Making Curcumin from Turmeric Root.

As you will recall, curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric root. It is bright orangish-red in color and will stain everything it comes in contact with. I sprinkle a pinch or two of curcumin powder on everything I cook. Turmeric root is expensive, costing about $8.00 a pound at a produce market, so if you have the time and space, it pays to grow your own root. Turmeric root is very slow growing and will take nearly a year to mature and be ready for harvest. Be aware of the fact that some of the turmeric root sold in supermarkets has been treated with a chemical to suppress growth, this makes it almost impossible to grow in the garden. Once you have the root converting it to Curcumin is relatively simple, if a bit laborious and expensive. The first step is to boil the root for approximately 45 minutes. Next, place the root in a pan of cold water to cool it. The root is difficult to slice if still hot from the boiling process. At this point, the root must be sliced into 3 to 4 mm pieces so it can be dried. I dry the sliced pieces of root in a dehydrator at 400 degrees F for 24 hours. Dehydrators are expensive, but I know of no practical alternative to a commercial grade dehydrator when it comes to drying the root. Place the turmeric slices on one of the dehydrator racks, set the drying time and temperature and forget about it. Remove the dried root from the racks in 24 hours. At this point the slices will be hard as a rock. The next step is to grind the dried pieces of turmeric root into a powder. This step is performed with a commercial grade heavy duty vegetable grinder. At this point, the finely ground Curcumin is ready to use. Remember, you have to add black pepper to the curcumin if it is to be taken orally and absorbed from the intestinal tract. A ratio of four parts curcumin to one-part black pepper works well. In any case, this, obviously, is very time consuming and expensive process which explains, in part, the high cost of commercial Curcumin products sold on the internet and elsewhere. I’ll have more to say about the value of these Curcumin based products in my next post.

It Would Be Difficult To Over-Emphasize The Nutritional Value Of Turmeric Root. The most important ingredient of this tuber is, curcumin, one of the most powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents yet discovered. This remarkable natural substance has an ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) of 127,068, as compared to a glass of red wine (3607) or a cup of blue berries (8030). In short, curcumin is one of, if not, the most potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents ever discovered. Inflammation is the precursor to most chronic diseases including Alzheimer’s, most forms of chronic cardiovascular disease and many forms of cancer. Most significantly, for many of us, aging isdirectly related to the various forms of chronic inflammation. So, how do we take advantage of this marvelous natural ingredient? There are two ways to make use of the curcumin in turmeric root. The first is the use turmeric soap. Simply wash daily with a Turmeric-based soap. This will greatly improve the quality of your skin and reduce the chances of developing conditions like senile keratosis. In fact, the daily application of turmeric soap will reverse some of the ill-effects of keratosis and similar skin conditions related to aging. Now, more importantly, how can we take advantage of the potential systemic benefits of the curcumin found in turmeric root. Curcumin has been used for years as a spice and medical remedy in India and other areas of Asia. Unfortunately, most of the curcumin we ingest is not absorbed in the gastrointestinal track and, thus, is of no significant value to us. In this respect, of great importance, was the discovery that the intestinal absorption of Curcumin is greatly enhanced by the presence of black pepper. This simple and inexpensive “trick” enhances the absorption of curcumin by an astounding 2000%. Several commercial brands of curcumin contain Piperine, the active ingredient in black pepper; however, small amounts of black pepper are as effective as this more expensive additive in enhancing Curcumin absorption. In this respect, just add a pinch or two of black pepper to your Curcumin and “you are off to the races!” So, how much curcumin should you be taking daily? As you might expect, the recommended dose of curcumin varies somewhat depending on the studies published. A summary of the material I reviewed suggests that the recommended dosage of curcumin is usually about 600 mgs taken three times a day. This, of course, varies somewhat depending on which of medical conditions one is attempting to treat. But, in general, one should be consuming approximately one level tsp of curcumin powder combined with black pepper each day. For most of us, sprinkling a pinch or two of Curcumin-black pepper mix on the foods we eat is probably adequate.

To death and back!

I haven't posted anything for over a month because I suffered a major heart attach on Easter Sunday and had open heart surgery two days later. If all goes well, expect to be back on the job within a week or so. In the mean time, there is a lot of useful information in my past blogs.

8. Pomegranates

Surprise, surprise I’ll bet you didn’t know that pomegranates were a berry. I didn’t either until I began reading about the health benefits of this large member of the berry family. The small seeds in the pomegranate are called arils and their bright red color gives you a clue as to how healthful and nutritious they are. As we have learned in this review of superfoods, bright colors usually are associated with health and nutrition. The ORAC value of pomegranates is 3302. Pomegranates are rich in fiber and vitamins C and B6. However, this is not the main reason we should be eating pomegranates. There are two unique substances in pomegranate arils that are primarily responsible for their health benefits. First, the punicalagins in this berry are extremely powerful. Punicalagins have three times the antioxidant activity of red wine or green tea. Second, punic acid, also known as pomegranate seed oil, is a type of conjugated linoleic acid that has several extremely beneficial health benefits. Chronic inflammation is a leading cause of many often-fatal diseases including heart disease, various forms of cancer, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and obesity. The anti-inflammatory punicalagin’s in pomegranate juice help reduce the adverse effects of inflammation in these dread diseases. Here are some of the ways pomegranate juice can reduce risk of developing specific forms of cancer and other medical problems. Prostate cancer Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and over 22,000 men die from this cancer each year. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a blood marker for prostate cancer, it increases as the prostate cancer cells increase in number and invade normal body tissues. The PSA doubling time is a good indication of how fast the prostate cancer is spreading throughout the body. A recent study found that 8 ounces of pomegranate juice per day increased the PSA doubling time from 15 months to 54 months which, ladies and gentlemen, is huge! A follow-up study achieved similar results with a pomegranate extract called POMx. Now, no one is claiming that pomegranate juice provides a cure for prostate cancer. However, the juice of a pomegranate does inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells and increases the life span of those suffering from prostate cancer. To date, no studies have been performed to determine if pomegranate juice can inhibit the development of prostate cancer. Breast cancer Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. As with prostate cancer, pomegranate extract has been shown to inhibit the reproduction of breast cancer cells and may even kill them. Unfortunately, to date, there have been no human studies to confirm the value of pomegranate juice or extracts in the treatment or development of breast cancer cells. Why is this? Possibly, because such research would be extremely expensive and not cost effective considering the relatively low cost of pomegranate juice and extracts. Hypertension High blood pressure is one of the leading precursors to heart attacks and strokes. One study showed that people with hypertension had a significant reduction in blood pressure after consuming only 5 ounces of pomegranate juice daily for as little as two weeks. In this respect, pomegranate juice was especially useful in controlling systolic hypertension (the high number). Interestingly, I have hypertension and I can’t recall any of my doctors suggesting that I might start off my day by drinking a glass of pomegranate juice. Arthritis and joint pain Arthritis is one the most common malady’s in western civilization. Arthritis comes in many different forms but most types involve some form of inflammation of the joints. Given that many of the compounds in pomegranates have anti-inflammatory effects, it is not surprising that they would be helpful in the treatment of arthritis and joint pain. And this belief is substantiated by several laboratory studies. These studies have shown that pomegranate extract can block enzymes that are known to damage the joints of people who suffer from osteoarthritis. Pomegranate extracts are beneficial in the treatment of arthritis in mice. Human studies are needed to substantiate these finding in humans. Erectile dysfunction Oxidative damage can impair blood blow in all areas of the body. Pomegranate juice has been shown to increase the blood flow and erectile response in rabbits. In a study of 53 men with erectile dysfunction, pomegranate juice seemed to have some benefit but the results were not statistically significant. Fighting infections The nutrients in pomegranates can help prevent infections in the mouth and genital tract from harmful bacteria and yeasts such as Candida Albicans. They are particularly useful in conditions like gingivitis, periodontitis and denture stomatitis. Improving memory A substantial amount of evidence suggests that pomegranate extract can improve memory after surgery. Another study showed that 8 ounces of pomegranate juice daily significantly improved markers of verbal and visual memory. There also is some evidence from studies in mice that pomegranate extract can prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Exercise performance Pomegranates are rich in nitrates which are known to improve exercise performance. In one study of athletes running on a treadmill, one gram of pomegranate extract given 30 minutes before exercise significantly enhanced blood flow leading to a delay in the onset of fatigue and an increase in exercise efficiency. Summary When all is said and done, pomegranates are among the healthiest foods on the planet. They are indeed a superfood of the highest order right, up there with Goji berries and turmeric root. As with many of the more exotic superfoods, pomegranates are reasonably expensive as are their extracts. Fortunately, pomegranates are easy to grow. They can be grown as a bush or a tree.

Who should pay for the wall?

There are many arguments for and against the wall which I will not address in this post, other than to say that without boarders we are not a Nation State and never will be. In any case, one of the main arguments against the wall is its cost which liberals, and some conservatives, maintain we can’t afford. At this point, the United States has a debt approaching 21 trillion. I maintain that no one reading this blog can comprehend the magnitude of a figure such as this. The truth is that no one alive today has lived under a fiscally sound form of government, for more than very short periods of time, and we are not likely to in the future. Our government is based, not on what we can pay for, but on what we can borrow. I have no idea how much we can steal from future generations before this house of cards crumbles, and I doubt if anyone else does either. In fact, few if any seem to care. Certainly, The Donald is not the slightest bit concerned about our debt and will agree to spend whatever in may take to achieve what he perceives as the goals of our nation. In any case, the cost of the wall, In the grand scheme of things, is “small potatoes”. One thing’s for sure though, no one in Washington DC is the slightest bit concerned about the debt, certainly not the liberals who basically believe that money grows on trees and is just “there for the picking”. To believe the libs are the slightest bit concerned about the wall’s cost is blatantly absurd! No, these low-lives are only interested in the advantages they perceive will be gained from the illiterates that are streaming across our porous boarders by the thousands each and every day. But, getting back to the main point, why should we be so concerned about spending a few billion dollars to secure our boarders. We will end up spending ten times that amount to build Jerry Brown’s “choo-choo” train to nowhere and the hundreds of other boondoggles that Washington and the various State Legislatures force down our throats each day. No, a nation without boarders is nothing more than an illusion and a ticket to third world poverty as we can see on every inner-city street corner in America today. So, let’s build the damned wall without further ado, at this point I don’t care who pays for it and neither should you! In the end we will at least have a wall, even if we don’t have anything meaningful left to put in it.

Lets Arm The Teachers!

Why are the miscreants shooting up our schools? The answer is simple, because that is an easy place for them to inflict their carnage. It's really as simple as that. The solution is equally simple and straight forward, we need to arm our school personnel. There are a lot of misconceptions to this simple and straight forward solution to the problem. First, this is a freedom of choice issue. If the liberals on the East and West coasts want to concentrate on the gun issue that is their choice, let the slaughter of the innocents in their schools continue. For the rest of us, we need to concentrate on the root cause of the problem which results from the fact that our political leaders, both right and left, refuse to address the problem on the mentally ill which roam our streets with abandon. The bottom line is that we need to keep these Wackos away from our children. We accomplish this by shooting first and asking questions later. In this respect, there is a lot of unnecessary confusion with respect to who should be armed. The more the better, but realistically, only a small percentage of our school personnel need to be armed to greatly increase the safety of the school environment. Who should be included in this group? First, no one should be forced to participate in this protection program, but those that do should be paid a reasonable stipend, in addition to their salary, if they are willing to step up and provide protection for our children. OF course, those that volunteer for the gun patrol will have to be trained to carry and use a firearm. Fortunately, there are many people well trained in firearms already on our campuses, including retired military officers, retired policemen and a whole host of sportsmen who know how to use a gun. I expect, many, if not most of these people, would volunteer to carry a gun, or better yet a concealed weapon, if it would increase the safety of our schools, especially if they were paid a little extra to do so. I do not believe, for a second, that the crazies roaming the streets of our cities would pick a school yard to take out their frustrations on society if they knew that they were more likely than not to be shot the second they reached for a gun. Maybe some of them would, but certainly they would be put out of their misery before they killed 15 or twenty innocent children, as is now so often the case. As with many of our societal problems, the answer to these mass school shootings is simple, arm the teachers and school personnel before a crazy decides to shoot up another school!

6. Blackberries

One cup of black berries provides 32% of our daily need for fiber and 50% of our daily requirement for vitamin C. The ORAC value of blackberries is 2036. General Health benefits Studies have shown that blackberries have more antioxidant content than most foods. Anthocyanins give the berry its glossy dark color and it is this powerful phyonutrient that protects the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of age related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Blackberries have been used to fight cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. Anti-cancer effects There is a growing body of evidence that show that berries such as blackberries are among the most potent cancer-fighting foods. Blackberries are rich in cyanidin 3-glucoside, ellagic acid, lignans and myricetin. All of these substances protect against the development of cancer. For example, postmenopausal women with breast cancer who consume high amounts of plant lignans are less likely to die from their breast cancers than those who have low intake of lignans. Cyanidin 3- glucoside has profound chemotherapeutic and chem-protective activity. Ellagic acid, another potent ingredient in blackberries, has been shown to inhibit cancer formation and myricetin has potent antioxidant action. It is thought that the combination of the beneficial compounds in blackberries may be more effective in the prevention of malignancies than any one of the chemicals alone. Propagation Blackberries are easy to grow and propagate wild in many areas along the west coast. These delicious berries also are readily available at farmers markets throughout California and elsewhere.

Turmeric- The Miracle Root

Turmeric Root, or curcumin, while relatively flavorless, is one of the most nutritious vegetables on the face of our planet. This remarkable tuber has a ORAC value of a remarkable 159,277! In this respect, it is approximately 120 times more nutritious than spinach in its ability to prevent cancer and slow the effects of aging. I add a pinch or two of this remarkable dried powder to nearly everything I cook. The nutritional value of turmeric root can be enhanced by adding dried black pepper at a ratio of one-part pepper to 100 parts turmeric powder to further enhance its nutritional value. If you peruse the internet web sites pertaining to the manufacture of turmeric powder you will find a lot of confusing and meaningless suggestions as to its production. First, you are led to believe that the turmeric root must be prepared by removing its outer layer (skin) before drying it and grinding it into a powder. This laborious task is usually performed with a spoon or a potato peeler. However, in truth, there is little or no difference in the end product if the root is simply sliced up thinly (into sections that are approximately 1/8 inches thick) , and placed in a dehydrator or other implement for drying. The outer skin of the tuber, whether removed or left intact, does not seem to have a significant effect on the taste or consistency of the end product. This tip alone will save you an incredible amount of needless work! An equally important question is, where can you purchase turmeric root? First, let me point out that this stuff is expensive, irrespective of where you buy it. Expect to pay at least $10.00 a pound for the bare root. The turmeric root that is most often sold at your local super market usually has been treated with a chemical to increase its shelf life. This chemical also inhibits its growth; thus, it is difficult or impossible to transplant a tuber purchased at a supermarket. The grocery clerk usually will have no clue as to whether or not their product has been so treated. In this respect, your best option is to try to locate a local produce market which sells fresh turmeric roots. Turmeric root is easy to grow if you can locate the untreated roots. Health Benefits of Turmeric Root Well, where to start? It is difficult to exaggerate the importance of a nutrient that has an Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity (ORAC) of 159,277, one of the highest ever recorded. In short, this stuff is one of the most potent nutrients known to mankind. Here are a few of the most important nutritional properties of this remarkable root. Anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic low level inflammation plays a major role in almost every chronic disease. These chronic, and potentially deadly inflammatory conditions, include heart disease, aging, Alzheimer's, and almost every degenerative disease you can think of. Most importantly, possibly, is the role that chronic inflammation of the endothelium (lining of the blood vessels) plays in the development of all forms of heart disease. As such, it is one of the most important factors in the ultimate demise of all human beings as well as our closest friends in the canine community. Antioxidant capacity. Oxidative damage from free radicals contributes to many chronic diseases and, most importantly all forms of aging. Curcumin, the primary ingredient in Turmeric root, is a powerful antioxidant. It also stimulates the development of the body's own antioxidant enzymes. The ORAC primarily measures the antioxidant capacity of Turmeric root which is a whooping 159,277. I cannot emphasize this point often enough! Curcumin, the primary polyphenol of Turmeric root, is the pigment that gives the root its orange color. As mentioned above this remarkable compound has anti-tumor, anti-oxidant, anti-arthritic, anti-amyloid, anti-ischemic and, most importantly, anti-inflammatory properties. These anti-oxidant properties also help control LDL or "bad cholesterol". Rich Source of Vitamins and minerals. Turmeric root is a rich source of vitamins, including Vitamins B and C and most of the other minerals that are associated with good health. Finally, to once again, emphasize the nutritional value of Turmeric root in our daily lives consider these facts.. The ORAC value of Turmeric is one of the highest known of any herb or spice. Just a few grams of Turmeric a day, irrespective of how you take it, will help prevent anemia, neuritis, memory problems and protect against cancer, infectious diseases, hypertension, strokes and Alzheimer's disease. How to grow it. Turmeric Root is easy to grow. As mentioned above, the main problem you will have reproducing this incredible tuber is to find a source that has not been treated with a chemical that prevents root growth. A trip to a local market specializing in produce may be your best bet. Once you have the roots they are easy to grow in pots or in the garden simply by transplanting them in the soil. Unfortunately, it will take about a year to produce sizable roots, so time is of the essence.

5. Raspberries

Raspberries Few of the things we eat are tastier than a freshly picked raspberry and even fewer are more healthful. The antioxidant ORAC value for red raspberries is 5065 while that of black raspberries is a whopping 19,220. One cup of raspberries provides 43% of our daily requirement of vitamin C, 41% of our need for manganese and one third of our daily requirement for fiber. In this chapter, we will discuss the ways this wonderful berry works to improve your health, decrease the effects of aging, lower your chances of developing cancer, improve your cardiovascular health and much more. Premature aging Raspberries contain vitamin C and many other water soluble vitamins that are essential for normal metabolism. These vitamins are not stored in the body and need to be replaced regularly. The anti-oxidants found in raspberries are particularly effective in slowing down the aging process. Premature aging is caused by free radicals that result from a variety of factors including pollution, smoking, exposure to UV rays and other unhealthy lifestyles. The ant-oxidants in the raspberries neutralize the free radicals that cause premature aging and gives you a taut healthy looking skin. Protects against cancer The life expectancy of Americans is increasing with each generation. The incidence of cancer increases as we age. Of particular importance in this respect is the finding that the ellagic acid in raspberries lowers the incidence of cancer. One study even suggests that increasing the daily intake of raspberries can destroy existing cancer cells. This cancer cell killing process, called apoptosis, is applicable to most cancers including breast, colon, pancreas, esophagus, skin and prostate cancers. Raspberries also contain additional ant-oxidants that help to prevent other forms of abnormal cell growth. Eye health The rich array of antioxidants in raspberries protects the eye’s retina from oxidative stress. Specifically, these antioxidants help prevent cataract formation and age-related macular degeneration, one of the most common causes of blindness in the older generation. The antioxidants, vitamins A and C and phenols in raspberries also stimulates the production of the watery fluid formed by the eye membranes and, thus, which prevents the condition known as the “Dry Eye” syndrome. Ant-inflammatory properties The phytonutrients, antioxidants and tannins in raspberries fight inflammation and infections throughout the body, especially in the stomach, intestines, bones and cardiovascular systems. Raspberries reduce the severity of arthritis and decrease the risk of fracture in people with various types of bone disease. We now know that stomach ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection of the stomach wall. The anti-inflammatory and infection fighting properties of the phytonutrients in raspberries are useful in controlling the symptoms associated with this common gastrointestinal condition. Diabetes As with many of the superfoods, the high fiber content of raspberries helps control the blood sugar levels in diabetics and is helpful in preventing type 2 diabetes in people who are susceptible to the disease, especially in individuals who are obese. The tiliroside in raspberries stimulates the production of adiponectin which helps stabilize insulin and blood sugar levels in people with this diabetes. The adiponectin in raspberries also stimulates the breakdown of sugar in our bodies and, by so doing, helps to stabilize blood sugar. Finally, it is important to note that the natural sugar in raspberries is fructose which does not require insulin for metabolism; thus, diabetics do not have to worry about elevated blood sugars when they consume raspberries. Obesity Raspberries have extremely low fat content and are rich in fiber, both of these properties are important in the prevention of obesity. In addition, raspberries contain ketones called rheosmins which stimulates the burning of fat stored in the abdomen and elsewhere throughout the body by breaking down the lipids in fat cells. Raspberry ketones also reduce the body’s capacity to absorb excess fat. Cardiovascular health The salicylates in raspberries have anti-coagulative properties that discourage blood clots and, thus, decrease the chances of heart attacks and strokes. The potassium in Raspberries also encourages optimal function of the heart muscles. As with berries in general, raspberries increase the levels of “good” cholesterol in the body and which also reduces the chances of developing cardiovascular disease. Women’s health The carotenoids, citric acid, fragrine and vitamins in raspberries, and especially the raspberries’ leaf, decrease menstrual flow and cramps during the menstrual cycle. They also are said to reduce pain and hemorrhage during childbirth. These healthful compounds increase milk flow in lactating mothers. As mentioned above, the phytonutrients in raspberries also decrease a women’s chances of developing cervical cancer.

4. Cranberries

One cup of cranberries provides 22% of our daily requirement of vitamin C and 18% of our requirement of fiber. Raw cranberries have a relatively high ORAC value of 9584 which means that they are capable of destroying the free radicals that damage our DNA and predispose us to various diseases and cancer. However, cranberries primary claim to fame is their ability to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections in women. Cranberries also have been used to treat cardiovascular, various cancers and dental conditions. The treatment of urinary tract infections Recurrent urinary tract infections are a common problem in adult females. This is especially true for females who suffer from urinary incontinence and must wear diapers. Cranberries contain high levels of proanthocyanidins which prevents the adhesion of common bacteria to the bladder wall which makes it difficult for the bacteria establish themselves on the bladder wall. Unfortunately, it takes very high concentrations of proanthocyanidins in the urine to achieve this goal. Such levels cannot be achieved by drinking the cranberry juice we buy at the supermarket. Thus, with respect to the treatment or prevention of urinary tract infections, the beneficial effects that can be derived from cranberries can only be achieved by eating the fresh or dried berries or by consuming cranberry capsules. Cardiovascular disease Some evidence suggests that the polyphenols in cranberries can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by preventing platelet build-up and reducing blood pressure. Cancer Research has shown that the ingredients in cranberries slow tumor progression in people with prostate, liver, breast, ovarian and colon cancers. Dental The same proanthocyanidins in cranberries that help prevent urinary tract infections also improve oral health by preventing bacteria from binding to the teeth and gums. Propagation Cranberries are difficult to grow from seeds but relatively easy to grow from cuttings.

3. Cape Gooseberries

3. Cape Gooseberries Most people have never heard of a cape gooseberry and few have had an opportunity to taste this unique berry. They are also known as Peruvian ground cherries, Rasbhari berries and Golden Berries. They are easy to grow in a temperate climate and are very nutritious. Most people simply remove the husk and eat the berries raw. They also can be made into jams, jellies, added to salads, and made into sauces for pasta. Dried gooseberries will enhance the flavor of just about any dish. This berry is loaded with polyphenols and carotenoids and 100 grams of the berry provides 14% and 18% respectively of our daily requirements of vitamin A and C. A 100 gram serving of ground cherries also provides 4 grams of protein. Finally, Rasbharies are rich in B vitamins, thiamine and niacin. Cape gooseberries have a ORAC of 3874 which makes them reasonably effective in fighting the free radicals that are so harmful to our bodies. Here are some of the most important health benefits of this unique berry. Bone health Cape gooseberries facilitate calcium absorption which makes the bones stronger and their extracts have been used to treat rheumatism and dermatitis. Anti-bacterial properties Clinical studies have shown that cape gooseberry extracts will kill both gram negative and gram positive bacteria including E. coli Staph aurous, Enterococcus and Pseudomonas and they have been used to treat a wide variety of bacterial conditions. Asthma Cape gooseberries contain ant-inflammatory agents that are useful in the treatment of asthma and related pulmonary diseases. Eye health The vitamin A in cape gooseberries decreases the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Cardiovascular benefits The polyphenols and cartenoids in cape gooseberries reduce the risk of hypertension and heart disease. Traditional uses in folk medicine The Rasbhari berry has been used to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including malaria, rheumatism, dermatitis, asthma, hepatitis, leukemia and other forms of cancer. Potential health hazard Unripe cape gooseberries, berries that are green in color, contain mild forms of poisonous alkaloids which may cause allergies; thus, to be on the safe side, do not consume berries that are green in color or berries that have a green husk. Propagation of cape gooseberries This berry is extremely easy to grow in a temperate climate. They do best in full sunlight and when grown in an organically rich soil. The branches of this berry should be tied to a three wire trellis similar to the one described in the chapter on Goji berries. If not grown on a trellis the branches of berry will sprawl over the ground. This will impede the ripening of the berry and complicate their harvest. Preferably, cape gooseberries should not be harvested until they are fully ripe and have fallen to the ground. I harvest my berries on a weekly basis by shaking the berries' branches gently and picking up the yellow colored husks which have fallen to the ground. Cape gooseberries are easy to propagate from seeds or cuttings.

3. Blueberries

Unlike Goji berries, blueberries are native to the United States and readily available in our stores and markets most of the year. Many people consume them because they like their taste and may not fully realize the nutritional value of this remarkable berry. Blue berries are closely related to cranberries and huckleberries. Blueberries, with a ORAC of 2400 have the highest level of antioxidants of any commonly consumed fruit or vegetable (note- Goji berries are not commonly consumed in the United States or, for that matter, the rest of the western world). Blue berries also are rich in vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese. Prevention of cardiovascular disease and aging Anthocyanins are the primary antioxidant compounds in blue berries. Anthocyanins protect our bodies from the free radicals that contribute to aging and cardiovascular disease. The high content of anthocyanins in blueberries also counter the buildup of plaque in our arteries and thus reduce the risk of heart attaches and other forms of cardiovascular disease. In one study, 168 participants were instructed to drink one liter of a mixture of blueberry and apple juice for one month. At the end of the study oxidative DNA damage due to free radicals was reduced by 20% as compared to the controls who did not drink the juice. Similarly, a study of 93,000 nurses who were on a diet high in Anthocyanins were found to have 32% decrease in the risk of heart disease and heart attacks. Prevention of eye disease While not as rich in vitamin C as Goji berries, every cup of blueberries supplies about 25% of our daily requirement of this important vitamin. As disused above vitamin C reduces intraocular pressure and the risk of glaucoma, the second most common cause of blindness. Cancer prevention The anthocyanins, which give blueberries, their blue color, attach the free radicals that damage DNA and cause cancer, In this respect, scientists at the University of Illinois have suggested that blueberries can be used to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Prevent urinary tract infections You probably know that cranberry juice can be used to treat and prevent urinary tract infection. Cranberries contain compounds that prevent bacteria from binding to the bladder wall. Blueberries also contain similar substances which inhibit bacteria like E.coli from adhering to the bladder wall. Brain health Scientists at the USDA found that object memory loss in rats, which occurs normally with age, can be prevented and even reversed, by feeding them blueberries. Similarly, researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that older adults who consumed blueberry juice scored higher on memory tests that did a control group that received a placebo. Blueberries prevent the formation of "bad" cholesterol. Oxidative damage in our bodies is not limited to our cells and DNA. It is well established that oxidation of our circulating LDL lipoproteins is a crucial step in the development of cardiovascular disease. The antioxidants in blueberries reduce the levels of oxidized LDL and, thus, reduce our risk of heart attaches, strokes and other forms of cardiovascular disease. A daily 50 gram serving of blueberries lowered LDL oxidation by 27% in obese people and a 75 gram serving of blueberries significantly reduced the oxidation of LDL lipoproteins in normal people. Blood pressure Obese individuals who consumed 50 grams (1.7 ounces) of blueberries a day for eight weeks had a 4-6% reduction on blood pressure. Other studies have found similar results in post-menopausal women. Since high blood pressure is one of the leading causes of heart attacks and strokes the implications of studies like this are extremely significant, if not earth shattering. Anti-diabetic effects As compared to other fruits, blueberries have relatively little sugar. One cup of blue berries contain about 15 grams of sugar which is equivalent to that of a small apple or large orange. However, the anthocyanins in blue berries outweigh any negative effects that the sugar may have when it comes to blood pressure control. Anthocyanins increase insulin sensitivity (makes insulin more effective in controlling blood sugar) and glucose metabolism. In a study of 32 obese people with insulin resistance one blueberry smoothie a day resulted in significant improvements in insulin sensitivity. Improved insulin sensitivity also lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes. How to preserve blueberries Fortunately, blue berries do not lose their antioxidant properties if frozen for periods of three to six months. This is good news for those who grow blueberries and wants to freeze them so that they may be enjoyed year around. It also means that the blueberries that you find in the freezer section of your supermarket are just as healthful as the fresh ones grown in your garden. Organic blueberries A recent study revealed that organically grown high bush blueberries had significantly higher concentrations of total phenol antioxidants and total anthocyanin antioxidants than their conventionally grown commercially counterparts. This came as no surprise to those of us who grow our food organically. Propagation Blueberries are relatively easy to grow from soft or hard wood cuttings. Alternately, they can be grown from seeds. To thrive well blueberries should be grown in an acid soil. The simplest, safest and cheapest way to lower the Ph of your soil is to simply work spent coffee grounds to the soil around your blueberry plants once or twice a year. Most of the coffee shops in your area will be glad to give you bags of spent coffee grounds, all you have to do is ask for them.

Super Foods Part 1. THE BERRY KINGDOM

I expect that most people eat berries because they like the flavor of the berries, giving little or no thought to their nutritional value. As we will see shortly, not all berries are created equal. Some, like the strawberry, have very little dietary value while others, like the Goji berry, are packed vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and almost everything else that is good for you. In the second part of this book we will explore the nutritional benefits of leafy green vegetables, which, while not as tasty as berries, are also packed with nutritional value. Finally, in part three, we will explore the nutritional benefits of the fruits we eat. I know you will benefit from this ride through the world of foods we consume on a daily basis. Let’s begin our journey with the most nutritious berry of them all, the Goji berry.

1. The Magical Goji Berry

Of all the super foods, the Goji berry, also known as the wolfberry, has the longest and most renowned history. The health benefits of the Goji berry were first recognized by a doctor who was studying an ancient society in the remote mountains of the Himalayas. He found that many members of this social order lived for a hundred years or more without the usual signs of aging such as graying hair, loss of teeth and diminished eye sight.

Eventually, he recognized that most of these individuals lived near water wells which were over grown with Goji berry plants. He concluded that, as the berries ripened, they fell into the water where their ingredients dissolved in the liquid and subsequently consumed by the villagers who relied on the well for their daily water supply.

History also suggests that Professor Li Qing Yuen, the oldest person to have lived in recorded history, attributed his longevity to having consumed Goji berries every day of his life. Professor Yuen was born in 1678 and died in 1930, having lived 252 years. Yuen didn't live as long as Methuselah, but much longer than any other modern man. Li Qing Yuen twice received longevity awards from the Chinese government.

Whether this historical data is fact or fiction is open to debate; however, it is clear that the people residing in many of these ancient civilizations lived longer and healthier lives than those of us who live in the modern world. As we will see, modern research suggests that the healthful nutrients in the Goji berry play a role in their good health of people who lived in the remote areas of Tibet and China.

Today, in our modern world, many people who eat Goji berries daily have noticed improved eye sight, restoration of hair color, mood enhancement, improved energy levels, better sleeping habits, stronger immune function and more zest for life. Most importantly, Goji berries have a ROAC (Radical Oxygen Absorbance Capacity) of 25,300, one of the highest of any fruit, berry or vegetable. Here are some of the scientific facts that support the belief that Goji berries are the number one super food.

Protein: Goji berries are one of a handful of plant based foods that provide all of the building blocks for the essential proteins that the body cannot produce for itself. Meats contain these essential amino acids but the vast majority of vegetables do not.

 Eye health:  Goji berries are rich in zeaxanthin, the pigment that gives the berry its reddish color. People who consume Goji berries have a lower incidence of age related macular degeneration and other eye problems. Interestingly, the leaves of Goji berries, from which Goji berry green leaf tea is made, have all of the healthful ingredients present in the berry itself, except for zeaxanthin.  Thus, the leaves of the Goji berry are nearly as healthful as the berry itself.

Longevity and anti-aging properties: The Chinese have long associated the Goji berry with longevity. Modern research reveals that certain oils in the Goji berry, called sesquiterpinoids, increase the production of human growth hormone, the only compound that has been proven to produce an anti-aging effect in humans. As we age our production of growth hormone decreases, by consuming Goji berries one can compensate, at least in part, for the age induced decrease in this important anti-aging hormone.

Heart disease: The consumption of goji berries increases the level of the superoxide dismutase in the body. This enzyme prevents the oxidation of cholesterol. In its oxidized form cholesterol contributes to heart disease; thus, by eating Goji berries, or by drinking Goji berry green leaf tea, we  can lower our risk of heart disease.

Immune system: Goji berries contain three compounds that boost the immune system. The polysaccharides in the berries improve the overall function of the immune system while beta carotene stimulates the thymus gland. Germanium, and the other antioxidants, neutralize the free radicals in the body which cause mutations in our DNA and decrease the chance of developing cancer. DNA mutations also cause the cell damage associated with premature aging.

 The antioxidants in Goji berries include vitamin c, zinc and copper, which protect DNA from the harmful effects of free-radicals. In fact, Goji berries contain more antioxidants than any other fruit or vegetable. This is one of the primary reasons Goji berries are classified as a Super Food.

Auto immune disorders: One in five of us suffer from an auto immune disorder in which our immune system attacks our own healthy cells rather than the bacteria and viruses that invade our bodies. The polysaccharides contained in Goji berries provide specialized sugars that help our immune system distinguish between normal and abnormal invading cells.

Finally, goji berries are rich in minerals. Some, called trace elements (copper, zinc, magnesium, phosphorous, germanium and selenium) are needed only in tiny amounts; others like iron and calcium are needed in larger amounts. Goji berries and their leaves supply all of the essential minerals necessary for good health.

Availability So why do you have to buy dried Goji berries, which are mostly produced in China under very questionable agricultural conditions? The answer is quite simple, fresh Goji berries are extremely perishable and begin to deteriorate the minute they are removed from the vine. Basically, they turn to mush a few hours after they are picked. I am presently experimenting with ways to preserve Goji berries so that they can be marketed fresh.

Fortunately, as mentioned above, except for zeaxanthin, the compound that gives the Goji berry its reddish color and is important in the prevention and treatment of eye disease, all of the beneficial compounds of the berry also are found in Goji berry green leaf tea.

Possible harmful effects People taking blood thinners like warfarin should not consume Goji berries, otherwise they are safe for anyone to eat.

This chart summarizes some of the most significant nutritional data on Goji berries. These figures are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Nutrient	Serving size 1 ounce % daily value	Serving size 1/4 cup % daily value
Vit. A (antioxidant)	50%	180%
Vit. C	9%	30%
Calcium	3%
Iron	14%	15%
Riboflavin	21%
Selenium	25%
Copper	28%
Protein	6%
Fiber	19%

Possibly the most significant information provided on this chart is the exceptionally high content of vitamin A in Goji berries. Vitamin A is essential for good eye sight and is one of the bodies most powerful antioxidants.

In the next chapter I will discuss the nutritional value of blueberries. Goji berries and blueberries both derive health benefits from their high levels of antioxidants which protect the body from the free radicals that damage your cells and play a major role in the development of heart disease, accelerate the signs of aging and increase the chances of developing cancer. Goji berries contain ten times more antioxidants than blueberries.

The propagation of Goji Berries. Goji berries are relatively easy to grow in temperate climates such as we have in California. The Goji berry can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Perhaps the easiest way to grow a Goji berry plant is to transplant one of the suckers that invariably come up around the mother plant.

Cultivating the Goji Berry plant. Goji berry plants can be grown in almost any soil but do better in well-drained soil rich in organic material. Goji berry plants should be grown on a trellis. I employ a three wire trellis, the first wire being about 18 inches from the ground. The second two 16 gage zinc coated wires are positioned 16 and 32 inches above the initial wire. The plants are spaced about six feet apart in rows that are six to eight feet apart.

As the plants develop they are tied to the wires with  garden twine. It is important to limit the number of branches that are allowed to develop from each vine, two to four at the most. The remaining shoots should be cut off at ground level. The tiny purple flowers and subsequent berries develop from new shoots each year, not old growth, so the plants should be pruned accordingly each fall. The berries will be few in number and small the first year but you can expect a decent crop the second year and each year thereafter. A Goji plant will thrive and produce fruit for many years. Unfortunately, not all Goji berry plants are equally productive. Therefore, the best way to propagate Goji berry plants is to take cuttings from plants that are producing large amounts of fruit.

The biggest problem you will encounter raising Goji berries is the damage to the crop caused by birds. My entire berry patch is  covered with plastic netting, top and sides, to keep the birds from getting to the crop. If you are only growing a few plants a half inch netting may be placed over each plant. You also can review the pertinent data on the internet to learn how others have tried to keep the birds from eating their ripe Goji berries.

Goji berry plants are relatively resistant to disease except for powdery mildew which must be controlled by frequent spraying with an appropriate fungicide like liquid sulfur.

Picture Of Minor's Lettuce

Miner's Lettuce.

Spring is just around the corner and one of the first indications that things are getting better in northern California is the development of large patches of Miner's lettuce in the fields around our oak trees. This spring gem derives its name from the fact that the early miners in California, and elsewhere throughout the west coast, relied on these greens for their nutrient value during the cold spring weather in northwest. Minor's lettuce is rich vitamin C which prevents scurvy and for this reason has been called a "Wild Green Supper Food". Minor's lettuce also is rich in Omaga-3 Fatty Acids, beta carotene and protein. So, the next time you are out for a walk this spring, keep an eye out for this wonderful California treat, you'll be glad you did, It's easy to pick and great for salads and a variety of other dishes.

Introduction to Super Food Book

For most of my life, I never gave foods a second thought, either I liked them or I didn’t. I expect that many young people make the same mistake. In this respect, most 16-year-olds cannot conceive of the possibility that they will ever a senior citizen having wrinkled skin, white hair and walk with a cane. But, baring a fatal accident or an early death from cancer or heart disease, most young people will now live into their eighties or nineties, in some countries, even their hundreds. The quality of life they will enjoy, when they reach their elder years, will primarily depend on two factors. First, how rigorously have they exercised during their life time. Without a doubt, a demanding persistent exercise program is a key to living a long, healthy and productive life. Of equal importance, I would argue, are the dietary decisions we make throughout our lives, especially early on when we are young and oblivious to the fact that we might live to be an oxygenarian. This book is designed to be a wake-up call for younger people who may not understand that what they eat in their thirties, forties and fifties can play a significant role in how they will spend their lives as senior citizens. It’s one thing to live to be 90 in a state of dementia, and quite another to be a septuagenarian who spends his days working at the computer, playing golf or tending a garden. Yes, cutting down on the consumption of red meat in our diets is every bit as important as the time we spend on the exercise bike or jogging. Eliminating unhealthy foods like beefsteak and bacon entirely from our diets may not be necessary, but cutting down on their consumption makes a world of sense from a nutritional standpoint. In this respect, Seventh Day Adventist males who adhere to a vegetarian diet live 7.28 years longer than the average non-vegetarian males while their female counterparts live, on average, 4.42 years longer than females who regularly consume meat. Along these same lines, it will come as no surprise to the reader that vegan men and women, on average, weigh 32 and 34 pounds less, respectively, than their meat eating counterparts. Interestingly, vegan men and women die of the same conditions that kill meat eaters, they just live longer more productive lives before succumbing to the inevitable. Having said this, the purpose of Superfoods is not to stress the importance of a vegan diet; rather, it is to emphasize the fact that there are significant differences in the nutritional value of the foods we consume on a daily basis. In this respect, the ORAC value (the ability of a food to rid the body of the free radicals that cause premature aging, heart disease and cancer) of black currants is almost twice that of red currants. Similarly, the ORAC value of purple cabbage is four times that of the green variety. There are few exceptions to the general rule that the darker the color of a fruit or vegetable the more nutritious it will be for the consumer, even though they cost the same at the market. This book concentrates on Superfoods because they are particularly nutritious and often unknown to the consumer. In this respect, most people have never tasted a Goji berry, arguably, the most healthful food on the planet. This berry is literally “good for everything that ails you”. Unfortunately, Goji berries are difficult to find and extremely pricy. The answer to this dilemma is simple, grow your own Goji berries; this book tells you how do it. In fact, most of the Superfoods discussed in this book are easy to grow and the reader can save a significant amount of money by growing his own spinach rather than spending $4.00 for a head of relatively non-nutritious lettuce at the supermarket. Even if one does not have the space for a garden the reader will be able to live a longer and healthier life simply by knowing that a purple head of cabbage is more nutritious than its green counterpart. Similarly, when buying a bunch of beats, how many of us throw away the beet greens, not realizing that these colorful greens are more nutritious than the beets themselves. This book is literally packed with nutritional tips, such as these, which will help you live a longer, healthier and productive life. We will begin our journey by describing the nutritional value of the wide variety of berries we eat. Some, like blue berries and strawberries, are well known and readily available; others like Goji berries and the Cape gooseberries are less well known and, for the most part, not readily available at the local food store or the farmer’s market. However, they both are easy to grow as are most of the foods discussed in this book. In part 2, we will explore the world of leafy green vegetables. Finally, in part three, we will investigate the nutritional benefits of the fruits we eat. I know you will profit from this journey through the world of nutritional delights. We begin the excursion with a tour through the berry kingdom.

Planting Tomato Plants

It's about time to plant tomatoes. I start my tomatoes from seed, usually in December of the previous year in a green house and transplant the seedling in April when they are 8 to 12 inches tall (the taller the better). First, prepare the ground before planting tomato seedlings. I mix in earthworm castings, alfalfa pellets and a handful of ground oyster shells to each hole before inserting the tomato plants. The calcium in the oyster shells prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes and other vegetables. Ground up oyster shells only come in 50 pound bags; thus, oyster shells may not be a practical way to add calcium to the soil if you are only going to raise a few tomato plants. Egg shells also are a practical way to add calcium to the soil, but they take several months to break down and release the mineral into the soil. Other sources of calcium are bat guano, soft rock phosphate and Dolomite lime. Plant the tallest plants available for the best end result. To plant relatively tall plants, you have two choices. Either dig an appropriately deep hole or, better yet, dig a 4 to 6 inch trench and lay the plants on their sides. Pull off the lower leaves. Roots will form where the leaves were attached to the plants resulting in healthy strong plants. Make sure that only the top cluster of leaves are above the ground after the seedlings are planted. I plant only "indifferent" tomato plants which should be grown upward on a cage or trellis ("different" tomato plants are grown as bushes with their branches and leaves close to the ground). I prefer indifferent plants because they produce all season long whereas different plants primarily produce a one time crop. To encourage upward growth, and help prevent tomato viral diseases, after the plants have reached a height of about eight inches start removing the lower leaves from the plants. The lower leaves of a tomato plant should not be allowed to touch the ground to discourage viruses in the ground from reaching the upper branches of the tomato plant. At this stage of growth you also should begin removing the suckers from your tomato plants. Suckers form at the junction of a tomato plant's main stock, or stocks, and a leaf. If the suckers are not removed the plants will tend to grow sideways rather than upwards. When the plants are 1.5 to 2 feet tall selected suckers may be retained and attached to the wire cage or trellis in which you are growing them to achieve the desired form of the adult plant. If you are unsure about the appearance of a tomato sucker, go to the internet and watch a video on tomato suckers. I should also mention that the removed suckers may be placed in the ground to produce additional tomato plants. One final tip on growing delicious tomatoes. The tomato flower contains both female and male sex organs. To encourage tomato plants to produce fruit, shake the tomato blossom with your hand or the brush of a battery driven electric tooth brush, around noon each day. This method of fertilization does not work as well if performed earlier in the morning or later in the day. Shaking the blossoms not only increases the yield of a tomato plant but also increases the number of seeds in the tomato, which enhances their flavor. Happy gardening!

Trump Sells Out To The Liberals-Our Conservative Dream Of A Nation With Boarders Vanishes Into Thin Air.

No, there will be no wall and there will be no end to the numbers of illiterates from south of the boarder who will ultimately make America, Mexico- Lite. This all became crystal clear during President Trumps historic news conference yesterday. Those of us who reluctantly bet on this guy are the big losers, every last one of us as are our children, grandchildren dogs and cats, in short every living thing that walks the face of American soil. Those of us who hoped for, at the very least, a short segment of wall in exchange for some form of legalization for the children brought into this country by their illegal parents under DACA were flabbergasted by Trumps apparent willingness to abandon this impediment to citizenship without a fight or achieving anything else of importance in return. His attitude seems to be "Well, DACA is inherently a bad thing so, for starters, let's get rid of it and start off with a clean slate." This, of course, is the politics of a fool! It reminds me of the time Tip O'Neill took Ronald Regan to the wood-shed for a political thrashing. Yes, those of us who crossed our fingers, and everything else within reach, and hoped for the best when we voted for the juvenile buffoon Trump, made a colossal mistake, and we are about to pay for it.

Chicago Sets New Record With 762 Murders in 2016.

The real question is this. How many murders would it take for this statistic to make the front page, or any page for that matter, of any west coast news-rag? What if there were ten times the murders in this "den of iniquity", would any of the drive-by media take notice? I doubt it! In fact, murder has become so common in most of our big cities that it no longer is of any significance to the liberal press or anyone else for that matter. Obviously, murder, rape and other forms of mayhem have become so common in today's America that they do not warrant comment by the press. This wonton disregard for human life is a sign of our times and an indication of how degenerate our society has become. As I have been preaching recently, our large cities have become third world countries and the murder rates in these places are a good indication of just how far we have fallen.