Plague (disease), a disease caused by Yersinia pestis

An epidemic of infectious disease (medical or agricultural)

A massive attack of other pests afflicting agriculture

Overpopulation in wild animals afflicting the environment and/or agriculture

Plague, collective noun for common grackles

Antonine Plague, an ancient pandemic in 165–189 CE brought to the Roman Empire by troops returning from ...

plague

Why-Use-Herbs-for-Better-Digestion-and-Absorption

Why Use Herbs for Better Digestion and Absorption

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Long before we had drugs at our fingertips in the pharmacy, people all over the world relied on plants to treat some of their ailments, including digestive disorders.

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Today, many of these same botanical drugs remain widespread for use in common symptoms of digestive problems. Bouts of nausea, vomiting, heartburn, dyspepsia, bloating, belching, flatulence or acute diarrhea, when occasionally or mild, can all be treated alone and with good effect.

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More serious or persistent digestive disorders, such as intestinal infections, chronic diarrhea, chronic acid reflux, inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), or peptic ulcers, among others, should be discussed with a qualified specialist. Although these digestive problems can also be treated with herbs, the results can be much more variable, and medical judgment is paramount and most important for a successful outcome.

Botanical-nervous-relaxants

Botanical nervous relaxants

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For a healthy digestive function, our bodies need to be in a relaxed state. When we are in a state of anxiety and stress, the "fight or flight" response is triggered. Then digestion always remains in the background to dealing with stress or stressor. When eating in this state, it is common to develop digestive disorders, be it diarrhea, constipation, or very severe abdominal pain.&nbsp;

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For those whose digestion is easily disturbed by an emotional disorder, botanical nerve relaxants can have a pronounced positive effect on the nervous system, which is naturally followed by relief in the digestive system. They do this by reducing the stress response an adaptive triggering of the sympathetic nervous system, accompanied by simultaneous shutdown of any other bodily function that is not needed in emergencies for survival. Essentially, these herbs help heal our nervous stomachs by making us calmer.&nbsp;

Six-herbs-for-better-digestion-and-absorption

Six herbs for better digestion and absorption

Mint-(Mentha-x-piperita-and-Mentha-spp.)-for-digestion

Mint (Mentha x piperita and Mentha spp.) for digestion

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The use of peppermint essential oil as a digestive aid probably dates back to ancient Greece. A few thousand years later, there is already a set of scientific studies that support its use, especially in the form of enteric coated peppermint oil capsules, for symptomatic relief of irritable bowel syndrome. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apt.14519" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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The enteric coating of the capsule allows peppermint oil to pass undigested through the more acidic upper areas of the gastrointestinal tract to the lower intestine, where, as reported in the British Medical Journal more than 30 years ago, it has the effect of a mild smooth-muscle relaxant that serves to soothe digestive spasm, inhibits gastrointestinal contraction, relieves gas, and reduces pain and discomfort. &nbsp;<a href="http://www.ephysician.ir/index.php/browse-issues/2016/9/480-3024" target="_blank" data-ref="A systematic review study of therapeutic effects of Matricaria recuitta chamomile (chamomile)" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

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You can also use mint in other ways. It is not necessary to suffer from a digestive disorder to enjoy mint, at least in the form of peppermint tea. No adverse effects have been reported from mint tea and it may be the most widely consumed herbal infusion with one ingredient. Even the most delicate stomach will be grateful for a cup of peppermint tea after dinner, thanks to its delicate aroma, taste and all the beneficial effects on digestion.

Chamomile-(Matricaria-recutita,-M.-chamomilla,-Chamomilla-recutita)

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita, M. chamomilla, Chamomilla recutita)

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Chamomile is a plant nerve relaxant that is popular for use in digestive symptoms, used alone or in combination, such as herbal infusion, tincture or homeopathic.&nbsp;

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Chamomile has traditionally been prescribed in the treatment of both acute and chronic stomach distress, such as inflammation and spasms of the digestive organs. Although human research is limited, there are studies of dried chamomile flower extracts demonstrating antispasmodic and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects. Along with the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile, these actions may explain its overall calming effect on digestion.&nbsp;

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Numerous chemical compounds, including apigenin, have been isolated from chamomile flowers. The pharmacological effects of this phenolic flavonoid are not fully understood, but it has been noted that apigenin has an affinity for GABA receptors in the brain where it can exert a natural inhibitory effect on the central nervous system.&nbsp;

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Generally recognized as safe and well tolerated, chamomile may, however, cause rare allergic symptoms in those who are sensitive to plants in the families Asteraceae, Umbelliferae, Amaryllidaceae.

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Melissa-officinalis

Melissa officinalis

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Often formulated in combination products, lemon balm, rosemary, and valerian as the next three herbs are good nerve relaxants that can help eliminate digestive cramps, relieve excess gas, soothe malaise, and reduce pain. There is somewhat limited clinical evidence to support their use, but based on observations and available research, these herbs are generally well tolerated and can be taken orally to help reduce symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders.&nbsp;

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Lemon balm, also known as melissa, is another member of the mint family, used internationally for centuries to relieve gas, cramps and dyspepsia, as well as to increase tranquility.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rosmarinus-officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis

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Rosemary is known for its antispasmodic effects. Studies of the active ingredients of medicinal plants often show biochemical similarities between different species. Rosemary and lemon balm, for example, share a polyphenolic compound known as rosmarinic acid, which contributes to their beneficial effects.

Valerian-officinalis

Valerian officinalis

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Valerian is better known for its effects on anxiety and nervous sleep disorders and is often formulated with other herbs such as hops or lemon balm for use as a mild sedative. Historically, valerian has also been used for gastrointestinal problems, such as intestinal cramps and flatulence. 4

Fennel-(Foeniculum-vulgare)

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) 

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Fennel, also called kopret, field dill, wild dill, pharmacy dill, fennel, false fenugreek, originates from traditional Ayurveda, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean medicine. Preparations from wild fennel leaves and seeds have been noticed as an aid in preventing and relieving the formation of gas and reducing bloating, heartburn and constipation.&nbsp;

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It is also believed that fennel promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes and stimulates appetite. Dill is generally considered safe, although it can rarely cause an allergic reaction. It is not recommended to use it during pregnancy. &nbsp;<a href="https://peerj.com/articles/10308/" target="_blank" data-ref="Effects of dietary fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) seed powder supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, small intestinal morphology, and carcass traits of broilers" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Swedish-bitter---a-well-known-remedy-for-better-digestion

Swedish bitter - a well-known remedy for better digestion

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There are many different formulations, passed down over the centuries by elders familiar with the local flora. Swedish bitter, probably the most famous here in the Western world, originated in Europe in the 16th century, where it was used for a number of gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach cramps. It is believed that one "original" recipe was tincture of aloe (Aloe vera), myrrh (Commiphora myrrha, Commiphora molmol), saffron, senna leaves (Cassia), camphor, angelica root (Angelica), rhubarb root (Rheum rhabarbarum) and other ingredients, in a mixture of several different spirits. Nowadays, there are a number of different preparations called "Swedish bitterness" that contain more diverse combinations of herbs from around the world.

Types-of-herbal-products

Types of herbal products 

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Since we encounter different concepts, it is important to clarify what is the difference between tea, herbal infusion, decoction and tincture. These are the different methods we use to prepare the essential oils and additional active ingredients found in medicinal plants.

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Infusion - similar to a decoction, but generally more powerful, with plant materials being allowed to soak in oil or boiling water for a while.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tincture — an extract prepared by placing herbs or other plant material in a jar of ethanol or another form of alcohol, letting it stand for several weeks or more, periodically shaking, then strained. Sometimes vinegar or glycerin is used instead of alcohol.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Herbal infusion — herbal "tea" brewed in water from any plant material other than the real tea plant (Camellia sinensis)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Decoction — prepared by boiling ground or creased vegetable materials in water, then strained the result.</li></ul>

These are just a few of the many herbs with a long tradition of use in digestive disorders. Look for these herbs at your health food store or groceries, if you have a garden you can grow them there or buy them from the market. Keep in mind that herbs work differently for each person, and not only are they important for good digestion. It is most important to establish what is causing stomach disorders and symptoms in order to eliminate the causes of the problem. And as always, before using herbs for a digestive condition that plagues you, consult a qualified herbalist, naturopath, or other medical person at your discretion.

6 great herbs for better digestion and absorption of nutrients

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Бетина Цветкова

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Author: Sylvia Marinova, PhD student in in the "Genomic Stability" lab at BAS

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Gin tonic - a favorite drink, which we can safely call one of the symbols of warm summer evenings, filled with broad smiles and high spirits in the presence of good company. And this is only the simplest variation of this refreshing drink - with a little imagination one could add wonderful notes of variety and taste, and at the end of the article you will find a few original ideas for easy cocktails with gin. Until then - let's turn to the curious and less familiar facts about the history and benefits of gin.

Where-does-gin-come-from

Where does gin come from

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As a national drink of the British, you might easily think that the gin originated from there. But that's not quite the case. It turns out that the drink has a longer history.

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Francisco Sylvius, physician from the Leiden University, is officially thought to be the discoverer of&nbsp; gin. He was first to describe the production of the drink in the 17th century by distilling fermented cereals, namely malt wine, to which "fruit" of juniper was added during the process.&nbsp; It has strong aromatic and healing properties, and the resulting drink he used as a medicine mainly for kidney problems. He called the juniper liqueur - gin (in Latin juniper is Juniperus).

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Although his name is traditionally mentioned as the discoverer of gin, there is various evidence to suggest that even previously, high-alcohol distilled juniper beverages were well known as a medicinal product [<a href="https://www.diffordsguide.com/g/1108/gin/history-of-gin-1100s-mid-1500s" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]. For example, during the Black Death, the devastating bubonic plague epidemic that spread across Europe in the mid-14th century, there was a belief that distilled juniper drinks helped fight the disease. For this reason, they were very popular.

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Still, how does gin as we know it get to the British and to us? Even before Francisco Sylvius was born, the Dutch had produced large quantities of giniver and traded with it. In the 17th century, during the wars, English soldiers in the low lands called the giniver "Dutch courage". They shortened the name of the drink to gin and brought the new taste to their homeland. Then the gin industry flourished and the famous London gin was born.

What-about-tonic-water?

What about tonic water?

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It is also worth mentioning briefly about the history of tonic - after all, it is half of the drink gin tonic, and its origin is also associated with its healing properties.

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The tonic is a heartless drink and contains a substance called quinine <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Quinine_an_old_anti_malarial_drug_in_a_modern_world_role_in_the_treatment_of_malaria_21609473" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2]</a>, which is&nbsp; due to its bitter taste. Quinine is an alkaloid, which is found in a large amount in the bark of the quinine tree.

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Historically, tonic water was used to prevent and treat malaria. So did the gin tonic drink - when British soldiers were sent to India to colonize it,&nbsp;they had to take a tonic against malaria. To make it tastier, they started mixing it with gin.

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Today, there is much less quinine in the tonic, but it continues to be consumed because of its specific flavor.

Why-juniper

Why juniper

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Juniperus Communis is a shrub or non-tall tree, different parts of which are used in traditional medicine. The needles, bearing twigs and "fruits" are used, which botanically represent cones and it is incorrect to call them so. For simplicity, the article refers to them as "fruits".

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Many biologically active substances are derived from juniper, which are due to its pharmacological properties, among which apigenin, lutin, quercetin, coumarins, dieterpenoids, etc.

Juniper-for-urinary-tract-problems

Juniper for urinary tract problems

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Juniper, as well as some of its close relatives, is used in urinary tract problems. Its leaves contain some antibacterial terpenes. In addition, they also have diuretic properties (increase urination), as well as some other compounds that are found in extracts of the plant.

Juniper-essential-oil---a-cure-for-rheumatism

Juniper essential oil - a cure for rheumatism

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Besides the "fruit", which can be taken either in the form of syrup or by direct chewing and ingestion in a dose specified by a pharmacist or doctor, juniper essential oil also has well-expressed properties. Its use for rheumatic pains is known when it is applied externally (diluted in base oil) by rubbing.

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Essential oil is also very popular in the perfume industry. It is also an integral part of many flavoring preparations due to its pleasant aroma and the ability to neutralize unpleasant odors.

Other-medicinal-properties-of-juniper

Other medicinal properties of juniper

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Juniper is also used for: <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/A_Phytopharmacological_Review_on_a_Medicinal_Plant_Juniperus_communis_27419205" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.3]</a>:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">skin irritations and diseases</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">digestive problems, bloating and heaviness</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">malaria</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">viral, fungal and bacterial infections, etc.</li>
</ul>

Application-of-juniper-in-culinary

Application of juniper in culinary

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Juniper is a very popular spice among prominent chefs and connoisseurs. It can be used in several different ways.

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Used for smoking meat and fish. Add a few twigs of it to the fire and you will be surprised by the pleasant result.

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The "fruits" can be added to the dishes for a sweet and slightly tart taste.

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Last but not least, juniper is added to the marinade for large game during its canning.

Ideas-for-cocktails-with-gin

Ideas for cocktails with gin

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As promised, I will finish the article with a few easy ideas for cocktails containing gin, which could serve as a refreshment during the summer heat, whether you are on the beach, working on the terrace like me on a Sunday evening or at a garden party with close friends. Here they are:

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Cocktail Gimlet with elderflower

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Great combination if you are in the mood for a sweeter taste. You need:

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50 ml gin

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20 ml concentrated elderflower juice

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30 ml lime juice

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The drink is very refreshing, and allows you to also benefit from elderberry syrup. When desired for a less concentrated drink, just add a little tonic or sparkling water

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Gin frieze cocktail

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For fans of more scholarship tastes. For the cocktail you need:

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25 ml lemon juice

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1 tsp caster sugar

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100 ml carbonated water

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ice

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Beat in a shaker all the ingredients without the carbonated water. Add to the end and serve with a slice of lemon.

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Cocktail gin with cucumber

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Very simple, but also very cooling combination is as follows:

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50 ml gin

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100 ml tonic

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20 ml lime juice

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4-5 pieces of thin cucumber strips

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I stop there with the recipes, encouraging everyone to experiment boldly. For example, a few sprigs of mint would fit perfectly into all three cocktails above. For beauty, you could also add a few forest fruit, but it's all a matter of choice. The secret is to balance tastes well, no matter what combination you opt for.

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And the main thing is not to forget to consume the gin, as well as any other alcohol in moderation. Especially in the summer it is also important to take enough other fluids with alcohol so as not to risk further dehydrating.

Healing Properties of Juniper - The Secret of Gin 

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 Healing Properties of Juniper - The Secret of Gin

Силвия Маринова

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

Again, we are on the topic of biting insects, as in the warmer months everything is teeming with life - desirable and not so much. While enjoying the bird song and the sea breeze, someone else probably enjoys our delicious blood.

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Once the damage has been done and the bloodsucker has left the scene, you may be concerned about another thing - curiosity about who caused you the itchy rash and what measures are necessary to be taken.

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In this article, you will see how the traces of bites of the most common insects look, and you will learn some of their peculiarities.

Mosquito-Bite

Mosquito Bite

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There is no way, we will start with the most common bite - that of our old acquaintances mosquitoes. It is a little known fact that their proboscus is made up of several parts, including 6 "needles" and under the skin it becomes flexible to be directed to the nearest blood vessel and poke into it.

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Healing Properties of Juniper - The Secret of Gin

Insect Bites Are Dangerous - How To Recognize What Bit You