yams or sweet potatoes

The Power of Roots

Root vegetables are one of the most powerful weapons in the nutrition world. We hear a lot about the power of greens, but we need more roots in our diets and here’s why: Roots are very grounding, warming to the body, and are loaded with minerals and antioxidants. Many of my favorite herbs that I use daily are roots. Let’s explore some of my favorites - some you will know, some you may not know.

Beets

This root with its deep, dark and red-purple color has a powerful effect on rebuilding blood and supporting the cardiovascular system.

  • Beets are very high in iron and great for people suffering from anemia.
  • Beets can help lower blood pressure.
  • Beets are high in methyl groups like betaine, a substance that helps support detoxification pathways.

Turmeric

This root, with its deep yellow-orange color, has been shown to be antiviral, anticancer, antibiotic, and help heal the skin.

  • Turmeric contains a powerful phytochemical called curcumin.
  • Turmeric has been shown to help the immune system.
  • Turmeric protects the brain.
  • Turmeric helps slow down the aging process.
  • Turmeric in high doses works as an anti-depressant.

He Shou Wu (Fo Ti)

This is a root from TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) with an amazing story behind how powerful it is. This root helps restore kidney function and helps restore your hair color from gray to its original color.

  • Fo ti is a kidney tonic herb. In Chinese medicine the kidneys are the battery packs of the body and if we are weak, low in energy, low libido, or suffering from diabetic conditions, this herb can work wonders.
  • Fo ti helps strengthen the body, fortify muscles, and calm the central nervous system.
  • Fo ti is another great source of iron, making it great for any anemic condition.

Yams

This root is a powerhouse of nutrition, is widely available, and taste delicious! Yams contain vitamin C, B vitamins, Iron, Calcium, and many other antioxidants that help support the whole body.

  • Yams contain allatonin, a phytochemical that has been shown to help speed up healing of the skin.
  • Yams are a hormonal food and able to support the body’s production of various hormones.
  • Progesterone creams are made from wild yams because they contain bio-identical progesterone.

I hope I have inspired you to go and try some roots. I love to eat roots everyday, especially in the winter. One of my favorite supplements to introduce people to the power of roots is called Vitamineral earth by Healthforce Nutritionals. Check them out and enjoy!