23/02/2021
CULLINARY BRAIN HERB: OREGANO & RECIPE!!
The humble herb oregano surprisingly has many beneficial effects supportive of optimal nervous system function and brain health
BENEFITS OF OREGANO FOR BRAIN HEALTH
ANTIOXIDANTS
Antioxidants that protect against neuronal damage
CARVACROL & THYMOQUINONE
Potential mood enhancing benefits from these active compounds which can increase alpha-1 brain waves (induce relaxation, reduce anxiety, improve learning and concentration) and beta-1 brainwaves (associated with higher levels of cognitive processing and alertness)
Also inhibition of the reuptake and break down of monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline) involved in regulation of sleep, appetite, and modulation of mood, anxiety, and cognition
MANGANESE
An essential trace metal for neural activity, optimal cell function, brain and nerve function
OMEGA 3 FATTY ACID
Supports optimal cognition, associated with reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia, reduces neuroinflammation involved with depression and many neurological conditions
VITAMIN C
Balancing of cortisol, regulating stress response
OREGANO PESTO RECIPE
Blend the following together:
2 C fresh oregano
2 fresh garlic cloves
1/2 C almonds
1/4 C pinenuts
1/2 C olive oil
2 Tbsp lemon juice
pinch salt and pepper
Serve with raw vegetable sticks (celery, carrot, capsium) or add to a Nourish Bowl (also known as Buddha Bowls or Green Bowls). Here's one example of a Nourish Bowl you can make...
NOURISH BOWL
Arrange the following in a bowl to make your Nourish Bowl:
1-2 Tbsp oregano pesto
Half an avocado (chopped)
handful fresh alfalfa sprouts
drizzle of lemon juice
1/4 C saurkraut
1/2 C cooked green peans
1/2 C cooked quinoa
1/ C cooked sweet potato, chopped
1 Tbsp chopped almonds
salt & pepper
sprinkle of nori flakes
Yumm 🙌🏽