While the “superfood” label is often overused in natural health circles, most researchers will admit that coconut oil deserves it. This edible oil, which is produced from the flesh of coconuts, has been shown to possess amazing antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, improve blood cholesterol levels, boost energy, and much more. However, a peer-reviewed Brazilian study has also found that consuming just 30 milliliters (1 ounce) of coconut oil a day can help treat abdominal obesity…
Custard apples, also called bullock’s hearts, are the green, heart-shaped fruits of the Annona reticulata, a small deciduous tree native to Central America and the Caribbean. They are characterized by their custard-like flavor and texture, hence the name (though “custard apple” is a common nickname for many fruits, including papayas). Although they are traditionally eaten raw, indigenous people often dry and grind them into powders for medicinal purposes. Custard apples are not well-known fruits, and…
The salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) is a plant native to the western coastlines of North America. It bears yellow, orange, and red fruits of the same name, which resemble raspberries in structure and were treasured by the American Indians for their sweet taste and medicinal properties. Salmonberries were often eaten with salmon, hence their name, although they are also called thimbleberries, Alaskan berries, and Russian berries. List of Health Benefits Unusually high in manganese – 100…
Aronia berries, also called chokeberries, are dark purple-colored fruits that are native to eastern North America. They grow on green-leaved deciduous shrubs that are commonly found in swamps and wet woods. Although aronia berries are not well-known, even in their native continent, their reputation has increased of late due to some well-publicized campaigns declaring them to be the “world’s healthiest fruit.” List of Health Benefits Unsurpassed antioxidant activity – The aronia berry’s biggest draw is…
Acai berries are the fruits of the acai palm, a species of palm tree native to Central and South America. These berries, which are characterized by their grape-like appearance and bitter taste, have been cherished by the Amazonian natives for centuries due to their incredible medicinal properties. These properties, which are slowly being validated by ongoing studies, are the reason why acai berries – along with other Amazonian foods such as cacao, maca, and camu camu –…
