Recently, I ran across a variety of tips to lower heart rate and triglycerides, reduce wrinkles, and feel happier and healthier.

1.  Herbs like coriander, cilantro, oregano, garlic, ginger, thyme, basil, and pepper flakes block fat absorption in the digestive track.  Just add two teaspoons of any of these daily to reduce triglycerides.
2. You can also lower triglycerides with black tea–eight ounces with every meal.  Research indicates consistency matters.  In one study this routine cut triglycerides 35% in three months.  White and green tea help too.
3. Slow your heart rate and calm down by listening to relaxing music.  The most effective tempo is 60 beats per minute.  Think Baroque.
4. One half cup of almonds daily can also reduce heart rate by as much as four points because almonds contain magnesium.
5. Eat ten large green olives daily to reduce wrinkles and inflammation.  I will admit my concern with this would be the sodium.  Olives generally are quite salty.
6. Eat sweet potatoes and strawberries to smooth skin.  They are filled with betacarotene and vitamin C.  You can even make a face mask with mashed sweet potatoes–just add a bit of milk and honey.  Leave on face ten minutes and wash off.

Personally, I use essential oils to improve my health and skin.  Every morning I put one drop of essential oil of cardamon in my first cup of coffee.  It improves digestion and helps fight infections. After tiring of my students complaining about the smell in my high school class room, I tried various essential oils in a diffuser.  The one that worked and about which no students complained is rosemary.  It helps with allergies, hay fever, and memory.  Some students jokingly tell me I need to dump the whole bottle in.  It also combats hair loss and dandruff.   I put it in my shampoo.  My favorites, however, are frankincense and myrrh. If your joints or muscles are aching, rub them down with magnesium oil and add a little of these.

Here’s to a healthier, happier you!!