Page 98 - Lost Book Remedies
P. 98
The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies
Eat an extra portion of leeks with meals when fighting
infections. For external infections, chop the leeks
finely and use them as a poultice on infected tissue.
Prevents Cancer: Plants in the Alliaceae family
have multiple cancer-fighting properties, and leeks are
included. Eating leeks on a regular basis reduces the
chances of prostate and colon cancers. People who eat
a lot of leeks also have fewer ovarian cancers.
Eat Leeks During Pregnancy: Leeks contain
high levels of folate, which is beneficial for the devel-
oping fetus and prevents several different birth defects
of the brain and spinal cord.
Anemia: Leeks are also high in iron and therefore
beneficial for treating iron deficiency anemia. They
also contain significant levels of vitamin C, which helps
iron absorption in the body.
Gout, Arthritis, and Urinary Tract Inflam-
mation: Arthritis, gout, and urinary tract problems
benefit from the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic
properties of leeks to treat these diseases.
these ways, they reduce the chances of developing cor- High doses of leeks are best, so I recommend eating
onary heart disease, peripheral vascular diseases, and several servings daily or drinking the juice of the vege-
strokes. table.
Consuming leeks on a regular basis conveys these ben- Regular Bowel Movements: The high concen-
eficial properties. trations of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber in
Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels: Leeks help the leeks help the function of the intestinal tract. They fa-
body maintain a steady blood sugar level by helping the cilitate digestion and reduce bloating and associated
body metabolize sugars. Leeks also contain nutrients pain.
that benefit blood sugar levels. Diabetics and pre-dia- Whole Body Cleanse: Drinking leek juice regu-
betics should eat leeks regularly as part of their healthy larly helps cleanse the body of toxins and waste prod-
diet. ucts.
Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Viral, and Anti-Fungal Harvesting: Harvest when the stalks are about an
Properties: Eating leeks regularly and often during inch (2.5 cm) wide, usually in late summer. In some ar-
infections helps your body fight these infections and eas they over-winter and can be harvested in early
eliminate them from the body. spring or even year-round.
Leeks have anti-microbial properties similar to those Warning: Leeks contain oxalates, which may crys-
of garlic and onions that help the body fight internal talize in the body to cause kidney stones and gravel in
and external infections. the gallbladder.
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