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Cubeb Pepper: Effect, Application and Dosage

We show you how cubeb pepper works and how you can use it in the kitchen.

While cubeb pepper is less well known to us, the pepper variety is very popular in many oriental countries. The cubeb pepper belongs to the pepper family and is related to the commercially available black pepper. However, the two types of pepper differ in smell and taste: Cubeb pepper has a very intense smell that is slightly reminiscent of turpentine. The taste is less sharp, but slightly bitter.

Cubeb pepper is the name given to the fruits of a climbing shrub that is up to six meters long and originally comes from India and China. Today the pepper is also grown in Indonesia, especially in Java and Sumatra, as well as in Sri Lanka.

The peppercorns are four to five millimeters in size. Similar to black pepper, the fruits are harvested green, i.e. still unripe. Then they are dried in the sun. This gives the grains their typical black-brown color and wrinkled surface.

Cubeb pepper as a medicinal plant

The Theophrastus naturopathic association has named cubeb pepper medicinal plant of the year 2016. Since 2003, the association has awarded medicinal plants in order to preserve naturopathic knowledge. On this occasion, the association published a brochure about the cubeb pepper and its healing effects. Another scientific summary of the American Journal of Pharmacy and Health Research also confirms the following effects:
anti-inflammatory
antiviral
expectorant
concentration-enhancing
digestive
Hildegard von Bingen already spoke of the fact that the cubeb pepper has a positive effect on the mind and spirit.

Traditionally, the cubeb pepper is mainly used for the following complaints:
respiratory diseases
asthma
bronchitis
dizziness
headache
cystitis
To use one or two whole grains of pepper are chewed several times a day. The pure taste takes some getting used to, but it is harmless. Unpleasant side effects are not known.

The healing effects of the pepper variety are attributed to its unique combination of active ingredients. These include, among others:
Essential oils: At ten to 20 percent, the content of essential oils in cubeb pepper is quite high. The oils provide the diuretic and expectorant effect.
Antioxidants: The antioxidants it contains are said to reduce oxidative stress and cell aging.
Resins (cubebic acid): Due to the resins, cubeb pepper is also well suited for smoking. They also give the pepper its special smell.
Cubebin: The plant’s own active ingredient Cubebin not only provides the taste, but also the concentration and digestion-promoting effect.
Piperine: The active ingredient is also found in black pepper and has an antibacterial and antifungal effect. The substance is also responsible for the sharpness of the pepper.

Cubeb pepper: How to use it in the kitchen

Cubeb pepper tastes bitter and slightly hot. It has a fresh note reminiscent of eucalyptus. Typical of the pepper variety is the slight tingle that it leaves on the tongue.

The spice is very popular in Indonesian, North American and North African cuisine. Cubeb pepper is an integral part of the Ras el Hanout spice mix.

You can use cubeb pepper for many recipes – here are some examples:
The unique taste goes particularly well with oriental dishes such as lentil salad or lentil soup.
If you want to add an Asian twist to a rice dish, you can cook the rice with a few peppercorns.
The cubeb pepper can also refine vegetable dishes. Cubeb pepper is particularly good for pumpkin recipes or aubergine recipes.
Cubeb pepper is also suitable for some desserts. You can find this type of pepper in some gingerbread spice mixes, for example. You can also season a hot chocolate with a little cubeb pepper.
How to use cubeb pepper correctly:
Like most spices, cubeb pepper should be used fresh. It’s best to grind it up just before using it with a spice grinder or mortar.
Cubeb pepper tastes intense and takes some getting used to. It’s best to approach it carefully. One or two grains of the exotic pepper are usually enough for a recipe for four people.

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Arnica Globules: Dosage, Effect and Application

Homeopathic Arnica globules belong in every household with children. Because they relieve pain, ensure that bruises do not swell so much, and help against bruises and swelling. Find out everything about their effects, application, and the right dosage of Arnica Globuli.

Arnica globules are used in natural medicine. They have an anti-inflammatory and healing effect. They help with bruises and other pain, such as a toothache or sore muscles. Arnica globules can be used especially for minor injuries in children, such as a bruise.

The effect of arnica globules

The Arnica montana is also known in German as mountain welfare rental, fall herb or power rose. It grows in mountainous regions and has been used for centuries as a remedy for everyday injuries. Because it has a pain-relieving, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory effect. This makes it ideal for use as first aid. But it can also be used prophylactically, for example before childbirth or to remove a tooth. As a result, you can naturally strengthen your body’s self-healing powers.

The correct dosage of Arnica globules

It is best to use the globules in the Potentz D6 (pharmacy) and dose the globules as follows: on the first day 3×3 globules at intervals of 15 minutes, in the following hours 3 globules per hour. On the second day 3 pellets every 3 hours. On the third day – if still necessary – 3 × 3 globules are distributed throughout the day.

1) Arnica globules for children with bruises

In particular, you can use Arnica globules for your children. Because they get injured easily in everyday life. and then home remedies for bruises or small abrasions are needed. In the case of children, you should make the dosage depending on their age. Thus, small children need fewer globules than older ones.

2) Combat joint pain with Arnica globules

Arnica globules are a popular and effective home remedy for joint pain. If your limbs ache after a hard day or when you get sick, you can take the Arnica pellets. Depending on the severity of the pain, a different potency may be necessary.

3) Arnica cream for bruises

Arnica cream for rubbing in works just as well. Because the ointment cools and relieves the pain. In addition, this has the same effect as the homeopathic globules. If you suffer from a sprain or bruise, you can use Arnica globules and an Arnica cream as an effective home remedy for knee problems and bruises.

4) Arnica globules after surgery

The Arnica beads are used in many areas. You can also take them for pain after operations, such as dental surgery, or after childbirth. As a result, the pain can be relieved.

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Camelina Oil: Ingredients, Effect and Application

Camelina oil is not very well known in German cuisine and is often confused with linseed oil. Here you can find out what the healthy oil is all about and why you should integrate it into your diet more often.

What is camelina oil?

Camelina oil is extracted from the seeds of camelina, a plant of the cruciferous family. It is often confused with linseed oil, which, on the other hand, is made from the linseed of another plant, the common linseed or flax.

However, the oils of the plants have a lot in common: both do not keep for long in cold-pressed form and should not be heated. Stored in light-protected bottles in the refrigerator, they should last up to two months.

The big advantage – of both linseed oil and camelina oil: The plants are cultivated in Germany, so both types of oil are available from regional cultivation. For the best quality, you should buy the oil in organic quality.

How healthy is camelina oil?

Camelina oil consists of 50 to 60 percent polyunsaturated fatty acids. These have a positive effect on cholesterol levels and can thus prevent cardiovascular diseases as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Like linseed oil, camelina oil is particularly rich in alpha-linolenic acid, which belongs to the group of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are an essential component of a balanced diet. For example, they fulfill important functions in hormone production, the function of nerves, muscles and eyes or the structure of cell membranes.

Like many other oils, camelina oil is also rich in vitamin E, which protects our body cells as an antioxidant against free radicals, has a positive effect on lipid metabolism and is involved in controlling the gonads. In contrast to linseed oil, which consists of 60 to 70 percent linolenic acid, camelina oil has a significantly lower proportion of around 30 to 40 percent.

Camelina oil: How to use it in the kitchen

Due to the relatively high content of omega-3 fatty acids, you should not heat camelina oil. The heat destroys the healthy fatty acids and can even convert them into harmful trans fats. Camelina oil is therefore not suitable for frying, cooking or baking.

However, you can use it for dressings or dips, for example, or occasionally add a teaspoon of the oil to the finished meal to ensure you regularly consume omega-3 fatty acids. Camelina oil can be a good source of the important fatty acid, especially in a vegetarian or vegan diet.

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Inulin: Effects, Side Effects and Application

Inulin is a dietary fiber that your body practically does not use. Nevertheless, he does a lot for your health. You can read here how it works and what you should pay attention to.

Inulin: This is how dietary fiber works

Inulin is an energy reserve for plants, but a roughage for the human organism. it belongs to the prebiotics. Certain plants such as Jerusalem artichokes or parsnips store inulin in their tubers and roots. It consists of complex fructose compounds and is a carbohydrate in which plants store energy.

For example, if you eat Jerusalem artichoke, the inulin travels through the stomach and small intestine practically undigested. The human metabolism does not have a digestive enzyme to process the vegetable energy in inulin. Intestinal bacteria can only utilize the fructose in the inulin in the large intestine.

Inulin:
promotes healthy intestinal flora. Spectrum of Science reports that healthy gut bacteria preferentially process fructose molecules as an energy source. The good bifidus bacteria spread and thereby displace pathogenic germs in the intestine.
activates digestion and relieves constipation. The inulin binds liquids and swells up. This promotes bowel movements and thus ensures regular excretion.
The Apotheken Umschau lists other effects of inulin that are particularly beneficial for diabetics:
Few calories: The body cannot use the plant-based energy in inulin, so there are hardly any calories.
Satiety: The swollen inulin causes you to feel full for longer.
Blood sugar levels: Blood sugar remains more constant because the metabolism absorbs other nutrients more slowly.
Studies suggest that the fiber inulin makes it easier for the body to absorb calcium for the bones. Researchers are investigating whether inulin could play a role in treating osteoporosis.

Inulin in the food industry

Inulin has hardly any calories, tastes sweet and is also healthy, which makes the substance interesting for the food industry. Root chicory is usually used as the source for the industrially processed inulin.

Functional foods are specifically designed to provide specific health benefits.

Prebiotic foods: They are intended to promote healthy intestinal flora. Among other things, they should prevent colon cancer or improve high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Unlike probiotic foods, prebiotic foods contain nutrients for gut bacteria but no probiotic bacteria.
Food for diabetics: The Apotheker Zeitung explains that the fructose in inulin tastes sweet and does not burden the blood sugar level.
You can also find inulin as an additive in conventional industrial foods. Food is upgraded with the help of inulin.

Low-calorie foods: such as yoghurt, sausage, fruit juices or desserts.
High in fiber: like muesli or whole grain products.
Low-fat foods: such as spreads, cream fillings in baked goods or in salad dressings. The inulin provides the creamy texture that the fats are otherwise responsible for.

Inulin: healthy, but there are side effects

With inulin-containing vegetables on your menu, you use the healthy properties of dietary fiber. These vegetables contain a lot of inulin:
parsnips
Jerusalem Artichoke
Leek
asparagus
salsify
artichokes
onions and garlic
The local vegetables are usually easy to care for and you can grow them in the garden. You can also find them locally in organic markets or directly from organic farmers.

But the inulin can cause unpleasant side effects after meals.
Spectrum of Science explains that the gut bacteria rapidly ferment the inulin. As a result, a sensitive or irritated intestine can react with flatulence or even diarrhea.
As a rule, inulin in food should not cause any problems. On average, we only eat three to eleven grams per day. However, experts only expect problems for healthy people from a daily ration of more than 30 grams.
Beware of fructose intolerance! The fructose compounds in inulin can cause you symptoms. This applies to vegetables containing inulin, but also to foods with added inulin. Therefore, pay attention to the information on the ingredients.

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Formic Acid: Properties, Application and Distinctive Features

Formic acid is a natural defense product whose special properties can also be useful for humans. Here you can find out everything about the acid.

Formic acid: properties and occurrence

Formic acid, also known as formic acid, is a colourless, clear and corrosive liquid. As the name suggests, it is part of the substance that ants produce to defend themselves against natural enemies. The acid accounts for up to 50 percent of the insect’s body weight.

But not only ants use formic acid to ward off enemies or to attack – it is widespread in nature. For example, scorpions and jellyfish use their caustic effect, as do some plants. The most famous example is probably the stinging nettle. Their stinging hairs are filled with nettle poison, which consists of formic acid, among other things. Even tobacco and honey contain small amounts of formic acid. How corrosive the liquid is depends on the dosage.

In addition, formic acid should:
have a strong and pungent odor,
irritate the skin and mucous membranes,
be highly flammable and water soluble,
Good to know: Formic acid used to be obtained directly from ants, but today it is only produced synthetically. So insects no longer have to die for it.

Formic acid: application and special features

Formic acid has a useful function not only in the animal kingdom. Humans have also discovered the peculiarities of acid for themselves.

Formic acid is said to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other germs. Because of this special feature, the acid is often used as a disinfectant and preservative for fish, fruit and vegetables. In the meantime, however, formic acid is no longer permitted as a food additive in Germany.
Beekeepers also use the antibacterial effect of formic acid. It also helps fight mites. The small parasites can weaken and even kill the bees. Thus, mites are partly responsible for the enormous death of bees. Affected bees also become less efficient and can produce less honey. Formic acid is an effective antidote.
Formic acid also fulfills an important function in the chemical industry. Manufacturers use them to stain and impregnate leather and many other textiles.
Another important area of ​​application is homeopathy. Here the formic acid is used as an allergy agent. In the case of an allergy, your body reacts with defense reactions to actually harmless substances in the environment. By taking diluted formic acid as a stimulant, your immune system is supposed to be stimulated before the allergy season. This allows the immune system to regulate itself and return to normal. This is to prevent an allergic reaction. Common areas of application in homeopathy are hay fever, bronchial asthma and allergic skin reactions.
Medicine uses formic acid as an antirheumatic agent, as it is said to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used against warts. Formic acid is also said to promote blood circulation. Therefore, it is also used for the external treatment of muscle and joint complaints – but sufficiently diluted, otherwise the acid can cause skin irritation and chemical burns.

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Schuessler Salts and Their Application

Schuessler salts are mineral salts in homeopathic dosages. In the following article, you will receive a list of Schuessler salts and an overview of the areas of application.

Depending on your needs, different Schuessler salts can be used. They are said to heal health problems and serious illnesses in a biochemical way.

What are Schuessler salts?

The Schuessler salts were identified and used by the homeopath Wilhelm Heinrich Schuessler in the 19th century. Strictly speaking, they are alternative medicine preparations. The homeopath assumed that diseases are caused by a disruption in the mineral balance of the body cells or a lack of mineral salts. As a result, diseases were treated with the administration of these mineral salts. The therapy is based on homeopathic methods. However, it is not homeopathic because it does not correspond to the principle of similars.

Production of the salts

The therapy using the Schuessler salts takes place in the form of tablets or lozenges. For the production of the biochemical tablets, the salts are pressed together with milk sugar and thus brought into a solid form. Corn starch or other ingredients may also be included. The minerals are heavily diluted beforehand, with the aim of increasing their positive effect. In contrast to homeopathic medicines, the Schuessler salts are not shaken or tapped to increase their effectiveness.

Schuessler salts and their effects

The use of Schuessler salts is very popular. But the effectiveness of the tablets has not been proven. There is also a lack of scientific studies and evidence of the effect, which is why the Schuessler salts are controversial. But it is clear that many believe that the tablets have a positive effect. Scientists agree that this is a placebo effect. As a result, you have to decide for yourself whether taking the pills is right for you. Because a placebo effect may be better than no effect.

Schuessler salts list

Heinrich Schüßler identified eleven mineral salts on the basis of the young physiological chemistry, which he felt to be very important for the functioning of the cells. There was also the mineral salt Calcium sulfuricum on his list. But this was taken down again. Because it was not clear whether it occurs throughout the body. As a result, we have an overview of the eleven most important ones. In line with this, also note our contribution to Silicea for beautiful skin, hair, and nails.

Application of mineral salts

The Schuessler salts are used for all health problems in which the mineral metabolism may play a role. As a result, you can use them for a wide variety of areas and support the healing of your body.

1) Protection of connective tissue

In particular, the Schuessler salt number 1 protects your connective tissue and ensures the elasticity of your tendons and ligaments. It is also used to protect the outer covering of bones and teeth. For this, you have to take the corresponding tablet 1 to 3 times a day. As soon as you notice an improvement, you should reduce the intake. Also, note our effective home remedies for cellulite and tips for removing plaque.

2) As a remedy for muscle spasms

With the second Schuessler salt, you can fight muscle cramps. And it is said to have a positive effect on nosebleeds and anemia. In addition, it promotes bone formation. Here, too, you have to take the tablets several times a day for treatment. The seventh salt also helps you with muscle cramps. Also, note our home remedies for muscle pain.

3) Alleviate inflammation with Schuessler salts

Some Schuessler salts also act as inflammatory agents. Consequently, you can take salts 3 and 4 for inflammation. Consequently, it can be the first choice if you want to treat inflammation yourself. In addition, the third salt is said to strengthen your immune system.

4) Use for cough and swelling

You can also use potassium chloride (#4) as a cough remedy. You can also use it to reduce swelling. Because this Schuessler salt is used to detoxify the body and promotes the build-up of important fibers. You may also be interested in our article on home remedies for deacidifying the body.

5) Schuessler salt to strengthen the nerves

Even if you feel mentally and physically exhausted, there is a Schuessler tablet for you. Because the fifth salt is considered a nutrient for the nerves. It is said to have a calming effect and provide energy. Consequently, it can also be a good remedy for winter depression.

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The Healthy CBD Oil Effect and Application

Cannabidiol products are very trendy because they are supposed to ensure better well-being in a natural way. So get to know the positive effects of CBD oil now and learn how CBD oil can help against stress, pain, and inflammation.

What is CBD?

CBD oil has long made a name for itself in alternative medicine. There are now many different providers and it is therefore not surprising that CBD oils are very popular. Therefore we want to clarify what is behind the mega hype of the products. The CBD (cannabidiol) extract is obtained from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant. Consequently, commercially available CBD products contain lime-pressed hemp oil, cannabidiol, turpentine, hemp molecules, and vitamin E.

The CBD oil effect

The CBD oil effect is health-promoting. Because cannabidiol has a calming and relaxing effect. It is also said to have a pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and anticonvulsant effect. Consequently, it should help in the fight against stress and overexertion. Furthermore, many CBD product providers advertise antioxidant effects that are supposed to help against skin blemishes and ensure a beautiful and soft complexion. Some also recommend the active ingredient for chronic skin diseases, for example for the treatment of neurodermatitis.

Benefits of CBD products

Because cannabidiol is a natural substance, it offers many benefits. All mammals have the endocannabinoid system in their bodies. It is used to maintain balance and homeostasis, as well as other processes that aid in the body’s biochemistry. When you consume it, the CBD unlocks and nourishes the system. As such, it is calming and therapeutic. As such, CBD is used to cure various ailments as it acts on a larger biological process. This results in the following advantages:

  • CBD is legal so you can get high-quality CBD products.
  • The CBD oil effect is health-promoting.
  • There have never been any reports of fatal overdoses from CBD as it is non-toxic.
  • The CBD products are freely available, without a health insurance card or a doctor’s prescription.
  • CBD oil application

But what can you use the CBD oil from the cannabis plant for? And what diseases should it help with? If you believe the manufacturers of CBD products, the range of treatment options is extremely versatile. CBD oil is even said to be able to help with cancer. Regular intake should help to reduce the symptoms that occur in the long term. Consequently, it ensures better well-being.

It is important to know that CBD oil does not contain THC, so it does not have an intoxicating effect like illegal cannabis. Rather, it is the cannabinoids that are meant to help when the oil is ingested. It is often enough if you take a few drops twice a day. As a result, you benefit from the following advantages and areas of application:

1) Cannabidiol boosts overall health

Because the CBD receptors are already present in your body, taking CBD oil helps supercharge the endocannabinoid system. This helps your body repair, cleanse, strengthen and improve your physiological system. So if you use CBD products regularly, it should strengthen your neurological functions and immune system.

2) CBD oil for stress and anxiety

Most people use CBD products primarily for stress relief. Because the relaxing effect can reduce a high-stress level. And as mentioned earlier, CBD extract interacts with the endocannabinoid system so that it affects the serotonin receptors in the body, thereby relieving anxiety.

3) As a home remedy for insomnia

Taking CBD oil also regulates your sleep cycle and is used to treat insomnia. In particular, the calming CBD oil effect leads to a reduction in stress, which can ensure improved and healthy sleep. Therefore, you should try an application for insomnia.

4) The CBD oil effect soothes the skin

The anti-inflammatory effect of CBD products can soothe the skin. Therefore, you can use creams with the CBD active ingredient to treat neurodermatitis. In addition, a large number of high-quality CBD care products advertise an improved complexion through CBD. Accordingly, the skin’s surface has natural cannabinoid receptors, which is why it absorbs the active ingredient particularly well. In addition, CBD moisturizes the skin without clogging the pores and is conveniently suitable for all skin types.

5) CBD oil application relieves pain

Likewise, most people use CBD products for their pain-relieving effects. For example, you can use CBD oil externally and locally because it works against localized pain. Even painful elbows should hurt significantly less in this way. Please also note our tips against rough elbows.

6) Cannabidiol as a home remedy for nausea

Similar to the home remedies ginger and real chamomile, cannabidiol has an anti-nausea effect. Stimulating the endocannabinoid system can suppress feelings of nausea. In addition to using CBD oil, you should also use other home remedies to combat nausea completely. In addition, you should definitely clarify the causes.

7) CBD products for rheumatism and arthritis

People who often have joint pain benefit from CBD products. Because the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiols provide relief from pain and inflammation, they can be used to treat diseases such as rheumatism and arthritis. Also, note natural home remedies for rheumatism.

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Wheatgrass Powder: Effect and Application

Wheatgrass powder is a popular dietary supplement. Here you can find out what effect the so-called superfood has and how you use it.

Wheatgrass and its components

The grasses of the wheat plant are referred to as wheatgrass before they develop their typical spikes. Wheatgrass is therefore gluten-free. According to the Apotheken-Umschau, it also contains important vitamins (per 100 grams):
Vitamin C: 97 milligrams
Vitamin E: 9 milligrams
Vitamin B1: 0.4 milligrams
Vitamin B2: 1.3 milligrams
Vitamin B6: 0.9 milligrams
Wheatgrass also contains iron and the secondary plant substances lutein and chlorophyll.

How does wheatgrass powder work?

You can easily take wheatgrass in powder form. You can get ready-made wheatgrass powder in drugstores, for example. Alternatively, you can make your own by growing wheatgrass in a germination box, drying it, and then pounding it into powder with a mortar and pestle.

Studies, which have not been carried out on humans, attribute the following health-promoting effects to the superfood:
It has an anti-inflammatory effect.
The high proportion of antioxidants is said to have a preventive effect against cancer.
It can normalize cholesterol levels.
The Apotheken-Umschau also reports that the lutein contained in wheatgrass may protect the eyes. The chlorophyll, on the other hand, can support the transport of oxygen in the blood and thus contribute to the formation of new blood cells.

However, the body cannot utilize a large part of the chlorophyll in wheatgrass and excretes the substance unused. It is therefore questionable whether the health benefits of chlorophyll also apply to humans.

How to use wheatgrass powder

You can mix wheatgrass powder with water to get wheatgrass juice. However, if the taste of pure wheatgrass is too intense for you, you can also add the powder to a smoothie, yoghurt or muesli. You should not heat wheatgrass powder, as this can destroy the valuable vitamins.

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Rice Germ Oil: Application and Effect in The Kitchen, Cosmetics and More

Rice germ oil is still relatively unknown in this country. The sustainably produced oil can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen and cosmetics.

How is rice germ oil obtained?

Rice germ oil is obtained from rice bran. Rice bran is the seed coat, embryo and pericarp of the rice grain. The rice bran is the part of the rice grain that is husked away in the production of white rice. By processing the rice bran into rice germ oil, the actual waste product can still be recycled.

Depending on the rice variety, rice bran contains between 16 and 32 percent oil, which can be either pressed or solvent extracted. It is important for the production of high-quality rice bran oil that the oil manufacturer processes the rice bran as quickly as possible after it has been husked.

Rice bran naturally contains fat-splitting enzymes, lipases. Lipases release individual fatty acids that give the oil a rancid taste. To prevent this, the rice bran is briefly heated to 130 degrees Celsius to deactivate the fat-splitting enzymes. Not only do enzymes decompose at this temperature, vitamins are also lost.

What are the ingredients of rice germ oil?

Native rice germ oil is rarely found commercially because it has a very distinctive smell. Refined rice germ oil, on the other hand, is almost odorless with a slightly yellowish hue. In the course of refining, the oil manufacturer removes the unwanted free fatty acids from the rice germ oil.

But ingredients that are said to have a positive health effect are also lost in the process. For example, refined rice germ oil has less than five percent of its original gamma-oryzanol content. As an antioxidant, gamma-oryzanol protects the body from free radicals and is used to improve blood lipid levels due to its cholesterol-lowering effect. The proportion of vitamin E also decreases in the course of oil refining.

The composition of rice germ oil is similar to that of argan oil. The dominant fatty acids are oleic acid, linoleic acid and palmitic acid. All of these fatty acids are saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. Rice germ oil has only a small proportion of oxidation-prone polyunsaturated fatty acids, so it can be kept for up to twelve months.

Where is rice germ oil used?

The cosmetics industry often uses rice germ oil in sunscreens and skin protection creams. For this purpose, the refined rice germ oil is again enriched with the y-oryzanols lost during refining. These protect the skin from the sun by absorbing UVA and UVB rays. The likewise high proportion of phytosterols ensures that rice germ oil is also effective against skin irritation and itching. Rice germ oil can also be used to make soft soaps with a creamy foam.

You can also use rice germ oil in the kitchen as frying oil. Because it’s refined, it can be heated to high temperatures, so you can use it to sear and deep-fry food. Rice germ oil is relatively tasteless and is therefore particularly suitable for the production of mayonnaise.

From a sustainability point of view, rice germ oil is recommended because it is a recycled waste product. In order to avoid long transport routes, you should make sure that the rice used was grown in Europe and processed into oil there. Despite everything, domestic oils such as rapeseed oil remain better than rice germ oil.

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Teff: Application and Characteristics of Dwarf Millet

Teff refers to the smallest type of grain in the world: dwarf millet. The tiny cereal grains are not only gluten-free, but also very healthy. But teff also has a downside. We have put together everything you need to know about teff here.

Teff: The smallest grain in the world

Teff is a plant species within the grass family. The following comparison explains why teff is also called dwarf millet: 150 teff grains are roughly the size of a single grain of wheat.

Teff is therefore considered the smallest grain in the world. But it is only inconspicuous in appearance. Because the small grains are real powerhouses: They contain many healthy nutrients, such as essential fatty acids, which make them interesting for a wholesome, plant-based diet. Likewise, celiac disease patients can safely use teff, because the grain is gluten-free.

Teff is traditionally the main source of food for many millions of people in Ethiopia and Eritrea, where it is native and still widely cultivated. In the meantime, the demand for teff is also increasing globally and dwarf millet has found its way into domestic organic markets. Reason enough to take a close look at the small grains.

Teff cultivation and the increasing international demand for teff

Teff has been cultivated in Ethiopia for centuries. Then as now, the grain was particularly suitable for the nomadic way of life:
The small seeds can easily be taken on trips, even in quantities suitable for large areas.
In addition, teff is quite undemanding. It requires little water and tolerates periods of drought just as well as waterlogging. For this reason, sowing also takes place during the rainy season.
Teff can be harvested after just three months.
Teff is a hardy plant that is rarely affected by diseases or pests. This makes them interesting for organic cultivation, in which chemical pesticides and fertilizers are not used.

Increasing interest in teff is problematic for teff cultivation
In the meantime, the Ethiopian dwarf millet has also made it onto the world market. The growing interest in alternatives to the main local grain, wheat, as well as gluten-free alternatives, has meant that the demand for teff is increasingly coming from the West.

Teff: These are the nutritional values ​​of dwarf millet

For 100 grams of teff (uncooked) there are the following nutritional values:
Energy: 367 kcal
Protein: 13.3 g
Carbohydrates: 73.13 g
Fat: 2.38 g
With 13 grams of protein, teff is one of the protein-rich types of grain, as is wheat (11.44 grams of protein per 100 grams). According to a study, teff contains higher amounts of certain amino acids than other grains. This includes lysine, which is not sufficiently available in other grains. Since lysine is important for muscle building, it is not only of general interest as a full vegetable protein source for vegan diets, but also especially for athletes.

Teff is also rich in essential fatty acids, according to the study. Essential fatty acids are essential for the growth and lifelong development and health of the body.

The Health Pros and Cons of Teff

Teff is particularly popular with people who follow a conscious diet or who have to eat gluten-free due to celiac disease.

Some health benefits of teff include:
Teff is gluten-free: Although teff is a grain like wheat and spelled, dwarf millet is gluten-free, unlike common grains. Thus, teff is also tolerated by celiac disease patients or people with a wheat sensitivity.
Teff is not hulled: Because the small grains are not hulled, all teff products are whole grains. So they contain all the nutrients that are in the outer layers of the grain.
Teff keeps you full for longer: This is because teff consists largely of complex carbohydrates that are only slowly broken down by the body. Teff therefore provides sustainable energy, which keeps you full for a long time. The group of complex carbohydrates also includes fiber, of which teff also has a large amount. Fiber is important for healthy digestion.
Teff has a low glycemic index: Because of the complex carbohydrates, teff has a lower glycemic index (GI) of 74 compared to wheat at 100, a study shows. The glycemic index indicates how a carbohydrate-containing food affects blood sugar levels. After consuming teff, the blood sugar level does not rise as quickly, but remains relatively stable.
Teff is rich in minerals: among other things, dwarf millet contains iron, zinc, calcium and copper. In many cases, teff exceeds the mineral content of other grains. A study shows that teff, depending on the variety, contains up to almost 38 milligrams of zinc in 100 grams of grain, while wheat only has 3.7 milligrams. Iron is important for the immune system, among other things.
Health disadvantages of teff, on the other hand, can be:
Teff contains oxalic acid: The Federal Center for Nutrition points out that teff contains undesirable substances such as oxalic or phytic acid, especially in the shell. Oxalic acid is a toxic substance found in many foods that can damage the kidneys in high concentrations. However, cooking breaks down the oxalic acid, making teff safe to consume.
Teff Contains Phytic Acid: Phytic acid is also found in many other grains such as wheat and oats. It binds the minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc that people ingest with food in the stomach and intestines so that they are no longer available to the body. However, the National Research Council believes that phytic acid as part of a varied and balanced diet does not affect iron and zinc supply in humans.

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