Unlocking the Hidden Powers of Za'atar

Za'atar, a plant from the mint family, is renowned for its potent aroma and widespread use as a seasoning. It's also known for its health-boosting properties when transformed into oil.

Maimonides credited za'atar with several healing qualities: strengthening the body, enhancing cognitive function and memory, easing headaches, and bolstering the immune system. By promoting blood circulation, it also serves as a potent remedy against joint inflammations.

Za'atar stimulates bile secretion and digestive enzymes, aiding in protein and fat breakdown, while enhancing the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, crucial for the body's natural immunity.

It effectively combats many parasites, including intestinal worms that disrupt digestion and the absorption of vital nutrients, potentially weakening the digestive and immune systems.

The herb assists in regulating blood sugar levels, and incorporating za'atar into one's diet can prevent blood sugar spikes and diabetes, while aiding weight loss and preventing obesity.

For respiratory issues like coughs and excess mucus, za'atar can be quite helpful. Simply steep a teaspoon of fresh or half a teaspoon of dried za'atar in a cup of boiling water, wait five minutes, and sip it slowly. This infusion also alleviates gum inflammation and can even be used for toothaches by rinsing several times a day since za'atar contains antiseptic properties.

Commercial za'atar with sesame typically contains high salt and oil levels, leading to oxidation and excess sodium. It's advisable to buy pure za'atar and add quality olive oil, sesame seeds, and salt right before use if desired.

Za'atar oil is affordable and readily available. It's safe to use, especially when mixed with olive oil. It can be applied and massaged onto achy joints (warm slightly before use), rubbed on the abdomen to relieve gas or bloating, or on the chest to break down respiratory mucus.

The holy ARI suggests regularly placing dried or fresh za'atar on the Shabbat table to fend off harmful entities and promote domestic harmony.

Zohara Sharvit is an N.D. naturopath and certified iridologist with extensive experience in therapeutic consultation and workshop facilitation. To book a complimentary workshop, call 073-2221290