Seeds Natural Remedies by Rev. Carol A. Ingle (Raven)

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

Seeds Natural Remedies

Seeds

Unlike nuts, seeds are contained in the fruits of plants and are capable of producing a new plant when released from the fleshy part of the fruit. Although seeds contain alot of fat, they supply proteins and essential fatty acids that are necessary to nourish the body, brain and nervous system. Seeds are also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals, including calcium and zinc. Therefore, they are considered a nutritional food, especially for vegetarians and people who do not eat much meat. However, in the presence of such intestinal conditions as diverticulitis, eating seeds is not recommended, since they may become lodges in the pockets (diverticuli) of the intestines and cause further discomfort and inflammation. Seeds can be sprouted, dried, roasted or eaten raw. Among those most commonly consumed as foods are flax, sesame, pumpkin and sunflower as well as peas and beans. Others, such as anise, caraway, fennel, mustard and fenugreek, are used primarily as spices or for medicinal uses.

Healthful Seed Oils

Consuming oil products from seeds can benefit your health. For example, sesame-seed oil - which is a source of linoleic acid, an essential fat - can reduce cravings for caloric foods and thereby help in weight reduction. Flaxseed oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids (EFAs), including omega-3 and omega-6 - which your body depends on for maintaining good health. This oil is useful in treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopausal symptoms as well as arthritis and even allergies.

Therapeutic Effect: Seeds and seed oils are frequently used to alleviate inflammatory conditions, including arthritis as well as some disorders of the digestive system, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and prostate conditions. Seeds also serve as an alternative protein source that can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, as they are high in calcium.

Components: Besides being rich in protein, seeds supply essential fats, fiber and minerals - such as zinc, calcium and iron - as well as B vitamins and vitamins A, D, E and K.

Sesame Seeds and Tahini: Sesame seeds are a good source of the sulfur-containing amino acids that our bodies use in the detoxification process. Because the whole seeds pass through the body undigested, they should be ground before you eat them, to ensure proper absorption. Tahini, a smooth paste made from hulled or un-hulled ground sesame seeds, is available in health-food stores and other grocery stores. Tahini made from un-hulled sesame seeds is especially healthful, since the hulls are an excellent source of calcium.

Sprouted Seeds: When seeds are sprouted their protein content increases and their minerals are more readily available. They also contain vitamin C, which is not usually found in the seeds themselves. Sprouts provide a fresh green accompaniment to salads and sandwiches. Some good sprouting seeds include alfalfa, red clover, wheat, lentils and chickpeas. To sprout seeds, first soak them overnight in warm water, then drain and rinse. Put the seeds in a quart-sized glass container covered with cheesecloth held in place with a rubber band. Rinse twice a day for the next four days, until they have sprouted. Refrigerated, they will last for several days. Note: Two tablespoons of alfalfa seeds will yield one quart of sprouts.

A source of minerals and essential fats, seeds aid digestion, promote prostate health and relieve joint inflammation and cramps.

Method of Administration

Pepitas: Pepitas are pumpkin seeds. They help prevent and relieve benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). Chew the fresh or roasted seeds.

Anise Seeds: Anise seeds are a useful cough remedy and digestive aid. They also promote milk production in nursing mothers and help relieve menstrual pains. Crush the seeds and steep them in boiling water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and then drink the liquid.

Caraway Seeds: Caraway seeds are a digestive aid that can also alleviate bad breath. Their antispasmodic quality makes them a good remedy for menstrual cramps. The seeds can be chewed, added to soups and breads or made into a tea.

Celery Seeds: Celery seeds are sometimes used i the treatment of arthritis and obesity. They can also be used for PMS, high blood pressure, psoriasis and even congestive heart failure. Chew the seeds, add them to food or brew them into a tea.

Fenugreek Seeds: Fenugreek seeds ease flatulence, have anti-diabetic properties, lower blood pressure, increase production of breast milk and may deter cancer growth. Boil the seeds in water for 10 minutes, strain and drink the liquid before each meal.