Banana: Aid in weight loss, reducing obesity, curing intestinal disorders, relieving constipation, and curing conditions like dysentery, anemia, tuberculosis, arthritis, gout, kidney disorders, urinary disorders, menstrual problems, and burns. They are also good for reducing blood pressure, protecting heart health, modifying the metabolism, improving the immune system, reducing the severity of ulcers, ensuring health benefits, building strong bones, and detoxifying the body.
Barley: Helps prevent and reverse the effects of asthma, arthritis, impotence, skin problems, anemia, obesity, constipation, diabetes, hypertension, kidney problems and heart disease. Consuming whole-grain barley regulates blood sugar and provides an excellent source of soluble and insoluble fibers. Barley contains certain types of phytonutrients known as plant lignans. One of these new lignans is called enterolactone, which helps prevent breast and other hormonal cancers as well as coronary and heart disease.
Basil: Basil and its essential oil have a number of medicinal properties and health benefits. Basil was widely used in ancient times in place like India for various medicinal purposes (Ayurvedic medicine). The herb was used to treat diarrhea, cough, mucous discharges, constipation, indigestion, and certain skin diseases. Other health benefits include its ability to treat nausea, motion sickness, indigestion, constipation, respiratory problems, improve blood circulation, relieve itchiness and diabetes. Basil oil is also a good source of Vitamin A, magnesium, potassium, iron, and calcium.
Bay Leaves: There is not an extensive range of culinary applications for bay leaves, although extracts of bay leaves have numerous medical applications for topical application. It is also a popular element of aromatherapy and herbal treatments for various skin and respiratory conditions. Some of the most impressive health benefits of bay leaves include their ability to detoxify the body, slow the aging process, speed wound healing, protect the body from bacterial infections, manage diabetes, improve heart health, reduce inflammation, alleviate respiratory issues, optimize digestion, and prevent certain types of cancer.
Beans: Protein rich superfoods that are high in iron, fiber, B vitamins and antioxidants. Help regulate blood sugar and digestion, lower cholesterol and reduce risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Beets: Beets have such a wide range of health benefits because of their nutritional content, including vitamins, minerals, and organic compounds like carotenoids, lutein/zeaxanthin, glycine, betaine, dietary fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus, while also being a source of beneficial flavonoids called anthocyanins. They are very low in calories, with no cholesterol, however they do have the highest sugar content of all vegetables. The health benefits of beets include the treatment of anemia, indigestion, constipation, piles, kidney disorders, dandruff, gall bladder disorders, cancer, and heart disease. It also helps to prevent macular degeneration, improve blood circulation, aid in skin care, prevent cataracts and mediate respiratory problems.
Beet Greens: Besides supplying good amounts of protein, phosphorus, and zinc, beet greens are also a great source of fiber. Packed with antioxidants, they’re high in vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, copper, and manganese, and low in fat and cholesterol. Studies have also shown that the vitamin K in beet greens contains blood clotting properties, helps ward off osteoporosis, works with calcium to boost bone strength, and may also play a role in fighting Alzheimer’s disease. Beet greens have a higher iron content than spinach, and a higher nutritional value than the beetroot itself. The vitamin A content in beet greens helps strengthen the immune system and stimulates production of antibodies and white blood cells. The beta-carotene in vitamin A is a known antioxidant that can fight the effects of free radicals in the body along with cancer and heart disease.
Bell Pepper/ Capsicum: The health benefits of capsicum include relief from cancer, peptic ulcer, menopausal problems, low risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic properties and may also provide relief in pain related to arthritis. It also provides relief from fibromyalgia, skin aging and psoriasis. Using whole chili peppers provides the most nutritional value. These peppers contain high amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A. These vitamins are best obtained from the fresh fruit. Capsicum chili’s harvested when red rather than orange and yellow have higher concentrations of these beneficial nutrients. Other beneficial bioactive components of the capsicum chili are the content of flavanoids. Other important bioactive compounds contained in the capsicum chili are alkaloids and tannins. Though in lesser concentrations than vitamin C and vitamin A, these are showing potential in providing health benefits when consumed. Alkaloids work as an anti inflammatory, analgesic, and may also be antioxidant.
Black Currant: Its leaves have a great diuretic capacity; they have anti-rheumatic effects, favoring the elimination of uric acids. The fruits, leaves and buds of the black currant have multiple effects in treating and preventing various diseases. Because it contains vitamin C, the black currant is used in treating cardiovascular diseases, preventing cardiac insufficiency and vascular accidents, it increases the resistance of fragile sanguine capillaries, reduces arterial hypertension. Also, it intensifies weak peripheral circulation caused by menopause, cleans the blood of toxins, wastes and cholesterol. The black currant diet is useful against rheumatism, arthritis and gout. The plant also helps stimulate digestion and the healthy functioning of the liver, pancreas, spleen and kidneys. Because of its diuretic qualities, the plant is useful for people suffering from oliguria. Being astringent, this fruit is useful against diarrhea and dysentery. Black currants are also useful against tiredness and overwork. The diet with these fruits is also recommended to plethoric and lymphatic people and to women who suffer from circulation disorders due to menopause. Black currant is also recommended as a systemic anti-inflammatory agent with actions similar to those of natural cortisone, in cutaneous, acute and chronic allergies, bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, and diabetic retinopathy. In external use, the mixtures from black currant fruits are used for treating abscess, dermatitis, eczemas or bug bites.
Black Pepper: The health benefits of black pepper include relief from respiratory disorders, coughs, the common cold, anemia, impotency, muscular strains, dental disease, pyorrhea, diarrhea, and heart disease. Because of its antibacterial properties, pepper is also used to preserve food. It is a rich source of manganese, iron, potassium, vitamin-C, vitamin K, and dietary fiber. Black pepper is also a very good anti-inflammatory agent. Pepper increases the hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach, thereby facilitating digestion. Proper digestion is essential to avoid diarrhea, constipation and colic. Pepper also helps to prevent the formation of intestinal gas, and when added to a person’s diet, it can promote sweating and urination, which remove toxins from the body. The outer layer of peppercorn assists in the breakdown of fat cells. In Ayurvedic practices, pepper is added to tonics for colds and coughs. Pepper also provides relief from sinusitis and nasal congestion. Enhances Bioavailability in other herbs helping transport their health benefits.
Birch: Birch is a tree. The leaves of the tree, which contain lots of vitamin C, are used to make medicine. Birch is used for infections of the urinary tract that affect the kidney, bladder, ureters, and urethra. It is also used as a diuretic to increase urine output. Some people take birch along with lots of fluids for “irrigation therapy” to flush out the urinary tract. Other uses include treating arthritis, achy joints (rheumatism), loss of hair, and skin rashes. Birch is also used in “Spring cures” for “purifying the blood.” Birch leaves contain chemicals which increase water loss through the urine. The health benefits of Birch Essential Oil can be attributed to its properties as a tonic, disinfectant, stimulant, antidepressant, analgesic, detoxifying, antirheumatic, antiarthritic, diuretic, antiseptic, astringent, febrifuge, germicide, insecticide, and depurative substance.There are two types of birch, the White Birch or Silver Birch, which is scientifically known as Betula Pendula(previously known as Betula Alba), and the Black Birch, Sweet Birch, or Cherry Birch whose scientific name is Betula Lenta. The main constituents of birch oil are Salicylic Acid, Methyl Salicylate, Betulene and Betulenol.
Black Tea: The health benefits of black tea include beneficial impacts for high cholesterol, diarrhea, tooth decay, low-concentration levels, digestive problems, poor blood circulation, high blood pressure, and asthma. Black tea is one of the most popular teas known to man, and is well known for its medicinal qualities and health benefits. During the processing stage, black tea is fermented and oxidized, which gives it the unique color, flavor, and health benefits that are so widely known.
Blackberry: Health benefits of blackberry include better digestive health, strengthened immune defense, healthy functioning of heart, prevention of cancer and relief from endothelial dysfunction. Blackberry provides cognitive benefits and aids in enhancing memory, weight management, keeping the bones strong, healthy skin, improved vision and disease-free eyes, normal blood clotting and may also serve as a valuable food during pregnancy owing to an impressive gamut of healthful nutrients. Vitamins provided by blackberries include vitamins A, B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, folate, C (ascorbic acid), E (alpha-tocopherol), and folate. Mineral wealth of blackberries include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and zinc. Blackberries are also a good source of amino acids and essential dietary fiber without offering any harmful cholesterol.
Blueberry: Blueberries are one of the most nutrient-dense foods in the world and contain large levels and a broad range of antioxidants that combat aging, cancer and harmful disease. Known as “neuro-protective agents” that can literally protect our brains from degeneration, neurotoxicity and oxidative stress. Blueberries promote heart health and aid in digestion and weight loss. They can also treat macular degeneration and improve vision.
Bok Choy: Bok choy is a type of Chinese cabbage that doesn’t look like the typical cabbage. Instead, it has dark green leaves connected to white stalks. One cup has just 9 calories and barely a trace of fat, yet delivers protein, dietary fiber and almost all the essential vitamins and minerals. High in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, vitamin K, magnesium and phosphorus for strong bones; calcium, folates and vitamin B6 promote a healthy heart. Like all members of the cruciferous vegetable family, bok choy has unique sulfur-containing compounds that may reduce the risk of breast, prostate, lung and digestive tract cancers.
Boysenberry: Boysenberries contain a lot of anthocyanins like potassium and folate, which are natural antioxidants that help maintain healthy brain cells by boosting your memory, blood flow and concentration levels. They also protect against oxidative damage that leads to brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease as well as being an excellent source of the much needed memory vitamin B6. Boysenberries are great for growing babies as they contain a high amount of the vitamin B-complex, including folate – something that every OB prescribes to their pregnant patients. They also help improve digestive health as they are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which keeps our digestive tract functioning properly. They have been used to relieve constipation and will help clean out your intestinal tract. Boysenberries are also packed in minerals and vitamins K and C which are crucial to our overall health. Vitamin K is what makes your bones so strong and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Vitamin C helps fight any infections or cancer-causing agents that make it inside of your body.
Brazil Nuts: Extremely nutrient rich and contain protein, copper, niacin, magnesium, fiber, vitamin E and selenium. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes dangerous free radicals in your body and supports the thyroid. It is an essential trace element and has been shown to help protect against cancer, heart disease and premature aging. It is beneficial in small amounts, toxic in large amounts. The body does not produce selenium so it must be obtained through food. It has been mentioned as being good for men to eat each day to help prevent prostate cancer.
Broccoli: It is a very good source of dietary fiber, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin E, manganese, phosphorus, choline, vitamin B1, vitamin A (in the form of carotenoids), potassium, and copper. Broccoli is also a good source of vitamin B1, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, zinc, calcium, iron, niacin, and selenium. Broccoli has a wide variety of nutritional and medicinal benefits, including its ability to prevent many types of cancer, improve our digestive system, lower cholesterol, detoxify the body, maximize vitamin and mineral uptake, prevent allergic reactions, boost the immune system, protect the skin, prevent birth defects, lower blood pressure, eliminate inflammation, and improve vision and ocular health.
Broccoli Rabe/ Rapini: This green leafy vegetable is a great example of a food that can have a huge impact on your nutrition and overall health. It’s packed with potassium, iron and calcium, dietary fiber and as well as vitamins A, C and K. Broccoli rabe also contains lutein, which is an antioxidant that protects the retinas of your eyes from damage caused by free radicals. Broccoli rabe is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. The health benefits are numerous and include slowing the signs of aging, promoting stronger bones, decreasing the risk of hypertension, reducing inflammation, as well as protecting against cancer, Alzheimer’s, stroke and birth defects.
Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts are rich in many valuable nutrients and are an excellent source of vitamin C and K. They are a very good source of nutrients including folate, manganese, vitamin B1 and B6, dietary fiber, choline, copper, potassium, phosphorus, and omega-3 fatty acids. Brussels sprouts provide special nutrient support for three body systems that are closely connected with cancer development as well as cancer prevention:(1) the body's detox system, (2) its antioxidant system, and (3) its inflammatory/anti-inflammatory system. Chronic imbalances in any of these three systems can increase risk of cancer, and when imbalances in all three systems occur simultaneously, the risk of cancer increases significantly. Among all types of cancer, prevention of the following cancer types is most closely associated with intake of Brussels sprouts: bladder cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and ovarian cancer.
Buckwheat: Buckwheat is a very useful plant source for a wealth of health benefits, including a reduction in blood pressure, prevention of certain types of cancer, management of diabetes, improved digestion and cholesterol levels, boosted immune system, elimination of gallstones, protection from asthma attacks, and relief from constipation and other intestinal conditions. These benefits can mostly be attributed to the impressive range of proteins, minerals, antioxidants, and aromatic compounds found in buckwheat. Buckwheat is one of those valuable foods that contain high-quality proteins, meaning that it has all eight essential amino acids, including lysine. A single cup of buckwheat has more than 20% of your daily fiber recommendation, and has almost no calories.
Bulgur: Bulgur wheat is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, traditionally used to make tabbouleh and pilafs. Whole wheats, like bulgur, are richer in nutrients and vitamins than refined, processed wheat, which has been stripped of many beneficial ingredients. Low in fat, high in fiber and rich in minerals, bulgur wheat is a healthy dietary choice. Eating bulgur wheat may help to alleviate chronic inflammation, thereby protecting against some diseases and cancer Bulgur wheat may help reduce your risk of developing gallstones. Insoluble fiber in whole wheat helps food move more rapidly through the intestines, reduces the secretion of bile, helps your body use insulin more effectively and lowers triglycerides, or unhealthy fats found in the blood. In addition to providing these beneficial effects, which may help guard against gallstones, the fiber in bulgur wheat may alleviate symptoms of diverticular disease. It is also a great source of manganese, which is essential to healthy rain and nerve functioning.
Burdock: The first real use of burdock is recorded in the medieval period, but it is also known in Chinese herbal medicine, and likely dates back considerably further. There are a number of ways to prepare burdock as either a food or an herbal medicine, making it highly sought after around the world, as several species have spread globally from the Old World. The root of burdock is perhaps the most valued, as it can be eaten in large quantities as a root vegetable, and is very rich in important fibers. The dried leaves and seeds can also be used to extract burr oil, which has a wide range of medicinal uses. Some of the most impressive health benefits of burdock include its ability to aid digestion, detoxify the liver, balance hormones, improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure.
Butter: Butter is actually a very beneficial part of a person’s diet that can improve your immune system, regulate our hormones, protect our vision, boost metabolism, increase brain function, reduce chances of heart disease and blood pressure, and protect you from cancer. Furthermore, butter can protect against gastrointestinal conditions, while ensuring proper development of brain and nervous system development. These positive qualities of butter are mainly due to the impressive amounts of vitamins and minerals that are found in butter. This includes vitamin A, D, E, and K, as well as essential minerals like manganese, chromium, iodine, zinc, copper and selenium. This is only a partial list of the most notable and important benefits, but with the wide array of nutrients in butter, more potential benefits are being discovered all the time. Butter is mainly composed of fats, not all of which are harmful, and many of which are essential to human health.
Butternut Squash: Butternut squash is high in fiber, phytonutrients, antioxidants, carotenoids (especially beta-carotene), vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, potassium, magnesium, and manganese. The high fiber content if butternut squash is a prebiotic that supports healthy bacteria in the gut and promotes regularity. High fiber helps to manage blood sugar, reduce inflammation and diseases associated with inflammation (cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity), and increased immune function. Beta-carotene, that the body turns into vitamin A, helps prevent colon cancer and asthma and helps maintain healthy eyes, hair, and skin, as it boosts immunity along with vitamin C. Its potassium content helps maintain a healthy blood pressure and overall health.