Good Things To Know About Carrots
The Doctrine Of Signatures is the theory that if a plant looks like, or resembles in some way, an organ, disease, symptom, then that plant must have an affinity with that organ, disease, or symptom.
Now, go cut a carrot in half, and look at the cut end closely. Does it resemble any part of the human anatomy to you? (hint: we use this organ to see things with)
That’s right, it looks like an eye! We have all heard that carrots are good for the eyes; the high beta carotene content (the stuff that makes carrots orange) converts to vitamin A in our body, a vital nutrient for healthy vision. Eat carrots to help improve night vision. Will eating carrots at night provide an extra boost to this claim? I actually don’t know, but that is a good question. Bear in mind that all things might be seen more clearly after increasing one’s overall carrot consumption.
Although carrots are sweet they also have a slight bitterness. The bitter flavor indicates that carrots are good for the liver. Another tidbit from the Doctrine Of Signatures says that plants that are yellow or golden in color are good for the liver, and, by association, the gall bladder.
Increase Alkalinity
Carrots are alkaline! When we get stressed out, our bodies become acidic. We are more prone to sickness and disease when we are acidic. So, it goes to reason that carrots can help protect our bodies from the negative effects of stress. How does Bugs Bunny deal with stress? With a carrot in one hand and a take-it-as-it-comes attitude.
Brighten Your Day!
Eat carrots if you are depressed. The orange color is cheering, the sweet flavor will take your mind off the bitter things in life, and it makes sense to eat well when you feel depressed. The nutrients will support brain and body function, helping to heal on all levels.
Danger! If you drink too much carrot juice, you might turn orange! You would have to drink very large amounts in order for this to happen. But still, no one wants to turn orange. Eight to sixteen ounces per day is plenty of carrot juice. All good things in moderation.
Raw Or Cooked, Carrots Deliver Great Nutrients
A study was performed in the U.K. (University Of Newcastle Upon Tyne (2005, February 18). Carrot Component Reduces Cancer Risk. ScienceDaily.) The study demonstrated that boiling carrots before slicing them increased their anti-cancer properties.
According to the study, cooking the carrots reduces their overall vitamin content, while other important plant chemicals, namely falcarinol, actually become more concentrated. In the carrot, falcarinol protects the carrot from fungal diseases.
Medicinal Use Of Carrots
Dr. Carrot is in the house! Carrot poultices are an old remedy for lymphatic congestion, sore throats, abscesses, boils, ulcers, and slow healing wounds. Carrot poultices are believed to draw out toxins, poisons, stimulate the lymphatic system, and speed healing.
Making a carrot poultice is simple: grate 2 fresh carrots. Place between several layers of cheesecloth, or use gauze, unbleached muslin, or a clean cotton towel. Apply over the throat for swollen glands, or any affected part of the body. Leave on for about 30 minutes. Discard the carrots. The procedure can be repeated 2 or 3 times daily, using fresh carrots. Be sure to protect furniture and clothing to avoid orange stains.
Are we bordering on TMI about carrots? I personally don’t think so, but out of respect of those who might be turning orange right now, I’ll stop. For those of you who are hungry for more, this website is a real gem: http://www.carrotmuseum.co.uk/
Enjoy!
With blessings,
Kita
PS
Do you have some more fun facts about carrots that you would like to share? Please do by leaving us a comment.
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Great article!