaction meaning fewer symptoms: irritated, stuffy nose, sneezing, and red and itchy eyes.

Another big benefactor of peppermint is the essential oil that is used for beauty.  One factor is that it helps to prevent hair loss.  The antimicrobial benefits also helps with dryness, itching, and other scalp problems.  

Lastly, no one really understands why but the scent of peppermint seems to keep people awake during the day.  Thereby also helps people process problems longer without getting mentally tired.  This may also boost one’s memory and keep one extra alert.  

Generally, peppermint oil includes benefits of: 
*Antimicrobial 
*insecticidal and pesticidal 
*analgesic and anesthetic 
*vasodilating (and vasoconstricting) 
*anti-inflammatory 

There are possible side effects of peppermint oil including allergic reactions and heartburns.  They are highly concentrated, so only a few drops is needed.  Skin rashes and irritation can result when too strong of a dose and not diluted with carrier oil.  

It is important to know that peppermint oil can be strong for the bare skin, therefore it is recommended to dilute the oil with a carrier oil to help protect the skin.  More importantly, avoid getting the essential oil in your eyes, and never consume undiluted essential oils.  Avoid using essential oils on infants and children as well. Never use diffuser oil, warming oil, or extract not made for skin contact. 
Always check the labels when purchasing essential oils of any kind.








source:
https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-health-benefits-peppermint?ecd=wnl_spr_030819_REMAIL&ctr=wnl-spr-030819-REMAIL_nsl-    
https://www.healthline.com/health/peppermint-oil-for-hair#uses 
LeadModule_img&mb=ELH%40SL%2fYCrA5IAo9WMal%2f5AyWFWqf9PLx%40CWP%40ohVi8%3d 
https://nccih.nih.gov/health/peppermintoil.  

At one point or another, we’ve all been memorized by a nice pair of blue or green eyes or those big almond dark brown eyes.  What we don’t realize is that the color of our eyes say more than just our origins, or signifying certain specific beauty, even more than that there are some genetic traits.  Each color will carry various different genetic traits. 

Blue/ Green/ Gray >> uveal melanoma, cancer of the eye (2,500 ppl in US get it each year) // twice as likely to have age-related macular degeneration causing vision loss

Brown >> gives sense of trustworthy // less hearing loss in loud environment (than blue) bc have more melanin in their eyes and ears which protests from noise level increases // responds better to more rigid therapy treatments (vs. programs that changes as they go with their pace with light-eyes folks) // higher chance of getting vitiligo (loss of skin color in blotches) // researchers says with twice as likely chance of getting cataracts //Waardenburg Syndrome indicated if a blue ring around the mostly brown eyes - genetic disorder to lose pigment in hair, skin and eyes; possible to cause deafness and unique facial features - wide set eyes & wide nose bridge // tends to shine in sports dealing with reaction: boxing, hitting a ball, football defense // tend to show more distress during labor, woke from pain more, more pain during their movement, and more likely to be depressed from pain

Blue >> higher risk of getting type 1 diabetes // higher chance of becoming an addict to alcohol (study done 2015) // higher risk of developing deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) - experts thinks genes that control eye color may be a direct link to the cause of DIE // tend to shine in sports as bowling, golfing, pitching baseball

All eye colors, should the size pupils be different size in the eyes, then it signifies that there’s and health issue: nervous system problem, stroke, or infection // pupil size has a direct correlation to intelligence - larger connects to brain better and works well.  

Every one has their one genetic DNAs, and there is much to learn about them.  As time goes on, more and more things will be revealed.  What is important is that we keep learning about who we are - and it’s not just about the DNA test.








Source: 
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/ss/slideshow-eye-color-health