Borage

I noted from this article that borage is a herb that is now naturalized in most parts of Europe, and it has a "cucumber-like fragrance", and when steeped in water, it imparts a coolness to it and a faint cucumber flavour". As for its uses, I learnt borage can be used for fevers and pulmonary (lung) complaints, or as a gargle to relieve inflammation and ulcers in the mouth or throats".

I read in this related article on some ways the borage leaves can be used.

http://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Borage

"The leaves can also be used. Some ideas for use include:

• Adding to gin-based summer cocktails
• Placing the young leaves into salads cooked like spinach or dipped in batter asfritters
• Use the leaves uncooked in salads and soups, as they have a cucumber flavor
• Add sprigs to wine, cider, and fruit drinks
• Freeze the flowers into ice cubes
• Use the flowers as garnishes in salads
• Candy the flowers for cake decorations."

This blog below says that the Indian borage is used as a cough remedy too.

http://gardeningwithwilson.com/2007/11/08/gcs-feature-articles-for-oct-07/

"In Singapore, the Indian Borage is often mistakened as a type of mint. To make things worse, a rough search using the Internet search engine will yield has several confusing common names. Botanically, the Indian Borage is known as Plectranthus amboinicus and is a member of Lamiaceae and this herb is famed for its use as a cough remedy."

Gluten intolerance and alternative food

I noted from this article "10 Signs You're Gluten Intolerant" that people with gluten intolerance need to avoid food containing gluten, which is "a protein found in wheat, rye and barley", otherwise they may develop symptoms such as digestive issues, chronic fatigue, hormonal imbalance, inflammation in joints, and anxiety. One person commented below the article that "Given that wheat, soy and corn are the top food intolerances AND are also the top GMO food crops, I'd say that has something to do with it." 

I learnt from the article that an elimination diet is the best way to determine whether a person has an issue with gluten. As for me, I have been eating bread every day and drink barley water on weekends, and I am monitoring my health at the same time to see if there are symptoms related to gluten intolerance. 

I also learnt in the case of gluten intolerance, a change in diet will be necessary, such as substituting wheat products with pure oats, for example. Eating eggs for breakfast is a healthy gluten-free meal too, which you have been eating. I learnt from this article below that it is recommended to eat 2 or 3 eggs per day, preferably those that are organic and pasture-raised. 

"There’s absolutely no reason to limit your consumption of eggs to three to four per week, as recommended by “heart-healthy” nutritional guidelines. In fact, consuming two to three eggs per day would provide a better boost to your health and protection against disease than a multivitamin supplement. Eggs truly are one of nature’s superfoods." 

 

(From "Three eggs a day keep the doctor away!" by Chris Kresser)

Managing arthritis naturally

I was googling about back pain arthritis, and I came across this video in which Mike Adams gave some useful tips on managing arthritis (if we happen to have this condition). http://tv.naturalnews.com/v.asp?v=f50daecda6b6ed1910c1ed5c40d1ca64

According to him, unlike cars, the joints in our body do not wear out with use over time. On the contrary, our body needs regular motion to increase muscle strength and bone joint mobility, so it is important for us to find a balance between exercise (such as yoga) and over-using the joints. In terms of diet, we can continue to avoid foods that are not designed for human natural consumption, including foods that we are allergic to, fried foods, GM wheat etc, to avoid or minimse inflammation in the body. We can also remember to drink adequate water to prevent dehydration and possible inflammation in the body.

I find this article useful in its suggestion of 21 natural remedies to relieve/treat arthritis back pain, which includes massage therapy, low impact activities, encouraging lumbar support (using pillows and cushions), moving regularly, not over-exercising, and so on. In my workplace, I use a cushion to support my lower back when sitting in my office chair, which I think helps prevent back pain. You could try that too, if you haven't done so.

http://painkickers.com/arthritis-natural-remedies/

This related website also suggests some arthritis natural remedies, especially for back pain, such as bathing with warm water with soothing oils to relax tight muscles.

http://togetherweearn.com/profiles/blogs/arthritis-natural-treatments-that-may-slow-arthritis-backside