Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), or common buckwheat, is a plant cultivated for its grain-like seeds and as a cover crop.  The name 'buckwheat' is used for several other species, such as Fagopyrum tataricum, a domesticated food plant raised in Asia. Despite the name, buckwheat is not related to wheat, as it is not a grass. Instead, buckwheat is related to sorrel, knotweed, and rhubarb. Buckwheat is referred to as a pseudocereal because its seeds' culinary use is the same as cereals', owing to their ...

fagopyrum esculentum

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The-Fo-ti-Plant:-A-Brief-Botanical-Perspective

The Fo-ti Plant: A Brief Botanical Perspective

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Fo-ti is a perennial vine that belongs to the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae). Its botanical name, Polygonum multiflorum, speaks to the plant's multiple flower-bearing capabilities. Native to China, Fo-ti is also widely found in Japan and Taiwan. The plant is characterized by heart-shaped leaves and red berries, but its most potent component is its root, harvested after 3-4 years of growth for optimal medicinal potency.

Anti-aging-Benefits-of-Fo-ti

Anti-aging Benefits of Fo-ti

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Traditional Chinese Medicine attributes longevity to the balance of yin and yang energies in the body. Fo-ti, considered a tonic, is believed to restore and maintain this balance. The herb's root contains compounds such as lecithin and anthraquinones, known to support anti-aging. Some research indicates that these compounds may improve hair health, reduce graying, and potentially increase longevity by reducing cellular damage and improving mitochondrial function.

Cognitive-Support-from-Fo-ti

Cognitive Support from Fo-ti

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As we age, the need for cognitive support becomes more evident, and Fo-ti may provide just that. The herb contains tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside, a compound that may protect brain cells against oxidative stress, a significant factor in cognitive decline. Moreover, Fo-ti's potential to improve circulation may enhance the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the brain, further supporting cognitive function and potentially mitigating the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Immune-boosting-Properties-of-Fo-ti

Immune-boosting Properties of Fo-ti

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In the era of growing health consciousness, the immune system's role has gained immense attention, and Fo-ti is a noteworthy player. Rich in antioxidants, the herb may protect against free radical damage, strengthening the immune system's response against pathogens. Additionally, Fo-ti exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, a crucial factor in modulating immune responses and maintaining overall wellness.

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Home-Preparation-of-Fo-ti

Home Preparation of Fo-ti

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Although Fo-ti is available in various forms such as capsules, tinctures, and teas, preparing it at home provides a unique experience that pays homage to its traditional use.

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Fo-ti Tea: Simmer 15-20 grams of dried Fo-ti root in three cups of water for approximately one hour. Strain the mixture, and your Fo-ti tea is ready to serve. You can enjoy this tea twice daily.

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Fo-ti Tincture: Place 200 grams of dried Fo-ti root in a jar and cover it with a liter of vodka or any other 40% spirit. Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool, dark place for about a month, shaking occasionally. After one month, strain the tincture into a clean jar. You can take 10-30 drops of this tincture once or twice daily.

Questions-and-Answers

Questions and Answers

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Q: Can I grow Fo-ti at home?

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A: Yes, Fo-ti can be grown at home, although it's a subtropical plant that prefers mild temperatures and a fair amount of humidity. It can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 7-10 or indoors in a pot.

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Q: &nbsp;Are there any potential side effects of consuming Fo-ti?

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A: While generally considered safe, overconsumption of Fo-ti may cause mild digestive upset. Rarely, it might lead to more severe effects like liver damage. As with any supplement, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting Fo-ti.

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Q: &nbsp;Can Fo-ti be used topically?

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A: Yes, Fo-ti is sometimes used topically in creams and lotions, particularly in products aimed at improving hair health and reducing graying.

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Q: &nbsp;Can Fo-ti interact with any medications?

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A: Fo-ti could potentially interact with certain medications, especially those processed through the liver. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting Fo-ti if you're on any medication.

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Q: &nbsp;Is there a specific time of day best to consume Fo-ti?

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A: There isn't a specific time recommended to take Fo-ti. However, as it can sometimes have a mildly energizing effect, some people prefer to take it in the morning or early afternoon.

Fo-ti (Polygonum multiflorum), a traditional Chinese herb, offers potential anti-aging, cognitive support, and immune-boosting properties. These benefits stem from the powerful compounds in the herb's root, revealing Fo-ti's remarkable potential to maintain overall wellness and contribute to longevity. While further research is needed to solidify these effects, the herb's long-standing reputation in traditional medicine stands as a beacon of its therapeutic potential.

Fo-ti: The Fountain of Youth from Traditional Chinese Medicine

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What's-a-miso?

What's a miso?

What's-a-miso?_0_0

This traditional Japanese spice consists of a thick paste from soybeans fermented with salt and koji starter culture. The starter usually contains the fungus Aspergillus oryzae.

What's-a-miso?_0_1

Miso pasta can be used to prepare sauces and soup broth or to marinate vegetables and meat. People usually describe the taste of miso as a combination of salty and umami, and the color can vary between white, yellow, red, or brown, depending on the variety.

What's-a-miso?_0_2

Although miso is traditionally made from soybeans, some varieties use other types of beans or peas. Other ingredients, including rice, barley, rye, buckwheat, and hemp seeds, all of which affect the color and taste of the finished product, may be used to make it.

The-health-benefits-of-mso

The health benefits of mso

The-health-benefits-of-mso_1_0

Rich-in-several-nutrients

Rich in several nutrients

Rich-in-several-nutrients_1_0

Miso contains a large number of vitamins, minerals, and useful plant compounds. About 30 grams of it usually provides vitamin K, sodium, manganese, copper, zinc, a small number of calories, and carbohydrates.

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It also contains smaller amounts of B vitamins, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and phosphorus and is a source of choline. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.scienceopen.com/document?vid=f0cfb0bb-112e-49ed-a118-46890bffe429" target="_blank" data-ref="Tu2021 Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Novel Probiotic Yeasts Isolated From Japanese &ldquo;Miso&rdquo; on DSS-Induced Colitis" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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Due to the fact that miso is obtained by fermentation, the nutrients contained in it are even easier to absorb from the body. The fermentation process also promotes the growth of probiotics, beneficial bacteria that provide a wide range of health benefits.

Miso-for-improving-digestion

Miso for improving digestion

Miso-for-improving-digestion_1_0

A. oryzae is the main probiotic strain found in miso. Research has shown that probiotics in this spice can help reduce symptoms associated with digestive problems, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Miso-for-improving-digestion_1_1

In addition, the fermentation process also helps to improve digestion by reducing the number of antinutrients in soybeans. Antinutrients are compounds naturally found in foodstuffs, including in soybeans and cereals used for the production of miso. If you consume antinutrients, they can bind to nutrients in the gut, reducing your body's ability to absorb them.

Miso-for-improving-digestion_1_2

Fermentation reduces the levels of antinutrients in miso and other fermented products, which helps to improve digestion.

Miso-may-act-anticancer-agent-in-some-type-of-cancers

Miso may act anticancer agent in some type of cancers

Miso-may-act-anticancer-agent-in-some-type-of-cancers_1_0

Miso-may-act-anticancer-agent-in-some-type-of-cancers_1_1

Observational studies have repeatedly found a link between diets high in salt and stomach cancer. Despite its high salt content, miso does not seem to increase the risk of stomach cancer in the way other foods high in salt do. For example, one study compared meat with salt-containing foods such as salted fish, processed meat, and marinated foods. Fish, meat, and marinated foods were associated with a 24-27% higher risk of stomach cancer, while miso was not associated with an increased risk. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0261561412000052" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[Ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

Miso-may-act-anticancer-agent-in-some-type-of-cancers_1_2

Experts believe this may be due to the beneficial compounds found in soybeans, which potentially counteract the cancer-stimulating effects of salt.

Miso-may-act-anticancer-agent-in-some-type-of-cancers_1_3

Even more curiously, in human studies, regular consumption of miso can reduce the risk of liver and breast cancer by 50-54%. Protection from breast cancer is especially useful for postmenopausal women, but not only. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ijc.20897" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Other-health-benefits-of-miso

Other health benefits of miso

Other-health-benefits-of-miso_1_0

This Japanese spice can offer a number of other health benefits, including a beneficial effect on blood pressure; reducing cholesterol levels; development of type 2 diabetes and others.

Features-of-the-consumption-of-miso

Features of the consumption of miso 

Features-of-the-consumption-of-miso_1_0

Miso consumption is generally safe for most people. However, the spice contains a large amount of salt. Therefore, it may not be a good choice for people who need to limit their salt intake due to a medical condition.

Features-of-the-consumption-of-miso_1_1

Also, most varieties are made from soybeans, which can be considered goitrogen. Goitrogens are compounds that can interfere with the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, especially in those who already have impaired thyroid function.

Features-of-the-consumption-of-miso_1_2

However, when foods containing goitrogen are cooked and consumed in moderation, they are rather safe for all people - even those with thyroid problems.

Miso is a versatile spice that is definitely worth having at hand if you want something different in your kitchen and dishes. The fermentation process used to produce it can be particularly useful, potentially boosting digestion, supporting the immune system and helping to fight diseases, including several types of cancer.

Miso - incredibly tasty and healthy fermented spice

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Myso - incredibly tasty and healthy fermented spice

Бетина Цветкова

What's-miso?

What's miso?

What's-miso?_0_0

This traditional Japanese spice consists of a thick paste made from soybeans that have been fermented with salt and koji starter culture. The starter usually contains the fungus Aspergillus oryzae.

What's-miso?_0_1

Miso pasta can be used to prepare sauces and soup broth or to marinate vegetables and meat. People usually describe the taste of miso as a combination of salty and umami, and the color can vary between white, yellow, red or brown, depending on the variety.

What's-miso?_0_2

What's-miso?_0_3

The-health-benefits-of-miso

The health benefits of miso

It also contains smaller amounts of B vitamins, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and phosphorus and is a source of choline. <a href="https://www.scienceopen.com/document?vid=f0cfb0bb-112e-49ed-a118-46890bffe429" target="_blank" data-ref="Tu2021 Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Novel Probiotic Yeasts Isolated From Japanese &ldquo;Miso&rdquo; on DSS-Induced Colitis" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

Miso-to-improve-digestion

Miso to improve digestion

Miso-to-improve-digestion_1_0

Miso-to-improve-digestion_1_1

Miso-to-improve-digestion_1_2

Miso-may-act-as-an-anticancer-agent-in-some-cancers

Miso may act as an anticancer agent in some cancers

Miso-may-act-as-an-anticancer-agent-in-some-cancers_1_0

Miso-may-act-as-an-anticancer-agent-in-some-cancers_1_1

Miso-may-act-as-an-anticancer-agent-in-some-cancers_1_2

Even more curiously, in human studies, regular consumption of ms can reduce the risk of liver and breast cancer by 50-54%. Protection from breast cancer is especially useful for postmenopausal women, but not only. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ijc.20897" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Miso-may-act-as-an-anticancer-agent-in-some-cancers_1_3

Other-health-benefits-of-miso_2_0

Features of the consumption of miso

Features-of-the-consumption-of-miso_3_0

Features-of-the-consumption-of-miso_3_1

Features-of-the-consumption-of-miso_3_2

Miso is a versatile spice that is definitely worth having at hand if you want something different in your kitchen and dishes. The fermentation process used to produce it can be particularly useful, potentially boosting digestion, supporting the immune system, and helping to fight diseases, including several types of cancer.

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Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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During germination, chemical processes occur in the seeds, which make macro- and microelements in them more accessible to our organism when consumed. It is similar to digestion.

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Sprouts are rich in antioxidants and biologically active substances, they bring health benefits and enrich our diet. They are affordable, the seeds are cheap and easy to germinate at home. Sprouts may replace the need to take vitamins and minerals in the form of dietary supplements and pills.

Brown-rice-sprouts-(Oryza-sativa)

Brown rice sprouts (Oryza sativa)

Brown-rice-sprouts-(Oryza-sativa)_0_0

Brown rice sprouts are the most studied ones (white rice is the same plant, but with the hull removed). They have many benefits:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">improve blood sugar levels,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">correct blood lipid levels (cholesterol),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">have activity against oxidative stress and others.</li>
</ul>

Brown-rice-sprouts-(Oryza-sativa)_0_2

These effects can not be attributed to a single bioactive compound, but rather to a synergistic interaction between all compounds induced by the germination process (i.e. GABA, oryzanol, phenols, dietary fiber, etc.), so their effect is greatest when sprouts are consumed whole rather than in the form of extracts. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Sprouted_Grains_A_Comprehensive_Review_30781547" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]

Tatary-buckwheat-sprouts-(Fagopyrum-tataricum)

Tatary buckwheat sprouts (Fagopyrum tataricum)

Tatary-buckwheat-sprouts-(Fagopyrum-tataricum)_1_0

Tatary buckwheat is also known as green buckwheat, ku qiao, Tatar buckwheat, or bitter buckwheat. Its sprouts can be used for the preparation of pasta (containing 30% buckwheat sprouts and 70% durum wheat semolina) - its consumption has been found to reduce cardiovascular risk and metabolic disorders, such as hypertension in laboratory animals.

Tatary-buckwheat-sprouts-(Fagopyrum-tataricum)_1_1

Fresh-wheat-leaves-juice-(Triticum-aestivum)

Fresh wheat leaves juice (Triticum aestivum)

Fresh-wheat-leaves-juice-(Triticum-aestivum)_2_0

The juice of the first green leaves of sprouted wheat is considered a superfood. It has been found that its intake by people suffering from <a href="/p/vidovie_talasiemiia_simptomi_i_liechieniie_afa4d9df_f99e_4122_bba7_329dd33442e4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">thalassemia</a> reduces the need and frequency of blood transfusions without negatively affecting hemoglobin levels.

Fresh-wheat-leaves-juice-(Triticum-aestivum)_2_1

The possibilities for use in the treatment of ulcerative&nbsp;colitis are also explored, since it has a high <a href="/p/maghdanozt_tsielinata_i_drughi_bilki_koito_pomaghat_v_borbata_s_raka_431f42b9_91a1_4cb7_b9d4_e633b827af78" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">apigenin content</a>.

Fresh-wheat-leaves-juice-(Triticum-aestivum)_2_2

This juice is rich in many healthy substances: iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamins A, C, E, K and B complex, etc.

Fresh-wheat-leaves-juice-(Triticum-aestivum)_2_3

It has an antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect.

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)

Broccoli sprouts (Brassica oleracea  var. Italica)

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)_3_0

Broccoli sprouts are rich in a variety of biologically active substances [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Sorting_out_the_Value_of_Cruciferous_Sprouts_as_Sources_of_Bioactive_Compounds_for_Nutrition_and_Health_30791362" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]: the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol, the phenolic acids synapine and ferrulic acid, glucosinolates and isotiocyanates.

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)_3_1

These substances are associated with a decreased risk of cancer, degenerative diseases, metabolic disorders associated with obesity, suppression <a href="/p/siennata_khriema_kakvo_ia_prichiniava_i_ima_li_iefikasno_liechieniie_8d03ed12_7efb_4591_802c_8d89e97f3607" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">of allergic rhinitis/hay fever</a>, decreased inflammation, pain suppression and antioxidant effects.

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)_3_2

In human studies, broccoli sprouts have shown the ability to modulate inflammation and vascular events, suppress inflammation in those suffering from obesity and diabetes, regulate bowel functions in constipation.

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)_3_3

Broccoli sprouts also have an impact on the skin. May provide protection against inflammation, swelling and carcinogens in humans.

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)_3_4

It has been established that broccoli sprout extract can improve the condition of asthma sufferers.

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)_3_5

They also showed an effect against the causative agent of gastric ulcer - Helicobacter pylori.

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)_3_6

Turnip-sprouts-(Raphanus-sativus)

Turnip sprouts (Raphanus sativus)

Turnip-sprouts-(Raphanus-sativus)_4_0

Turnip sprouts also contain quercetin, ferulic, caffeic and p-coumaric acids, glucosinolates and the isothiocyanates sulforaphene, sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol.

Turnip-sprouts-(Raphanus-sativus)_4_1

They lower the risk of cancer, <a href="/p/bilki_za_zdravo_srtsie_chast_1_bdd3a061_589a_402f_846f_042cbc215d6e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">heart disease</a>, <a href="/p/5_bilki_poliezni_za_diabietitsi_i_khora_izlozhieni_na_risk_ot_boliestta_a1be3113_4acb_48b7_98d1_885314093e78" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">diabetes</a> and have <a href="/p/kakvi_sa_polzitie_ot_antioksidantitie_za_zdravieto_i_koi_khrani_sa_nai_boghati_na_tiakh_0376155d_ea0c_4218_8ed2_114aed9f37c5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">antioxidant activity</a>.

Kale-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-acephala)

Kale sprouts (Brassica oleracea  var. acephala)

Kale-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-acephala)_5_0

Kale sprouts contain quercetin and cyanidin, chlorogenic and ferulic acids and glucosinolates.

Kale-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-acephala)_5_1

Their consumption is associated with a reduced risk of oncological and heart disease, a reduced risk of diabetes and high antioxidant activity.

Bok-choy-sprouts-(Brassica-rapa-var.-chinensis)

Bok choy sprouts (Brassica rapa  var. chinensis)

Bok-choy-sprouts-(Brassica-rapa-var.-chinensis)_6_0

Bok choi sprouts, also known as pichay/petsay, or pok choi, contain kaempferol, quercetin, ferulic, caffeic and p-coumaric acids and glucosinolates.

fagopyrum esculentum

Miso - incredibly tasty and healthy fermented spice

Miso - incredibly tasty and healthy fermented spice

The 7 most useful sprouts and how to prepare them at home - easy and tasty