Tag: Health

There is an increasing number of studies which are showing that meditation has tangible and measurable effects on the brain. A study led by Sarah Lazar, assistant professor of psychology at Harvard University, found that learning to observe your breath without judgement in fact changes the physical wiring of the brain.

Lazar has conducted a series of studies on yoga and meditation at the Massachusetts General Hospital and found that the effects extended far beyond stress relief. In fact, mediation can change the way in which the brain functions, having much longer-lasting effects. This comes down to the science of neuroplasticity, which explains the way in which the brain reshapes itself in order to grow. Lazar has shown that meditation is not a passive activity. On the contrary, it is highly active practice which can radically alter parts of the brain associated with stress, well-being and “fluid” intelligence. Lazar defines “fluid intelligence” as the neuron-based process that allows different regions of the brain to communicate with one another, which aids our problem-solving abilities. In other words, this is the ability of the different hemispheres of the brain to effectively communicate with each other to overcome complex obstacles.

So how did this study work? Initially Lazar tried to determine whether or not there were differences in the brains of people who had been meditating for a long time and people who didn’t meditate at all. She used MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imagining) and saw that long time meditators were thicker in parts of the cerebral cortex. The thick areas were linked to the brain functions of decision-making, memory and attention. While these studies showed a possible link between meditation and brain functioning, this couldn’t be proved to a certainty.

She went on to improve her experiment by trying to see whether meditation would alter the brains of those who had never meditated before. She used the 8 week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction programme and chose participants who reported feeling stressed, but who did not suffer from anxiety or depression. They were all in relatively good health and were not on any sort of medication which could effect the brain. The participants had to complete a questionnaire designed to assess their stress levels and general sense of well-being. The questionnaires showed that the participants were all feeling less stressed after the programme, but more interestingly, their brain scans displayed an emotional shift. Their reports of lower stress levels correlated with a reduction in the amygdala which is the brain’s centre of fear and anxiety. It is a well-known fact that the amygdala fluctuates in size, growing smaller with less exposure to stress hormones. There was also a growth in the participant’s brain stem, which is the centre where dopamine and serotonin are produced.

While these studies are far from conclusive, they represent powerful first steps in understanding how meditation and yoga work on the brain. Lazar is currently expanding her study by looking at meditative practices like Tai Chi and more advanced forms of yoga.

As science improves, we begin to have increasingly more concrete proof of the transformational effects of meditation. And if you’re not convinced, try it for yourself. After all, your subjective experience is the only experiment that really matters.

Source:  Silent Journey

 

 

Almost one century ago, Gandhi published a book where he deconstructed the dangers and lack of effectiveness of vaccines and the agendas surrounding them.  His voice rings true now more than ever.

The internet meme below has been subject of a good bit of controversy. Not only is Gandhi taking what many today consider an extreme ‘anti-vaxxer’ stance, but some have questioned whether or not he ever made this statement, or statements like it.

The truth is that this quote only scratches the surface of Gandhi’s biting critique of the dangers, inefficacy, and malfeasance associated with the vaccination campaigns of his time. Gandhi, of course, is history’s most celebrated anti-imperialist, having almost single-handedly set into motion India’s independence from British colonial rule. He was extremely sensitive to Western forms of control and oppression, and was able to apply his intellect to the manner in which the Western medical establishment was coercing millions of Indians to succumb to the unhealthy practice of smallpox and plague vaccination.

 

Acupuncture reduces alcohol cravings in alcoholics. Researchers note that acupuncture is both safe and effective for reducing cravings in alcohol dependent patients. They add that acupuncture is an inexpensive modality of care for the treatment of alcoholism and “produces significant results.”

This study breaks from other research on this topic. Prior research focused on National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) acupuncture point prescriptions for addiction. This typically involved use of auricular acupuncture points including Kidney, Sympathetic, Shenmen, Liver and Lung. However, this study used only one acupuncture point that is located on the lower leg. The researchers note of this acupuncture point, “Traditionally, it has been used as an acupoint for detoxification.”

What’s the Point?

The acupuncture point investigated in the research is Zhubin (KI9) that is translated as “guest house.” It is located on the medial aspect of the lower leg and is 5 cun superior to KI3. It is approximately 1 cun posterior to the medial border of the tibia at the lower end of the gastrocnemius muscle. It is placed on a line drawn between KI3 and KI10.

KI9 is the Xi Cleft point of the Yinwei (Yin linking) vessel. This is the channel that connects the yin meridians of the hand and foot to the Conception channel. The Yinwei vessel may also be accessed by acupoint PC6, the confluent point of the Yinwei vessel. To achieve this, PC6 is often paired with SP4, its paired confluent point for the treatment of heart, chest and stomach disorders.

This study used only KI9, whose Yinwei vessel connection makes it especially suitable for the treatment of heart issues. In particular, this point benefits patients with heart shen (spirit) issues due to phlegm and phlegm-fire. This includes the treatment of mania, raving, bipolar disorder (manic depression) and other forms of severe mental illness. Here, there is a logical consistency with the application of KI9 for the treatment of alcohol cravings given alcoholism’s propensity for causing phlegm-fire in the heart.

The Protocol

An acupuncture treatment group was compared with a placebo controlled group in this single-blinded, randomized investigation. The acupuncturist was aware of the group allocations but the staff and patients were blinded to allocation of placebo vs. real acupuncture groups. This was made possible through the use of the Park Sham Device (PSD). Made by Acupuncture Needle Inc., Korea, this unusual sham acupuncture needle device simulates acupuncture needle insertion but never actually penetrates the skin. The researchers note, “It has a 15 mm diameter round plastic base and a shaft telescopes into the handle when downward pressure is applied. Placebo needles have blunt tips and are put into the tube to mimic the insertion of a needle.”

Exclusion criteria included drug abuse, use of psychotropic medications, cognitive impairment and other factors. The treatment procedure commenced after three weeks of patient admittance to the study to avoid intoxication and withdrawal symptom complications. All real acupuncture and placebo group patients received group therapy, education and standard hospital care. The real acupuncture group received acupuncture at KI9 using a needle guide tube with a 0.25 X 40 mm needle (Dongbang Acupuncture Inc., Korea). The Park Sham Device was used for all placebo group patients. All subjects had treatment periods of 15 minutes, twice per week for a total of 4 weeks.

Testing of cravings was performed using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for assessment. The researchers note, “We used a horizontal line, with 120 mm in length. At the left end, the subject feels no craving for alcohol, while he feels a maximum craving for alcohol at the right end. The subject marks on the line the point that they feel represents their craving for alcohol in their current state.” Testing of cravings was performed after provoking cravings at week 1, 2 and 4 of the study. In all cases, the acupuncture group had significantly less cravings than the placebo group.

The cravings for alcohol were provoked by giving the subjects sips of liquor once every 30 seconds for 3 minutes. This was followed by a 3 minute interval and another period of sipping liquor every 30 seconds for another 3 minutes. The researchers note that the acupuncture group showed significant reductions in cravings and the placebo control group showed no improvement. The research team notes of the 4 week study, “The results showed that the acupuncture treated group had a significant craving reduction compared with the control group. Acupuncture treatment on Zhubin (KI9) was effective from the 1st week of treatment and its effect lasted through the 4 weeks.”

About HealthCMi: The Healthcare Medicine Institute (HealthCMi) publishes news, research and acupuncture continuing education courses online for acupuncture CEU and PDA credit. Learn more at www.healthcmi.com.

Whether it’s an office party, a happy hour with friends, or holiday celebrations with family, food is a way of bringing people together. It is often used as an expression of thanks and love.

According to the National Institute of Health, most people only gain a little weight over the holidays. Studies show that the average person only gains 1-2 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve.

Yet, many people may not lose the extra weight after the festivities are over. Over 10 years, that can add up to 10-20 extra pounds—and as we get older, it gets harder to lose excess weight.

Wishing people good cheer and celebrating with food should not be stressful. We shouldn’t have to dread a holiday party, fearing it will derail all of the health and wellness goals we so diligently followed all year. Simple modifications to our recipes and eating habits can help us have fun without the guilt or potential weight gain.

Holiday Party Tips

Whether you are the host or the guest, here are some holiday party essentials to help you navigate all of the tempting food and drinks. Check out these tips before you indulge in holiday festivities:

• Don’t skip meals. If you arrive at a party hungry, you will tend to over-indulge. If you are preparing food, make sure you have healthy snacks available.
• Don’t taste-test everything while cooking or baking.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is a great way to stay energized. It also helps us feel full.
• Try baking recipe modifications like gluten-free or whole-wheat flour; fruit puree, honey, or agave as healthier sweeteners; and dairy-free alternatives such as almond, coconut, or soy milk.
• Enjoy healthy appetizers like fresh fruit with cheese and whole-grain crackers, raw vegetables with salsa or humus dip, spiced nuts, and homemade dried fruits.
• Use a dessert or salad plate to help with portion control.
• Limit alcoholic drinks, which add calories. Eggnog, for example, can contain as many as 450 calories per 8 ounces.
• Have fun staying mobile with an after-party walk or an old-fashioned dance contest.
• Be mindful of when you are hungry or full. Slow down when you’re eating. Take time to not only enjoy the wonderful food, but also engage with your guests. It takes at least 15-20 minutes for our brains to signal that we are actually full, so sit, relax, and talk for a while.
• Have dessert in moderation. Avoid a little sample of each by choosing your favorite. Alternatively, you can bring your own healthier version or have fruit.
• Keep away from leftovers by asking for help in the kitchen. Having help cleaning up will keep you from snacking on the leftovers.
• Send food home with your guests. Avoid keeping foods that will tempt you later.
• Stay in control. Stick to your food and drink boundaries. Allow yourself to say “thanks, but not right now.”
• Don’t skip your exercise routine. Cut down your workout time if you have to, but don’t eliminate it. If there is no time to exercise, be sure to use the stairs or park further away for a little walking.
• Keep your kids engaged and involved with holiday activities like stringing popcorn garland, making ornaments or decorations for the table, or helping in the kitchen. This creates great memories and traditions they can pass down to future generations. When adults and children have fun, no one will tend to eat out of boredom.
• Relax. Enjoy celebrations without the stress and be kind to yourself if you overindulge. Don’t sabotage yourself with guilt; just accept it and get back on track.

Holiday festivities and parties can make it a bit challenging to stay healthy, but with a little mindful preparation and some simple cooking modifications, we can still have a tasty traditional holiday celebration.

Have a deliciously healthy holiday celebration!

Victoria Ann Diaz is a certified integrative health and life coach and graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. In her Life Balance Health Coach practice, she supports clients with a mindful-living approach to health and wellness. For more information, visit www.lifebalancehealthcoach.com.

This is Mainstream Media telling you folks now: “… if you think cannabis should remain a Schedule I drug, one for which there is no accepted medical use, then you are scientifically illiterate.”   Now, are you seriously gonna try to keep up your anti-MMJ arguments with the likes of Arianna Huffington??

In the article, “Twelve Highly Toxic Chemicals to Banish from Your Home,” Natural News reports on chemicals commonly found around the house that could cause health problems. In particular, several of the chemicals listed there may easily be inside or end up on your furniture where you (as well as your children, friends, and family members) are most likely to ingest them.

 

The world is rapidly reaching global water crisis mode with nearly one billion people lacking access to clean potable water. But a new solar-powered invention can turn seawater into drinking water – and may turn this dire situation around in a hurry.

In the underdeveloped nations of the world, native women travel for miles to local rivers and transport clean water back to their villages in baskets on their heads. The lack of potable water is the cause of typhoid fever and other dreaded maladies stemming from environmental neglect and abject poverty.

Before you splurge on some “no-need-to-exercise-to-lose-weight” scheme, like popping diet pills or eating candy lollipops, read up on what the Federal Trade Commission has to say on the matter: The FTC recommends against the use of such diet products marketed with exaggerated claims.

Federal Trade Commision Weighing The Claims In Diet Ads

A tandem approach to shrinking brain tumors with two of marijuana’s key ingredients — tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol —  has proven successful, according to the result of a newly published study.

Cannabis has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the United States as of late. Recreational use was recently approved in Oregon and Washington, D.C., and many more states are currently onboard for its letting people use it as medicine. This boom coincides with greater research into the ways in which cannabis acts on the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, alleviating pain, restoring appetite, and, now, shrinking tumors.

 

Ladies will attest to the fact that having thick, long eyelashes is a beauty must in order to achieve a classic and dramatic look. Mascara, one of the 10 must-have items in a woman’s makeup bag, is an easy way to go from plain Jane to a pin up queen in seconds, says Discovery Health. The eyelash enhancing product has seen a boost in sales in the global market with an estimated figure of around one billion units sold annually, reports Premiumbeautynews.com. In the United States, mascara is ranked as the second most used every day cosmetic by 65 percent of women, while lip gloss and lip stick is ranked as the most used every day product by 75 percent of women. The rise in daily makeup usage by American women is attributed to the fact that nearly half of the women surveyed by The Beauty Company believe wearing makeup gives them an advantage at work and makes them feel more in control. While a mascara wand can provide self-confidence by throughg longer and voluminous lashes, the toxic ingredients found in this beauty product can be absorbed into the body and potentially have a negative impact on your health.

 

Every day we inhale things that cause damage to our lungs. Whether it’s from the toxins we use to clean the house and car, the fumes at the gas station, or the air pollution that’s in the air, our lungs sure take a beating.  Also, if you are one of the many people who already suffer from a respiratory condition such as COPD or asthma, this only complicates matters further.

Asthma affects millions of Americans and COPD causes thousands of deaths every year. You can help manage respiratory conditions naturally by consuming herbs that Mother Nature provides us with to support and cleanse the lungs and will help you to breathe easier.

Toxic chemicals in the home can be eliminated simply by making thoughtful choices. In the supermarket after educating oneself about where the hazards are in common consumer products. How can you determine what toxics you have in your home? Take this “toxic tour

In the Kitchen

     All -purpose cleaner, ammonia-based cleaner, bleach, brass or other metal polishes, dishwater detergent, disinfectant, drain cleaner, floor wax or polish, glass cleaner, dishwashing detergent, oven cleaner, and scouring powder contain dangerous chemicals. Some examples are:

Sodium hypochlorite (in chlorine bleach): if mixed with ammonia, releases toxic chloramine gas. Short-term exposure may cause mild asthmatic symptoms or more serious respiratory problems;

Petroleum distillates (in metal polishes): short-term exposure can cause temporary eye clouding; longer exposure can damage the nervous system, skin, kidneys, and eyes.

Ammonia (in glass cleaner): eye irritant, can cause headaches and lung irritation.

Phenol and cresol (in disinfectants): corrosive; can cause diarrhea, fainting, dizziness, and kidney and liver damage.

Nitrobenzene (in furniture and floor polishes): can cause skin discoloration, shallow breathing, vomiting, and death: associated with cancer and birth defects;

Formaldehyde (a preservative, in may products): suspected human carcinogen strong irritant to eyes, throat, skin, and lungs.

In the Utility Closet

     A number of products are likely to contain toxic ingredients: carpet cleaner, room deodorizer, laundry softener, laundry detergent, anti-cling sheets, mold and mildew cleaner, mothballs, and spot remover all usually contain irritant or toxic substances. Examples:

     Perchloroethylene or 1-1 trichloroethane solvents (in spot removers and carpet cleaners): can cause liver and kidney damage if ingested, perchloroethylene is an animal carcinogen and suspected human carcinogen;

Naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene (in mothballs): naphthalene is a suspected human carcinogen that may damage eyes, blood, liver, kidneys, skin, and the central nervous system; paradichlorobenzene can harm the central nervous system, liver, and kidneys.

Hydrochloric acid or sodium acid sulfate in toilet bowl cleaner; either can burn the skin or cause vomiting diarrhea and stomach burns if swallowed; also can cause blindness, if inadvertently splashed in the eyes.

Residues from fabric softeners, as well as the fragrances commonly used in them, can be irritating to susceptible people.

Possible ingredients of spray starch (aside from the starch) include formaldehyde, phenol, and pentachlorophenol. In addition, any aerosolized particle, including cornstarch, may irritate the lungs.

In the Living Room and Bedroom

     Even the furnishings of the typical American home can be harmful. Fabrics that are labeled “wrinkle-resistant” are usually treated with a formaldehyde resin. These include no iron sheets and bedding, curtains, sleep wear, any woven fabric, but especially polyester/cotton blends, marketed as “permanent press” or “easy care.” More modern furniture is made of pressed wood products emits formaldehyde and other chemicals. Carpeting is usually made of synthetic fibers that have been treated with pesticides and fungicide. Many office carpets emit a chemical called 4 phenylcyclohexene, an inadvertent additive to the latex backing used in more commercial and home carpets, which is thought to be one of the chemicals responsible for “sick” office buildings.

In the Bath

     Numerous cosmetics and personal hygiene products contain hazardous substances. Examples: cresol, formaldehyde, glycols, nitrates/nitrosamines and sulfur compounds in shampoos; butane propellants in hair spray (replacing carcinogenic methylene chloride), as well as formaldehyde resins; aerosol propellants, ammonia, formaldehyde, triclosan , aluminum chlorhydrate in antiperspirants and deodorants’ glycols, phenol, fragrance, and colors in lotions, creams, and moisturizers.

In the Studio or Hobby Room

      Although legislation controlling may of the dangerous ingredients in hobby materials has recently been passed, exposure to certain art materials remains a health risk. Dangerous chemicals and metals include: cadmium in silver solders, pigments, ceramic glazes and fluxes; chromium in paint pigments and ceramic colors; manganese dioxide in ceramic colors and some brown oil and acrylic paint pigments; cobalt in some blue oil and acrylic paint pigments; formaldehyde as a preservation in many acrylic paints and photographic products; aromatic hydrocarbons in paint and varnish removers, aerosol sprays, permanent markers, etc.; chlorinated hydrocarbons (solvents) in ink, varnish, and paint removers, rubber cement, aerosol sprays; petroleum distillated (solvents) in paint and rubber cement thinners, spray adhesive, silk screen inks; glycol ethers and acetates in photography products, lacquer thinners, paints, and aerosol sprays.

In the Garage

     A number of dangerous substances are frequently present, including paint, paint thinner, benzene, kerosene, mineral spirits, turpentine, lubricating/motor oils, and gasoline. Hazards among them include these chemicals: chlorinated aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons in paint thinner can cause liver and kidney damage; petroleum hydrocarbons, an ingredient of gasoline, motor oils, and benzene, are associated with skin and lung cancer; mineral spirits in oil based paint are a skin, eyes, nose throat, and lung irritant. High air concentrations can cause nervous system damage, unconsciousness and death; ketones in paint thinner may cause respiratory  ailments; vary according to specific form of the chemical; ketones and toluene in wood putty; toluene in highly toxic, may cause skin, kidney, liver, central nervous system damage; may damage reproductive system.

In the Garden Shed

     Pesticides, one of the most important single hazards in the home. Around 1,400 pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides are ingredients in consumers products. Combined with other toxic substances such as solvents, pesticides are present in more than 34,000 different product formulations.

On the Patio

     Charcoal lighter fluid contains petroleum distillates. Besides being flammable and imparting a chemical taste to food, some petroleum distillates contain benzene, a known human carcinogen.

Safe Substitutes for Household Toxics

     Until World War II and the zenith of the Chemical  Age that followed war-related research, householders use a limited number of simple substances to keep  most objects in the house clean, order-free, and pest-free. Soap, vinegar, baking soda, washing soda, ammonia, borax, alcohol, cornstarch, and certain food ingredients were used to lift out spots and stains, deodorize, polish wood or metal, disinfect, scrub, repel pests, clean pets, wash and starch clothes, and to perform countless other household tasks. Simple cosmetic preparations kept hair and skin supplied with the aid of ingredients such as: eggs, oil , clay, vinegar, and herbs.

The garden was fertilized and pests were kept down with naturally occurring substances. Weeds were weeded by hand even though some natural pesticides, like nicotine and rotenone, were indeed toxic to humans, they were not persistent in the environment. They degrade soon after application. Pyrethrum, a pesticide derived from a variety of chrysanthemum, which is nontoxic to mammals, controlled a wide spectrum of pests. Although it is till widely used, it is usually mixed with other chemicals to increase its potency.

Buildings of the past were made with wood, brick, stone, glass, plaster, and cement. Furniture was made of solid wood, oiled to keep it polished. Rugs or carpets were made of wool or cotton. Insulation was built in by making walls thick, and roofing was constructed from wood shingles or tiles of clay or stone. Walls were plastered. Windows were made to be opened, so at least in good weather there was plenty of natural ventilation.

But, toxic materials also were present in homes of the past. Not knowing enough about their hazards, housewives used such chemicals as: arsenic, lead , and mercury to perform certain household chores. Interior and exterior paints were often made with lead; many American children are still living with the legacy of lead poisoning caused by eating chips of leaded paint. Asbestos, called a miracle mineral, when its fire resistant properties were discovered, is now known to be a cancer causer that contaminates hundreds of thousands of residences, schools, and other buildings in this country.

We do not need to return to the ways of the past to avoid exposure to house toxics, but we can take some lessons from the past for a better future. How can we do this?

But Safe Substitutes. For example, search for a soap based garden insecticide (at least one national brand is available) instead of chemically based ones. Appendix 1 for sources of safe substitutes.

When in Doubt, Leave it Out. In cases where there is no effective safe substitute for a toxic product, reevaluate how important the goal really is. Must you absolutely get rid of all insects in your garden? or can you live with some chewed up leaves? If the goal is absolutely imperative, such as ensuring that termites do not invade your house, it is important to educate yourself thoroughly. You may have more healthful alternatives than your local pest company tells you.

Safe Substitutes in the Kitchen and Bath

     One shelf of simple and relatively safe ingredients can be used to perform most home cleaning chores. All that’s needed is a knowledge of how they work and how different ingredients should be combined to get the cleaning power needed for a specific job.

Baking Soda is sodium bicarbonate. It has a number of useful properties. It can neutralize acid, scrub shiny materials without scratching, deodorize, and extinguish grease fires. It can be used as a deodorizer in the refrigerator, on smelly carpet, on upholstery and on vinyl. It can help deodorize drains. It can clean and polish aluminum, chrome, jewelry, plastic, porcelain, silver, stainless steel, and tin. It also softens fabrics and removes certain stains. Baking soda can soften hard water and makes a relaxing bath time soak; it can be used as an underarm and as a toothpaste, too.

Borax is a naturally occurring mineral, soluble in water. It can deodorize, inhibit the growth of mildew and mold, boost the cleaning power of soap or detergent, remove stains, and can be use with attractants such as sugar to kill cockroaches.

Cornstarch, derived from corn, can be used to clean windows, polish furniture, shampoo for carpets and rugs, and starch clothes.

Isopropyl Alcohol is an excellent disinfectant.

Lemon Juice, which contains citric acid, is a deodorant and can be used to clean glass and remove stains from aluminum, clothes, and porcelain. It is a mild lightener or bleach if used with sunlight.

Mineral Oil, derived from seeds, is an ingredient in several furniture polish and floor wax recipes.

Soap (NOT detergent) is made in several ways. Castle soap can be used  as a shampoo or as a body soap. Olive oil based soap is gentlest to the skin. An all purpose liquid soap can be made by simple dissolving the old ends of bar soap (or grated slivers of bar soap) in warm water.

Steel Wool is an abrasive strong enough to remove rust and stubborn food residues and to scour barbeque grills.

TSP is trisodium phosphate, a mixture of soda ash and phosphoric acid. TSP is toxic if swallowed, but it can be used on many jobs, such as cleaning drains or removing old paint, that would normally require much more caustic and poisonous chemicals, and it does not create any fumes.

Vinegar is made from soured applied juice, grain, or wine. It contains about 5 percent acetic acid, which makes it a mild acid. Vinegar can dissolve mineral deposits, grease, remove traces of soap, remove mildew or wax buildup, polish some metals, and deodorize. Vinegar can clean brick or stone, and is an ingredient in some natural carpet cleaning recipes. Use vinegar is normally used in a solution with water, but it can be used straight.

Washing Soda or Salt Soda is a sodium carbonate decahydrate, a mineral. It can cut stubborn grease on grills, broiler pans, and ovens. It can be used with soda instead of laundry detergent, and it softens hard water. These items are available from drug and chemical supply stores.

For common household tasks, try these nontoxic strategies using the above ingredients:

     Freshen Air by opening windows and doors for a short period; distribute partially filled dishes of vinegar around the kitchen to combat unpleasant cooking odors; boil cinnamon and cloves in a pan of water to scent the air; sprinkle 1/2 cup borax in the bottom of garbage pails or diaper pails to inhibit mold and bacteria growth that can cause odors; rub vinegar on hands before and after slicing onions to remove the smell; use bowls of potpourri to give inside air a pleasant scent.

All purpose cleaner can be made from a vinegar and salt mixture or from 4 tablespoons baking soda dissolved in 1 quart warm water.

Disinfectant means anything that will reduce the number of harmful bacteria on surface. Practically no surface treatment will completely eliminate bacteria. Try regular cleaning with soap and hot water,or mix 1/2 cup borax into 1 gallon of hot water to disinfect and deodorize. Isopropyl alcohol is an excellent disinfectant, but use gloves and keep it away from children.

Drain cleaner. Try a plunger first, though not after using any commercial drain opener. To open clogs, pour 1/2 cup baking soda down drain, add 1/2 cup white vinegar, and cover the drain. The resulting chemical reaction can break fatty acids down into the soap and glycerine, allowing the clog to wash down the drain. Again, do not use this method after trying a commercial drain opener the vinegar can react with the drain opener to create dangerous fumes.

Floor cleaner and polish can be as simple as a few drops of vinegar in the cleaner water to remove soap traces. For vinyl or linoleum, add a capful of baby oil to the water to preserve and polish. For wood floors, apply a thin coat of 1:1 oil and vinegar and rub in well. For painted wooden floors, mix 1 teaspoon washing soda into 1 gallon hot water. For brick and stone tiles, use 1 cup white vinegar in 1 gallon water and rinse with clear water.

Metal cleaners and polishes are different for each metal– just as in commercial cleaners. Clean aluminum with a solution of cream of tartar and  water. Brass may be polished with a soft cloth dipped in lemon-and baking soda solution, or vinegar- and solution. Polish chrome with baby oil. vinegar, or aluminum foil shiny slide out. Clean tarnished copper by boiling the article in a pot of water with 1 tablespoon salt and 1 cup white vinegar, or try differing mixtures of salt, vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and cream of tartar. Clean gold with toothpaste, pewter with a paste of salt, vinegar, and flour. Silver can be polished by boiling it in a pan lined with aluminum foil and filled with water to which a teaspoon each of baking soda and salt have been added. Stainless steel can be cleaned with undiluted white vinegar.

Oven cleaner. Sprinkle baking soda on moist surface and scrub with steel wool, or use Arm & Hammer Oven cleaner, declared nontoxic by Consumers Union.

Scouring power can be made from baking soda or dry table salt. Or try Bon-Ami Cleaning Power or Bon-Ami Polishing cleaner.

Toilet bowl cleaner can be made from straight bleach (do NOT mix with any other substance except water), baking soda and vinegar, or borax and lemon juice.

Tub and tile cleaner can be as easy as rubbing in baking soda with a damp sponge and rinsing, or wiping with vinegar first and following with baking soda as a souring powder.

Window and glass cleaner is easy with these tips: to avoid streaks, don’t wash windows when the sun is shining. Use a vinegar-and -water solution, cornstarch-vinegar-and-water solution, or lemon juice and water. Wipe with newspaper unless you are sensitive to the inks in newsprint.

Safe Substitutes for Laundry Products

     Detergent is specially adapted to clean synthetic fabrics, and it has the added advantage of not leaving soil residues even in hard water. However, detergents are generally derived from petrochemicals, and people are sensitive to these compounds may find it hard to tolerate detergents or the fragrances they are scented with. In addition, most detergents contain phosphates, which build up in streams, lakes and upset the natural balance in waterways, causing blooms of algae which deplete the dissolved oxygen fish need to live. Some detergent may even contain naphthalene or phenol, both hazardous substances.

An effective alternative to using detergents is to return to soap. Soap is an effective cleaner for natural fabrics, leaving such items as diapers softer than detergent can. For cotton and linen, use soap to soften water. A cup of vinegar added to the wash can help keep colors bright (but Do NOT use vinegar if you are using bleach — the resulting fumes are hazardous). One half to three quarters of a cup of baking soda will leave clothes soft and fresh smelling. Silks and wools may be hand washed with mild soap or a protein shampoo, down or feathers with mild soap or baking soda.

For synthetic fabrics or blends (including most no-iron fabrics), there are biodegradable detergents on the market that do not contain phosphates, fragrances, or harsh chemicals. They are often imported from Europe and are available at health food stores or by mail order.

Safe Substitutes for Personal Hygiene and Cosmetic Products

     We use cosmetics and hygiene products for a fairly narrow range of reasons: to keep skin moist and supple; to clean hair without stripping it of natural oils; to eliminate unpleasant body or mouth orders; to prevent skin oiliness and clogged skin pores; and simply for the pleasure of relaxing and pampering ourselves with body care or facial care treatments. The following ingredients can help achieve these purpose without the use of toxic additives, synthetic fragrances, or artificial colorings: Moisturizers and conditioners egg yolk, milk, yogurt safflower oil (for light moisturizing), olive oil (for dry skin or hair), water, oatmeal, jojoba oil.

Astringents/after shaves: witch hazel, diluted isopropyl alcohol.

Deodorants: baking soda, white clay, deodorant crystals.

Toothpastes: baking soda, salt.

Soaps cleaning agents: castle soap, olive oil based soap.

Perfumes: essential oils provide nontoxic fragrances that can be used to scent shampoo, bath soaks, or even, in the case of peppermint, to flavor toothpaste.

Although it’s easy to make healthful alternatives to many cosmetic and hygiene products, any natural foods store has a fairly wide selection of shampoos, moisturizers, toothpastes, after shaves, soaps, and bath products that do not contain the harmful ingredients in many commercial preparations.

Safe Substitutes for Art and Hobby Materials

     There are some nontoxic choices that can be made when buying art or craft supplies, but because some techniques require certain materials, minimizing exposure may be the best you can do.

In painting and print making, ready-mixed water-based paints or links can be used. If you must be exposed to paint dust, use toxic dust respirator approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Ventilate the space thoroughly whenever using any kind of solvents, whether in painting or in lithography, intaglio, or photoetching. Solvents also should be avoided while pregnant.

Enamels are usually lead-based, and can contain other toxic metals such as cadmium and nickel. Use lead-free-enamels whenever possible, and make sure kilns are vented outside.

In pottery as well, outside vented kilns are important, as is a careful choice of materials–most potters know to avoid lead glazes and lead frits, but many don’t know that flint, feldspars, fluorspar, and some compounds containing barium, lithium, manganese, or nickel can also be toxic. Children should avoid the pottery studio, as they are more highly susceptible to the toxics use in pottery than are adults.

Photography presents a number of toxic hazards which are difficult to avoid. Minimize exposure to photo chemical by using gloves, mixing chemicals in a mixing box with holes in the sides for gloved hands, and providing adequate ventilation. The Health and Welfare Office of Canada suggests at least 10 room air changes per hour. Children under 12 should avoid the darkroom.

Safe Substitutes for Pesticides in Home and Garden

     Against pests in the home, the best offense is a good defense. The first step is to make the house–especially the kitchen–unattractive to insects by cleaning up food spills immediately, keeping hard-to-reach areas reasonably clean, and removing clutter that can hide pests. Store foods attractive to pests, such as flour, in the refrigerator. water attracts pests, such as flour, in the refrigerator. Water  attracts pest, so leaky faucets and pipes should be promptly repaired. Doors and windows should be well screened. Cloths should be regularly cleaned and aired, and properly stored in paper or cardboard boxes sealed against moths.

A Number of nontoxic substances can be used to repel insects, generally, they are highly fragrant or volatize herbs or spices powdered red chill peppermint, bay leaves cloves citrus oil lavender, rosemary, tobacco, peppercorns, and cedar oil can repel various types of insects.

Insects can be trapped and killed without resorting to dangerous chemicals:

Generally a poison nontoxic to humans is mixed with a food that insects find attractive, and spread in the infested area. example are oatmeal (attractive) and plaster-of Paris (poisonous), and cocoa powder and flour (attractive) and borax (poisonous). Old-fashioned flypaper–not a hanging strip of insecticide — is an effective trap. For specific house pests, try these solutions:

For ants: sprinkle powdered red chill pepper, paprika, dried peppermint, or borax where the ants are entering.

For beetles: kill manually when you see them.

For cockroaches: Mix by stirring and sifting 1 ounce TSP, 6 ounces borax, 4 ounces sugar, and 8 ounces flour. Spread on floor of infested area. Repeat after 4 days and again after 2 weeks.

For fleas: Feed pet brewer’s yeast in powder mixed with food or by tablets.

For moths: Air clothes well in the sun; store in airtight containers, and scatter sachets of lavender, cedar chips, or dried tobacco in with clothing.

For rats and mice: Again, prevention may be the best cure. Holes in exterior or interior walls should be closed off and storage spaces kept orderly. Garbage should be kept tightly covered. To catch rodents, the most efficient system is the oldest: a cat. next best are mouse and rat traps.

For termites: Any wooden parts of the house should be at least 18 inches off the ground, as subterranean termites cannot tolerate being exposed to air and light. They have to build easily visible mud tunnels to get at available wood. However, most existing houses have only about an 8 inch clearance between wooden parts and the ground, which makes the wood vulnerable. Metal shields may help discourage termites, but they cannot prevent infestations.

To treat existing termite infestations, there are a few nontoxic alternatives: the “Extermax” system, available in California; and the use of a particular species of nematodes to eat them, a system available from N-Viro Products, Ltc.

For gardens: In hardware stores, look for new brands of safer insecticides that use soap-and water solution to get rid of aphids, or pyrethrum for a number of applications. As more and more people understand the hazards of organic chemicals in the home, market pressure will encourage the  introduction of safer products.

Several naturally derived pesticides exist which , in some cases, are less toxic to humans the organophosphates, carbamates, or organochlorines now widely used. Nicotine is the most toxic poisonous both to humans and to other mammals, as well as to birds and fish. It is not available commercially for home gardeners because of its hazards. Rotenone, moderately toxic to humans, kill a wide range of insects; however, it should never be used near a waterway, as it is very toxic to fish. Ryania kills only a few species, including the European corn borer, codling moth, and cranberry fruit worm. Pyrethrum is relatively nontoxic to humans and only slightly toxic to aquatic life, so it may be the best choice for home gardens. Sabadilla controls lice, leafhoppers, squash bugs, striped cucumber beetles, and chinch bugs. It has low toxicity to wildlife, but it may be toxic to bees.

For lawns: herbicides are most often used to kill “unsightly” weeds in gardens and yards, and by lawn care companies to maintain the perfect appearance of turf around homes and on lawns and golf courses. Basically the safe alternative to herbicides is simple: pull weeds by hand. There are no really safe herbicides.

Safe Substitutes for the Patio

     A simple and much more effective alternative exists for the charcoal lighter fluid used to start the backyard barbeque. A metal, chimney-pipe cylinder, which holds the charcoal above a burning piece of newspaper and relies on the air flow under the charcoal to quickly bring it to glowing hot, is available at most discount stores. It readies the charcoal for cooking much more quickly without the chemical taste and fire hazard of lighter fluid.

 

It’s right in our faces … Just mocking us.  Can you believe there is paint thinner in cereal?

Did you know that in the UK, they have their own warning label slapped onto the same Lucky Charms cereal with a description of what this cereal WILL DO to children? It’s because the UK has different labeling laws, and instead of making a whole new box, they put a “sticker” over the US nutritional facts because they are incomplete and don’t state all of the effects of eating said food.  Check out the labels, folks, and be thoroughly appalled …

The modern diet of processed foods, takeaways and microwave meals could be to blame for a sharp increase in autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, including alopecia, asthma and eczema.

A team of scientists from Yale University in the U.S and the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, in Germany, say junk food diets could be partly to blame.

‘This study is the first to indicate that excess refined and processed salt may be one of the environmental factors driving the increased incidence of autoimmune diseases,’ they said.

 

Ice cream is a favorite dessert all across the globe, ice cream holds a special place in the hearts of millions. But this is one frozen dessert that you might want to reconsider eating.

Some of your favorite ice cream brands in America contain an ingredient that is banned in many countries around the world like Canada, The European Union, Australia, and New Zealand. Several well-known brands are using milk contaminated with the rBGH growth hormone, engineered by Monsanto. This hormone is marketed towards dairy farmers, to increase the milk production in cows by altering the cow’s hormone levels artificially.

 

Had just about enough of the annual flu ritual, with that stuffy nose, aching muscles and pounding head? Not to mention the days of misery and cartons of Kleenex. How nice would it be to tell the flu to bug off courtesy of some great remedies from herbal medicine?

Herbal medicines have long been known to bump up immunity—sometimes pretty spectacularly. And hardly a day goes by that we don’t see some new study verifying herbs and their immune boosting benefits.

Cold and influenza are viral diseases. Unfortunately, much as we’d like to, no has figured out a way to assassinate a virus, so the only way to vanquish these intruders is to encourage the body’s own immune system. And many herbs can be very encouraging, so don’t hold back—all is fair in bugs and war.