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6 Vegan and Vegetarian Ideas for Your Next Summer Barbecue

Summer is in full swing, and that means it's time to fire up the grill and indulge in the deliciousness of a barbecue. If you're a vegan or vegetarian, you don't have to miss out on the flavors and fun. In fact, plant-based options can be the star of the show! Whether you're hosting a barbecue or attending one as a guest, here are six fantastic vegan and vegetarian ideas to elevate your summer grilling game. 1. Grilled Veggie Skewers: Skewers are a classic barbecue favorite, and they're incredibly versatile for plant-based options. Load up skewers with a colorful medley of veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms. Brush them with a marinade of your choice, grill to perfection, and enjoy the charred and smoky goodness. 2. Plant-based Burgers: The rise of plant-based burgers has revolutionized the vegetarian and vegan barbecue scene. Choose from a wide variety of pre-made veggie burgers or unleash your culinary creativity and make

Healing Power Of Teas

Teas contain lots of flavonoids,which are believed to have antioxidant properties and neutralize free radicals.They have healing powers and can be used in the treatment of various ailments. After water,teas are the most widely consumed drink in the world.
The following are healing teas used in the treatment of
various ailments;

Green Tea






Green tea is one of the popular health beverage all over the world.This is due to its health benefits and medicinal qualities.Green tea is considered a beverage with zero calories and less caffeine.It is regarded as one of the healthiest drinks in the world due to all these peculiarities.

Green tea improves eye sight and protects the delicate eye tissues from glaucoma and other diseases

Green tea inhibits the absorption of cholesterol from the large intestine thereby reducing the risk of heart related complication

Green tea makes the skin more resistant to the harmful effects of UV rays like premature skin aging,inflammation and skin redness

Catechins in green tea can inhibit the growth of viruses like influenza virus, lowering the risk of infections.

Green tea helps to improve dental health and lower the risk of carries.Essential elements in green tea can reduce plague formation in dental cavities and provides relief against tooth ache.

How To Make Green Tea



  • Heat 1 cup of water. Do not bring it to boiling point. Switch off before that stage.
  • Add 1 tsp green tea and brew it for about 2-3 minutes. If you brew it longer, the the tea will taste bitter, so just 2-3 minutes is sufficient.
  • Strain the tea into a cup.
  • Add honey and a few drops of lemon juice to taste. Enjoy it piping hot!!
  • Note - Do not add milk for this tea. Also avoid adding sugar as it is not good for health.
  • Adding 2-3 fresh mint leaves gives a minty flavor to the tea.
  • Water temperature should be slightly below boiling point to reduce bitterness.

Words of caution


  • People with peptic ulcer or acid reflux,diarrhoea and IBS should limit the consumption of green tea, as the tannins and caffeine present in it increases the stomach acid, and may cause stomach ache, nauseous feeling, constipation , worsen diarrhoea, and symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS )
  • Avoid taking green tea on an empty stomach
  •  Avoid taking green tea with medications as it may reduce the effectiveness of the medicines you may be taking .
  • Avoid taking concentrated green tea extracts if having liver problems
  • Pregnant women can preferably avoid green tea (consuming more than 2 cups per day has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage ) . The absorption of folic acid ( the B - vitamin essential to prevent neural tube defect in the baby ) is affected if green tea is consumed in excess . 
  • Green tea is not recommended for pediatric use as research on the effects of caffeine in children is limited.
  • Drinking green tea can cause jitteriness , headache , fast heartbeat, and other side effect if on estrogen pills . 


Black tea







Black tea actually isn't black.It is red.Its name comes from a historical misunderstanding.It is fermented unlike green tea and retains its flavour for so many years.It is called 'the wine of teas' because it gets better with time.
Black tea is known for its curative qualities and other health benefits

Black tea  help repair coronary artery dysfunctions in many heart patients. It helps decrease the risk of contracting many cardiovascular diseases.

Black tea has a healing effect on intestinal disorders due to the presence of tannins.

Black tea is extremely beneficial for asthmatic patients, as it expands the air passage, thereby allowing patients to breathe more easily.

Black tea helps in curing digestive disorder.This is due to the presence of tannins and other chemicals in this tea.Black tea has a positive and relaxing effect on the digestive system of human body. This anti-inflammatory quality of black tea is also helpful for curing digestive disorders.

Black tea reduces bad cholesterol levels which are responsible for heart strokes and fatal attacks.

Black tea destroys abnormal cells in the body before they change into cancerous cells.It helps women in preventing cancerous growth in the breasts, especially women in the pre-menopausal phase. 

How To Make Black Tea



  • Bring the water to a boil.
  • Add tea leaves and reduce flame to low.
  • Stir well and simmer for a minute or two.
  • Strain and pour into serving cups.
  •  Add sugar to taste.
  • Then Serve.


Words Of Caution


Excessive consumption of black tea causes headache.


Black tea is also known to cause acidity issues in the stomach. Therefore, do not get addicted to black tea.


Avoid drinking tea after lunch or dinner, as it may lead to poor digestion.

White tea





White tea, one of the most coveted teas across the world.It's made from plucking young tea leaves, harvested before the buds are bloomed completely. Once plucked, the tea is withered and dried, resulting in a luscious and delicate flavour.

White tea helps protect the body from infection causing micro-organism.

White tea helps fight the effects of free radicals that cause a lot of damage in the body and your DNA.

White tea makes the bone strong and dense.

White tea is very effective in the reduction of dental caries or tooth decay and cavity due to the fluoride contained in it.

White tea reduces high blood pressure.It  helps thin the blood, improve the condition of the arteries. It keeps the blood vessels healthy and strong.

White tea is a potential chemopreventive, anti-cancer agent and its extract may induce cell death in lung cancer.
White tea protects the liver. It helps to keep it in good shape.


How to make white tea

  •  Boil water in a pot
  • Steep the leaves
  •  Add Sweetener (optional)

For best results: Allow the boiled water cool for 5-8 minutes, or else the tea will be scalded and be slightly astringent.
Once the water cools slightly, steep the white tea leaves for 7-10 minutes for optimal flavor. The longer you let the tea steep, the stronger the flavor will become.


Lemon balm Tea


 

Lemon balm tea helps in improving the quality of sleep. It helps in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, and insomnia.

Lemon balm tea helps in reducing high blood pressure, therefore, reducing the chances of suffering a heart attack or stroke.It is a potent stress reliever.

Lemon balm tea soothes an upset stomach, improve digestion, and ease the discomfort,relieves flatulence and other gastrointestinal ailments.

Lemon balm tea is useful in improving cognitive functions as well as reducing nervousness and excitement in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Lemon balm tea fights against viral infections like herpes and cold sores. Topical application of the tea on genital sores or cold sores provides relief from the redness and itching.It lso prevents the infection from spreading further.

Lemon balm Tea is recommended for infants in treating diarrhea, colic, and other health conditions.


How to make lemon balm tea

  • Take few fresh or dried lemon balm leaves in a teapot with 2 cups boiling water
  • Steep for five minutes
  • Strain the infusion
  • Add honey or sugar to sweeten it to your taste
  • You may add some ice cubes to enjoy a cup of refreshing lemon balm iced tea

Words Of Caution

  • Short-term intake of this tea as part of your regular diet is possibly safe, but the effects of overconsumption are not yet known. 
  • Only in rare cases, intake of lemon balm tea has caused few side effects like abdominal pain, vomiting, wheezing, dizziness, and nausea.





Ginger Tea



Ginger Tea prevents nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

Ginger tea improves digestion and increases absorption of food.

Ginger tea is an ideal home remedy for muscle and joint problems. It also reduces inflammation.

Ginger tea relieves congestion associated with the common cold. It relieves the respiratory symptoms associated with environmental allergies.

Ginger tea helps restore and improve blood circulation that may help decrease the chance of cardiovascular problems.

Ginger tea prevents fat from depositing in the arteries thereby preventing heart attacks and stroke.

Ginger tea relieve the pain and relax the muscles.It also relieves menstrual cramp.

Ginger tea can help strengthens the immunity due to its high level of antioxidants

Ginger tea has calming properties that lower stress and tension. This is thought to be due to a combination of the strong aroma and healing properties.

How To Make Ginger Tea


  • Peel the ginger root with a peeler or with the back of a spoon.
  • Grate the ginger with a grater/zester. If you slice it, slice it thin and use more.
  • If you are using a saucepan, bring the water to a boil, add ginger and turn off heat. 
  • Put the lid on it and let it steep for 10 minutes.
  • If you are using a teapot, add ginger in the teapot and pour boiling water in it. Let it steep for about 10 minutes.
  • If you are using a saucepan, strain the water to remove the ginger.
  • Add fresh lemon juice and natural sweetener if you like. Stir and enjoy!
  • If you want a cold tea, let your tea cool down, store it in the fridge and add ice cubes before serving.


Peppermint Tea





Peppermint tea aids digestion and eases digestive issues.It relaxes the digestive tract and promote proper bile flow.It also helps prevent hemorrhoids from occurring.It also resolves stomach and digestive woes such as flatulence,nausea and vomiting

Peppermint tea improves sleep. The menthol in the leave allows the muscles in the body to relax. This can even contribute to more vivid dreams.


 Peppermint tea relieves stress.  It promotes overall body and mind relaxation. The menthol in peppermint leaves is a muscle relaxant and a sedative


Peppermint tea promotes the flow of bile from the gall bladder to the liver.It helps break down gall stone to smaller pieces and also eases the pain and discomfort from gall bladder attack.

Peppermint tea promotes mental alertness. The scent of peppermint has an effect on the brain, so drinking a cup of the tea and inhaling the aromatic scent can help the mind stay focused. It’s ideal for students and those who work through the night.


Peppermint tea keeps bad breath at bay. It kills some of the bacteria that contribute to bad breath, allowing for cleaner, fresher-smelling breath. Its strong flavor and scent is good at masking bad odors, such as those found in the mouth as a result of halitosis.


Peppermint tea calms troubled skin.The tea boosts estrogen levels in some people, and that boost can often equal balancing the hormonal issues and thereby helping get rid of the acne.


Peppermint tea eases headaches and migraines and allows free flow of blood in blood vessels.


Peppermint tes combats coughs and congestion.It loosens and breaks up the thick mucus that lines the lungs when sick, making it easier to remove by coughing. It’s also a great aid for sore and itchy throats, and dry coughs.

How To Make Peppermint Tea

  • Pick 7-10 green and unblemished peppermint leaves.
  • Rinse the peppermint leaves
  • Place the leaves in a mug. 
  • Boil water and wait a couple minutes for the water to cool. 
  • Carefully pour the water over the peppermint leaves.
  •  Make sure that all the leaves are submerged in the water, then cover the mug

Words Of Caution

  • One peppermint tea side effect is an allergic reaction to menthol—if you feel lightheaded, get flushed, or feel unsteady on your feet after consuming the tea, then you might have an allergy to it and should avoid taking it until tested
  • Some medications react negatively to peppermint, so if you’re on medication, it’s advisable to discuss any possible contraindications with your doctor and determine the right course of action. 
  • Pregnant women need to be particularly careful of what they consume, and this is especially true of peppermint because it can relax the uterus and potentially cause a miscarriage.


Dandelion Tea





Dandelion tea detoxifies the body.It increases the concentration of certain detoxifying enzyme in the liver.Also, it promotes healthy kidney function. eliminates toxins

Dandelion tea aids weight loss.It suppresses various fat metabolizing enzymes and prevents them from taking fat into the body.Also it eliminates water weight and bloating


Dandelion tea strengthens the immune system and improves overall health and wellness


Dandelion tea prevents osteoporosis.It  possesses measurable amount of essential minerals such as calcium, zinc, iron and magnesium which is needed by the body to build strong bones.
Dandelion tea prevents anaemia.It improves circulation and ensures that different parts of the body are properly oxygenated for maximal function


Dandelion tea balances blood sugar. It regulates the blood sugar levels and prevent the spikes and drops that can be so dangerous.

Dandelion tea improves Digestion. It acts as a diuretic, laxative and a digestive stimulant, while also causing a release of extra bile. This can all help to speed up digestion and make it more efficient, which eliminates symptoms of constipation , bloating, cramping, diarrhea and even hemorrhoids.

Dandelion tea reduces Inflammation particularly on aching joints,
headaches and overall muscle tenderness.Also it helps to regulate circulation and water balance.



How To Make Dandelion Tea

  • Pick the dandelions fresh and place in a colander. 
  • Rinse well with cool water.
  • If using a sweetener, put it in the warm water
  • Pour the sweetened liquid in a glass jar. Add the cool water and stir well.
  •  Add the Dandelion flowers and mix gently. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or until completely chilled and serve
  • You can strain out the flowers or pour them into the cups
  • Use within 36 hours for best taste.


Words of Caution


Dandelions are highly allergenic in nature. If you are allergic to it, you should probably avoid use of this tea, unless you receive permission from your allergist/doctor. 
Furthermore, pregnant women are encouraged to use this tea with caution. 

Finally, if you are using antacids or blood-thinning medications, there can be interactions with the compounds in dandelion tea, so check with your doctor before adding this herbal remedy to your health regimen.




Oolong Tea

 

Oolong tea is the best tea for weight loss. It controls the metabolism in the body by activating certain enzymes that trigger the functions of the fat cells present in the body. 

Oolong tea is packed with powerful antioxidants that help to enhance the metabolism.


Oolong tea boosts the body’s energy expenditure and blocks the absorption of cholesterol and dietary fat.


Oolong tea reduces fat deposited in the tummy and upper arms. Also is effective in preventing obesity even while following a high-fat diet. It also reduces harmful LDL cholesterol safely without causing any side-effects.


Oolong tea helps regulate blood sugar. It prevents craving for unhealthy snacks and sweets by stabilizing blood sugar levels so that you feel more satiated and balanced. It regulates the level of blood sugar and insulin present in the bloodstream at all times and prevents any sudden spike or dips in blood sugar that can be extremely harmful to diabetic patients.


Oolong tea fights cancer cells. It conta8ins high amount of antioxidants that stop the growth of cancerous cells caused by free radicals.


Oolong tea strengthen the immune system. It prevents cellular damage and boosts the production of anti-bacterial proteins which leads to strong immune response when the body is faced with an infection.


Oolong tea prevents tooth decay, stop the build-up of plague and eliminate the growth of bacteria that is responsible for bad breath. It also protects the teeth from the corrosive acids produced by certain bacteria.

Oolong tea improves cardiovascular health in several ways. It reduces the blood concentration of triglycerides but also lowers the overall level of cholesterol in the blood. Oolong tea is also useful for hindering the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with coronary artery disease.

Oolong tea protects the bones and prevents osteoporosis.It prevents loss of bone mineral density and helps absorb and retain the essential minerals from the healthy foods.


Oolong tea reduces stress.The L-theanine and amino acids found in the tea leaves block the L-glutamic acid from reaching the glutamate receptors in the brain that is one of the main causes of neuron excitement that results in stress responses.


Oolong tea promotes healthy skin .It helps treat various skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and eczema that are caused as a result of allergic reactions and makes the skin itchy, inflamed and flaky.
It also makes the skin youthful and vibrant and slows down skin aging.

Oolong tea gets rid of  free radicals produced in the body which are responsible for cell damage, mutation and oxidative stress, and can also lead to chronic disease like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, atherosclerosis,stroke and cancer.


Oolong tea improves brain functions. It revitalizes mental alertness and enhance performance.

How To Make Oolong Tea

  • Add 1 teaspoon of oolong tea powder to a cup of hot water 
  • let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. 
  • Strain the tea and allow it to cool slightly. Sip the tea slowly and enjoy its aromatic taste.

Words of Caution

  • Oolong tea contains high levels of caffeine which can be harmful to caffeine-sensitive people, and it can lead to certain caffeine side effects like increased heart rate, restlessness, anxiety, difficulty in sleeping, dehydration, depression, increased PMS symptoms and many more.
  • Pregnant and nursing women and those taking prescription medications should avoid the consumption of oolong tea.
  • Oolong tea contains naturally occurring fluorides. Excessive oolong tea consumption can lead to high levels of fluorides in the body and cause skeletal fluorosis.
  • Over-consumption of oolong tea can also cause hypokalemia, upset stomach, kidney stones, beriberi and tea allergy. 

 Cinnamon Tea


Cinnamon tea prevents various bacterial and fungal skin infections. It also provides relief from common cold, bronchitis, and influenza.


Cinnamon tea improves the functioning of the heart.Cinnamon tea may also play a role in managing high blood pressure.



The warming effects of Cinnamon tea can reduce the symptoms of varicose veins by increasing the blood circulation.


 Cinnamon tea might be effective in managing blood glucose levels and strengthening the immune system.It has the ability to burn excess fat in the body by increasing the metabolism, thereby helping in losing weight.


Cinnamon tea removes the blood impurities responsible for causing skin problems such as pimples. Its high antioxidant content is believed to be useful for poor skin elasticity, a common cause of wrinkles.


 Cinnamon tea aids digestion.It is also beneficial for the symptoms of nausea, gas, bloating, indigestion and vomiting. It gets rid of stomach ulcers.

Cinnamon tea reduces muscle soreness, headaches, abdominal pain, menstrual cramps and toothache. It is also very effective for arthritis and fibromyalgia.


Cinnamon tea help in improving memory and cognitive performance. It stimulates the functioning of the brain.Some recent research studies have also shown its use in preventing Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson disease.



Cinnamon tea is used as a remedy for osteoporosis due to its considerable calcium content. It strengthens the bones

Cinnamon tea has diuretics effects.It boosts urine production, improving the working of the kidneys.


How to make Cinnamon Tea


  • Cut the cinnamon sticks into pieces and add them to a cup of boiling water. You can also use ground cinnamon
  • Let it steep for 8 to 10 minutes
  • Strain the mixture
  • Add honey or sugar to make it more tasteful
  • You can have a cup of cinnamon iced tea by adding some ice cubes after refrigerating the strained mixture.

Words Of Caution

  • Excessive intake of Oolong tea might cause an upset stomach, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. 
  • In some cases, it may lead to an allergic reaction.
  •  Since cinnamon tea has blood-thinning properties, it should not be consumed by people taking prescription blood thinners.
  • Use during pregnancy
  • The herbal infusion is not advisable for pregnant women as it may induce labor by causing uterine contractions. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding.



Chamomile tea


 

Chamomile tea prevents and treats colds while protecting against bacterial-related illness and infection.

Chamomile tea calms muscle spasms.It is very effective in treating menstrual cramps.

Chamomile tea soothes and relaxes the muscles and lining of the intestines,help with poor digestion and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).


Chamomile tea soothes the nervous system so that you can sleep better. It has been used as a solution for insomnia for centuries.

Chamomile tea help reduce cancerous cells and reverses abnormal cellular growth.


Chamomile tea helps in clearing up skin irritations such as eczema, acne, and allergies.

How To Make Chamomile Tea


  • Rinse the flowers with cool water.
  • Warm your tea pot with boiling water.
  •  Add the apple slices to the pot and mash them with a wooden spoon.
  • Add the chamomile flowers and pour in the 2 cups boiling water.
  • Cover and steep for 3-5 minutes.
  • Strain the tea into two cups.
  • Add honey to taste.
  •  Drink and enjoy!

Words Of Caution


  • Taking an inappropriate amount of chamomile tea may cause the contraction of the uterus.
  • High intake of chamomile tea causes miscarriage and preterm delivery.


 Red clover tea




Red clover tea thins the blood.For cases of thrombosis and other conditions in which thick blood obstructs vessels, red clover tea may be of benefit.


Red clover is used in alleviating the discomfort of menopause

How To Make Red Clover

  • Bring the water to a boil. Remove from heat.Add
  • clover blossoms and mint. Steep about 10 minutes. Strain.


Words Of Caution


  • Consumption during pregnancy
  • Since there is a lack of clinical evidence, pregnant women should avoid it to stay on the safe side. 
  • Nursing mothers are advised to consult a healthcare professional before consuming lemon balm tea.

 

Stinging neetle tea


 

Despite its reputation for pain, stinging nettle is used to help a number of ailments. Studies have shown stinging nettle has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-ulcer, astringent and analgesic capabilities.

Stinging neetle tea slows or stops the growth of prostate cancer cells.It alleviates some of the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia such as increased urges to urinate, incomplete emptying of the bladder, painful urination, post urination dripping and reduced urinary flow.

Stinging neetle decreases joint pain and can treat Osteo-athritis . Stinging neetle tea affect a number of key receptors and enzymes in allergic reactions, preventing hay fever symptoms


How To Make Stinging Neetle Tea


  • Boil four cups of filtered water and remove from the heat
  •  Finely chop four heaped teaspoons of fresh nettle
  • Add the nettle to the water and steep for 20 minutes with the lid on
  • Drink hot or


Words Of Caution


  • Nettle tea is contraindicated in pregnancy.It can alter the menstrual cycle, and may contribute to miscarriage. 
  • Some of the drugs it may interact with include blood thinners, drugs for high blood pressure, water pills, drugs for diabetes, lithium, and NSAIDs

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