Hank Schultz

Protein is one of the critical macronutrients required by the body for proper functioning. There are many reasons to augment dietary sources of protein with protein supplements. Vegetarians or those with allergies to milk products or soy may require additional protein. Protein supplements are also used for increasing muscle mass and as an aid to dieting.

Green foods include water-based ingredients such as spirulina, chlorella and blue green algae as well as cereal grains like wheatgrass and barley grass.

High-fiber diets have been linked to lowered risk of serious disease, including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes complications. In functional foods and supplements, fiber can be in either soluble or insoluble form. Insoluble fiber is the coarse part of a plant that does not dissolve in water, such as oat bran or wheat bran. It supports digestive health by reducing constipation, speeding the movement of toxins and potential carcinogens through the body.

Natural colorants are often required for formulating foods and beverages for the natural products industry. The vast majority of such colorings are extracted from plant and vegetable sources.

Essential oils are natural or volatile oils derived from plants. These astringent, antibacterial, and highly concentrated oils vaporize easily in the air and release beneficial compounds that can help relax or stimulate the mind. Essential oils appear in a variety of natural products, including perfumes and colognes, soaps, massage oils, skin care products, food and drink, household cleaners, and aromatherapy. When applied topically in massage oils or bath products, essential oils can be therapeutic to the body by helping to relax muscles, alleviate soreness, or soothe skin. Topical application requires essential oils to be diluted with water or carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

Enzymes are proteins composed of varying amino acids that catalyze a range of chemical reactions within the body. Enzymes used in dietary supplements can be derived from fungal, plant or animal sources, with the majority coming from fungus. Their most popular use, and that with the greatest clinical data, is to support digestive health.

Try these all-natural pampering treats for your hands Aromatherapy Salt Glo for Hands From The Oaks at Ojai, Ojai,

Essential oils are excellent for topical pain relief. “When some part of the body is injured, the natural response is

Gifts From The Garden Mint Posies: Tie a bouquet of fresh mint spearmint, chocolate mint or apple mint, for example