Scientists do not have all of the answers to how the Okinawan natural herbs and medicines have played a part in their outstanding health, longevity and youthfulness.  However, they are certain that there is a beneficial effect.  As stated in the book The Okinawa Program, we Westerners also have many readily available healing foods. Some of these include:

• Apples-fiber and flavonoids
• Chamomile-settles the stomach
• Cranberries-100% juice for treatment of cystitis and bladder infections
• Echinacea-may help recover from colds quicker
• Garlic-inhibits bacterial growth
• Ginger-used to treat nausea
• Hot peppers-excellent source of vitamins A and C
• Lemon-a great source of vitamin C
• Onions-a top flavonoid-rich vegetable
• Papayas-high in vitamin C and beta-carotene and aids digestion
• Parsley-often used as a garnish and is a great breath freshener
• Peppermint-peppermint tea aids digestion an treats symptoms of colds and fevers
• Rhubarb-rich in vitamin C, potassium and calcium
• Tomatoes-their lycopene content may decrease the risk for prostate cancer

If you are not eating some of these healing foods regularly, pick a few to add to your grocery list so you may include them in your daily diet.  While in Hawaii this past January I do believe I ate a half of a papaya every single day.  Try a papaya!