5 Benefits of Beets
Beets are America’s 2nd most hated vegetable (second out only to turnips). I came across that in a survey a couple of years ago and actually find it a bit hard to believe! There are so many reasons we should all love beets… • Beets are a good source of fiber, for digestion and detoxification. • Beets are nutrient-dense, meaning they’re high in nutrients and low in calories. • Beets are rich in folate, which we need for blood cell production, heart health, and more. • Beets are rich in manganese, a trace mineral needed for bone health and many enzyme systems in the body. • Beets contain naturally occurring nitrates, which support healthy blood pressure and endurance. Beets are actually quite sweet and delicious. You can roast them, juice them, or even grate them raw over a salad. Rather save yourself the hassle of preparation? You can even buy canned beets or beet chips at the store. I’m talking about the beetroot here, but there are also countless benefits of beet greens, so don’t throw those away!
Castor Oil Packs
It’s a classic naturopathic therapy that really is timeless. A castor oil pack is a piece of flannel, soaked in castor oil, and placed on the abdomen with a hot water bottle. Let’s break down the why and the how… Why would I use a castor oil pack? ● Castor oil contains fatty acids that are absorbed through the skin.● Castor oil packs stimulate circulation and bile flow.● Castor oil packs are relaxing.● Castor oil packs support detoxification, with the domino effect of helping with a wide range of concerns. How do I use a castor oil pack? ● Fold a piece of flannel into 3-4 layers, large enough to cover the abdomen. ● Soak the flannel in castor oil. ● Wrap the soaked flannel in plastic wrap. ● Lie flat on an old towel (in case the castor oil drips) and place the pack on your bare abdomen. ● Place a hot water bottle or heating pad over the pack as a heat source. ● Rest like that for 15-60 minutes (best to talk with a practitioner about this to choose the amount of time appropriate for you). ● Save the pack in a sealed bag in the refrigerator for reuse. Castor oil packs are best used in the context of other strategies to support detoxification. We are here to empower you with education and information to live a healthier life, but this post should NOT be considered medical advice. There are some pitfalls, and castor oil packs are not appropriate for everyone or all situations. Please consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions about how to safely use castor oil packs or other detoxification strategies. You can book a consult with us through our website!
