Choose Organic Produce

Organic produce is mandated to be grown without the use of conventional pesticides, artificial fertilizers, or sewage sludge. It's hard to believe that is NOT a requirement for ALL produce. Because of pesticide residue in the soil, it is virtually impossible to grow produce "residue free" and even organically grown foods do not claim to be completely free of chemical residues. So you are thinking of buying organic, but you want to save money, you've come to the right place.

Step1

Know your produce! The Environmental Work Group, EWG, tested 45 types of conventionally grown produce and came up with a list ranking from the most polluted to least polluted with pesticide. This list is helpful in determining which produce to buy organic, with a reduced levels of pesticide, and which produce are relatively safe to buy conventionally grown if you are trying to save money.

Step2

Often referred to as the “Dirty Dozen” are the 12 fruits or vegetables with the highest concentrations of pesticides. They are as follows:


Peaches
Apples
Sweet Bell Peppers
Celery
Nectarines
Strawberries
Cherries
Lettuce
Grapes - Imported
Pears
Spinach
Potatoes

Step3

The least polluted produce is as follows:
Eggplant
Broccoli
Cabbage
Bananas
Kiwi
Asparagus
Sweet Peas-Frozen
Mango
Pineapples
Sweet Corn-Frozen
Avocado
Onions

Step4

For a detailed list of all tested produce and the level of pesticide found visit the EWG link below.

Choose Healthy Foods for the Family

it seems like every day results of new studies show that what we eat directly contributes to different health conditions and risks. Taking control of health and wellness begins at home, and it begins with choosing healthy foods for the whole family. Incorporating healthy eating and healthy living in the household can and will become habitual once you take the necessary steps to make those changes.

Step1

Identify any and all health-related risks the family may already be eating toward. In other words, is there is family history of obesity, heart disease, hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes it places a family at risk for future medical conditions. Once the family health history is assessed, the family can choose better dietary choices.

Step2

Learn to read food labels. Ideally, food products that are low in cholesterol, low to no fats, low sugar and low salt are quality products.

Step3

Incorporate simplistic foods. Simplistic foods are foods in the natural fresh form. Fresh fruits and fresh vegetables are a great way to choose healthy foods. They do not need to be cooked and can be prepared and eaten in their natural healthy raw form. Serve raw vegetable salads with main meals and a plate of cut up fruits for dessert. This is a great way to get the daily required nutrients.

Step4

Choose leaner cuts of meat and white meat poultry. These food items are less fatty and better choices in protein. Try to make your favorite ground-beef meal with ground turkey, chicken or veal. Not only will it be healthier, but it will give a variation of flavor and bring flare to the dinner table.

Step5

Add non-animal proteins to the diet. Non-animal proteins consist of beans, soy products and nuts. These proteins are low in fat and therefore much better for the body’s health.

Step6

Consume more whole grain products. This can be done by changing from white bread to whole grain bread, eating more whole grain cereals and serving brown rice as a side dish with dinners.

Step7

Create healthy bones by including dairy in the diet. For older children and adults, low-fat or skim milk is better for the body. Eat real cheeses, not processed cheeses that tend to be higher in fat content. This may mean going to the deli counter to buy sliced cheese as opposed to the dairy section and picking up a package of processed individually sliced and wrapped cheeses. Yogurt is a great source of dairy and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch and snacks.

Step8

Shop and buy more organic foods. Organic foods have no preservatives and are healthier for the body.

Step9

Prepare foods in healthy ways. It is not necessary to deep fry or fry foods. Try baking, broiling or grilling your favorite foods, and play around with new spices. This can be a fun way to create and make up new recipes. Sauté meats and vegetables in a non-stick spray instead of butter or cooking oil. Also, trade in the vegetable oil for extra virgin olive oil which is healthier. Cut down on using salt.

Step10

Moderate and discipline the sweet tooth. Everyone has a sweet tooth from time to time, but we do not need to feed it with unhealthy sweets. Choose fresh fruits, granola, trail mix, sorbet or even gelato which is Italian ice cream that is way healthier due to the wholesome and natural ingredients it is prepared with. Moderate the amounts of sweets by not allowing yourself to eat a large quantity of that sweet in one sitting. A person does not need to eat the whole chocolate bar to get the sweet fix they need. They can instead eat 2 squares and save the rest for another day.

Step11

Serve proper portions. It is not necessary to pile the plate high with food. It is proven that the more food that is placed on a plate will contribute to teaching the body to overeat. Try to use smaller plates and properly portion the meals that are served. This will retrain the stomach and body to eat the proper amount of foods at each sitting.

Step12

Add supplemental vitamins to the daily dietary routine. Not everything that is eaten during the day will give the body the required vitamins and minerals to sustain a healthy body. Check with your doctor to see which vitamins and minerals are essentially good to add to the daily intake in supplemental form.

change you eating habits when trying to lose weight

How many times have you got on that treadmill for hours, or lifted weights until fatigue, just to step on the scale to see the same old number? If you're like me many times. Well I got news for you. I have learn by combining these things with eating the right foods , you will see results in no time.

Things You’ll Need:

• positive attitude
• determination
• will power

Step1

Be realistic. It is more effective to use 80 percent constraint with your food plan 100 percent of the time than be perfect for only 20 percent.

Step2

Be aware of your high risk foods, and don't buy them

Step3

Make sure each meal including snacks contain protein. It stimulates the metabolism and makes you feel full

Step4

If you have a craving , only try to eat a teaspoon, your body doesn't need it to be a meal.

Step5

Drink plenty of water. It improves bio function and stave off hunger

Step6

Opt out for complex carbs over simple ones. Have whole grains cereals or breads. Pick brown rice or wild rice. Have a piece of fruit instead of juice. If you do have simple carbs eat them in moderation.

Step7

Make better bad choices, put together these changes create huge results over time

Buy Non-GMO Snacks

Non-GMO foods are foods that were never genetically modified. These foods are normally all organic foods that were grown without pesticides and without chemically altered soil. Most of the larger food producers have moved their productions to chemically modified produce in order to save money. Buy non-GMO snacks by avoiding some of the name brands.

Step1

Shop online. There are many stores that are strictly vegan or vegetarian where you can buy non-GMO snacks. They are labeled properly, and most of the sites will give you information regarding their organic status.

Step2

Go to a farmer's market. Buy non-GMO fruits and veggies for snacks at a local farmer's market. These farmers bring their produce to these markets to sell, because they can't compete with the large farms which use mass production techniques.

Step3

Buy non-GMO snacks at grocery stores that carry organic produce and meats. These stores will carry many pre-packaged snacks that are made from organic ingredients that were not genetically modified.

Step4

Make healthy snacks at home. Buy and dry organic, non-GMO fruits and make trail mix at home with organic nuts. You can also make cookies and pastries at home with organic, raw sugars and natural sweeteners that were not genetically modified.

Step5

Read the labels at your local grocery store while shopping. Many of the health food producers will label their foods as being made from Non-GMO ingredients. These will help you buy non-GMO snacks when you can't make it to a health food store

Begin Your Diet

By krazigirl79

XRay of Junk Food

Rate: (9 Ratings)

How many times have you said to yourself "I'll start tomorrow" or "this is the last one" or "just one more." I have done this more times than I can count! Americans are focused on finding the right diet instead of focusing on changing the way we do things. Here are a few quick tips to help you get started, stay motivated and keep on track... for life.

Things You’ll Need:

• WILL POWER
• A CHEAT DAY
• DRIVE

Step1

Don't set yourself up. Analyze the ways in which you manage your time and your life. Get active, and don't forget some down time for yourself.

Step2

Never starve yourself. Don't skip breakfast. eat something small if you usually eat at this time. Try eating smaller more frequent meals.
Enjoy eating( eliminate distractions, eat at table instead of in front of the tv

Step3

Strip Trigger foods of their power( if you know it's not good for you don't buy it for the house. Out of sight is out of mind

Step4

Promise yourself regular tune ups, focus on yourself, do whatever makes you feel good, make sure it isn't food though. (get your nails done, go dancing)

Step5

Don't eat around cravings. If you find it unbearable go ahead, but indulge sensibly and set limits

Step6

When you feel like your about chow down on that chocolate cake use the five D's rule. 1.Determine what's going on. 2. Delay your response.3.Distract yourself for 10 mins. 4. Distance yourself from temptation. 5. Decide how you'll handle the situation.

Step7

Stop and take stock, after a binge we tend to feel guilty , write down how you feel and what you think lead you to binge. This way when the urge hits again you can see how you felt the last time you gave.

Be Vegan on a Budget

As a vegan it can be difficult to find affordable food that fits your dietary needs. Many specialty grocery stores and health markets offer the food you want but at expensive prices. If you're a vegan on a budget, use the information below to save money on your food expenses.

Step1

Buy in bulk. You can purchase staples such as brown rice, grains, beans, nuts, dried fruit and granola in bulk quantities at many grocery stores. Because you're not paying for any fancy packaging, bulk foods are usually much cheaper.

Step2

Purchase frozen vegetables. Although many people prefer to buy fresh produce, it usually don't last very long. However, you can pull a bag of frozen vegetables out of the freezer, use only what you need and save the unused portion for another time.

Step3

Add beans to your diet. Beans are an excellent source of protein and they're usually very cheap. Purchase canned beans at the grocery store and rinse them under running water to reduce some of the sodium content. Or, buy dry beans in bulk and cook a big batch on the weekend to use during the week.

Step4

Find out if your community has a farmer's market during the summer months, where many vendors offer fresh produce at low prices every week. Some communities also have co-ops or local farmers who offer vegan friendly foods at budget friendly prices.

Be Grossed Out By Lunch Meat Salami

Mike Adams from NaturalCures.com took some high magnification photos of lunch meat and sausages. The things that showed up are unidentifiable.

Things You’ll Need:

• your favorite lunchmeat

Step1

up close black matter Take a look at these high magnification photos of lunch meat and you probably won't want to eat it for lunch tomorrow.

Step2

even more up close The black speck in the salami is a mystery, there aren't any ingredients in the salami that would account for the little black piece

Step3

This is a closer view of the black speck, yuck

Step4

really gross This is an up close look at a Jimmy Dean sausage and a globule of fat or grisle

Step5

Alternative lunch meal ideas include salads, soups, tuna fish, and non processed chicken or turkey, or vegetarian options.

Avoid Weekend Binging

It’s the weekend and let’s face it, you’ve worked hard all week. Now it’s time to kick back for some serious R and R. But sometimes a little R and R can extend to your diet. It all starts Friday, some cocktails with friends with a side of greasy appetizers. Saturday, you stop off at your local fast food restaurant for lunch. Later, you go out for a big dinner. Sunday rolls around fast. It’s seems to be a perfect day to lounge around catching up on all your old T.V. shows. Unfortunately, this entire mindless weekend binge has ruined you week of healthy eating. Feeling the guilt your routine begins again, only to end again on Friday. If this sounds like you, don’t worry you are not alone. With a little preparation you can eat healthy and enjoy the weekend with friends and family without the guilt.

Step1

Never skip breakfast.

Remember your body has been fasting all night. It’s time to wake it up with a healthy breakfast. Make sure you eat plenty of protein and fiber.

Step2

Plan Ahead

If you are planning to go out for the day bring nutritious snacks with you such as crackers, fruits, and veggies. It prevents you from spending extra money and keeps you health conscious

Step3

Don’t deprive yourself during the week

Treat yourself to a small piece of chocolate during the week. Depriving your body completely will cost you in the long run through binging.

Step4

Eat less at restaurants.

Many restaurants are starting to offer smaller portion sizes at a lower cost. However, if you order a large meal, take half of it home. Still tempted? Ask your host/hostess to divide your meal before it comes to the table.

Step5

Exercise

Go for a walk to burn those extra calories. Not only will you feel better, but it will distract you from your cravings

Step6

Drink plenty of water

Sometimes we can misinterpret our body's signals for thirst for hunger. It’s very important that you stay hydrated. This too will help curve your cravings.

Step7

Eat a healthy meal before going out.

Temptation is everywhere. Eat a healthy lunch before going out. If you go when you’re hungry, you’re much more likely too given in to unhealthy foods.

Avoid Overeating and Gaining Weight

The concept behind losing weight is the simplest concept to grasp; eat less and exercise more. Still while it's understood that this is the way to lose weight, it's still one of the hardest things some people have to deal with. It's harder than quitting smoking (because you can't just quit eating cold turkey!) or alcohol or even in some cases, drugs. If you find your stomach bulging at the end of meals, you've been over-eating. Here are some tips to cutting those wasted calories.

Step1

Drink water. Drink your water. Always sit down to eat with a glass of water and make sure that you finish it during your meal. Alternating sips of water between bites will slow your eating, help digestion and make you feel fuller, sooner. Feelings of hunger are directly related to dehydration so make sure that you are getting plenty of water during the day.

Step2

Fill up on fiber. Enjoy a starter. A hot low-fat soup like Minestrone or other vegetable broth soup, or a salad with low fat dressing will give you filling fiber and some servings of vegetables. Pass on the buttered rolls or bread and high calorie topping on your salad (meat, blue cheese, croûtons, etc..).

Step3

Watch portions. It's annoying to have to measure everything but you might want to take a look at any packaged foods you eat (cereal, salad dressing, cookies, soup) and see what a real portion is. Measuring it once will give you an idea of what it should look like. Stick to the recommended portion size.

Step4

Watch portions, part II. Take half of your normal serving. If you are used to heaping spaghetti on your plate, put half of what you normally eat. If you normally eat a whole sub sandwich, eat half. If you have four slices of meatloaf, eat two. You will eat whatever is on your plate and if you are still hungry, you can always eat a little more.

Step5

Eat Slowly. It takes 30 minutes for the stomach to feel full, which means if you eat until you are full, you are actually grossly over full and should feel terrible in about 30 minutes. Chew each bite and really enjoy your food. Drink water between bites. Stretch out courses when possible. Allow your stomach to catch up with what you've just put in it. When you feel full, STOP EATING. You can always save leftovers.

Step6

Relax. Play relaxing music during meals. Classic music, jazz or other relaxing music will help you eat slower and digest more easily. Light some candles and make the atmosphere nice so you won't be tempted to rush through dinner.

Step7

Divide and Conquer. When having snacks like chips, cookies or crackers, put the recommended serving in a sandwich bag so you aren't tempted to mindless eat your way through the bag or box. If you like to eat in front of the television, this is a MUST! When going out to eat, ask for half of your dinner to go when you order. Chances are you will be full before you get to the second half. Divide leftovers into smaller containers, so you are only reheating one serving at a time.

Step8

Grazing is ok. If you are eating healthy, it's fine to have several snacks or small meals during the day. Keeping hunger at bay prevents the desire to binge because we are starving. If you get hungry, have a low-fat yogurt, some fruit or something with some fiber and protein, like cheese and a few crackers.

Step9

Eat like a child. If you can't live without fast food, try ordering the child's meal. It has less than half the calories of an adult combo and still has the things you crave in them. At restaurants, some servers will let you order off the senior or child's menu as well. Small portions!

Step10

Avoid temptation. Avoid restaurants where you know you are likely to overeat like buffets or your favorite fried food place. Eating before parties and events will allow you to nibble on some desired treats but because you aren't hungry, you won't be tempted to eat your way through the party. Always eat before you go grocery shopping!

Step11

Treat Yourself. You never want to feel deprived, because you can eat anything you want in moderation. If you find yourself craving ice cream, go ahead and treat yourself to a child's cone or a frozen yogurt sundae (small). Have a few pieces of chocolate here and there, just don't eat the whole box.

Step12

Happy Hour. Avoid sugary drinks when you go out and stick to drinks with less calories. Margaritas, pina coladas, and drinks with lots of fruit juice are all hazards to calories. Try gin and tonic, rum and diet, mojitos, or vodka tonics. If you can't do that, cut your drinking in half. Normally have three drinks? Have one and split one with someone else.

How to Avoid Getting Bloated on a Long Flight

These days, it's fairly simple to hop on a plane and wake up the next morning in another country or even on another continent. Unfortunately, you could also wake up lethargic and bloated, with swollen ankles and shoes that don't fit. With a few alterations to your in-flight routine, you can wake up in your destination well rested, well hydrated and ready to hit the ground running.

Step1

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Drinking plenty of water is the most important thing you can do to eliminate in-flight bloat. Be sure to bring water on board with you, as it may be over an hour before the flight attendants get to food and beverage service. Try to drink 8 oz every hour or two.

Step2

Just say no to booze. While in-flight alcohol is tempting, it's also dehydrating, as are caffeinated beverages. Stick to water and fruit juices.

Step3

Pass on peanuts, pretzels and other salty snacks, which will only add to bloat and counteract all the water you've been drinking.

Step4

Snack on healthy foods. Avoid heavy meals, particularly those heavy in fat or fiber, which take a long time to digest.

Step5

Get up and move. Stand up and stretch or walk around the cabin every hour or two to get the blood flowing and relieve any tension. You might want to request an aisle seat so you don't disturb your neighbors, especially if you're consuming large quantities of water.

Step6

Try and get some rest. Pack a neck pillow, a blanket, noise-canceling headphones or whatever helps you sleep to ensure you arrive at your destination refreshed.

How to Make A Hops Pillow

Introduction

If you have trouble getting a good nights rest there are well-researched herbs that are known to aid in sleep. A natural alternative which is not habit-forming or causes side effects is a better approach for your health. Here is my recipe that combines three of the most-researched sleep herbs.

Hops Humulus lupulus, (Cannabaceae [marijuana] family), has profound sedative effects - even sniffing the herb helps you doze off. Found in the wild the female flowers are most commonly used in brewing beer. Hops have been used by herbalists for thousands of years to encourage sleep. The aging process of hops (up to two years) is what allows the chemical compounds, humulone and lupulone to create a substance that is chemically similar to chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and diazepam (Valium).

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) this is an old-time sleep remedy also used for centuries for relaxation and to calm the nerves. Most commonly used as a tea in the evening to promote a restful sleep.

Lavender (Lavandula, various species) there have been accounts of British hospitals using lavender essential oil to help patients sleep. Aromatherapists like to use the oil for stress, muscle ache, skin conditions and as a sleep aid.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need

• Muslin bag or pouch
• 2 parts dried hops
• 1 part dried chamomile
• 1 part dried lavender

Steps

1

Step One

Use a muslin bag which allows the herbs to breathe through the fabric. Be sure you are not using a synthetic fabric for your pouch.

2

Step Two

Gently scoop up the herbs with a small wooden spoon and place in your bag. Tie the bag tightly to contain the herbs securely.

3

Step Three

Then simply place under your regular pillow at night. Sweet dreams and jelly beans (organic ones of course).

How to Make a Herbal Infusion From Seeds and Flowers

Introduction

Fresh seeds and herbs can form potent natural healing teas and infusions. The difference between a tea and an infusion is the strength and method of preparation. An infusion is generally used 2 to 3 times a day.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need

• 1 quart glass Mason jar
• Mortar and pestle
• Clay pot
• Seeds or flowers of the herbs

Steps

1

Step One

Select the herbs that will work the best for your problem. Consulting folk medicine books, websites and natural remedy books is a great place to find which herbs apply to the problem you are having.

2

Step Two

Place 1 tspn. of the seeds and/or flowers to be used in a mortar and crush with the pestle until they have been pulverized. Add a small amount of warm water to remove the flowers or seeds from the mortar and place them in a 1-quart Mason jar.

3

Step Three

Boil spring water in a clay pot and pour into the Mason jar. Seal the lid tightly and allow to infuse for at least a few hours. For infusions made from seeds do not infuse for more than 4 hours or the infusion may turn bitter.

How to Make a Herbal Infusion From Roots and Barks

Introduction

Folk medicine has long used herbs found in the countryside or grown in the garden to treat various maladies. Herbalists use herbs, leaves, stems, bark and roots to treat various conditions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need

• 1-quart glass jar
• Mortar and pestle

Steps

1

Step One

Sterilize a 1-quart glass Mason jar with lid. Wash the jar and then rinse it in boiling water and allow to air dry until cool. Keeping the jar sterile until use will prevent any unwanted contaminants from finding their way into the herbal infusion.

2

Step Two

Take the bark or root of the herb that will form the infusion and place it in a mortar. Grind it into a powder with the pestle. The larger the surface area of the herb, the greater the transfer of important compounds will be into the water.

3

Step Three

Pour the powdered herb, then pour boiling water into the Mason jar to the rim. Firmly seal the lid on the jar. The temperature and pressure that will build inside the jar will pull the compounds out of the root or bark powder.

4

Step Four

Allow the jar to cool and drink one cup of the mixture 2 to 3 times a day. Do not keep the infusion overnight. It is best to make the infusion fresh daily to maintain the potency of the remedy.

How to Make a Headache Relief Pot

Introduction

Headache relief pots are small containers with a natural formula in them that relieves headaches. The headache relief ointment in these pots is a topical ointment that begins to relieve headaches on contact. They are convenient and easily carried in a pocket or purse. Headache relief pots are inexpensive and easy to make.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You'll Need

• 2 oz. beeswax
• 3 oz. shea butter
• Double boiler pot
• Large mixing spoon
• 4 oz. olive oil
• Lavender essential oil
• Mini flowerpots or lip balm containers

Steps

1

Step One

Melt the shea butter and beeswax in a double boiler over high heat on the stove. Stir occasionally until the mix is melted completely. If you don't have any shea butter, use 1 oz. beeswax and 2 oz. of massage oil or olive oil instead.

2

Step Two

Add the olive oil to the wax mix. Completely combine the oil into the wax mixture. Extra virgin olive oil works the best with this formula, but other varieties of olive oil will also work.

3

Step Three

Stir in 10 to 15 drops of the lavender essential oil. Blend the lavender into the mix. Remove the mix from the heat.

4

Step Four

Pour the mix into the small pots or lip balm containers. This wax recipe makes 9 oz. headache relief ointment.

5

Step Five

Massage the ointment on the temples once the mix congeals. For fast relief from headache pain, take long, deep breaths while messaging the temples of your forehead.

Tips & Warnings

• The balm in the headache relief pots remains effective for up to 2 years if stored in a cool, dry area.

How to Harvest and Store Valerian Roots

Introduction

Valerian is an herbal remedy used as a mild sedative for treatment of sleep disorders, restlessness and anxiety. You can grow Valerian in your garden and enjoy the sweet smell of the blossoms until it is time to harvest the roots. Here is how to gather, clean, dry and store Valerian root for medicinal use.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You'll Need

• Scythe
• Spading fork
• Pressure hose or rotary root washer
• Knife

Steps

1

Step One

Cut off the Valerian stalks at ground level with a scythe when ready to harvest. The best time is between August and September, preferably in the second year of growth.

2

Step Two

Dig up the Valerian roots, also called rhizomes, with a spading fork. Place the harvested roots in the shade while you work.

3

Step Three

Shake the roots to remove excess soil.

4

Step Four

Wash the roots with a pressure hose or rotary root washer to remove all soil and stones that may be lodged in the crown. Use cool water--heat can damage the cells that contain the plant's essential oil.

5

Step Five

Chop the roots into equal small pieces to ensure uniform drying.

6

Step Six

Preserve the essential oils in the roots by drying them at room temperature in a shady spot in your home or barn for 10 days. Shade drying, low temperature vacuum drying and freeze drying are also good methods. Take care not to allow the temperature while drying to exceed 50 degrees Celsius, as it can cause a significant decrease in essential oil content.

7

Step Seven

Store the Valerian root in tightly sealed containers where they will be protected from heat, light, air and moisture. You can use plastic bags, light-proof sacks, glass canisters or drums.

How to Heal an Upset Stomach

Introduction

We have all experienced the pain of an upset stomach at one time or another. In this article you will learn how to make your own drink to help heal an upset stomach quickly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You'll Need

• Goldenseal
• Chamomile
• Mullein
• Skullcap
• Lobelia
• Mint
• Powdered peppermint
• Pennyroyal
• Water

Steps

1

Step One

Mix together 1 teaspoon of goldenseal, 1 heaping teaspoon of chamomile, 1 teaspoon of mullein, 1 teaspoon of skullcap, 2 teaspoons of lobelia, 1 tablespoon of mint, 1/4 teaspoon of powdered peppermint, and finally 1 tablespoon of pennyroyal.

2

Step Two

Boil a cup of water and add 1 teaspoon of the herbal mixture to it. Allow the ingredients to steep for 10 minutes.

3

Step Three

Strain the water and herb mixture that has been steeping and sweeten it for taste.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use if you are allergic to any of the ingredients listed in this article.
• Immediately stop use if you find that you are allergic to any of the ingredients listed in this article.

How to Make a Detox Vegetable Broth

Introduction

You can clear away the ill effects of over-indulgence by using this nourishing, natural detoxifying broth. It is filled with vitalizing ingredients such as pumpkin, carrots and spinach.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need

• Non-reactive cooking pot.
• Colander
• Cheese cloth or thin linen
• 1 3/4 quarts of pure water
• 1 tsp. of Celtic sea salt
• 5 slices of sliced ginger root
• 2 finely chopped carrots
• 3 finely chopped celery stalks
• 1 cup of finely chopped cabbage
• 1 cup of finely chopped spinach
• 1 cup of finely diced pumpkin
• 1 finely chopped squash
• 5 finely sliced Shiitake mushrooms, fresh or dried
• 1 cup of chopped parsley

Steps

1

Step One

Place the water and all the other ingredients into the cooking pot.

2

Step Two

Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover partially and let cook until the liquid is reduced to about half the original amount you started with.

3

Step Three

Prepare the colander by lining it with a piece of cheesecloth or thin linen.

4

Step Four

Strain the hot mixture of broth into a bowl.

5

Step Five

Discard the vegetable pulp and drink the broth with meals or as a snack.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your doctor before beginning any detox program.

How to Make a Dandruff Removal Rinse

Introduction

This has been a problem that seems to still stump everyone. You may have tried all types of shampoos, creams and pills, to no avail. This is an herbal method that has worked for a lot of my friends

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You'll Need

• Camphor, Lavender, Bay, Sage, Rosemary, Rubbing Alcohol, Water

Steps

1

Step One

Combine 2 tbsp of each herb to 2 quarts of water

2

Step Two

Add 2 capfuls of rubbing alcohol

3

Step Three

Steep in water for 2 hours

4

Step Four

Bottle the mixture and use each time you shampoo

How to Make A Cold Oil Infusion

Introduction

Herbs can contain oils that can be used medicinally but these oils can be lost or destroyed if made with a hot oil infusion. To protect the healing oils in these herbs, use need to do this by making a cold oil infusion with them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You'll Need

• 9 oz Dried Herb OR 1 1/4 lb Fresh Herb
• 2 c Vegetable Oil

Steps

1

Step One

Put herbs in a large jar and pack them tightly. Cover with your oil. Seal tightly and put in a sunny location for 2-6 weeks depending on desired strength.

2

Step Two

Pour slowly through a jelly bag or cheesecloth into a clean jar. Be sure you allow oil to filter completely through bag or cloth. Squeeze oil from bag, extracting as much as you can.

3

Step Three

Pour oil into small dark, clean bottles and seal tightly. Store in a cool, dry location.

How to Make a Chamomile Compress for Sunburn

Introduction

Chamomile has been used in herbal remedies for thousands of years. During the middle ages it was even used as part of a love potion. Today chamomile is used in many forms to treat various ailments including insomnia, menstrual cramps, arthritis and skin inflammations. Its ability to sooth skin inflammation is why a chamomile compress is so soothing for sunburn and it's quite easy to make.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You'll Need

• Bowl of ice water
• Wash cloth
• Chamomile essential oil
• Lavender essential oil
• Sprig of rosemary

Steps

1

Step One

Fill a small sized bowl with ice water.

2

Step Two

Add 3 drops of chamomile essential oil to the bowl of ice water. Enjoy the soothing aromas while making your chamomile compress for sunburn.

3

Step Three

Put in 2 drops of lavender essential oil to the bowl of ice water. The lavender works with chamomile to sooth the skin and has a terrific, calming scent.

4

Step Four

Drop a sprig of rosemary into the bowl. Rosemary helps to produce a cooling affect.

5

Step Five

Dip a washcloth into your mixture and squeeze out the excess water.

6

Step Six

Place the chamomile compress on your sunburn as often as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Smoothing aloe to the affected area after you have applied the chamomile compress to your sunburn will help to reduce swelling as well as prevent peeling.
• Some people can have an allergic reaction to chamomile including potentially life threatening anaphylaxis.
• Although chamomile has been used in herbal remedies for many years there is not enough reliable medical research to support claims that this herb is effective for any medical condition.

How to Make a Burn Treatment

Introduction

Ever burn yourself on the kitchen stove and reach for immediate relief only to find none? This easy recipe can be made at home and kept close at hand in case of an emergency. You will be happy to have it, believe me!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You'll Need

• Aloe vera gel
• Dark glass bottle & lid
• Kettle for boiling water
• Large mixing bowl
• Strainers, sieves
• Funnel
• Whisk

Steps

1

Step One

I had seared the palm of my hand once by picking up a large pot that was on a hot burner. I threw the pot out the window, put my hand in a glass of cold water and went about the garden picking herbs. I made myself a very effective concoction which I will describe to you. It is much better to have this on hand, on the ready for when the next burn comes.

Find the fresh healing herbs that are right in your own back yard. This is where any home-made healing product begins. Here are some ideas for burn treatment herbs: horsetail fern, mint of any kind, flowers of chamomile, calendula or violet, leaves of plantain or nettles, root of comfrey, dandelion or burdock. If you don't have any fresh herbs or wildflowers available, use loose peppermint tea.

2

Step Two

Fill your kettle with purified water and put it on to boil. Rip leaves and flowers by hand. Grind your root in an herb-only coffee grinder or with a mortar and pestle. The more surface of the plant product exposed to the water, the more effective the infusion will be. Fill the quart jar to 8oz with herb and wait for the water to boil.

3

Step Three

Make sure your water is as pure as possible, distilled or filtered or both. Lead, copper, mercury, chlorine, flouride (all commonly found in US tap water) will affect the quality of any product you make at home. Fill the quart jar up with boiling water. Seal your lid.

4

Step Four

Let the herbs steep. You are making an infusion. If you need to get immediate relief, let the tea steep for 20 minutes before straining. If you are not in a hurry, you can leave it for 24 hours.

5

Step Five

Strain the infusion. Pour it back into your quart jar and top off with purified water. You now have 32-oz herbal infusion.

6

Step Six

Pour into a large bowl. Add 32-oz aloe vera gel, organic if possible. Mix with a whisk.

7

Step Seven

If you burned your hand or foot, you can put your burn directly into your mixing bowl and let it soak until you have some relief. You can soak a clean, white, cotton rag or bandage in the mixture, squeeze out excess moisture and wrap it around your burns for comfort. This is good for sleeping. You can cover the wet bandage with a plastic bag to avoid seepage onto your clothes or bedding.

How to make coconut oil

Introduction

Making coconut oil is very easy.
When you live in the rural area with coconut farm it is good to know how to make a coconut oil because you can use it for cooking or massaging or light for your lamp.
Or you can use coconut oil to massage your scalp to shine your hair.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You'll Need

• grated coconut
• water
• pot or frying pan

Steps

1

Step One

Grate coconut and put water in it.

2

Step Two

Squeezed grated coconut with water to make a coconut milk.

3

Step Three

Heat the coconut milk until all water is dried up and only coconut oil left in the pot.

How to Lose Weight With Hoodia Gordonii

Introduction

Hoodia Gordonii is a plant that grows naturally in South Africa and Namibia. For thousands of years, bushmen in Southern Africa have been chewing on the plant during long hunting trips. It allows them to go days without eating but keeps them energetic and strong. Research on the appetite suppressant started in the 1960's. It wasn't until the 1990's that scientists figured out the main ingredient.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Pick a Hoodia Gordonii supplement that is made with 100 percent Hoodia. Some companies add in other ingredients or don't use pure Hoodia.

2

Step Two

Take 1 to 2 capsules every day. Drink them down with a full glass of water. Space them out by taking one in the morning and the other one hour before dinner. Monitor your appetite for a week.

3

Step Three

Experiment with the dosage to get the right appetite suppressant affects for your body. You may need to double the dosage and take 2 to 4 capsules a day.

4

Step Four

Allow up to 14 days to see the full effect of Hoodia. You may notice you're not as hungry within only a few days. Other people won't notice the difference for up to two weeks.

5

Step Five

Eat healthy meals. Hoodia will curb your hunger and decrease your desire to snack in between meals. As you eat less, it's also important to eat the right foods.

6

Step Six

Exercise to lose even more weight. Moving your body more will help you achieve your weight loss goals faster.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure there's a 100 percent money back guarantee. There's so much weak Hoodia on the market, you want to know that the company is backing their product.
• Check with your doctor before using Hoodia is you have high blood pressure.
• Don't use Hoodia Gordonii if you're pregnant or nursing.

How to look younger using the non-hormonal anti-aging supplements

Introduction

Anti-aging addresses how to prevent, slow, or reverse the effects of aging and help people live longer, healthier, happier lives using proper nutrition, physical fitness, skin care, hormone replacements, vitamins, supplements, and herbs.

I will discuss only the supplement part of anti aging in this article.

The following supplements can be considered for a scientifically-based anti-ageing therapy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

1. L-CARNOSINE
Although carnosine has been known for about a century, its antiaging properties have only been extensively studied during the past few years. It may turn out to be the greatest anti-ager of all. High concentrations of carnosine are present in long-lived cells such as in nerve tissues. The concentration of carnosine in muscles correlates with maximum lifespan, a fact that makes it a promising bio-marker of aging. Unlike most antioxidants, which work by prevention, carnosine protects AFTER free radicals have been released. One of the cardinal anti-ageing affects in the body is glycosylation, which leads to decay of protein function. Carnosine blocks this process. It also blocks amyloid production, the substance found in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. Other properties emerging are its apparent anti-cancer effects, toxic metal binder and immune booster.

DOSE: 500 mgms. daily. Best with vitamin E, 200- 400 IU daily.

2

Step Two

2. TRIMETHYL GLYCINE (TMG)
TMG protects the youthful methylation process in our metabolism. Published research shows that TMG can lower dangerous plasma homocysteine levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It helps the integrity of nerve fibres and so may improve Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. It protects against liver damage from alcohol and other dangers. Finally, it protects DNA and so may slow cell ageing.

DOSE: 500 - 2,000 mgms. daily. It works better with co-factors B6, B12 and folic acid.

3

Step Three

3. GINGKO BILOBA
Extract of the tree Gingko biloba have been used by the Chinese for 2800 years. It is now well recognized and an important brain food and anti-oxidant and improves mental function in people of all ages. It quenches free radicals and improves neurotransmission, thus protecting circulation and enhancing memory. Protects against Parkinsonism, Alzheimer's and other dementias.

DOSE: 50- 100 mgms active ingredient. Look for products with less than 2 ppm of the toxic gingkolic acid (European limits set at 5 ppm maximum).

4

Step Four

4. S-ADENOSYL METHIONINE (SAMe, pronounced Sammy)
A derivative of important methionine, SAMe is widely distributed in the tissues of young healthy adults. But with ageing and sickness, it is depleted, leading to further deterioration. SAMe is needed for the body to metabolize efficiently, for neuronal regeneration and the synthesis of energy through ATP, the basic energy molecule. It may help prevent or reverse liver damage (alcohol, viruses and chemical pollution). It can help with ME and other fatigue states.

Additionally, SAMe may be the safest, fastest acting anti-depressant available today.

DOSE: 200- 800 mgms daily. Best taken on an empty stomach, with water.

5

Step Five

5. N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC)
L-cysteine is an important suplhur-containing amino acid. Others, taurine and methionine protect and nourish the liver. The form N-acetyl-cysteine is more readily absorbed and is a powerful antioxidant and anti-viral. This could be important when we recognize more and more the damaging effects of "stealth viruses". It also help boost glutathione levels, which is one of the most important brain detox substances of all.

DOSE: 500 -1000 mgms daily. Note. Take plenty of extra vitamin C at the same time, to prevent it being oxidized and rapidly destroyed in the body (3 times as much vit C as N-acetyl-cysteine is recommended).

6

Step Six

6. PHOSPHATIDYL CHOLINE (and PHOSPHATIDYLSERINE)
No point in living to a great age if your brain doesn't travel along with you. Phosphatidyl choline, from lecithin, is an important protector for phospho-lipid cell membranes in the brain. These are the ones most easily damaged by free radicals.

We get it in our diet, in vegetables (especially cauliflower and lettuce), whole grains, liver, and soy. It also comes in lecithin (containing 10-20% phosphatidylcholine) in grains, legumes, meat and egg yolks. But we need more, to be on the safe side.

Most of these remarks apply also to phosphatidyl serine, a phosopho-lipid. It is found in in fish, green leafy vegetables, soybeans and rice. Over 3,000 published research papers and more than 60 clinical trials have established that phosphatidylserine can rejuvenate your brain cell membranes and cognitive function.

Both these compounds are valubale to memory and mood, mental clarity, concentration, alertness and focus.
DOSE:
500 mgms daily of phosphatidyl choline/100 mgms daily phosphatidyl serine

7

Step Seven

7. COENZYME-Q-10
This vitamin-like substance (also known as ubiquinone) was discovered in 1957. Since then a deluge of scientific papers have attested to its ability to strengthen the immune system, lower blood pressure, prevent heart attacks, counter obesity and slow ageing. Studies in mice shows it increases their life span by 25%. CoQ10 is found in all cells, where it is responsible for the manufacture of ATP, the basic energy molecule. It is now being said that if CoQ10 levels drop by 25%, cancer is probable.

When co-Q-10 and selenium are taken simultaneously, hair may also starte to grow back - dark hairs!

DOSE: 100- 200 mgms daily. It is plentiful in heart, meat, kidney and eggs, and to a lesser extent soybean, wheat, alfalfa and rice bran.

8

Step Eight

8. BORON
The pivotal role of boron in bone metabolism has made it clear that it is protective against osteoporosis and therefore vital to a long and happy life, especially for women. More many women die from complications of a fracture of the femur than of breast cancer. Researches also concluded that countries with lower boron levels in the soil had much more arthritis. It works best in conjunction with magnesium and other co-factors.

DOSE: 3 mgms daily, coupled with 300- 400 mgms of magnesium.

9

Step Nine

9. ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID
The subject of intensive current research, this may be the most important antioxidant of all in protecting the brain and neurological tissues from damage. Alpha-lipoic acid has unique ability to pass into the brain, where is helps regeneration of other antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E and glutathione. It is also a strong chelator and may protect against Alzheimers by removing toxic metals which generate damaging free-radicals. It is both fat and water soluble, which means it is easily absorbed from the gut.

DOSE: 60- 80 mgms.

10

Step Ten

10. L-CARNITINE:

L-carnitine, is a naturally occurring substance found in most cells of the body, particularly the brain, neural tissue, muscle, and heart. Carnitine, whose structure is similar to choline, is widely available in animal foods (meat, poultry, fish and dairy products), whereas plants have very small amounts.

Carnitine concentration in tissues declines with age and thereby reduces the integrity of the mitochondrial membrane Research in aged rats found supplementation with high doses of acetyl-L-carnitine and alpha-lipoic acid (an antioxidant) reduces mitochondrial decay.

11

Step Eleven

11. ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS
Almost the same status as vitamins, essential fatty acids are vital for tip top body and mind function. So-called omega 3s and omega 6s have different effects. You need both. Plant sources, such as borage and evening primrose, provide omega-6s and fish oils provide omega-3s. Studies show that eating lots of fish reduces inflammatory chemicals and leads to better health and more mental clarity, with less chance of Alzheimers.

DOSE: 500- 2,000 mgms. Food sources- fish, star flower, borage, evening primrose and flax seeds.

12

Step Twelve

12. L-GLUTATHIONE/MASTER ANTIOXIDANT:

Glutathione is a dietary supplement used as an antioxidant to help protect the body from many diseases and conditions. It is used to treat infertility (difficulty getting pregnant), cancer, cataracts, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Glutathione is used to detoxify various chemicals from the body.

Glutathione is probably not well absorbed into the body when taken by mouth. One way to get around that is to take it by vein. A more practical solution is to take the precursors -- that is, the molecules the body needs to make glutathione -- rather than glutathione itself. Supplements of vitamin C are more effective at increasing intracellular glutathione than taking oral glutathione supplements. Oral supplements of whey protein and of alpha-lipoic acid appear to help restore intracellular levels of glutathione.

Gluathione is found in acorn squash,avocado,cantaloupe,grapefruit,okra,ornage,peach,potato,spinach,strawberries,tomato,watermelon and zucchini.