Nandu Green Earth Friendly Living

Dentures: An Excellent Option to Replace Missing Teeth

Oral health is a very important part of life. A bad tooth can make you absolutely miserable. If you're missing one or more teeth, there are several options for having your full smile back. With some research, you can find the method that works best for you.

By: Matthew Candelaria

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. Depending on the nature of your tooth loss, they can be an excellent option to replace your missing teeth so that you have a beautiful smile and a functional set of teeth.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are used when you need to replace an entire set of upper or lower teeth. You have two options with complete dentures - conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are made after all of your teeth have been removed and gum tissue has properly healed. It generally takes approximately 8-12 weeks for your mouth to heal properly before you can receive your conventional dentures.

Immediate dentures can be placed in your mouth as soon as your teeth are removed. The benefit of immediate dentures is that you do not have to be toothless during the healing period. However, due to the shrinkage of bones and gums following tooth extractions, immediate dentures require more adjustments to fit properly. In general, you should only consider them as a temporary remedy while your conventional dentures are being created.

Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures are used when one or more of your natural teeth will remain intact. A partial denture provides you with replacement teeth that get attached to a gum-colored plastic base, which will be held in place by metal framework.

Your cosmetic dentist will insert a fixed (permanent) bridge which contains dental crowns on either side of the space where you are missing teeth. This dental bridge gets cemented into place, preventing adjacent teeth from changing position due to the gaps created by your tooth loss. Your partial dentures get attached to the adjacent crowns, providing you with a more natural-looking and removable solution to your tooth loss issues.

Alternatives to Dentures

Dental implants can be an effective alternative to dentures in certain situations. They are frequently used to support permanently cemented bridges so that you will not need a denture. Dental implants more closely resemble the look and feel of your natural teeth. However, they are also much more expensive than dentures, so if cost is a consideration for you, dentures may be a better alternative.

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental implants. At your initial consultation, your cosmetic dentist will recommend the best option based on your specific oral health issues.

About the Author

If you live in the Houston, Texas area and need treatment for missing teeth, please visit the website of experienced Houston cosmetic dentist Dr. Ronald Konig, recently voted best cosmetic dentist in Houston, Texas.

Using Fresh Herbs for Beauty

Garden Spa: Using Fresh Herbs for Beauty

A kitchen herb garden provides avid cooks with a resource for fresh aromas, flavors, and colors to incorporate in their dishes. This same garden can also be used to incorporate beneficial actives into home spa creations. Fresh facials, hair teas, and tonics can benefit greatly from the addition of fresh herbs. Here are some uses for both common, and exotic garden herbs.

Basil
Basil makes an effective cleanser, and can help to tone and rejuvenate the skin.  In hair care, Basil can help eliminate scalp irritation, dandruff, and excess oil. Try making a water based infusion with fresh basil to take advantage of its properties. This tonic can be used as a wetting agent in facials, a fresh toner, or a hair rinse. Fresh Basil can also be mashed and used as a cleanser.

Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm has natural astringent properties which can be helpful in the treatment of oily akin and hair. Try steeping Lemon Balm leaves in hot water to create an herbal hair rinse, or a fresh facial toner. This Lemon Balm infusion may also be helpful in the treatment of cold sores.

Mint
Fresh Mint leaves can be used to add a cooling, refreshing sensation to many types of home spa recipes. The leaves can be infused into oil or water, or can be minced, mashed, or used whole. Water that has been infused with Mint leaves can be added to hair rinses, used as a wetting agent in masks, or as a rinse for summer pedicures. Try adding the infused oil to scrubs, cleansers, and hair conditioning treatments. Fresh leaves can be incorporated into fresh scrubs, ubtans, and masks.

Lavender

A classic skin care ingredient, Lavender can be used a number of ways to take advantage of its antiseptic, balancing, and soothing properties.  Like Mint, Lavender is versatile, and can be infused into oil or water, can be minced, mashed, or used whole, and can also be dried for use in herbal sachets and potpourris. Try using fresh Lavender to create toners, skin tonics, hair rinses, or fresh body scrubs.

Sage

Sage is a potent cleanser with strong astringent properties.  It can be used in facial toners and hair rinses to help balance oily skin or scalps.  In hair care, Sage can also help to darken hair, making it a great choice for those with black or brunette hair who are hoping to intensify their look.

Ladies Mantle

This lesser known herb has been used historically to enhance the appearance of the bust and decolletage.  Traditionally, a tea is made from fresh or dried Ladies Mantle and applied like a toner to the neck, decolletage, and bust on a daily basis.  It is believed that the regular use of a Ladies Mantle tonic could help to increase the appearance of the skin in this area by toning and tightening the area.

Eyebright

Another uncommon herb, Eyebright contains a rich amount of Zinc, which can be helpful in repairing skin's tissue.  Eyebright is often used to create herbal facials and eye packs and is believed to help reduce puffiness, and dark circles around the eyes.  Try combining Eyebright or Eyebright tea with fresh cucumber and potato for quick under-eye treatment.

Yarrow

Easily found at most nurseries and garden shops, this lovely, flowering herb has a reputation for its soothing, comforting abilities.  Infused in oil or water, Yarrow makes a wonderful addition to sensitive skin treatments.  Try using Yarrow tea as a wetting agent in simple masks, and as a moisturizing toner. Yarrow can also help to soothe sensitive scalps, or itchy, irritated skin.  Yarrow can sometimes cause photo-sensitivity, so take care when using Yarrow treatments during the day. 

Thyme

Thyme can be very handy when used in hair rinses and tonics due to its ability to help relieve oily scalp and dandruff.  It strong cleansing abilities also make it a good choice for oily and acne prone skin care. Try adding Thyme to hair rinses and tonics by infusing the herb in water

Courtesy: Natural Beauty Workshop

Less is More: How to Remove Mental Clutter

This is a guest post by Glen Allsopp of PluginID.

You can find excellent productivity advice in a million places around the web. From clearing out your inbox and keeping yourself organised to tips on dealing with procrastination and getting work done faster. However, one crucial element that a lot of people forget about is the mind.

No matter how effective your email clearing strategies are, if you are dealing with internal conflicts and have a lot of thoughts running through your head, you’re going to operate less efficiently. Today I want to share my tips on how you can remove your mental clutter, and show that less really is more.

Learn to Let Go

Letting go is one of those things that we make out to be a lot more difficult than it is, yet the benefits are so great that it’s surprising so few of use this on a regular basis. Whenever an incident happens, we tend to make it far more important than it is, we hold onto it in our minds for far longer than necessary. We can’t go back in time to change what has happened so just let go.

It’s our internal resistance to things that gives them more importance, makes them feel more real. Our internal dialogue that goes over what has happened, wishing certain events didn’t occur. Imagine you are holding a marker pen; how do you let go? You just let go, you just drop it. Do that to the things in your mind, the incessant little voice in your head. Forgive and forget.

Keep an Updated To Do List

Up until the last 7 months or so, I had never used a to do list in my life; I had used a ‘to buy’ list when I go shopping, but nothing for my daily tasks. The benefit of using a to do list is quite obvious: you remove the stress and need to memorize things by writing them down, and you don’t try to “rack your brain” later when you want to recall something.

For online To Do List purposes I use ToDoIst, a neat, ajax based system that includes all the features you could ever need. It also comes well supported so there are desktop widgets, Firefox sidebars and more.

For offline purposes, I have a small black notepad that I use to jot down my random ideas. This can include things I need to do that have nothing in relation to my daily tasks (I work online, so tend to use ToDoIst the most) but things that would be on my mind otherwise. Additionally, you could also store notes on your phone when you are out and about to keep your mind care and clutter free.

Practice Meditation

As I always say, meditation is one of those things I was very skeptical about and thought only monks did. To be honest, I just thought of it as pointless; of course, this was before actually trying it out for myself, isn’t that funny (or in other words, common). I first decided to try meditation after reading Do You! by Russell Simmons, a book based on the set of values that the Dem Jam Records founder used to help him build businesses worth close to a billion dollars.

I was hoping that Sara had put together an article on meditation so I could send you there, however I noticed it was something she would like to improve on through her ‘Three Things I Suck At‘ post. Luckily, instead of sharing my usual meditation technique, I did find this excellent post by her, which recommends:

Focus on the five senses. Take a deep breath. What does the moment smell like? What sounds do you hear? What do you feel on your skin? These are the details that make each moment special. When you can’t stop the interior monologue from intruding, take a minute or two to create a mental catalog of what this moment feels, smells, looks, sounds, and tastes like for you. It can be a pretty effective way of quelling that inner voice, and at the very least, gives you a few minutes to savor the moment before returning to what’s on your mind.

I think this is a great technique about getting in the moment, which helps you stop imagining future situations and worrying about the past. Instead, you focus on right now, and that is the best way to remove mental noise and get things done.

[Editor's Note: I still haven't learned how to meditate effectively... or at all, really.  Evelyn Lim has some great insight on meditation if you're interested.]

Use Visualization Techniques

This is probably one of my favourite ways to remove mental clutter. Not that it is the most effective, but it is certainly the most fun to try, and the results are highly interesting. Visualization techniques are used commonly in self-help books; whilst they don’t provide the lasting clarity you might want, they can provide worthwhile and instant short term relief from your mental activities.

Kettle Head Example - This is a very simple technique but works well. First of all, actually focus on all the clutter in your head. The voice, the complaints, the wishing certain moments had changed, your anger at certain situations. Let it all bubble up. Now, imagine someone is putting a flame next to your head and these emotions and feelings start whizzing around, bubbling, the hotter they get, the more they are moving.

Visualize your emotions moving around and getting more active, just like when you heat up water in a kettle. Keep doing this while keeping the image of water boiling in a kettle in mind. Eventually, imagine all this pressure just exploding and releasing through the top of your head, that it has built up so much that it all just disappears. All your negativity, that annoying voice, your negative feelings… gone.

Once you start to relax after this technique, you should find yourself in a much more relaxed state and in a much better position to get on with your tasks for the day.

How do YOU remove mental clutter?

Glen Allsopp is a Personal Development blogger at PluginID. His aim is to inspire, awaken and motivate people and help them realise they CAN be who they want to be.

 photo credit: h.koppdelaney

Feeling Good About Feeling Old

I’m not one to worry about getting older or avoid birthdays.  (Give me another decade and I might get a bit more concerned, but I hope not.)  In fact, as another birthday approaches, the overwhelming feeling I have is, “Thank goodness I’m older!”  Think I’m kidding? Try these reasons on for size:

You can live the way you only dreamed about as a kid.

I had big dreams for myself when I was younger.  I’d wear high heels and spunky outfits, I’d get to do whatever I wanted, eat whatever I choose, and generally have fun every hour of every day.  Adulthood hasn’t panned out quite like that (some hours downright suck and I’ve grown very fond of flats), but the fantasy is still there, always within reach.  Even with a job to hold down and a family to consider, we all have a great deal of freedom—the kind of freedom that would’ve made our childhood selves drool.  Anytime you feel old, just remember that you can eat ice cream for lunch and wear clothes your mom would never allow. Your life clearly rocks.

Mellowing out is not quite the slow death you might once have imagined.

Mellowing out doesn’t necessarily mean turning in at 7 p.m. and turning up the Kenny G.  It’s more like not having to worry so much about what the rest of the world thinks.  It also means not panicking at the thought of going to dinner alone or flying solo.  Enjoying a night on the couch as much as a night on the town doesn’t actually equate to death anymore which, to be honest, frees up a lot of mental energy for better things.  When “OMG!” is replaced by, “Huh. Interesting,” as your first reaction, you’re in the driver’s seat of life.

You’re both less patient and more patient.

If patience is a virtue, it’s a questionable one.  As an adult, you’ve likely developed great reservoirs of patience by dealing with crazy girlfriends, kids, and spouses for years.  Lots of things roll off your back because you’ve learned that there are better things to worry about.  On the other hand, you’ve probably been burned (or simply annoyed) enough to have lost patience for family drama, workplace drama, and overly needy pals.  Experience makes it easier to detect b.s. and the energy-suckers who serve it up.  Losing patience with those parts of your life is a great thing.

You have so many more memories that you wouldn’t trade for anything.

Sure, it may sound fun to be 17 again, to do all the rights and live life with the confidence you have now.  But would you ever want to go back to a younger age if it meant you lost all the memories you’ve built up?  Think of all the friends in your life, all the books you’ve read, the laughs you’ve shared, and the places you’ve traveled.  Would you trade those for naivete? Probably not.  Each year isn’t time lost, it’s memories and experience gained.

What makes you feel good about feeling old? And does life really get better with age? Weigh in on the comments and let me know where you stand.

Photo courtesy of D Sharon Pruitt.

Post: Courtesy: OnSimplicity.net

Milk Thistle - Curse or Cure?

By: Marlene Affeld

Milk thistle, or wild artichoke, a plant whose fruit and seeds have been used by cultures around the world for more than 2,000 years, is a fascinating herb that has been both revered and cursed. There's a love-hate relationship with Milk thistle ...many people endorse and hardily embrace Milk thistle for its food value, medicinal healing qualities, the benefits to wildlife and its intrinsic beauty. Others fault the thistle’s invasive growing habits and the danger thistle presents to livestock.

Milk thistle, (Blessed thistle, St. Mary’s thistle, Marian thistle, Lady thistle or Holy thistle, Christ’s Crown, Heal thistle, Venus thistle and Wand of God’s Grace, Mariendistel (German), and Chardon-Marie (French).), is a flowering herb of the genus Silybum marianum and is related to the daisy family (Asteraceae).

The plant has dark-green prickly leaves mottled with white veins, vivid purple flower heads up to six inches in diameter; blooming from June to September. Milk thistle can grow twelve feet tall and form dense, impenetrable thickets. Small, shiny, black seeds (achenes) are produced in the brilliant flower heads and have a white silk-like pappus (parachute) attached. This allows the seeds to travel with the whims of the wind when released, much like a dandelion.

Like other thistles, the plant is well known for its intimidating sharp, spiny leaves. Milk thistle is related to artichoke and safflower, as well as to flowers such as Bachelor Button, Xeranthemum (Everlasting) and Globe thistle, and to weeds such as Nodding thistle, Canada thistle, Scotch thistle and Burdock.

Milk thistle is considered an annual species in most northern climates, although in milder climates it may grow as a biennial. The plant is prized for its food and medicinal value, however, it is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant because of its unusual leaves and colorful flowers. 

Continue Reading Milk Thistle - Curse or Cure?

   

Anti-Oxidents for Anti-Aging

It has long been accepted and practiced that eating food with lots of antioxidants slows down aging. This has been practiced even before the term anti-oxidants were used. Ancient Chinese (and even the Chinese of today) prescribes special food that will enhance an attribute, cure an ailment and improve metabolism or increase vitality and vigor.

In India, certain herbsare mixed with their foods that are similar to the results that Chinese sought. The same goes with Brazilians and Peruvians.

While almost all plants have sterols that are good for the metabolism in the body, foods that are generally known to contain high concentration of antioxidants are usually those that are present in plants and other fruits containing amino acids, omega 3,6, and 9, and other useful fatty acids. The category also includes those that contain high concentrations of resveratrol and glutathione. The presence of antioxidants in diets will help protect the cells of the body from free radicals and toxins.

This is so because antioxidants work in a way that its molecules slow down and in some conditions, prevent the oxidation of other molecules. Anti-aging treatment preparations that contain antioxidants often come in the form of capsules, tablets and energy drinks and other forms of dietary supplements.

Oxidation, while crucial at maintaining life, could be damaging. Animals and even plants maintain a high level and complex antioxidant systems in multiple types. Many of these types come from plants in the form of sterols and enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and other peroxides. The most common and readily available antioxidant though is the Vitamin C and the Vitamin E.

One of the tangible reasons that a person lacks antioxidants in the body is tiredness and stress. A body that lacks antioxidants results to oxidative stress which damages and kills cells. Aside from anti oxidants being effective as anti-aging agents is its capacity to prevent a host of illnesses from occurring.

Some types of antioxidants have demonstrated capacity to prevent the development of certain cancer cells, diabetes, heart ailments and other maladies. This is one of the reasons that foods that are high in antioxidant properties are highly sought after. Others are even in such a demand to command high prices.

Examples of foods that have vast concentration of antioxidant properties are coffee, grapes and berries. In fact the grapes in red wine have been known to have impressive anti-oxidizing properties that are usually attributed to the cause of the French being more fit in spite of the cholesterol rich food that they consume although the skin of the grape is the part that is truly rich in anti oxidants.

Coffee has vast concentration too although what is mixed with the coffee is what causes the worry. The acai berry of Brazil is also widely advertised to have vast concentration of anti oxidant properties, pity that it is not consumed fresh in the rest of the world except Brazil.

In addition to its ability to repair and preserve cells making it an excellent anti aging agent, anti oxidants are also widely used as preservatives in food and cosmetics. Anti oxidants are also widely used in industrial applications where prevention of degradation is important.

Courtesy: Healthy Recipes and Health Tips

Bottled water in your car is very dangerous!

Important and timely information was forwarded to me by a friend, thought I should share with you.

Author Unknown

Bottled water in your car is very dangerous! 

On the Ellen show, Sheryl Crow said that this is what caused her breast cancer. It has been identified as the most common cause of the high levels of dioxin in breast cancer tissue. Sheryl Crow's oncologist told her: women should not drink bottled water that has been left in a car.                                 

The heat reacts with the chemicals in the plastic of the bottle, which releases dioxin into the water. Dioxin is a toxin increasingly found in breast cancer tissue. So please be careful and do not drink bottled water that has been left in a car.       

Pass this on to all the women in your life. This information is the kind we need to know that just might save us!  Use a stainless steel canteen or a glass bottle instead of plastic!                     

LET EVERYONE WHO HAS A WIFE/GIRLFRIEND/DAUGHTER KNOW PLEASE!                       

This information is also being circulated at Walter Reed  Army Medical Centre. No plastic containers in microwave. No water bottles in freezer. No plastic wrap in microwave.                     

A dioxin chemical causes cancer, especially breast cancer. Dioxins are highly poisonous to the cells of our bodies. Don't freeze your plastic bottles with water in them as this releases dioxins from the plastic. 

Recently, Edward Fujimoto, Wellness Program Manager at Castle Hospital, was on a TV programme to explain this health hazard. He talked about dioxins and how bad they are for us. He said that we should not be heating our food in the microwave using plastic containers.                

This especially applies to foods that contain fat. He said that the combination of fat, high heat and plastic releases dioxin into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body. Instead, he recommends using glass, such as Corning Ware, Pyrex or ceramic containers for heating food. You get the same results, only without the dioxin. So, such things as TV dinners, instant soups, etc. should be removed from the container and heated in something else.   

Paper isn't bad but you don't know what is in the paper. It's just safer to use tempered glass, Corning Ware, etc.   

He reminded us that a while ago some of the fast food restaurants moved away from the foam containers to paper. The dioxin problem is one of the reasons. Also, he pointed out that plastic wrap, such as Saran wrap, is just as dangerous when placed over foods to be cooked in the microwave. As the food is heated, the high temperature causes poisonous toxins to actually melt out of the plastic wrap and drip into the food. Cover food with a paper towel instead.   

This is an article that should be sent to anyone important in your life!

Circulatory Problems - Natural Solutions

By: Robert Elias Najemy


Natural Effective Solutions:

1. Carefully observe guidelines for healthy eating. Avoid as much as possible cooked oils, white flour, meat, white sugar, and any foods, which have been over processed or have chemical additives.

2. Eat whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits and a little raw unheated vegetable oil each day.

3. Occasional fasting helps to purify the blood vessels. One could fast on apples, pears or brown rice or do a juice fast for a few days. If one wants to do a longer fast, consult your doctor. Fasting on grapes is considered one of the most effective ways to purify the blood.

4. Vitamins and antioxidants help with better circulation: A, C, E, and Lecithin, B complex (especially B3, B2).

5. Alternating Hot and cold baths help the blood flow to penetrate into all parts of the body. In general finishing with a cold shower helps stimulate circulation. Consult your doctor as to whether this is for your specific case.

6. Dress warmly so as to allow your blood vessels to be relaxed and let blood flow.

7. Swimming in the sea all year long helps to keep the circulation flowing and the body vital. One must be regular. If you cease for a period of time, your body will loose its ability to adapt to the cold water in the winter.

8. Nettle tea and beating the extremities with nettles is a folk remedy for increasing circulation to the extremities. This may be painful while doing it, but it brings results.

9. Reflexology massage can be used to bring circulation to organs, which cannot be affected by other means. By massaging the reflex point on the bottom of the foot we are able to bring blood flow to the various interior organs, so as to revitalize them.

10. Swedish muscular massage can be used to bring better blood flow to the various extremities.

11. All forms of movement and activity are helpful, i.e. running, walking, dancing, swimming, playing, sports and exercising. These are a must for those with poor circulation.

12. Breathing facilitates the return of the blood through the veins to the heart. When we breathe deeply and slowly, we help the blood to return to the heart an also move the lymph through the system. Deep breathing every day is an essential for those with circulatory problems.

13. When we relax the blood vessels, our blood flows freely to the various parts of our body. We tend to obstruct the free flow of blood through unconscious tensing of the various muscles and also the blood vessels themselves. Relaxation is essential for healthy circulation. Perform "deep relaxation" daily, imagining the blood vessels opening and the blood flowing freely to the parts of the body which have insufficient circulation.

14. Various forms of heat, such as hot compresses, hot water bottles, and electric heating pads can be used to increase the circulation momentarily to various parts of the body.

15. Physical Exercises

a. The abdominal area is considered the "furnace" of the body, where heat and energy are produced. Sluggishness and tension in this area can impede our general flow of energies and also blood. Thus, you will need to do a number of exercises to stimulate and vitalize the area of the abdomen.

b. The endocrine system regulates our overall metabolism. You would do well to learn and employ specific exercises for rejuvenating and harmonizing the endocrine system.

c. Add other exercises for the various joints such as the shoulders, elbows, wrists, fingers, hips, knees, ankles and toes according to where you need better circulation. Even if our problems are located at the extremities such as with the fingers and toes, we have to open up all the other joints, which come before them. Although the symptoms may be in the extremities, the cause may be in one of the preceding joints. It is usually at the joints that the circulation gets blocked.

d. Ensure good circulation to the brain by lying on your back next to a wall and placing your feet up on the wall, so that the blood flows into the lungs gaining oxygen and then into the brain oxygenating and bringing nutrients to all the cells of the brain. This is essential for the pituitary and hypothalamus and thus for the endocrine and autonomic nervous system and thus for all bodily and mental functions.

16. Observe to see if emotional factors are involved. You may have an unconscious holding and a need for control of feelings or expression, which is also restricting the free flow of blood. If you are suppressing your emotions, learn to express them in effective and positive ways (without hurting others).

When we care for our body and mind, they serve us much more efficiently.

May you be well on all levels of your being.

****************************************** Robert Elias Najemy is the author of over 600 articles, 400 lecture cassettes on Human Harmony and 20 books; sold over 100,000 copies. His book The Psychology of Happiness is available at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0971011605/holisticharmo-20 and http://www.HolisticHarmony.com/psychofhappiness.html. You can download FREE articles and e-books and get guidance at http://www.HolisticHarmony.com ******************************************

To find other free health content see e-healtharticles.com

Manuka Honey

Medical Honey product range offers new options in wound and skin care management. Clinical trials had being conducted to further investigate the use of Medical Honey for infection control, paediatric burns, leg and foot ulcers, surgical wounds, ophthalmology, haemodialysis exit-sites and control of malodour in chronic wounds. 

  

New Zealand honey derived from the Manuka tea tree is proving to be one of the most valued natural resources in the world because of its medicinal qualities and its ability to successfully treat many health conditions, both internally and topically on the skin.

Manuka Honey is produced by bees that use the nectar from the flowers of a particular plant that is indigenous to New Zealand (leptospermum scoparium). Many reports suggest that this unique type of honey contains extraordinary healing properties not found in other types of honey or even some medicines. It has been determined that Manuka Honey's curative properties are largely

due to the presence of certain compounds such as a substance known as methylglyoxal, UMF and other floral nectar components from the Manuka plant.

Manuka honey is distinctively flavored, darker and richer in taste than other types of honey and has powerful antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. The finest quality Manuka honey with the most potent antimicrobial properties is produced from beehives placed in wild, uncultivated areas with abundant growth of Manuka bushes.

When taken internally, Manuka Honey has been used to treat conditions such as stomach ulcers, strep throat, acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis and other gastrointestinal complications. It has even proven effective in relieving sore throats, stomach aches, and cold/flu symptoms. For internal conditions, it is recommended that a teaspoon of Manuka honey be taken about a half hour before meals. Anecdotal studies have shown that this treatment modality can be more effective than most traditional forms of medicine.

When used topically on the skin, Manuka honey has been used to treat acne, wounds, bacterial and fungal infections, burns, eczema and other forms of dermatitis. Among Manuka honey's many accolades is its ability to eradicate the MRSA bacterium which is responsible for causing antibiotic-resistant Staph infections. For topical applications, Manuka honey should be applied directly to affected areas. To avoid stickiness, it is recommended to use skin care products containing Manuka Honey. New York-based manufacturer, Honeymark, has developed non-sticky Manuka Honey applications.

"Manuka Honey has many uses as a natural healing agent and is becoming very popular as a viable alternative to antibiotics and other traditional forms of medication," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "It frequently outperforms medicine without the risk of negative side effects. Those who are unfamiliar with Manuka honey will begin to hear a lot more of it in the future. It's the next generation of natural healing."

In order to take advantage of all that Manuka Honey has to offer, it is recommend that a potency of UMF 10 or higher is used.

Watch Out For Chiggers

Chiggers are one of the most annoying, itchy and painful critters that I have ever encountered in nature. Some people say they were invented by the Devil himself; I believe it!  

Tiny, almost invisible, chiggers are more than annoying. The six-legged tiny chigger larvae attack prospectors, picnickers, hikers, fishermen and hunters. They are normally encountered in low damp areas, but often inhabit higher ground.

Spring, summer and fall are chigger season, so if you spend time in the outdoors you are most likely familiar with chiggers. They are almost impossible to see and one does not feel the bite so you do know that they are on your skin until the nasty red bumps appear. The bumps do not appear for several hours, often as long as twenty four hours after exposure. 

Once on your skin they seek out folds in the skin or places where the skin is thin, like wrists and ankles. They will also stop traveling when they reach a clothing barrier, so often the horribly itchy bumps show up around your collar or cuffs. They really do not bite, rather they attach themselves to the skin and then inject saliva that contains a digestive enzyme that breaks down the skin cells which the chigger drinks. Yuck!

The best way to deal with chiggers is to avoid them if possible by wearing long sleeved clothing, long pants and socks and boots. They will live on the skin for several days, but will wash off, so it's a good idea to take a soapy shower after spending time in the woods or tall grass or weeds. Bug spray helps some but is not always effective in repelling chiggers, so be aware.

Facts On Chiggers

More Chigger Facts

Avoid Ticks That May Carry Lyme Disease

Now that Spring has finally arrived in the high country, my thoughts have turned to my plans for a summer of gold prospecting and metal detecting in the mountains of Montana.

As I gather my gear, repair and ready my equipment, I am thinking of a woman I know, Stacy, my sister's best friend. Stacy will not be enjoying the outdoors this summer. Stacy is fighting a courageous up-hill battle with Lyme Disease. Lyme disease is a very serious bacterial infection caused by a tick and it affects animals and humans. It's symptoms are awful, chills, fever, muscle pain and a whole array of nasty events.

Eighteen months ago, Stacy, a vivacious, slender and energetic woman in her early 40's, loved to trap shoot, camp and explore; today she can not comb her own hair, feed herself or stand or sit for any length of time. She is tethered to her home by a continuous IV-drip, antibiotics to fight the Lyme Disease that is withering her body, sapping her energy and breaking her spirit.

Lyme Disease (tick-borne borreliosis, Lyme arthritis)

Other Tick Borne Diseases

Tick Borne Rickettsial Diseases

Spring and early summer are prime tick seasons; I am making my summer plans with a sad, special awareness of the risk of Lyme Disease. I also want to avoid the other overly-friendly insects such as mosquitos, gnats, flies, centipedes and scorpions; both outdoors and in my home.

I do everything possible to live a green lifestyle; so no toxins or chemicals. I have found cedar, citronella or eucalyptus essential oils to be great deterrents. Cedar oil sprayed around window and door frames repels spiders, mosquitos, flies and termites. I have also found that if tansy is allowed to grow around the house, the bugs seem to stay away.

I encourage all our readers to take every precaution against this devastating disease. Avoid ticks and plan ahead. Please post your comments, prevention suggestions and remedies.

WHAT PRECAUTIONS CAN I TAKE?

Educate yourself about Lyme disease, and try not to get bitten by ticks. More specifically:

• Avoid wooded, brushy, and grassy areas, especially in May, June, and July. (Contact the local health department or park/extension service for information on the prevalence of ticks in specific areas).
• Wear light-colored clothing so that you can see ticks that get
  on you.
• Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts.
• Wear shoes that cover the entire foot.
• Tuck pant legs into socks or shoes, and tuck shirts into pants.
• Wear a hat for extra protection.
• Spray insect repellent containing DEET on clothes and exposed skin other than the face, or treat clothes with permethrin, which kills ticks on contact.
• Walk in the center of trails to avoid brush and grass.
• Remove your clothing, and wash and dry them at high temperatures after being outdoors.
• Do a careful body check for ticks after outdoor activities. 

Top Five Tips to Avoid Deer Tick Bites That Can Cause Lyme Disease By: Heather Flournoy It's spring in New England and New York, the leaves are finally out, the songbirds are back, people are out walking in the mornings and the garden shops and farmer's markets are open again. But along with the beauty of spring comes a danger that keeps many people from walking the trails, and should give others pause. Deer ticks, the common carrier of borrelia bacteria which causes Lyme disease, abound in May and June in the Northeast, and now is the most common time for bites from infected nymph stage ticks because of their small size. I once had Lyme disease, which took nearly a year to recover from. I consider myself lucky not to have ongoing symptoms like my neighbor suffers with. Every time I step outside I consider the risk of getting a tick bite. But it doesn't stop me from going out, it just makes me more cautious, and has inspired me to try out different methods for prevention. Prevention is the best method. Here are my top five tips to prevent deer tick bites, based on what has worked for me. The vigilant use of these methods seems to have effectively eliminated tick bites for myself and my family. 1) Garlic. I take garlic in the morning during tick season. I even use a powdered form for my horse and the number of ticks I find on him has decreased significantly. I used to find several ticks per day, and now I find several per week. For me, I find that fresh garlic works best. I make a dressing in the morning out of yogurt, lemon juice, 1 clove fresh garlic and salt, and put it on my scrambled eggs. If I have to meet with clients in the morning and am worried about the garlic smell, I take Kyolic aged garlic capsules instead. I also read once that garlic breath is caused by 'missing' some of the garlic when you brush, so after eating it I floss, brush and use a tongue scraper to get the smell out. 2) Cats and Dogs. Studies show pet owners are more at risk for tick bites and contracting infectious tick borne diseases. As soon as my cat comes back with his first tick of the spring, I move him outdoors, since he is extremely unhappy being locked indoors all summer. I know it sounds a bit harsh, but I can't risk my family's health for my cat's comfort. I have a vestibule where he can come in for shelter from the wind and rain, and I put food and water out and a bed. I have not found any full-proof way of keeping ticks off of him. Even the harsh chemicals that keep ticks from actually biting him, don't stop him from carrying a tick on the end of his hair and dropping it in the house. 3) Use the Dryer: When I come back from a walk, I strip and put my clothes immediately into the dryer on high heat for a full cycle. Studies have shown that ticks can survive washing but that high heat drying will kill them. While this is definitely not a eco-friendly choice, I haven't yet found an alternative. 4) Repellents: During tick season I use a combination of various products. I am very concerned about the adverse health effects of using DEET or other chemically-based repellents, so have been experimenting with alternatives to find the most effective. If I will be headed outdoors for the day, I use soybean oil after my morning shower as an all-over body moisturizer that also helps deter insect bites. Certain essential oils are very effective against ticks and studies show that catnip, rose geranium, and lemon eucalyptus oil are very effective against both ticks and mosquitoes. I sometimes make my own formulas, but since last fall have started using Buzz Away Extreme, which has worked well. Just be aware that while it repels mosquitoes for up to 8 hours, it needs to be reapplied after 2.5 hours for ticks. If headed into the deep woods, I will also spray my shoes, socks, pant legs, hat and hair. 5) Guinea hens. Guinea hens are the best thing I've found for keeping our yard clear of ticks. I know everyone can't do this, so I've listed it last. If you live in a rural area, get guinea hens. Since our hens grew up, our tick population has decreased significantly. Our hens roam free, eat ticks and other insects all day, and take care of themselves. The drawback is that they are a bit noisy, so don't get them if you aren't used to the sounds of farm animals.

Raising Guinea Fowl

Tick Eating Guinea Hen Weapon Against Lyme Disease

In addition you should do a thorough tick check every night. Check behind ears, back of head and neck, armpits and groin area. Set up a full length mirror in the bathroom, provide bright lighting and check your backside. Heather Flournoy is a writer, grassroots marketer and natural health expert who resides in Katonah, NY. Read her blog at http://www.KatonahGreen.com Article Source: Ezine Articles

Amazing Maqui Berry

Maqui Superberry is a deeply purpled berry gathered in the distant mountains of the Patagonia region of Chile. Traditionally used by the Mapuche Indians for supporting stamina, increasing strength and promoting heathy immune response, Maqui Superberry has undergone a ultra filtration process to offer customers one of the purest and highest antioxidant superfruits in the world. Try it today and experience the health benefits of this amazing super berry.

 

Maqui Superberry - The Highest Antioxidant Superfruit in the World!  

What Is Maqui Berry?

By: Ryan Anderson

Maqui berry is a berry that is found in the Patagonia region. This is one of the most fertile areas in the entire world, and it makes this berry one of the great tasting foods you will ever encounter. However, I am not telling you about the Maqui berry simply because it tastes good. This is quite possibly going to become the greatest weight loss supplement in the world!

Maqui berry first gained some steam when it was mentioned very quickly by Rachael Ray on one of her shows. She did not elaborate on the berry, but search volume increased by almost 400% that day. In the last few months, more and more comments have come out about Maqui berry and the amazing weight loss benefits it has, but it still has not become mainstream as of yet.

You are probably pretty curious about what the heck this berry is, right? Maqui berry is currently number one on the ORAC scale. That probably does not mean much to you, but the ORAC scale includes every single food in the world and measures the amount of antioxidants these foods contain. Maqui berry not only contains more antioxidants then any other food, but it actually doubles the number two food!

If you don't know what antioxidants are, they are responsible for ridding the body of dangerous chemicals and toxins that can cause massive amounts of weight gains. When you load the body with these antioxidants it can eliminate the toxins are extremely fast rates. Maqui berry has so many antioxidants that it can actually cause as much weight loss as 20 pounds in just a few weeks!

In conclusion, Maqui berry is gaining popularity, but is still relatively unknown. You can get a free trial of this weight loss magic by visiting the site!

Maqui Superberry - The Highest Antioxidant Superfruit in the World!  

Article Source: Ezine Articles

The Way We Eat May Be "Making Us Crazy"

Courtesy: Healthy Inclusions.com

... for mind, body and soul

Poor diet gets a hunk of the blame for rising rates of mental illness, according to new research from the UK."Feeding Minds," a report by the British Mental Health Foundation, describes how eating habits have devolved over the past 60 years. The recent report emphasizes the link between diet and mental health, saying "the evidence indicates that food plays an important contributing role in the development, management and prevention of specific mental health problems, such as depression, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Alzheimer's disease."

Bad habits -- like skipping breakfast, grabbing a fast-food burger for lunch and popping a frozen pizza into the microwave and calling it "dinner" -- have become a way of life, in large part because people are busy. This kind of food may fill the stomach, but not the body's nutritional needs. The "Feeding Minds" report found that British people now eat...

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Goji Berries Are Among the Most Nutritious Foods on the Planet

By Sheryl Walters, citizen journalist

(NaturalNews) People in the valleys of Tibet and Mongolia cherish the Goji Berry. In fact, they honor it in celebrations that last two weeks each year. But it comes as no surprise, as it is believed this berry is what gives them their disease-free lives that often last for more than 100 years. People in the Ninxia region of Northern China have 16 times more centenarians than people in the rest of the country. According to Chinese legend, a man that ate Goji soup lived to be 252.

Researchers began studying Goji Berries expecting to find similar results to other fruits. However, vitamin, mineral and nutrient analysis revealed that the Goji Berry is one of the most nutritionally rich foods on planet!

In 1988, the Beijing Nutrition Research Institute conducted detailed chemical analysis and nutritional composition studies of the Goji Berry. They discovered that it is packed with an incredible range of vitamins, minerals, protein, amino acids, essential fats, and health enhancing phytonutrients.

Protect Your DNA With Goji Berries

Without constant protection, our DNA can be damaged by anything from toxins to bad food to normal daily activities. This damage leaves our body vulnerable to any imaginable illness and premature aging.

This protection comes in the form of antioxidants, and the research has shown that the goji berry is loaded with age defying, disease preventing antioxidants. Its ORAC value (the value a food is given for its protective potency) is far higher than blueberries, pomegranates, oranges, or raspberries, all of which are powerful antioxidants themselves.

Increase Libido

In Asia, goji berries are known as a strong sexual tonic. They increase testosterone levels, which stimulates libido in both men and women. Furthermore, they improve overall stamina, mood and wellbeing, all of which are vital for an optimum sex life.

There is an ancient Chinese proverb that states "He who travels one thousand kilometres from home should not eat Goji!"

An Increase in Energy

Goji berries help the body effectively deal with stress, emotional, physical, and environmental. They especially balance the adrenal glands, which tend to become exhausted through stress. Healthy adrenal glands and good stress coping is absolutely vital for maintaining energy and overall vibrance.

Promote Human Growth Hormone Production

The average 70 year old produces 10 times less HGH (Human Growth Hormone) than the average 20 year old. The goji berry's high levels of nutrients stimulate and support the production of this vital anti-aging hormone.

Balance Cholesterol and Lower Blood Pressure Naturally

The health enhancing properties in gojies guard against cardiovascular disease, heart attacks and strokes by balancing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure.

Healthy Vision
The two most important nutrients for healthy vision are lutein and zeaxanthin, both of which are abundant in goji berries. Research in China has shown that goji berries can reduce damage to the retina.

About the author
Sheryl is a kinesiologist, nutritionist and holistic practitioner.

Her website www.younglivingguide.com provides the latest research on preventing disease, looking naturally gorgeous, and feeling emotionally and physically fabulous. 

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Milk Destroys Antioxidant Benefits in Blueberries

By: Barbara Minton, Natural Health Editor (NaturalNews)

Not much is better than a bowl of fresh blueberries. Bursting with flavor and sweetness, low in calories, and packed with nutrients and antioxidants, these tiny fruits are anti-aging superstars. There is however one word of caution. Blueberries lose their power when eaten with milk.

Blueberries have a high affinity for milk protein

A new study reported in the journal Free Radical Biology and Medicine investigated whether antioxidant properties of blueberries were reduced because of their affinity for protein. They assessed the bioavailability of phenolics after consumption of blueberries with and without milk. Phenolics are the active compounds in plants that give blueberries their antioxidant potential.

Volunteers consumed 200 g of blueberries with 200 ml of either water or whole milk. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at intervals following consumption. The samples revealed that ingestion of blueberries with water increased plasma levels and concentrations of caffeic and ferulic acids. When blueberries and milk were ingested together, there was no increase in plasma antioxidant capacity. There was a reduction in the peak plasma concentrations of caffeic and ferulic acids as well as the overall absorption of caffeic acid.

Ferulic acid provides rigidity to cell walls and protects the nervous system. It has a normalizing effect on blood pressure. Caffeic acid is also a powerful protector of neurons. Other research has shown caffeic acid has the potential to prevent neurodegenerative disease.

This study suggests that the best way to gain maximum benefits from blueberries and other fruits eaten for their polyphenol content is to consume them either one hour before protein is consumed, or two hours after.

The effects of ferulic and caffeic acids on neurons may be what give blueberries their ability to influence cognition and learning. A study reported in the August, 2008 journalNutrition and Neuroscience looked at cognitive impairment in age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's as being due to long-term exposure and increased susceptibility to inflammatory insults. They investigated whether polyphenols in blueberries could reduce the deleterious effects of induced inflammation.

Rats were fed a diet that included a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), or a 2 percent blueberry diet. After two weeks and behavioral evaluation, the rats were examined and total RNA from the hippocampus was extracted to analyze the expression of inflammation-related genes. The researchers found the blueberry diet was able to improve cognitive performance to a much greater degree than was the NSAID diet. Blueberry eaters showed a reduction in several factors influencing the inflammatory response. They concluded that blueberry polyphenols can lessen learning impairments resulting from neurotoxic insult and exert anti-inflammatory actions, perhaps by alteration of gene expression.

Other studies have found that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging animals, making them mentally equivalent to animals much younger.

Blueberries are antioxidant powerhouses

Researchers at Tufts University recently analyzed 60 fruits and vegetables for their antioxidant capabilities. Blueberries were tops among all that were studied, ranking highest in the capacity to destroy free radicals. Antioxidants in blueberries neutralize free radical damage to the collagen matrix of cells and tissues that can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, peptic ulcers, heart disease and cancer.

The pigments that give blueberries their color improve the structure of veins and the vascular system. They enhance the effects of vitamin C and inhibit enzymes from cleaving the collagen matrix. Maintaining a stable collagen matrix is essential for health of bones, tendons, cartilage and connective tissue. The collagen matrix is what keeps skin from wrinkling and sagging.

Eating 3 or more servings of fruit per day including blueberries lowers risk of age-related macular degeneration, the primary cause of vision loss in older adults. Blueberries are loaded with eye healthy and vision preserving carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, and flavonoids like rutin, resveratrol and quercitin. And they contain a wealth of minerals needed for vision and overall health, like selenium and zinc.

Blueberries are high in the soluble fiber pectin, which has been shown to lower cholesterol. They provide greater cardio-protective antioxidant capability than red wine.

Blueberries' cancer fighting properties are legendary. Ellagitannins is probably the most highly prized compound in blueberries because of its ability to block metabolic pathways that can lead to the initiation and promotion of cancer. A study reported in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that blueberries inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation and induce programmed cell death. Blueberries contain kaempferol. This compound was shown in the Women's Health Study to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 40 percent in women who diets provided the greatest amounts. Blueberries also contain pterostilbene, another powerful cancer fighting compound.

Both diarrhea and constipation can be relieved with blueberries. Their tannin concentration helps reduce inflammation in the digestive tract as well as in the urinary tract. They provide safety form the bacteria that cause food borne illnesses.

Blueberries are terrific anti-depressants and mood elevators.

Choosing and using blueberries

For many people seeing the price tag for fresh organic blueberries is a real jolt. Some of the cost can be minimized by buying wild blueberries. These are often the same quality as those certified organic. Frozen blueberries provide all the antioxidant potential and other nutrients found in fresh ones. If you are looking for frozen berries, check the bag to make sure the berries move around freely and are not stuck together, indicating they have been thawed and refrozen. If you like some juice with your blueberries, frozen is the way to go.

As a general rule, the riper the fruit the greater its antioxidant content.

Organic dried blueberries are also a good choice, especially for snacking since the sweetness is accentuated by the drying process. The antioxidant potential of dried blueberries can be as much as four times greater than that of fresh. Organic dried berries will have been dried at temperatures low enough to protect their antioxidant capabilities.

Heat is a destroyer of the antioxidant potential of blueberries, making canned or other processed berries a poor choice. Fresh or frozen blueberries can be pureed and fed to babies. Blueberries in baby food jars will have lost most of their nutritional value.

Sources:

US Highbush Blueberry Council, blueberry.org.

Organic Facts, Health Benefits of Blueberries, organicfacts.net.

Blueberries, WHFoods, whfoods.com.

Everything You Have To Learn About Herbal Medications

by: Linda Moore

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to cure various diseases and health problems. In different cultures and civilizations, there were thousands of special herbal preparations and mixtures created to treat all known illnesses and health concerns. However, on a certain point, the development of pharmaceutical medicine resulted in creating very powerful and potent synthesized medications, that reduced the popularity of alternative medical approaches and herbal remedies. Modern people got used to fast and strong effects of pharmaceutical medicines, especially for such common health concerns as headaches or sore throat. Many of us prefer pharmaceuticals to safer and less risky herbal treatments, because we are convinced that the latter can not give such fast effects and relief.

At the same time, a lot of people still rely on herbal remedies, especially for certain chronic diseases and health conditions. Very often we take the effects of pharmaceutical medicines for granted and forget about the fact that taking a lot of chemicals and drugs can cause negative reactions in our body, especially in long-term perspective. Besides, we used to believe that it is hard to receive immediate and powerful effects by using herbal medicines and supplements. However, herbal remedies are frequently just as effective as pharmaceuticals, but using them is more advantageous since they are less connected with the risks of having unwanted side effects.

Herbal treatments and natural remedies have been proven effective to treat or relief almost every disease, starting from allergies and ending with serious mental disorders. High quality ingredients of herbal remedies, which are grown, harvested and processed in proper conditions, usually have a very strong potency, that is absolutely compatible with the one of pharmaceutical medicines. At that, another important advantage of herbal treatments is their being less expensive. Finally, a great variety of herbal medicines available in our market can be purchased without any prescription from your doctors.

All this can sound pretty much appealing to many people, but we have to remember that not all natural treatments and herbal remedies are absolutely safe and can be taken for choice. Certainly, we can drink our favorite herbal teas with Melissa or Chamomile, use Echinacea to combat the common symptoms of cold and use Aloe Vera to nourish and rejuvenate our hair. Nevertheless, it is essential to consult herbal practitioners, therapists or doctors, who have certain experience and necessary knowledge about the effects of herbal remedies. Herbalists can also help you find the right herbal alternatives, which can be the best for your particular health condition, and give you a competent advice on choosing only high quality herbal medicines. Use herbal treatments with caution and stay positively tuned - in such case, good results and improvements of your health are guaranteed.

About The Author

Since overweight and obesity remain among the most topical problems in modern society, it is very important to learn as much as possible about the causes, stimulating factors and all the risks connected with being obese. Dr. Robert Gray offers you competent information and recommendations, which can be helpful for everyone who is looking for ways to maintain normal body weight or shed extra pounds. Visit http://robertgray5.com/

Article Source: Everything You Have To Learn About Herbal Medications 

Do You Use Organic Skin Care for Your Baby?

Do you find that your child constantly suffers from nappy rash and other skin conditions? If they do have you ever thought it could be because of the products which you are using? Many shop bought products which are marketed towards parents with babies and small children, often contain chemicals which can irritate the skin. Many parents who have babies which have never suffered from nappy rash or any other skin complaint, claim that it is because they use only organic products on their child. So could organic baby products work for you?

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Eco-Friendly Natural and Organic Products for Baby and Family!

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Ayahuasca - Medicine for the Soul Part 2

The second part of an article which explores this fascinating plant brew from the Amazon Rainforest. Ayahuasca is the jungle medicine of the upper Amazon. It is made from the ayahuasca vine ( Banisteriopsis Caapi) and the leaf of the Chacruna plant (Psychotria Viridis).

How can we enter into a communion (in the true sense of the word) with the plant consciousness or soul? This can indeed be difficult, as we in our culture have long forgotten this understanding and body of knowledge. However we can learn from those peoples who still live within a paradigm that our physical forms are illusions, and beyond that we are all connected and no different from all things. Modern physics which recognises the underlying nature of form and matter as an energy which pervades and informs the universe is saying the same as the ancient shamans, “reality is an illusion, albeit a persistent one” Albert Einstein (Alice Calaprice. The Expanded Quotable Einstein. )

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Are Organic Foods Really Better For You?

Walter J. Crinnion N.D.

Published in Organic Gardening Almanac, 1995; Llewelyn Pub.

The more I work with chronically ill people, the bigger my organic garden gets. As a naturopathic physician I deal with a lot of chronically ill people. Many of them have been through the conventional medical system with no success, so they show up at my doorstep. One day Steve showed up. Over six feet tall and 200 pounds, he dwarfed me, and was quick to mention that my hair was thinning. He was always trying to be helpful. He came to me after numerous doctors were unable to help. By the time he arrived he was sure that he was dying. His long list of symptoms, coupled with his natural tendency to do his best to get your goat had no doubt caused any practitioners to give up on him. 

Routine blood tests failed to show the cause of his problems, although they did show some irregularities. The really interesting finding came when we checked his blood for pesticides.

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Water Is Essential To Life

Water is essential to all life. Important video we should all watch. 

Courtesy: CharityFocus.org

Everyone understands that water is essential to life. But many are only just now beginning to grasp how essential it is to everything in life food, energy, transportation, nature, leisure, identity, culture, social norms, and virtually all the products used on a daily basis. --World Business Council for Sustainable Development 

Fact of the Day:
The world is running out of fresh water and the privatization of water is making it increasingly a commodity available only to the wealthy. Should water be an industry, or a basic resource available to all? This trailer for the film "Flow" poses that and other questions surrounding a resource long taken for granted. [ more ] 

Be The Change:
When you are about to buy a bottle of water or coke, stop to think where the water could be coming from. Read what National Geographic has to say about this here. [ more ] 

How Healthy Are You? 100 DIY Tests and Quizzes

By: Alissa Miller

With a better general awareness of health, fitness, and nutrition, many people may feel that they are staying on track in doing what they need to in order to stay healthy. If you would like to see how you measure up, then take a few of these quizzes or tests to see what you know and learn how you can keep yourself healthy and fit. With categories including women’s health, men’s health, children’s and teen health, specific health issues, fitness, nutrition, and more, you will find plenty of quizzes to ensure you are on the right track with you and your family’s health. Remember, though, that these quizzes never substitute for a visit to your doctor.

Click here to see the 100 free quizzes!

Water! Cool, Clear Water!

By: Marlene Affeld

I know, you have heard it before - drink plenty of water. You may think, how boring. This is sound advice, yet how many of us consciously pay attention to the amount of water we drink each day? Do you know if you are getting enough?

When we think of dehydration, we visualize someone collapsing due to sun exposure or from heat exhaustion after vigorous physical activity. But in actuality, dehydration is an insidious condition that can creep up on a person unaware. You may be dehydrated and not even realize it. Thirst or a dry mouth does not show up until the body is actually dehydrated. When we are dehydrated the thirst sensation diminishes and we may be seriously in need of fluid and not even be thirsty.

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House Plants For Better Sleep

By: Mary Desaulniers

According to the principles of Feng Shui, strategic placement of objects can mean the difference between health and illness. Placing houseplants in the main living areas of a house, for example, can enhance the flow of energy through the entire structure. Similarly, placing houseplants in the bedroom can mean better sleep for the occupants of the house.

There are several reasons why houseplants can promote better sleep.

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The Healing Power of Rosehip Seed Oil

Rosehip Seed Oil is nothing short of incredible! Through numerous studies it has been proven to have astounding effects upon the skin by reducing scars, wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of ageing. Highly effective, inexpensive, and a must for healthy youthful skin.

Introduction

Rosehip seed oil is truly an amazing product, which has only recently become recognized by the general public. This surge in popularity is for a good reason, as it is believed to be the best oil available for anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation. Numerous scientific studies have also taken place, which have yielded astounding evidence supporting the use of Rosehip Seed oil.

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Explore Exquisite Age Defying Solutions

Vicks Vapor Rub - An Old Remedy With A New Use

A friend sent this to me, so I wanted to share with everyone. Sounds like it should work, much better than taking percription drugs. I do not get colds, but lots of people suffer every winter. I hope this offers relief.

"During a lecture on Essential Oils, they told us how the foot soles can absorb oils. Their example: Put garlic on your feet and within 20 minutes you can 'taste' it. 

Some of us have used Vicks Vapo rub for years for everything from chapped lips to sore toes and many body parts in between. But I've never heard of this. And don't laugh, it works 100% of the time, although the scientists who discovered it aren't sure why. To stop night time coughing in a child (or adult as we found out personally), put Vicks Vapo Rub generously on the bottom of the feet at bedtime, then cover with socks. Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief. Works 100% of the time and is more effective in children than even very strong prescription cough medicines. In addition it is extremely soothing and comforting and they will sleep sound. Just happened to tune in A.M. Radio and picked up this guy talking about why cough medicines in kids often do more harm than good, due to the chemical makeup of these strong drugs so, I listened. It was a surprise finding and found to be more effective than prescribed medicines for children at bedtime, in addition to have a soothing and calming effect on sick children who then went on to sleep soundly. 

My wife tried it on herself when she had a very deep constant and persistent cough a few weeks ago and it worked 100%! She said that it felt like a warm blanket had enveloped her, coughing stopped in a few minutes and believe me, this was a deep, ( incredibly annoying!) every few seconds uncontrollable cough, and she slept cough-free for hours every night that she used it. 

If you have grandchildren, pass this on. If you end up sick, try it yourself and you will be absolutely amazed at how it works."

TRY IT THE NEXT TIME YOU GET A BAD COLD.

Find Relaxing Remedies to Ease Tension

Stay Young With Andorra’s Secrets For a Longer Life

Is it any wonder that the natives of Andorra have the longest life expectancy in the world? Clean air. Take your breath away mountain views. Well off, with nearly non-existent levels of crime (one prison with 50 inmates for the whole country), over 700 years of peace and a temperate climate of cold snowy winters and warm, dry summers; this tiny nation may indeed hold the secret to stay young, live longer and better.

At just 2.5 times the size of Washington, D.C., the country sits tucked between France and Spain, a landlocked nation of narrow valleys surrounded by the staggering Pyrenees mountains.

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Vitamins and Herbs Can Help You Live Healthier

What Is So Good About Lavender

By Marco Gonzaga

More than just a sight for sore eyes, lavender has been used extensively in herbalism since ancient times. It acts as a natural antidepress-ant and possesses a host of other healing properties that are anti-convulsive, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal. These healing components of lavender are known to be accumulated mostly in its blossoms, whether fresh or dried. Its oil has been proven very effective and useful both internally and externally. If it were to be ingested, one up to three drops of it on a sugar cube is normally used. However, extracting its oil without equipment and the proper knowledge of the distillation process of essential oil is not advisable. Thus, it would be best if you would just buy it from a reputable store. But be warned: purchased lavender oil can cause nausea. Majority of sellers would advise you to limit its use to very small doses if you were to ingest it.

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3 Tips For A Successful Container Herb Garden

By: Theresa Goodman

If you are like me, I absolutely love the smell of fresh herbs. However, buying fresh herbs at the grocery store would often make my wallet cry, so I would pass them up. Often times I didn't buy enough or they would spoil before I used them all. So like me, Container Herb Gardening can give you an abundant, readily available supply of fresh herbs. It doesn't matter if your living quarters are small because you can put the containers inside in the kitchen within reach. Even next to the coffee pot. Growing herbs in containers is the perfect gift for gardening friends, as well as for cooking. Take into account these 3 tips for the successful container herb garden, for some flavorful and or smelly results.

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Beauty Care - 7 Beauty Tips

by: Michael Fortomas

Let's talk about inner beauty care. True beauty begins from the inside out. Outer beauty will only appear when you've practiced beauty within. Knowing how and what to eat, can make a huge difference in how you feel. Improper eating habits can cause depression, overweight, illness and an overall lethargy. Change your eating and exercising habits. You can do this. Do not try to change everything at once, unless you are just one of those rare individuals that can do that. Beauty care starts with our diet. Diet does not mean just losing weight. Diet means the food you put in your daily eating habits.

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Supple Skin Needs Quality Care - Nandu Green has Quality Products

Can Laughter Benefit Your Health

Do you find that the daily pressures of life cause you to become tense and make it difficult for you to relax? Does that at times contribute to a feeling of tiredness and depression? If so, laughter may be an excellent medicine for you. It tends to relax a person, thereby lessening tension and lifting his spirits.

The emotions are known to have a pronounced effect upon the body. Anger and rage, for example, can contribute to or even cause such ailments as asthma, skin diseases, ulcers and digestive troubles.

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For Relaxing Remedies to Revitalize Your Spirit See Nandu Green