Sprouted seeds

Sprouted seeds are seeds which have been allowed to germinate and sprout. Lentils, chick peas, mung beans and alfalfa sprouts are all popular, and some sprouted seed enthusiasts believe that these foods provide more nutrients, ounce for ounce, than any other natural food known. They also believe that the high level of enzyme activity in the sprouts can stimulate the body's own enzymes into greater activity.

The simplest sprouting method is to put a few handfuls of seeds in a large glass jar, rinse them, pour off all the water and then cover the jar. The rinsing process is repeated every day until the seeds have sprouted and are an inch or so in length. After a final rinse they are then ready to eat.

St John's wort

Herb

This very valuable medicinal herb has both relaxant and anti-depressant properties, and is used to treat depressive illness. However it is probably not effective against severe clinical depression. St John's wort does not have an immediate mood-lifting effect, but must be taken for several weeks before this effect will begin to occur. Other conditions which may respond to this herb include menopausal problems, insomnia, nervous tension, bed-wetting, and all conditions involving cramps and spasms, such as irritable bowel syndrome and period pains.

Oil in which the flowers of the St John's wort plant have been steeped can be used externally to treat neuralgic pains, wounds and mild burns.

Cautions: St John's wort causes users to develop photosensitivity of the skin. To avoid getting skin rashes, those using this herb internally or externally should not expose themselves to strong sunlight.