Nature has provided us with medicinal foods for everything! Be it to curb digestive issues, to enhance skin glow, to balance hormones, to boost brain health, to support our immune system, to elevate our mood, to better thyroid health and the list goes on!
But the question is, do you know what foods are best for what issues? Well, read this article to find out more.
We’ve listed 20 foods with medicinal and healing properties, that can help keep your body in top shape! Check them out below!
20 Foods with Medicinal and Healing Properties
1. Avocados – Balances hormones
Avocados are rich in their healthy fat content, that are essential for hormone production.
2. Blueberries – Boosts brain health
Blueberries can help improve cognitive activity, blood flow to the brain and can also improve memory.
3. Chia seeds – Reduces inflammation
Chia seeds can reduce bodily inflammation, ad they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
4. Lentils – Supports iron levels
Lentils are a good source of plant-based iron and can help increase iron in those who have low levels and iron deficiencies.
5. Sweet potatoes – Enhances skin glow
Sweet potatoes can reduce skin dryness and flakiness. It can help improve skin tone and increase skin radiance and resilience.
6. Coconut water – Hydrates with electrolytes
Coconut water is hydrating for the body and can boost energy levels and support muscle function too.
7. Pumpkin seeds – Boosts immunity with zinc
Pumpkin seeds contain a substantial quantity of zinc, which can boost immunity, heart health, prostrate health and protects the body against certain types of cancer.
8. Kimchi – Improves gut flora
Kimchi can help introduce beneficial bacteria into the body, aids digestion and can potentially reduce bodily inflammation too.
9. Pineapples – Aids digestion
Pineapples can aid digestion, as it contains an enzyme called bromelain, that breaks down proteins. Its fibre helps support digestive regularity.
10. Dark chocolate – Lifts mood
Dark chocolate can help increase blood flow to the brain and heart. This cognitive function can thus help elevate mood.
11. Broccoli – Detoxifies liver
Broccoli can help flush out toxins from the body and improve body metabolism.
12. Brazil nuts – Supports thyroid function
Brazil nuts are a good source of selenium, which is a trace mineral that plays a crucial role in supporting thyroid function.
13. Flaxseeds – Provides hormonal support
Flaxseeds contain lignans. These are plant compounds that can help balance estrogen levels with their estrogenic properties.
14. Garlic cloves – Offers antibacterial defence
Garlic contains allicin, which is a sulfur-containing compound that is activated when crushed or chopped. Allicin has antimicrobial properties.
15. Mushrooms – Supplies vitamin D
Mushrooms are a good source of vitamin D and are also rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
16. Papaya – Relieves bloating
Papaya contains papain, which is a natural enzyme that can help in breaking down proteins and can improve digestion, thus alleviating bloating.
17. Basil leaves – Reduces stress
Basil leaves act as adaptogens, thus helping the body adapt to stress and promote mental well-being.
18. Spinach leaves – Provides skin-loving nutrients
Spinach leaves contain rich amounts of vitamin A, C, K, iron and folate. These nutrients can support skin health by keeping the skin hydrated and increasing skin complexion.
19. Turmeric root – Fights inflammation
Turmeric root contains high amounts of the compound curcumin, that is rich in its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, thus helping fight inflammation. Also, when turmeric is combined with black pepper (containing piperine), it can help fight inflammation quicker.
20. Beets – Supports blood flow
Beets can help increase the production of nitric oxide in the body, which dilates blood vessels, improving circulation and can thus lower blood pressure. It can also help enhance cognitive functioning.