This has been shown to improve soil of previously deforested regions, adding nitrogen and potassium in the added organic matter.

The researchers said additional study was needed to establish whether the incidence of stroke could be reduced by adding potassium, which is plentiful in foods like orange juice and bananas, to the diet.

Ms. Kirk found evidence that snow, drawing on ions from the upper atmosphere, adds nitrates as well as some sulfates, calcium and potassium to the soil.

He examined protozoa and grew cultured vesicles using grass, sand, iron and animal tissue, boiling them and adding potassium and gelatin.

Those who could afford it added potassium, a mineral fertilizer that contributes to vigorous growth.

In general, adding N-P-K, nitrogen, phosprous and potassium to soil improves its conditions for growing plants - these are the main ingredients of fertilizer.

(Wood ashes can also be added to garden soil if needed to reduce its acidity or to add potassium.)

Adding potassium and salt to the diet may be beneficial to horses that suffer from recurrent bouts of ER.

Bananas are available all year long and are a great way to add potassium to your diet.

The most informative test is to scrape the lesion and add potassium hydroxide (KOH), then examine under a microscope.