Thyme was grown in monastery gardens in southern France, in Spain, and in Italy, during the Middle Ages for use as a cough remedy, digestive aid, and as a treatment for intestinal parasites. Thymol is the most active ingredient in thyme and is known to have a therapeutic effect on the lungs. Ingesting or inhaling the oil helps to loosen phlegm and relax the muscles in the respiratory system. In Germany, concoctions of thyme are frequently prescribed for coughs, including those resulting from whooping cough, bronchitis and emphysema. Thyme is used in herbal teas prepared for colds and flu. In addition, thyme has anti-fungal properties and can be used against athlete's foot. To make a tea, use two teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water and steep for ten minutes. Add sage to the tea if you have a nagging cough. Thyme is generally regarded as safe, but large doses may cause intestinal problems. If you experience intestinal symptoms, cut back on the amount you're using or discontinue use altogether. A stronger tea is useful as a mouthwash or rinse to treat sore gums.

Most people agree that a piece of good dark chocolate can lift the spirit. Cocoa, a main ingredient of chocolate, has many health benefits. Researchers in the Netherlands analyzed 15 years of diet and health data in 470 people aged 65 and older, they found that those with diets richest in cocoa were half as likely to die from cardiovascular disease compared to people who consumed little or no cocoa. Cocoa has also been shown to be good for the brain, providing mental energy and better circulation. Most of the health dangers of chocolate derive from the sugar, the poor quality of fats, added dairy, and preservatives. Making your own chocolate means you can use the highest quality organic ingredients and replace sugar with better substitutes. It's also amazingly easy to make. The recipe calls for: 3/4 cup cocoa powder 1/4 cup maple syrup 1 tsp vanilla 10 drops of liquid stevia 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted) Add the first four ingredients to a mixing bowl, then add the coconut oil once it is melted and mix all ingredients together until smooth. Pour the mixture into a parchment paper lined pan (the size of a brownie pan). Then put the pan in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the pan from the freezer and cut the chocolate into squares. After cutting, keep the chocolate in the refrigerator or freezer. Ready to eat. Enjoy!