Summer is fast approaching, and with warmer weather comes excellent things like a beautiful yard and garden and lots of fun times with family and friends under the sun and stars. Unfortunately, it also brings out the bugs, including flies, mosquitoes, and other nagging insect pests that wreak havoc on our warm-weather festivities.
I love sweet potatoes; they are a highly nutritious and delicious root vegetable. Known as Ipomoea batatas, sweet potatoes are not only one of the best vitamin A sources, but they are also packed with vitamin B5 niacin, thiamin, and carotenoids. Research has also uncovered a host of therapeutic benefits in sweet potatoes. They contain anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic properties. Sweet potatoes are a delicious addition to any meal and can even help keep your skin healthy.
Not everyone is thrilled with the idea of eating fungus. However, mushrooms’ nutritional value is second to none, and researchers are learning more each day about their many benefits.
Microgreens are young edible plants harvested just after the first true leaves develop, typically within 7-21 days of germination. They are packed with nutrients and offer intense flavors compared to their mature counterparts.
A remarkable discovery has brought an ancient biblical mystery back to life. A 1,000-year-old seed, believed to be the source of a legendary balm resin mentioned in the Bible, has shown signs of growth.
The seed, known as the ‘Sheba’ seed, was unearthed in the late 1980s from a cave in Wadi el-Makkuk, near ancient Jericho. Weighing just 0.565g and measuring 1.8cm in length, it was found by archaeologists from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Identified as part of the Commiphora species – related to Frankincense and Myrrh – this plant was long thought to be extinct.
Carbon dating places its origin between 993 AD and 1202 AD. In 2010, Dr. Sarah Sallon of the Middle East Medicinal Plant Project planted the seed, which has now begun to sprout. She believes it may be the source of the mysterious ‘Tsori,’ a revered perfumed resin described in the Old Testament.
The resin, mentioned in Genesis 37:25 as ‘balm,’ was historically valued for embalming, incense, and medicinal purposes. As research continues, the revival of this ancient plant may unlock new insights into biblical history and the medicinal knowledge of ancient civilizations.
A common ingredient in herbal tea has been transformed into a powerful biomedical hydrogel, thanks to groundbreaking research from the University of Chicago. The malva nut, traditionally used in Chinese medicine as a sore throat remedy, has now been repurposed for advanced medical applications from wound care to ECG monitoring.
A team of Japanese researchers has captured real-time footage of plants communicating distress signals to their neighbors, shedding new light on the intricate world of plant interactions. Led by molecular biologist Masatsugu Toyota of Saitama University, the study, published in Nature Communications, observed how plants respond to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by others experiencing mechanical damage or insect attacks.
Boosting dopamine levels naturally can enhance motivation, focus, and overall well-being. Dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter, regulates pleasure, motivation, and cognitive function. When levels are low, we may feel sluggish, unmotivated, or even depressed. Developing a personalized “dopamenu” can be a practical strategy to keep dopamine levels balanced and improve daily functioning.Â
Here’s how you can create one and why it’s beneficial.
Dopamine plays a key role in mental and physical health, affecting mood, motivation, and decision-making. Low dopamine levels can contribute to conditions such as ADHD, depression, and seasonal affective disorder. By actively engaging in activities that stimulate dopamine production, we can enhance our ability to stay focused, motivated, and emotionally balanced.
By intentionally incorporating dopamine-boosting habits, you can maintain energy, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being.
Susan has been nurturing her gardening tips and advice for over 00 years, it’s fair to say she knows her beans. She’ll be sharing her knowledge from tried and tested methods.
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