Herbal Smoothies to Enhance Your Vitality Now

Maximize Your Energy: Explore the Incredible Health Benefits of Herbal Smoothies for Enhanced Vitality

Herbal smoothies serve as a powerful ally in your pursuit of increased vitality and sustained energy. By blending together nutrient-dense components, these revitalizing drinks offer a natural solution to combat fatigue while enhancing overall wellness. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast seeking an energizing pre-workout option or a busy professional striving to boost your daily stamina, herbal smoothies for energy provide a refreshing and invigorating approach to health that rejuvenates both your body and mind.

Unleash the Power of Herbal Smoothies to Elevate Your Daily Energy Levels

Herbal Smoothies for Energy: A vibrant herbal smoothie with ginseng and ashwagandha boosts energy for a person working at a desk.

Facing a midday slump is a common issue for many individuals; however, integrating herbal smoothies for energy into your routine can profoundly alter your day. Numerous herbs, including ginseng and ashwagandha, are celebrated for their adaptogenic properties, which aid the body in efficiently managing stress and fatigue. These remarkable herbs support the adrenal glands, which are vital for energy production. By consistently consuming herbal smoothies, you can establish a steady stream of energy, avoiding the crashes that often accompany sugary snacks. This makes these smoothies an exceptional choice for enhancing both your physical and mental performance.

In the UK, where gloomy weather can often impede energy levels, the need for an energy boost becomes even more essential. A smoothie featuring nettle, a commonly found herb in British gardens, stands out as a superb option. Nettle is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as crucial minerals like iron, all of which play significant roles in maintaining energy levels. By blending nettle with ingredients such as banana or almond milk, you create a delicious and nutritious beverage that effectively combats fatigue while boosting your vitality.

Another fantastic herb known for enhancing energy is maca, which has gained considerable popularity recently. Native to Peru, maca root is renowned for its ability to enhance stamina and endurance. When mixed with fruits like berries or apples in your smoothie, it not only infuses unique flavor but also amplifies the energy-boosting effects of your drink. This delightful combination not only satisfies your taste buds but also revitalizes your body, making it an ideal addition to your dietary routine.

Enhance Your Mental Clarity with Energizing Herbal Smoothies

Cognitive fatigue can significantly hinder productivity, making it difficult to focus on important tasks. Thankfully, the inclusion of specific herbs in your smoothies can greatly enhance mental clarity. Ingredients like ginkgo biloba and rosemary have long been praised for their cognitive-boosting properties. For example, ginkgo has the ability to improve blood circulation, thereby increasing oxygen flow to the brain, which results in sharper focus and improved memory retention. By integrating these herbs into your daily diet, you can equip your brain with the necessary support for optimal performance.

Maintaining mental acuity is crucial in bustling environments like London or other urban areas. A smoothie that combines ginkgo with refreshing mint and a splash of green tea creates an invigorating drink that lifts your spirits while enhancing your cognitive function. Green tea contains L-theanine, which promotes relaxation without inducing drowsiness, making it an excellent companion for herbal energy smoothies.

Additionally, enriching your smoothies with invigorating herbs like peppermint can energize both your body and mind. The uplifting aroma of peppermint has been shown to enhance alertness and cognitive performance. By blending it with citrus fruits like lemon or lime, you can create a vibrant smoothie that stimulates your senses, boosts mental clarity, and energizes your day.

Explore the Exceptional Nutritional Benefits of Herbal Smoothies

The nutritional profile of herbal smoothies for energy is truly remarkable, making them an outstanding addition to any diet. By combining a wide range of herbs and fruits, you ensure that your body receives a comprehensive array of vitamins and minerals essential for optimal energy metabolism. For instance, herbs like spirulina, a blue-green algae, are exceptional sources of protein and essential fatty acids vital for cellular energy production, making it a key ingredient in energy-boosting smoothies.

When crafting your smoothie, consider incorporating vitamin C-rich ingredients such as kiwi or strawberries to bolster your immune system while elevating your energy levels. Vitamin C is crucial for synthesizing carnitine, which facilitates the transportation of fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production. This not only enhances physical performance but also supports overall health and wellness, ensuring you feel your best.

Moreover, minerals such as magnesium are vital for energy production and can be easily integrated by adding leafy greens like spinach or kale to your smoothies. These greens are also abundant in iron, which is essential for oxygen transportation in the blood, thus contributing to increased energy levels. By blending these nutrient-rich ingredients, you support sustained energy levels while promoting overall health and vitality.

Improve Your Digestive Health through Herbal Smoothies

A vibrant smoothie with ginger and peppermint, surrounded by fresh herbs, in warm green and yellow tones.

Optimal digestion is essential for maintaining high energy levels. Ingredients such as ginger and peppermint are not only flavorful but also remarkably beneficial for digestive health. Ginger, recognized for its warming properties, can alleviate bloating and discomfort, making it an excellent addition to your herbal smoothies for energy. It contains gingerol, known for its anti-inflammatory properties that further promote overall health and well-being.

Incorporating peppermint into your smoothies not only aids digestion but also imparts a refreshing flavor while promoting a healthy gut. The menthol in peppermint helps relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating smooth food passage through the system. This is particularly advantageous post-meal, ensuring that your body can effectively assimilate the nutrients consumed, thereby boosting your energy levels throughout the day.

A smoothie enriched with ginger, peppermint, and a handful of spinach can significantly enhance digestive health. This combination is not only delicious but also prepares your digestive system to absorb maximum nutrients, providing you with the essential energy needed to power through your busy day.

Explore Popular UK Herbs to Enhance Your Smoothies

The UK is home to a variety of herbs that can elevate your smoothie experience while boosting your energy levels. These local ingredients not only enhance flavor but also offer an abundance of nutritional benefits. By incorporating native UK herbs into your smoothies, you tap into the power of your local environment, promoting sustainability and health while enjoying a delightful beverage.

Unlock the Nutritional Power of Nettle

Often underestimated, nettle is a nutritional powerhouse commonly found in UK gardens and the countryside. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like iron and calcium, nettle significantly enhances herbal smoothies for energy. Its inherent detoxifying properties help cleanse the body while promoting overall vitality.

For those interested in sustainable living, nettle is an excellent candidate for foraging. Spring is the ideal time to gather young nettle leaves, which are tender and nutrient-rich. A smoothie featuring nettles, banana, and almond milk can be both energizing and delicious, offering a unique flavor profile that is both earthy and sweet, making it a perfect choice any time of day.

Furthermore, nettle has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries, believed to support adrenal function and combat fatigue. By including nettle in your daily smoothies, you not only enhance their nutritional content but also connect with a rich heritage of natural health practices that have stood the test of time.

Dandelion: The Overlooked Energy Enhancer

A vibrant field of yellow dandelion flowers in the UK, with close-ups of their edible parts being blended into a smoothie with apples and honey.

Dandelion is frequently dismissed as a weed, but it offers numerous advantages for those looking to increase their energy levels. Commonly found in UK fields, the leaves, roots, and flowers of the dandelion are edible and packed with nutrients. These bright yellow flowers are abundant in vitamins A and C, essential for energy production and immune support, making them a valuable addition to your smoothies.

Incorporating dandelion greens into your smoothies adds a slightly bitter note that beautifully balances sweeter fruits. Consider blending dandelion leaves with apple and a drizzle of honey for a refreshing drink that delights the palate while providing a natural energy boost. The bitterness of dandelion can also stimulate digestion, ensuring your body effectively utilizes the nutrients consumed for optimal energy levels.

Dandelion root, when brewed as tea or added to smoothies, can enhance liver health, which is crucial for detoxification and energy metabolism. This makes dandelion an excellent addition to your wellness routine, especially during seasonal transitions when energy support and nourishment are often required.

Elderflower: The Floral Nutritional Powerhouse

Elderflower, a traditional herb in the UK, imparts a unique floral flavor to your smoothies while providing significant health benefits. Celebrated for its immune-boosting properties, elderflower is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making it a fantastic ingredient for those seeking to enhance their overall vitality and well-being.

Incorporating elderflower cordial into your herbal smoothies for energy not only enhances flavor but also strengthens your immune system against seasonal health challenges. A smoothie that blends elderflower, yogurt, and fresh berries results in a delightful and energizing beverage suitable for any time of day. The natural sweetness of elderflower pairs beautifully with tart berries, resulting in a refreshing and nutritious drink that elevates your mood.

In the UK, elderflower is often associated with summer; gathering elderflower blossoms to create cordial has become a treasured tradition. By adding elderflower to your smoothies, you embrace a piece of British culture while nourishing your body with nature’s bounty, turning each sip into a celebration of local flavors.

Boost Your Energy by Embracing Seasonal Ingredients

Utilizing seasonal ingredients not only enhances the freshness of your smoothies but also guarantees that you are consuming the finest produce available in your region. By aligning your smoothie components with seasonal offerings, you can maximize both flavor and nutritional value while supporting local farmers.

Spring Greens for Invigorating Energy

As winter yields to spring, the arrival of vibrant greens like spinach and kale provides a refreshing, energizing boost to your smoothies. These leafy greens are packed with vitamins and minerals that support energy metabolism. Spinach, for instance, is rich in iron, which assists in the transportation of oxygen throughout the body, thereby enhancing overall energy levels and vitality.

A spring green smoothie that blends spinach, banana, and a splash of lemon juice results in a revitalizing drink that invigorates and refreshes. The earthy flavor of spinach, paired with the sweetness of banana, creates a delicious combination that delivers a powerful nutritional punch, promoting energy and wellness.

Kale, on the other hand, is renowned for its high content of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as beneficial antioxidants. Including kale in your smoothies provides a substantial energy boost while also supporting your immune system. For a truly energizing drink, consider blending kale with pineapple and coconut water for a tropical twist that infuses the essence of summer into your springtime smoothies, making them all the more enjoyable.

Summer Berries: Nature’s Sweet Delight

As summer unfolds, an abundance of berries flourishes across the UK. Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are not only delicious but also rich in natural sugars and antioxidants, making them ideal candidates for herbal smoothies for energy. These berries offer a quick energy source, while their high antioxidant content helps combat oxidative stress in the body, providing a refreshing and nutritious boost.

A delightful summer berry smoothie can include a mix of these fruits alongside Greek yogurt for a protein-packed treat. The creamy texture of the yogurt beautifully complements the tartness of the berries, creating a balanced and invigorating drink that keeps you energized throughout the day. This combination is not only scrumptious but also supports your overall health and vitality.

Not only do summer berries taste fantastic, but they also provide essential vitamins such as vitamin C and various B vitamins crucial for energy metabolism. Incorporating local berries into your smoothies enhances both flavor and supports local farmers, ensuring you enjoy the freshest produce while relishing the delightful flavors of summer.

Autumn Apples: A Seasonal Treasure

As autumn approaches, the UK is blessed with a bountiful harvest of apples. These crisp fruits are perfect for adding natural sweetness to your smoothies while delivering an array of nutrients. Apples are high in fiber, which supports digestive health and ensures a steady release of energy throughout the day.

For an energizing autumn smoothie, blend UK-grown apples, a small piece of fresh ginger, and a splash of apple juice. The combination of sweet and spicy creates a comforting drink that’s perfect for the season, warming you as temperatures drop. The zing from ginger adds warmth, ideal for cooler days, while the sweetness of the apples harmonizes beautifully, resulting in a delightful beverage.

Moreover, the antioxidants found in apples, particularly quercetin, can support overall health by reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. By incorporating seasonal apples into your smoothies, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of autumn while enhancing your energy levels and overall vitality, creating a truly satisfying drink.

Winter Citrus: Brightening Your Smoothies

Winter brings vibrant citrus fruits to the UK, including oranges, grapefruits, and lemons. These fruits are not only refreshing but also packed with vitamin C, which is essential for energy production and immune support during the colder months. Citrus fruits can elevate your herbal smoothies for energy by adding a zesty flavor that awakens the senses and enhances your overall experience.

A smoothie featuring winter citrus can be both energizing and uplifting. Combine fresh orange juice, lemon, and a hint of ginger for a revitalizing start to your day. The bright flavors of citrus, paired with the warming properties of ginger, create a delightful and refreshing drink that combats winter fatigue and uplifts your spirits.

Additionally, the high water content in citrus fruits helps keep you hydrated, which is vital for maintaining energy levels. By integrating these seasonal fruits into your smoothies, you not only enjoy their delicious flavors but also support your body’s natural energy production through their rich nutrient profile, making them an ideal winter choice.

Invigorating UK Smoothie Recipes for Enhanced Energy

Creating delicious and energizing smoothies can be a delightful experience, especially when utilizing local ingredients. The following recipes are designed to showcase the vibrant flavors of the UK while delivering a significant energy boost, turning your smoothie-making process into a delightful and healthful ritual.

Revitalizing Green Energy Blast Recipe for a Natural Surge

Kickstart your day with a revitalizing Green Energy Blast, perfect for those seeking a natural energy surge. Blend a handful of fresh spinach, a few young nettle leaves, a ripe banana, and a splash of almond milk. This combination offers not only a refreshing flavor but also a powerful punch of nutrients, ensuring you feel invigorated and ready to tackle the day ahead.

Both spinach and nettle are packed with essential vitamins, while banana contributes natural sweetness and creaminess to the smoothie. For an added boost, consider including a teaspoon of spirulina or a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra protein. This Green Energy Blast will energize you, making it an ideal pre-workout drink or a refreshing pick-me-up throughout your busy day.

To enhance the flavor even further, add a squeeze of lemon or lime. This will not only brighten the smoothie but also impart a zesty twist. The result is a deliciously energizing drink that embodies the essence of spring with every invigorating sip, perfect for any time of day.

Berry Boost Smoothie Recipe for Summer Vitality

During the summer, a Berry Boost Smoothie offers a delightful way to capture the natural sweetness of local berries. Combine a cup of mixed UK summer berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries—with a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt and a hint of elderflower cordial.

The addition of elderflower not only enhances the flavor but also provides immune-boosting properties, making it perfect for warm summer days. The vibrant colors of the berries create a visually appealing drink, while the Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, ensuring you remain energized and nourished throughout the day.

For added nutrition, consider tossing in a handful of spinach or kale, which will blend seamlessly with the berries without altering the flavor. This Berry Boost Smoothie is not only delicious but also serves as a powerful energy source, making it a delightful addition to your summertime routine.

Autumn Apple Zinger Recipe for Sustained Energy

As the leaves change and autumn settles in, whip up an Autumn Apple Zinger to keep your energy levels high. This smoothie combines UK-grown apples, a small piece of fresh ginger, and a splash of apple juice. The sweet and spicy combination creates a comforting drink that’s perfect for the season, warming you as temperatures drop.

Blend the ingredients until smooth, and consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor. The fiber in apples promotes digestive health, while ginger adds a zesty kick that can boost your metabolism and invigorate your system.

For an additional nutrient boost, consider incorporating a handful of oats or a scoop of nut butter. These additions provide extra energy and richness to your smoothie. This Autumn Apple Zinger is a delightful way to embrace the season while maintaining your energy levels, ensuring you feel revitalized from the inside out.

Where to Find Fresh Ingredients in the UK for Your Smoothies

Finding fresh, local ingredients for your herbal smoothies for energy is crucial for maximizing both flavor and nutritional benefits. Fortunately, the UK offers a plethora of options for sourcing high-quality produce and herbs that can elevate your smoothie experience.

Explore Local Farmers’ Markets for Quality Ingredients

Visiting local farmers’ markets is one of the best ways to discover fresh, seasonal ingredients. These markets often feature local farmers and producers who offer a wide variety of herbs, fruits, and vegetables perfect for your smoothies. In cities like London, markets such as Borough Market or Camden Market are popular choices, allowing you to explore a diverse array of fresh produce that supports local agriculture.

At farmers’ markets, you can often find unique herbs like nettle and dandelion, which are typically not available in supermarkets. Engaging with local vendors supports your community and provides insight into the ingredients you purchase. Many vendors are passionate about their products and can share valuable tips on how to best utilize them in your smoothies, enhancing your culinary knowledge and skills.

Additionally, buying seasonal produce directly from farmers ensures that you are obtaining the freshest ingredients. This significantly enhances the flavor and nutritional content of your herbal smoothies for energy, contributing to an overall superior smoothie experience while supporting local economies and eco-friendly practices.

Supermarkets: Convenient Sources for Fresh Ingredients

Major UK supermarkets also provide a wide selection of fruits and herbs suitable for smoothie-making. Chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose typically stock an array of fresh herbs, including mint and basil, as well as a variety of seasonal fruits.

When shopping at supermarkets, always look for organic options whenever possible, as these tend to boast higher nutrient levels and are free from harmful pesticides. Many supermarkets now also feature local produce sections, making it easier to find fresh, locally-sourced ingredients for your smoothies that are both healthy and flavorful.

Moreover, some supermarkets offer ready-to-blend smoothie packs, containing pre-prepared fruits and vegetables. While these can be convenient, they may not always match the quality and flavor of fresh produce. Therefore, whenever feasible, opt for loose ingredients to maximize your smoothies’ overall quality and enjoyment.

Foraging: An Adventurous Approach to Sourcing Ingredients

For those with a sense of adventure, foraging in nature presents an exciting opportunity to source unique ingredients for your herbal smoothies for energy. The UK countryside is rich in edible herbs and plants, including nettles, dandelions, and wild garlic. Learning to forage responsibly not only provides fresh ingredients but also fosters a deeper connection to nature and local ecosystems.

Ensure you are knowledgeable about foraging safety and verify that the plants you collect are indeed edible. Numerous resources and foraging courses are available in the UK to help beginners learn the intricacies and enhance their foraging skills.

Foraging not only provides fresh, unique ingredients but also promotes sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with grocery shopping. Incorporating freshly foraged herbs into your smoothies can introduce distinctive flavors and health benefits, enriching your overall smoothie experience while connecting you with the natural environment.

Expert Tips for Crafting Perfect Herbal Smoothies

Creating the ultimate herbal smoothies for energy requires a blend of skill and creativity. Here are some expert tips to enhance your smoothie-making techniques and maximize the benefits of your selected ingredients, ensuring a delightful and nutritious experience every time.

Master Blending Techniques for the Ideal Consistency

Utilizing the right blending techniques is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture in your smoothies. Investing in a high-speed blender is highly recommended, as it can efficiently break down tough ingredients like leafy greens and frozen fruits, ensuring maximum nutrient extraction for a delightful drinking experience.

To create the perfect smoothie, add the liquid ingredients first, followed by softer fruits, and then the frozen ingredients or harder items like ice. This layering method helps the blender create a vortex that blends everything evenly, resulting in an impeccably smooth consistency. For added creaminess, consider incorporating ingredients like avocado or Greek yogurt, which contribute a silky texture and enhance the nutritional profile of your drink.

Moreover, blending for an extended period can further improve the smoothness of your beverage. Remember to pause and scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure all ingredients are well combined. The outcome will be a velvety smoothie that is both delicious and rich in essential nutrients, providing a satisfying and energizing drink.

Achieve Flavor Balance for Delicious Smoothies

Crafting a well-balanced smoothie is crucial to ensure it is both delicious and energizing. Combining sweet fruits with slightly bitter herbs is an excellent strategy for achieving this balance. For example, pairing sweet apples with dandelion greens can create a delightful flavor profile that is enjoyable to the palate and packed with energy-boosting nutrients.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with various flavor combinations. Adding a squeeze of citrus can brighten the taste of your smoothie, while spices like cinnamon or turmeric can enhance the flavor and provide additional health benefits. Adjusting sweetness levels with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can also help create the perfect balance tailored to your preferences.

Since everyone’s taste preferences differ, feel free to tweak ingredients to suit your palate while keeping health benefits in mind. A perfectly balanced smoothie not only tastes fantastic but also fuels your body with the nutrients it needs for sustained energy and vitality throughout the day.

Storage and Preservation for Optimal Freshness

Proper storage and preservation of smoothie ingredients are vital for maintaining their freshness and energy-boosting properties. When purchasing herbs and fruits, ensure they are stored correctly to prevent spoilage and retain their nutritional value. Storing herbs like mint and basil in a glass of water in the fridge can help keep them fresh for longer, allowing you to enjoy their vibrant flavors in your smoothies.

If you have leftover smoothies, consider storing them in airtight containers in the fridge. Most smoothies can be kept for up to 24 hours before losing their nutritional value and flavor. If you wish to prepare smoothies in advance, consider freezing them in portion-sized containers. This method allows you to enjoy a quick and nutritious drink at any time while preserving the energy-boosting benefits of the ingredients.

When freezing smoothies, leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen. To consume, thaw the smoothie overnight in the fridge or blend again to refresh the texture. This way, you can always have a delicious and energizing smoothie ready to fuel your day with vibrant nutrients.

Health Considerations for Enjoying Herbal Smoothies Safely

While herbal smoothies for energy offer numerous health benefits, it is crucial to be aware of potential allergies and sensitivities. Understanding these factors can help you enjoy your smoothies while minimizing risks associated with certain ingredients.

Be Cautious of Allergies and Sensitivities

When introducing herbs and fruits into your smoothies, be cautious of common allergens. For instance, herbs like nettle may cause allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those sensitive to pollen. It’s important to introduce new ingredients gradually, paying attention to how your body responds, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience.

Always thoroughly wash your herbs and fruits to eliminate potential pesticide residues or contaminants. If you have a known food allergy or sensitivity, consider consulting with a healthcare professional before experimenting with new ingredients to ensure your safety and well-being.

Moreover, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications, some herbs may interact adversely with your treatments. Always seek professional advice to verify that the ingredients you use are safe for your health circumstances. By being informed about potential allergens and sensitivities, you can fully enjoy the benefits of herbal smoothies for energy while minimizing associated risks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Herbal Smoothies

What are herbal smoothies?

Herbal smoothies are blended beverages that incorporate various herbs along with fruits and vegetables. They provide a nutritional boost and naturally enhance energy levels.

How do herbal smoothies enhance energy?

Herbal smoothies increase energy through nutrient-rich ingredients that support metabolism and reduce fatigue, including adaptogenic herbs and vitamin-packed fruits. Thus, they are a smart and healthy choice for natural energy enhancement.

Can I include frozen fruits in my smoothies?

Yes, frozen fruits can add a refreshing texture to your smoothies and help maintain a cold temperature, enhancing the overall experience while delivering essential nutrients.

Which herbs are most effective for energy in smoothies?

Popular energy-enhancing herbs include nettle, ginseng, and ginger. These herbs provide natural energy boosts along with additional health benefits, making them ideal for inclusion in energizing smoothies.

Are herbal smoothies suitable for everyone?

While herbal smoothies offer various health benefits, individuals with specific allergies or medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before consuming them to ensure safety and suitability.

Is it possible to prepare herbal smoothies in advance?

Absolutely! Herbal smoothies can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. This makes for convenient and nutritious meals or snacks on the go, ensuring you maintain your energy levels throughout the day.

How can I enhance the flavor of my herbal smoothies?

To enhance flavors, balance sweet and bitter ingredients, use spices for warmth, or incorporate citrus for brightness, creating a delicious and invigorating smoothie experience.

When is the best time to enjoy herbal smoothies?

Herbal smoothies can be enjoyed at any time, but they are especially beneficial in the morning or as a post-workout recovery drink, providing essential nutrients and energy.

Can I add protein to my herbal smoothies?

Absolutely! Including protein sources like Greek yogurt, nut butters, or protein powder can enhance the nutrient profile of your smoothies, making them more satisfying and energizing.

Where can I find local herbs for my smoothies?

Local farmers’ markets, supermarkets, or even foraging in nature are excellent options for sourcing fresh herbs for smoothies. This way, you can support local agriculture while also benefiting your health.

Connect with us on Facebook!

The Article: Herbal Smoothies for Energy: Boost Your Vitality appeared first on https://mcrtherapies.co.uk

The Article Herbal Smoothies: Energize Your Vitality Today Was Found On https://limitsofstrategy.com

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *