Knowledge base

The Knowledge Base - a treasure trove of natural wisdom

In the knowledge base I share my knowledge about healthy food, herbs, wild picking, vitamins, minerals and other valuable natural substances. It is a place where you discover what plants, (wild) herbs and foods look like, where they grow and what substances they contain. You can read how they support your body and what energetic or spiritual meaning they have.

Much of the information comes from tradition and history: where a plant comes from, how people used to use it, and why certain remedies have been passed down for generations. I lovingly include those stories in the texts, so that you not only understand nature, but also feel it.

In addition to background knowledge, you will find practical applications: recipes, DIY projects, natural care products, tinctures, oils, macerates and other homemade remedies. Everything is clearly explained so you can safely and confidently experiment on your own.

The knowledge base provides a broad base, but not always the full depth, that I offer in my trainings. Want to learn further, practice or really delve deeper into herbs, wild picking and healthy eating? Then you can follow my online courses and physical workshops via the link below, where I explain everything step by step and go much deeper into theory and practice.

👉 Check out our courses and trainings

My wish is that this knowledge base inspires you, shows you how rich nature is and invites you to use that wisdom in your daily life - with your body as well as your soul as a compass.

Titelafbeelding voor de Kennisbank Gezonde Voeding en Kruiden van Hilke Maatman
Afbeelding van aluminiumrijke voeding en moleculen – uitleg over natuurlijke en synthetische bronnen van aluminium in voeding en het lichaam.

Aluminum - 5 hidden dangers to your health

What is aluminum? Aluminum is a toxic metal. It has no known function in the human body and can actually be harmful. Aluminum is used in all kinds of products, such as: - Food - Packaging - Medicines - Cosmetics (including deodorant) 👉 Deodorant in particular is a major source of exposure. Anti-transpirants often contain aluminum salts [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan bètacaroteen, zoals wortel, pompoen, sinaasappel en kiwi – natuurlijke bron van provitamine A voor huid en ogen

Beta-carotene - 5 powerful benefits for skin and eyes

What is beta-carotene? Beta-carotene is a provitamin, which means that your body can convert it into a vitamin. In this case, beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body. Beta-carotene supports the same functions as vitamin A: - Supporting immunity - Being able to see well - Healthy skin - Maintaining normal [....]

Calciumrijke voeding op houten tafel – natuurlijke bronnen van calcium zoals melk, yoghurt, kaas, amandelen en broccoli, belangrijk voor botten en tanden.

Calcium - 5 natural sources for strong bones and teeth

Calcium Calcium is a mineral you need for building and maintaining bones and teeth. It helps against osteoporosis later in life and is also needed for proper nerve and muscle function, blood clotting and transport of other minerals in the body. When you take prolonged [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan chroom, belangrijk voor bloedsuikerbalans en energie.

Chromium: 5 powerful benefits for energy and blood sugar balance

What is chromium (chromium)? Chromium, also known as chromium, is a trace element. This means that your body needs very little of it. Chromium plays a role in the action of insulin and carbohydrate metabolism. Because of this, it is also called the glucose tolerance factor (GTF). What is chromium (chromium) in? Chromium occurs in small amounts [...]

Lemon balm - 7 Powerful Benefits for Rest and Inner Balance

Lemon balm Lemon balm is a perennial plant that can grow 60 to 90 cm tall and belongs to the lipflower family (Lamiaceae). The plant smells of lemon. It has green hairy square stems, elliptical, serrated light green leaves with light hairiness and white, pink or purple two-lipped flowers that appear in summer. This plant from the mint family [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan fluoride, zoals vis, melk, spinazie en appels.

Fluoride: 7 powerful benefits for teeth and bones

What is fluoride? Fluoride is a trace element and belongs to the group of halogens. It does not occur freely in nature, but is usually bound to other substances (fluoride salts). In our bodies, fluoride is mostly absorbed through food or dental products. Naturally, fluoride is found in: the sea the ground drinking water almost all [...]

Foelie – kruid van mystiek en creatieve inspiratie

Mace - 7 Powerful Benefits for Warmth and Balance

mace Have you ever held mace in your hands? The scent is sophisticated, soft and warm - as if a subtle energy opens up. Mace awakens creativity, intuition and inner inspiration. It is the spice of mysticism, a bridge between head and heart, earth and ether. In my book “Mace - Mysticism & Creativity” you will discover [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan fosfor: melk, zalm, appel, broccoli, blauwe bessen, cashewnoten, spinazie en vis.

Phosphorus: 7 powerful benefits for bones and energy

What is phosphorus and phosphate? Phosphorus is a mineral found in our bodies mainly in the form of phosphate compounds. These are compounds of phosphorus (P) with oxygen (O). About 75% of the phosphate in the body is found in the bones and teeth, mainly as calcium phosphate. Phosphorus is essential for: - energy metabolism (ATP) [...]

Verse gember – kruid van warmte en vitaliteit

Ginger: 5 Powerful Ways to Use Ginger Daily

Ginger Have you ever grated or smelled a piece of fresh ginger? That scent - fresh, spicy and full of life - immediately awakens energy. Ginger warms from within, purifies and strengthens. It is the spice of fire and movement, of action and inner strength. Whether you suffer from cold hands, fatigue or a [...]

Goudsbloem (Calendula officinalis) – geneeskrachtig kruid met oranje bloemen dat huid, wondheling en ontstekingen ondersteunt.

Marigold - 3 Powerful Reasons to Use this Healing Herb

Marigold The marigold is an annual plant with mostly orange but sometimes yellow flowers and a thin taproot and hairy stem. The plant grows between 30 and 70 cm tall and blooms from May until the first night frost. In mild winters, blooming flowers are still found in January. The fruits are usually [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan ijzer, zoals spinazie, linzen, vlees en noten op houten tafel.

Iron: 7 powerful food sources for energy and vitality

Iron Iron is a mineral that, among other things, is important for the formation of hemoglobin, a component of red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen through our body. Iron is found in food in 2 forms: heme iron and non-heme iron. Heme iron is found only in animal products. Non-heme iron is found in animal and plant products. Heme iron is somewhat better [...].

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan jodium, zoals zeewier, vis, eieren en zuivel op houten ondergrond.

Iodine: 7 powerful benefits for energy and thyroid function

What is iodine? Iodine is a trace element found in our bodies only in small quantities, but it is indispensable. It supports the production of thyroid hormones, which ensure: healthy growth - the development of the nervous system - a properly functioning metabolism If there is a deficiency, the thyroid gland works more slowly, which can lead to [....]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan kalium, zoals bananen, avocado, aardappelen en spinazie.

Potassium: 7 powerful benefits for heart and energy

Potassium Potassium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in our bodies. It works with other minerals, such as sodium and chloride, to regulate fluid balance, keep blood pressure stable and properly transmit nerve impulses. In addition, potassium is very important for the functioning of our muscles, including the heart muscle. [...]

Kardemompeulen – kruid van frisheid, hart en harmonie

Cardamom - 7 Powerful Benefits for Inner Peace and Energy

Cardamom Have you ever rubbed a cardamom pod between your fingers and breathed in that fresh, spicy scent? It's like the air itself opens up - pure, clear and warming at the same time. Cardamom refreshes body and mind. The herb helps with tension in the stomach, supports digestion and gives inner peace. Energetically, it opens the heart and [...]

Komijn – kruid van aarding, warmte en innerlijke kracht

Cumin - 7 Powerful Reasons to Use this Spice Daily

Cumin Have you ever smelled the warm aroma of freshly roasted cumin seeds? That earthy scent instantly awakens calm, confidence and strength from within - as if the sun shines in your belly for a moment. Cumin is an herb of grounding and inner stability. It strengthens digestion, warms the body and helps release tension. A [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan koper, zoals noten, zaden, cacao en volkoren granen.

Copper: 7 powerful benefits for energy and resistance

What is copper? Copper is a trace element: a mineral of which our body needs only a very small amount. Yet it is indispensable for our health. The body cannot produce copper itself, so we are completely dependent on nutrition. Copper does not provide energy, but supports numerous processes. It helps in the formation of red [...]

Kruidnagels – kruid van bescherming, kracht en zuivering

Clove - 7 Powerful Reasons to Use this Spice Daily

Cloves Have you ever smelled the warm, pungent scent of cloves? That scent awakens strength, purifies and protects. Clove is a spice of inner stability - it helps you stand firm in challenging times and release negative energy. In my book “ Clove - Protection, Strength and Purification” you will discover how this [...]

Kurkumawortel – natuurlijke geneeskracht en innerlijke balans

Turmeric - 5 Powerful Reasons to Use it Daily

Turmeric Have you ever cut a fresh turmeric root? That deep golden yellow radiates warmth, sunshine and life force - exactly what this spice also does in your body. Turmeric purifies, warms and brings balance. For thousands of years, it has been used for healthy digestion, supple joints and inner peace. But the real magic of turmeric goes [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan magnesium, zoals noten, zaden, bladgroenten en volkorenproducten.

Magnesium: 7 powerful benefits for relaxation and energy

What is magnesium? Magnesium is one of the most important minerals for our bodies. It plays a role in more than 600 processes and is indispensable for our health. Your body cannot make its own minerals, so you must get them through food. The body contains about 21 to 28 grams of magnesium: 60% is found in bones [...].

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan mangaan, zoals volkoren granen, noten, zaden en bladgroenten.

Manganese: 7 powerful benefits for bones and energy

What is manganese? Manganese is an essential trace element. Trace elements are minerals that the body needs in small amounts. Essential trace elements, such as manganese, are indispensable because they are involved in many biological processes. Among other things, manganese plays a role in: The formation and function of enzymes involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan molybdeen, zoals linzen, haver, noten, kaas, eieren en broccoli.

Molybdenum: 7 powerful benefits for energy and enzyme function

What is molybdenum? Molybdenum is a trace element that plays an important role in metabolism. It is an indispensable component of several enzymes, including those involved in building and breaking down proteins. In the Netherlands, deficiencies or surpluses of molybdenum are virtually non-existent because the mineral is present in many foods. Where is [...]

Verschillende soorten zout met natrium, zoals zeezout, Himalayazout en keukenzout.

Sodium: 7 powerful benefits for fluid balance and energy

1. Cooking with Salt ( Sodium ) Salt is without a doubt the most important ingredient in preparing food. It acts as a flavor enhancer and gives dishes character. Manufacturers often add large amounts of refined table salt to processed products, causing us to unwittingly ingest too much salt. Average intake: men 10 g/day, women 7.5 g/day Recommended [...]

Nootmuskaatnoten – kruid van gronding en innerlijke wijsheid

Nutmeg - 7 Powerful Reasons to Use this Spice Daily

Nutmeg Have you ever smelled freshly grated nutmeg? That warm, earthy scent immediately produces a sense of calm and security. Nutmeg helps to ground, release tension and find clarity from within. In my book “Nutmeg - Grounding & Inner Wisdom,” I take you through the profound effects of this herb: a [...]

Peper;: Zwarte peperkorrels – symbool van vuur en bescherming

Pepper - 7 Powerful Benefits for Energy and Protection

Pepper Have you ever felt how a little pepper warms your whole body? That is the power of fire - the energy that purifies, protects and activates. Pepper awakens zest for life, strengthens digestion and protects against cold as well as negative energy. It is an herb of strength, courage and perseverance. In my book “Pepper - Protection [...]

Rozemarijn – kruid van helderheid en bescherming

Rosemary - 7 Powerful Benefits for Energy and Concentration

Rosemary Have you ever rubbed rosemary between your fingers? That fresh, spicy scent instantly awakens energy and clarity - as if a mist is lifting in your head. Rosemary purifies, strengthens and protects. It is the herb of light, clear thinking and inner focus. It refreshes the body, calms the mind and opens your senses. In my [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan selenium, zoals paranoten, eieren, zaden en volkoren granen.

Selenium: 7 powerful benefits for resistance and energy

What is selenium? Selenium (also called selenium) is a trace element found in soil, water and food. The body needs very little of it, but this little is essential for good health. The mineral plays a role in: - the normal functioning of the immune system - the production of [...]

Steranijs – kruid van harmonie en bescherming

Star anise - 7 Powerful Benefits for Rest and Balance

Star Anise Have you ever taken a close look at the star-shaped beauty of star anise? Its fragrance is sweet, mystical and enlightening - a scent that opens the heart and brings peace. Star anise helps with tension, supports breathing and protects against negative influences. It is the spice of harmony and light, both in the kitchen and in your [...].

Venkelknol met groen loof – fris kruid dat spijsvertering en ontspanning ondersteunt

Fennel - 7 Powerful Reasons to Use this Herb Daily

Fennel Have you ever rubbed fennel seeds between your fingers? That sweet, fresh smell calms instantly - as if your body breathes a sigh of relief. Fennel helps with tension in the stomach, supports digestion and brings peace of mind and body. It is an herb that purifies, relaxes and brings new clarity. In my book [...]

Voedingsmiddelen met vitamine B1 (thiamine) zoals volkoren granen, eieren en peulvruchten – belangrijk voor energie en zenuwstelsel.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) - 7 essential functions for energy and focus

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) Vitamin B1 (thiamine) supports your energy, concentration and nervous system. Discover natural sources, functions and spiritual significance for body and soul. What is thiamine? Thiamine is a water-soluble vitamin that the body cannot store. Therefore, you must get it daily through food. In the body, thiamine is converted into thiamine diphosphate (TDP), the [...]

Voedingsmiddelen die rijk zijn aan vitamine B12, zoals eieren, vis, vlees, zuivel en verrijkte producten.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) - 2 Main Functions For Your Body

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) What is it? Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble that is essential for the production of red blood cells and healthy nervous system function. Red blood cells are needed to carry oxygen through your body. It is found almost exclusively in animal products, such as: - Milk and milk products - Meat [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan vitamine B3 zoals noten, vis en volkoren producten

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) - 5 powerful effects for healthy metabolism

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for our energy supply. It aids in the production of fatty acids and hormones, literally giving fuel to our bodies as well as our inner fire. Forms of niacin There are two natural forms of niacin: Nicotinamide Nicotinic acid In the [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan vitamine B4 (choline), zoals eieren, lever, noten en peulvruchten – belangrijk voor hersenen en leverfunctie.

Vitamin B4 (Choline) - 4 hidden benefits for brain and liver

Vitamin B4 (Choline) Vitamin B4, better known as choline, is often called a ‘half-vitamin. The body can make small amounts of it on its own, but additional through diet is usually required. Choline is indispensable for the liver, memory and a healthy nervous system - nutrition for both mind and body. What is choline in? Choline is found [...]

oedingsmiddelen met vitamine B5 (pantotheenzuur) zoals eieren, noten, zalm en avocado – belangrijk voor energie, stress en herstel.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid) - 7 wondrous effects on stress and energy

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) Pantothenic acid, better known as vitamin B5, is a water-soluble vitamin. It supports the body's energy supply and plays an important role in building and breaking down proteins and fats. This makes B5 a real energy director in your metabolism as well as a helper for balance in body and soul. Where is vitamin [...]

Vitamine B6 (Pyridoxine) Voedingsmiddelen die rijk zijn aan vitamine B6, zoals bananen, noten, peulvruchten, groenten en zaden.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) - 6 Key Benefits For Your Health

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is a water-soluble vitamin. It plays an important role in metabolism, especially in breaking down and building amino acids (the building blocks of proteins). Vitamin B6 also regulates the action of certain hormones and is needed for growth, blood production, a functioning immune system and healthy nerves. Where [...]

Biotine – voedingsmiddelen rijk aan vitamine B8

Vitamin B8 (Biotin) - 4 Powerful Facts About Vitamin B8

Vitamin B8 (Biotin) Biotin (vitamin B8) is a water-soluble vitamin. It is needed to release energy from food and also plays a role in the formation of fatty acids. Biotin also contributes to healthy skin and normal hair, as well as supports nervous system function. Different forms of biotin In food and [...]

Voedingsmiddelen die rijk zijn aan vitamine C, zoals citrusfruit, kiwi, aardbeien, paprika, mango en bladgroenten.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) - 8 Key Facts Everyone Should Know

Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) What is vitamin C? It, also called ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. It acts as an antioxidant and is needed for: - the formation of connective tissue (collagen) - the absorption of iron - maintaining resistance Our body cannot make this itself. So you have to get it through food [...]

Voedingsmiddelen die rijk zijn aan vitamine D, zoals eieren, vis, kaas, citroen, broccoli, champignons en noten.

Vitamin D - 13 Important Functions For Body & Energy

Vitamin D What is vitamin D? Contrary to its name, it is not actually a vitamin, but a fat-soluble prohormone. In the liver and kidneys, it is converted into the active hormone form calcitriol. It plays a crucial role in bone metabolism, muscle function, immune system and much more. Types: - Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol): plant-based, including [...].

Voedingsmiddelen die rijk zijn aan vitamine E, zoals noten, zaden, avocado, spinazie en plantaardige oliën.

Vitamin E - 2 Most Important Functions For Your Body

What is it. It is a fat-soluble vitamin known primarily as a powerful antioxidant. It protects cells, blood vessels, organs, eyes and tissues from free radical damage. Vitamin E also plays a role in regulating metabolism in the cell. It interacts with other fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D and K. Several [...]

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan zink, zoals noten, zaden, eieren, vlees en volkoren granen.

Zinc: 7 powerful benefits for skin, hair and resistance

1. What is Zinc? Zinc is a mineral indispensable to the human body. It does not occur in large quantities, but it is involved in hundreds of enzymatic processes. All cells need zinc. It is especially important for: - building proteins, cells and tissues - proper functioning of the immune system - [...]

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