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The rich red color of the beetroot is one of the first indications that it is a blood builder. In fact, this edible taproot could well be called a superfood.
A blood cleanser, beetroot contains sodium magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus and folic acid. Vitamins A, C and niacin are contained within beetroot along with carbohydrates, protein & antioxidants. All of these help the body release toxins, which compliments it's immune boosting, anti-cancer, and acne-healing properties. The soluble fiber helps add needed bulk to a diet which would help prevent toxins from sitting in the colon for extended periods of time.
Beetroot's antioxidants and nitrates support healthy circulation. A chemical chain reaction in the body converts the nitrates into nitric oxide which helps to lower elevated blood pressure and improving blood flow in all parts of the body including the brain, heart and muscles.
These properties mean that beetroot can contribute to the strengthening and detoxification of the liver and gall bladder while helping boost natural production of hormones in the body.
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Cabbage isn’t just for slaw and sauerkraut – although those are wonderful uses! Cabbage leaves also have a proven history as a treatment for wounds and swellings.
An old Irish blessing reads, "May the leaves of your cabbage always be free from worms."
Ancient armies carried cabbage for use not only as a food, but as a wound dressing that fought infection. The explorers of the 17th and 18th centuries carried Vitamin C rich cabbage with them as a natural preventative of scurvy. On one of Captain Cook's voyages sailors injured in a storm had their wounds bound with cabbage to help prevent gangrene.
Cabbage leaves act as a diuretic, and they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. Cabbage juice is rich in lactic acid, a known anti-bacterial. Applied to the skin, these compounds are remarkably effective at relieving swelling and the pain associated with it.
There’s not a simpler remedy for engorged and painful breasts than the application of raw cabbage leaves. Bruise a couple of cabbage leaves. Cap a leaf over the affected breast. Use a bra to hold the leaf in place next to the skin. Wear it for a few hours. Noticeable relief can be detected by the following day.
The leaf of the cabbage is an effective treatment for the pain of swellings due to sports injuries and strains. Apply ice and elevate the injured limb to curb initial swelling. Then apply the cabbage leaf compress two or three times daily until pain and swelling subside. You may want to hold it in place with a cloth bandage. If you’ve been slow to recover from a sprained ankle, this remedy is worth a try.
Arthritis sufferers can often reduce the amount of medication they must use or eliminate it completely with the application of a cabbage leaf dressing. The cabbage leaf helps eliminate waste products from the body.
Use leaves as a poultice on other skin conditions such as psoriasis, burns and ulcers. Flatten layers of cabbage leaves with a rolling pin. Wrap leaves around affected areas of skin until the leaves turn yellow. Change the leaves and repeat until the wounds heal. Between reapplications, clean and dry the wounds.
To apply a cabbage leaf dressing: Use clean leaves and – if at all possible – ones that have been grown organically. Peel off the outer layers of cabbage and remove the hard stem. Bruise them slightly with a rolling pin or other hard cylinder. Use gauze or other cotton cloth to hold the leaves in place. An additional layer of plastic wrap can be applied, unless you are dressing a burn. Keep the cabbage wrap on the area for two to four hours. You may want to repeat the process, using new leaves. Some people apply the leaves at bedtime and keep the poultice on overnight.
If you are interested in reading more about how to use leaves as dressings, I highly recommend the book, COMFORT FOR THE BURNED AND WOUNDED by John W. Keim. At the time of publication, the author of this book had over 20 years of experience in treating wounds with natural dressings. In this small book, he details case histories and the results of various treatments. I have found his recommendations regarding the use of plantain leaf to be very valuable as a first aid application in various circumstances. He doesn’t claim to be a doctor, nor is he medically trained. However, this is a fascinating read whether or not you are in the medical field.
A nasal spray influenza vaccine is being offered as an alternative to injections. This cultivated live virus is so concentrated that the person receiving it can infect others with the flu virus for three weeks after getting the vaccine. Once a person receives this spray, that person begins to shed flu virus cells. In practical terms, any time you are around someone that has received this form of vaccine -- at the grocery store, at the local pharmacy, at school, at work or other social gathering -- you risk being exposed to an artificially introduced and powerful form of the flu virus. Even if you haven’t been around a person that is sick with the flu, you could become ill from such an exposure.
Large portions of the population do not receive the flu vaccine and, in doing so, avoid having antifreeze, carbolic acid, formaldehyde, aluminum, mercury, and things grown in monkey, chicken, guinea pig, calf or embryonic cells injected into their system. Unfortunately, the administration of live virus in the form of an intranasal influenza vaccine is capable of contributing to an increased incidence of the flu among the general population.
Families with persons that are immunocompromised need to be very alert to this danger. The vaccine manufacturer warns recipients of the spray to avoid being around immunocompromised individuals. This may seem like a simple matter until you realize that immunocompromized individuals include: people with eczema, cancer, organ recipients, or people with (possibly undiagnosed) HIV or AIDS. Add to this number those individuals that are on medications such as corticosteroids that suppress immune response. These include medications given for allergies, asthma, emphysema, eczema, Crohn’s disease, herniated spinal discs, multiple sclerosis, acute muscular pain or any type of rheumatoid or autoimmune disease. A very large percentage of the population can be considered chemically immunosuppressed.
Some people have concluded that the real danger to the population is that unvaccinated people become sick when exposed to those who receive this nasal spray. Their belief is that the entire population should be willing to have annual injections or sprays in hopes of avoiding a flu strain which they most likely wouldn’t have been exposed to if it weren’t for this spray. This is a form of logic to which I cannot adhere.
This video is great by itself and even better as a compliment to volume 1. MAKING HERBS SIMPLE VOLUME 2 has all of the features I enjoyed in volume 1 and more.
Once again, Shoshanna takes you into the wooded areas around her home and introduces you to a variety of herbs in their natural habitat. Art projects, syrups, yummy teas, and healthful remedies are all part this video. Shoshanna teaches viewers how to make a healing salve. You'll learn about a herb that can be used as a laundry detergent and cleanser. Debi, a retired midwife, returns to discuss nutritive herbs that boost female reproductive health. Kristen testifies to the effectiveness of a home remedy for poison ivy.
You'll want to watch it from start to finish when it arrives. However, this isn't a DVD to be left sitting on a shelf. It's segmented into topical chapters and bonus features that are easily accessed from the menu, helping you review portions as needed. This video is highly entertaining, but also very educational! It would be a great compliment to a more indepth study of each of the herbs.
For added convenience, Bulk Herb Store has also included a handy pocket guidebook printed on heavy stock and in full color. This means that you will have images that help you identify the plants as well as printed recipes for the applications mentioned in the video. There's even a hardiness zone map with corresponding information on each featured herb. It's nice to see that Bulk Herb Store continues to look for ways to give more information to their customers.
MAKING HERBS SIMPLE VOLUME 2 would be a great gift for anyone that wants to find inexpensive ways to incorporate herbs into every day life. . . . That is, if you don't just decide to keep it for yourself!
FOR A LIMITED TIME, Bulk Herb Store is making BOTH volumes 1 & 2 available for one low price. FOLLOW THIS LINK for more information.
Below, find an excerpt from the DVD MAKING HERBS SIMPLE, VOLUME 2
Ginger is a valued ingredient in recipes around the world. This herb is found as a seasoning in a variety of foods including cakes, cookies, breads, beverages, sauces, fruit dishes, and Asian cooking.
More than just a spice, Ginger Root is a powerful weapon in your arsenal against sickness. This potent root protects the stomach and is useful in the treatment of bowel disorders, cleansing the colon. In treating stomach upsets, it is strong enough to relieve the nausea of chemotherapy patients and gentle enough to ease morning sickness associated with pregnancy or colic in an infant. Ginger can help relieve diarrhea along with indigestion, motion sickness and vomiting.
Ginger reduces spasms and cramps, making it an effective treatment for muscle pain and the pain associated with menstruation. Because it helps stimulate the circulatory system, it can also help relieve poor circulation.
These qualities combine with Ginger Root’s anti-inflammatory properties to make it a good selection when dealing with osteoarthritis. Ginger has been beneficial in dealing with the symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis. Studies suggest that this herb may lower cholesterol levels and prevent the blood from clotting. Further studies have found that ginger may have some anticancer activity.
A strong antioxidant, effective antimicrobial and an anti-viral: Ginger Root helps fend off pathogenic microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses. Additionally, these qualities make it a good choice for healing poultices applied to wounds.
Taken internally, this herb helps protect the liver and cleanse the kidneys while moving excess toxins from the body. It is traditionally used to treat the common cold, flu-like symptoms, headaches and other pains.
It’s no wonder this herb is found in many traditional tonics and herbal cleansing blends. In our family, we like to use it in a tea at the first sign of congestion and love the flavor it adds to stir fry dishes. Look for ways to incorporate this beneficial herb in your daily living today.
Place ingredients in a mug and add 8 ounces of boiling water. Cover, and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain the bits from the liquid, enjoy.
MORNING LIVER TONIC SMOOTHIE RECIPE Have this first thing in the morning before eating.
In a blender, puree the following until smooth. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. • 1 inch fresh ginger, minced • 1 tablespoon extra virgin cold pressed olive oil • 1 clove of garlic • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar • 1 apple, chopped small • ½ small beet, diced • 1 stick celery, chopped small • a few sprigs of parsley, chopped small • 1 cup filtered water
The apple cider vinegar helps the oil and water emulsify. Garlic will lose its potency once it’s cut. For these reasons, it is best to drink this tonic before it separates.
If you want to intensify the effects of this tonic, increase the number of tablespoons of olive oil and the number of garlic cloves over a few days. For example, on the 2nd day use 2 Tbsp oil and 2 cloves, on the 3rd day use 3 Tbsp and 3 cloves and so forth, but don’t go beyond five tablespoons and cloves.
Blend and enjoy!
TAKE NOTE: Information and ideas presented here are for the reader’s use and enrichment. This is not offered in lieu of solid medical advice. The opinions and ideas expressed are fallible and that of the author. Readers are encouraged to be well-informed and draw their own conclusions. Here’s a video of another variation of the “liver flush.”
Here is a CBS news segment about a mother and daughter who bake ginger snaps for cancer patients.
MAKING HERBS SIMPLE takes the viewer into the woods of Eastern Tennessee. Shoshanna locates nine herbs in their natural habitat and gives the viewer tips on how to recognize them. Later, she joins her friend Kristen to demonstrate how to dry herbs for storage and how to use them to make poultices and simple tinctures. Along the way, you learn interesting tips and tidbits about the properties and uses of each plant.
If you've ever wondered about other ways to use the herbs growing around your home, you'll be glad you watched this. This video isn't just for wildcrafters. Hints for how to incorporate packaged dried herbs are discussed. It's nice to see what the plants look like growing wild, even if you normally use them dried.
That's not all! There's a segment featuring the herbalist's herbalist, Debi Pearl. Shoshanna and Debi discuss how to preserve herbs and create your own remedies to meet your family's unique needs.
I appreciated the way the DVD is segmented into topical chapters. If you need to review some information, just go to the menu and select the desired subject -- no need to fast forward through other footage! This feature is great for teachers who might want to reinforce botanical lessons with short video clips.
Bonus features include a demonstration of how to use Bulk Herb Store's BEAUTIFUL HAIR herbal blend. These scenes are humorous at points as you discover beauty can be a messy business! The DVD comes with a booklet that gives you summary information and full-color pictures of the featured herbs. The companion guidebook is sturdy and pocket-sized so that you can easily take it with you to help identify these plants in your own backyard or keep it handy as a quick reference for selecting just the right ingredients for cooking, teas and other uses.
MAKING HERBS SIMPLE makes a sometimes overwhelming subject fun. It's an encouragement to people on all levels of expertise to enjoy getting creative with preparations and applications. It's a reminder that herbs can be simply and joyfully incorporated into daily life.
Whether you are interested in natural medicine, herbs, or plant identification, MAKING HERBS SIMPLE is great to own or give as a gift.
In King County, New Zealand, dairy farmer Alan Smith is alive today because his family went against the advice of health professionals. He caught swine flu and very nearly died.
Doctors were determined to pull him off life support. The family was told there was no hope. But his wife and sons wouldn't listen.
They demanded that a treatment of high doses of Vitamin C be attempted. Something that wasn't recommended by mainstream medicine. They were told it wouldn’t work but the family insisted. The family hired a top lawyer to help them fight for the chance to see Alan recover. Thanks to their efforts, Alan is now very much alive.
Lacto fermentation is a method of preserving foods that does not require hot processing. The food is preserved by lactic acid which inhibits the growth of bad bacteria.
In general, you will want to have enough salt suspended in a liquid to keep mold from forming while the lactobacillus (the organisms that produce lactic acid) take hold and begin to multiply. This salt and liquid mixture is called your brine. Lacto-fermentation enhances the digestibility of the food so that your body can better assimilate nutrients. As with other cultured foods, consuming foods preserved in this manner will help replenish the digestive tract with beneficial enzymes that help aid digestion and fight harmful bacteria.
The seasonings within the jar can be adjusted to suit the individual’s taste and used for many other types of fresh produce. Feel free to experiment with green beans, carrots, corn, beets and other vegetables. I prefer to use pint jars so I don’t have an opened jar sitting for a long time in my refrigerator until it is used up. If I need more, I just open another jar.
Ahead of time: Boil your jars, rings and lids in water for 3 minutes. Sometimes, I just bring the water and jars to a simmer, turn off the heat, and cover the pot with a lid while I work on other projects. When you are ready to begin, remove the jars from the water and dry thoroughly.
To make about 5 pints: Dissolve 3 tbsp sea salt in 2 quarts of warmed, distilled water. You can heat the water on the stove, but you don’t want it too hot. Make sure it has cooled to at least 100°F before you use it so that the lactobacillus in your whey is not killed.
When the water and salt mixture is cooled, place the following in your sterilized jars:
3 to 4 Tbsp of the distilled water & sea salt brine
Use a chop stick or the handle of a wooden spoon to stir and mix the seasonings. Wash and dry enough cucumbers to fill the jars (3 to 5 or so) and slice them ¼ inch thick. Pack jars tightly, stopping 1 inch below the rim of the jar. I just stop at the point the threads begin on the neck of the jar.
Add enough distilled water/salt brine to cover the cucumbers. This should leave at least ¾ of an inch between the brine and the inside of the lid. The cucumbers shouldn’t float if they are tightly packed. Cover the jar securely with the lid and rings. Shake the jar to mix the seasonings into the brine. Sometimes, the jar’s contents may shift and rise above the water level. Repack and add more brine if needed.
Loosen the ring only slightly – just enough to let any gas escape, but not enough to let air inside. Let the jars sit for 3-4 days at room temperature. Transfer to cool storage. If the taste is not as strong as you’d prefer, you may leave them at room temperature for a little longer. The fermentation process produces its own vinegar taste that is pleasant without being overly harsh.
Here's a video demonstration of another variation of lacto-fermentation. This particular method takes longer and runs more of a risk of mold as it does not utilize a whey starter. However, if you wished to make a large crock of pickles, rather than just pint jars, you could do so and just add about 1/2 cup of whey (for a gallon-sized crock).
Many factors determine the amount of water needed for optimal hydration. Humidity and altitude will increase the need for water as will physical, mental and emotional stress. Water lost through perspiration will need to be replaced. In the event you consume 6 ounces of alcohol or caffeine, an additional 10-12 ounces of water will be required to keep your body hydrated.
The simplest way to know you’ve consumed enough water is to note the color and odor of your urine. If your urine is not neutral in both its color and odor, you lack adequate hydration.
Rather than drinking water throughout the day and visiting the bathroom frequently, you can take scheduled water breaks. In this way, your bladder will be able to eliminate excess fluids after each session. The first dose of water should occur shortly after you awake, before any other beverages and at least a half hour before breakfast. The second and third water breaks should occur 1/2 hour before lunch and ½ hour before your evening meal. The last break should take place about 2 hours before bed time in order to allow enough time to empty your bladder before retiring for the night.
There are some additional advantages of taking in quantities of water during these sessions. This accelerates hydration by completely filling your empty stomach with water. There will be a temporary feeling of bloating as the water is forced past your stomach and into the small intestine. From there, it is pushed to the large intestine where your body can absorb the needed fluids. This flushes the digestive tract to give you a bit of a mini-cleanse, which helps relieve constipation. Another benefit is that you will be giving your stomach a full sensation just prior to a meal which may help you better regulate food consumption.
So, how much water SHOULD you be drinking? A standard guideline for years was that you should drink 8, 8-oz glasses of water per day. This translates into 64 ounces of water per day. Another rule of thumb is that people should drink 2 to 3 1/2 quarts of water per day. However a single amount doesn't take into account the varying needs of different body types. One way to allow for this is to divide the number of pounds an individual weighs in half. The answer is the number of ounces of water that person should drink daily. Of course, heavy physical activity, stress, or the consumption of diuretics will require drinking even more fluids.
If you find that water doesn’t suit your taste, be sure you are drinking the purest water you can find. It is also possible that your sense of taste might be masked. Consuming sugary drinks can contribute to this condition. Consider cutting back or avoiding them completely. As your water intake increases, your body will be better able to rid itself of toxins. This also helps keep the mucus membranes in the nose and mouth moist, which can enhance the sense of taste and smell. As the taste receptors in your mouth are no longer impaired, you will find the taste of water is not objectionable. More likely, you will begin to enjoy it.
Remember, the need for water varies depending on body size and other factors. Watch the color and odor of urine output to determine whether or not you are well hydrated.
The following video has a lot of good information on the benefits of drinking adequate amounts of water daily. I do not endorse the web sites or recommend the products that she discusses towards the end of the video.
Making deodorant at home is not a complicated endeavor. Why would you want to make your own? Because making your own deodorant will help you avoid aluminum toxicity.
Some form of aluminum is found in nearly all commercial deodorant and antiperspirant products. This ingredient is used because it helps block the pores and neutralize odor. However, once in the body, aluminum is a neurotoxin (brain poison) that has been linked to breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and other degenerative diseases.
Crystal deodorant stones are considered to be a safer alternative. These contain a different compound known as potassium alum or potassium aluminum sulfate. These molecules are natural salts and believed too large to be absorbed by your skin. Often, these are recommended to cancer patients for use as an alternative product as they are urged to get rid of toiletries containing aluminum.
However, there is a cheaper and safer alternative than this. You can make your own deodorant for pennies from items you likely have in your cupboard. Even if you don’t have all of the ingredients on hand, you will need such small quantities, that it is VERY economical to secure them. This simple natural recipe will also benefit your health by helping you avoid aluminum.
You will need: ½ cup or a little less of Coconut oil, 4 tablespoons of baking soda (Arm & Hammer contains no aluminum), 4 tablespoons of arrowroot powder, 2 tablespoons of grated beeswax and 10 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional).
Note: Coconut oil will help fight odor causing bacteria while nourishing and moisturizing your skin. Essential oils can help eliminate odors, but be careful that they are not processed with harsh chemical extraction methods that could irritate the skin. Tea tree oil, lavender, frankincense, and citrus oils all have properties that can help eliminate odors.
Directions: 1. Gently warm the coconut oil and beeswax to a liquid state. 2. Blend the baking soda & arrowroot powder with a fork. 3. Slowly add the baking soda & arrowroot powder to the coconut oil and wax, working it in with a fork until completely mixed.
Your deodorant will have a firm paste-like texture, almost like commercial deodorant. The paste will continue to firm as it cools. More arrowroot can be added if it seems too wet or mushy. The beeswax will help it hold its shape even in warmer climates. If it becomes very stiff from cooler temperatures, you can place the container in a pocket for a few minutes to warm for ease of use.
Store this in a screw-top wide-mouth container. I use ones found in the ‘travel container’ section of most pharmacies. This permits each family member to have an individual jar.
This recipe yields about 1 cup and can last several months for one person with daily use.
The following video shows a variation of this recipe using a dry method of blending:
A popular pharmaceutical taken for bone loss can actually lead to broken bones 3 to 4 years after beginning the prescription. How is this possible? While the bones become thicker, they do so because the natural rate of bone loss is slowed by the drug. Just as with skin, the human body is designed to lose and rebuild bone cells throughout a lifetime. So, while a medicated individual may have thicker bones, these are the result of old bone that is retained, not an increase in the production of new, strong bone. This old, thickened bone is actually brittle and weaker, leading to breaks that occur during relatively gentle bumps and stumbles.
Another possible contributor to decreased bone density is pasteurized milk and milk products. Calcium contained in pasteurized dairy products is not bio-available to the human body, and may be linked to some degenerative diseases.
The first method is to participate in weight bearing exercise. These are often low-impact activities that include stretching and balance exercises, walking, dancing and weight-lifting. The second method is by using an eggshell calcium supplement. Eggshells are about 95% calcium carbonate crystals and contain 27 essential microelements which are bio-available (absorbable) in the human body. One study showed that eggshell powder taken in combination with vitamin D3 improved bone mineral density without increasing blood calcium levels. A teaspoon of powdered eggshell (about one whole egg) offers nearly 800 mgs of calcium and other microelements including magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, manganese and others. There are over 27 elements available in an eggshell which is similar in composition to that of human bones and teeth. To make your own calcium supplement, you will need to use shells from organically fed, free range birds. Chemicals and antibiotics given to birds are bound in the shells of their eggs. Free range birds produce eggs that have a greater mineral content.
1. Wash empty eggshells in warm water until all of the egg white is removed. Don’t remove the membrane because it contains important nutrients for the joints which helps arthritis. 2. Immerse empty shells into boiling water for about 5 minutes to kill any pathogens. 3. Let them air dry thoroughly on a paper towel. 4. After they are dry, grind them in a coffee grinder. 5. Store the powdered eggshells in a covered glass jar. Store in a dry place. 6. Take ½ teaspoon each day. This powder can be added to your favorite beverage or sprinkled on your favorite food.
This article is presented for information purposes only and not intended as a substitute for trained medical care. The reader assumes all liability, should be informed, and exercise common sense when incorporating these methods.
Please take the time out of your busy schedule to watch Food, Inc. This movie is being offered for free viewing now through April 29th. That's 7 days from this posting. If you've ever wondered where your food is coming from and why this blogger encourages you to learn how to make your own meals from basic ingredients, this documentary will offer you a LOT of those answers.
Here is an interview by Bonnie Hunt with Robert Kenner, director of "Food, Inc.," He explains some of his reasons for making the movie. This is the 3rd part of a 3 part interview:
I am including the following link to the movie, but this stream will only be good for 7 more days. Please click on the image to follow the link to the page where you can view the entire film. FOOD, INC.
WHAT’S IN A SEED? Each unaltered grain of wheat contains elements required to perpetuate life. The outer wrapper of the seed (bran) protects the seed and provides fiber and nutrients. The bulk of the interior of the seed is a starchy substance called the endosperm. The endosperm provides the germinating seed with the nutrients it needs until a root system matures and can sustain the plant. The germ is the tiny embryo of another plant. When wheat is commercially milled into white flour, the nutritious germ and bran are removed, stripping the resulting flour of the minerals and vitamins that are naturally present. Manufacturers are required by law to add 3 or 4 artificial vitamins back into commercial white flour which is then called ‘enriched.’ At least 16 vitamins and 11 minerals exist in an intact grain of wheat.
WITHIN THE SEED – A COMPLETE PACKAGE The intact wheat berry arrives with strains of microorganisms that live well on grains. A single gram of flour has around 13,000 yeast cells. The yeast that are prominent in your starter will be those that have a taste for (and reside with) your grain. A starter needn’t be exposed to the surrounding air to ‘capture’ wild yeast. Leaving the lid off only attracts insects and unwanted pests.
Sourdough starter is a balanced culture of yeast and lactobacillus bacteria growing in a water and flour mix. The ratio of lactobacillus to yeast at room temperature is well balanced, with yeast reproducing at a slower rate. When refrigerated, the lactobacillus reproduction slows. Generally, you’ll want to maintain your starter in an area where the temperature remains between 65°F to 85°F. If your home is normally cooler than this, your starter may be happier sitting near a light bulb, on top of a refrigerator, on a warm hearth or in an insulated box. If your home is too warm, setting your starter’s container in a bowl of cool water will help protect it from overheating.
A SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP Baker’s yeast is an isolated strain of yeast and has no lactobacillus while a healthy Sourdough starter has BOTH Yeast and Lactobacilli. These two microorganisms are designed to work together in a symbiotic relationship. Lactobacilli are anaerobic organisms which live off of carbon dioxide. Yeast lives off of the starch in the endosperm and produces carbon dioxide as a byproduct. This enriches the Lactobacilli colonization which then prevents growth of harmful bacteria.
Sourdough starters are simply containers that host this process and (in return for regular feeding) give the bread maker a natural leavening agent.
Microwave ovens have been used in US homes for more than forty years. As long as the manufacturer’s procedures are followed, the FDA guidelines state that these are safe.
The War Department of the United States had detailed research on microwave ovens years before they were made available to the public. At the end of the second World War, this research was acquired. In search of an efficient way to provide meals to troops invading Russia, the Nazis had developed the first microwave ovens. The War Department of the United States held the Germans’ documented research for later study.
The Russians also acquired some of the German microwave ovens for biological testing. As a result of that testing, the Soviets issued international warnings about the health and environmental hazards of using microwave ovens and outlawed their use in Russia. Strict environmental limits were urged by Eastern European scientists who agreed with the Russian findings.
Thousands of workers that had been exposed to microwaves during the development of radar in the 1950s were tested by the Russians. It was determined that just being exposed to the energy field was enough to create health difficulties. The findings of the Russian scientists led to industry guidelines that limited exposure for industry workers to 10 microwatts and for civilians to 1 microwatt.
Adrenal exhaustion, anxiety, cancer, cataracts, dizziness, eye pain, hair loss, headaches, high blood pressure, inability to concentrate, irritability, ischemic heart disease, memory loss, nervous tension, an increased incidence of appendicitis, reproductive problems, sleeplessness, stomach pain, and chronic stress were found to be symptoms of microwave sickness experienced by those exposed to microwave radiation. Such symptoms would suggest inflammatory issues.
Russian teams of forensic scientists also studied the effects of microwave cooking on foods and the effect those foods had on people that ate them. Their findings were that ALL foods cooked in microwave ovens were damaged molecularly. Meats had destroyed and destabilized proteins and contained cancer-causing agents. Fruits and vegetables (chiefly root vegetables) cooked in a microwave formed free radicals. The basic substances found in fruits and vegetables had lowered levels of metabolic activity which interfered with digestibility and nutrient absorption. Subjects that ingested these items experienced digestive disorders caused by the inconsistent catabolism of micro-waved foods. This included an elevated number of intestinal cancers and cellular degeneration of peripheral tissues. Testing confirmed changes in the immune system and blood. Cancer cells were found elevated in the blood and were accompanied by malfunctions of the Lymphatic system which caused degeneration of the immune system.
Many US cooks decried the use of microwave ovens when first introduced. There were hot debates on whether tampering with the molecules in foods would make them unsafe for consumption. The results of the Russian research raised concerns that were shared by other countries which also banned microwave ovens. In the United States, citizens were assured that microwave ovens were safe for food preparation.
Perestroika arrived in 1987 and Russia removed the restrictions on microwave ovens.
Dr. Mark Vinick explains how microwaves cook violently, changing and damaging foods and the nutrients they provide.
By 1991, the assurances of safety had reached the surgical staff of Hillcrest Medical Center located in Tulsa, OK. A successful hip replacement procedure had been performed on Norma Levitt, and she was still in the operating room. Because the blood warming device was not working that day, a unit of her own blood was warmed by placing it into a microwave oven located in the employee lounge. Within minutes of receiving this blood, a blood clot killed Norma. The hospital defended its actions saying that Norma’s death had nothing to do with her micro-waved blood; the FDA published warnings against use of a microwave oven when warming blood products.
Before Norma’s demise, scientific studies were being conducted by Dr. Hans Ulrich Hertel on the effects of micro-waved foods on humans. People that ate foods on an empty stomach submitted blood samples before and after eating. Comparisons were made between the blood of persons that ate raw foods, foods cooked conventionally and micro-waved foods as well as to the samples taken before eating. There were considerable variances in the blood samples of the volunteers that ate micro-waved foods. Dr. Hertel’s findings showed that eating micro-waved foods generated changes in the blood that mirrored the cancer’s pathology.
It was determined by Dr. Hertel that definite risks to health were associated with foods prepared using a microwave oven. He further stated that eating foods subjected to microwave cooking would have cancerous effects on human blood. In December of 1991, the Journal Franz Webber published his findings along with an article about Dr. Hertel.
Trade laws and the Swiss court were used by manufacturers of microwave ovens to silence Dr. Hertel, threatening him with personal ruin if he disclosed his findings. Dr. Hertel was prohibited from further publication of his studies and found guilty of “interfering with commerce” in March of 1993. This judgment was overturned August 25, 1998 in Strasbourg, Austria. The Swiss government was ordered to compensate Dr. Hertel.
Regulatory agencies, retailers and manufacturers insist that these appliances pose no health risks. These assurances however, are contradictory to the findings of published studies that find otherwise. It is worth it to take the time to judge not only how best our foods should be farmed and collected, but how those foods should best be readied to grace our table.
ALICE WATERS is interviewed for a 60 Minutes segment by Leslie Stahl. In the clip below, Leslie asks, "Where’s your microwave?" Alice: "I don't have a microwave." Leslie: "How do you live without a microwave?!" Alice: "I don’t know how you'd consider to live WITH one."
Aspartame is a chemical food additive that has been deemed safe for human consumption by the FDA. However, Aspartame presents many difficulties when ingested.
When stored for a long time, Aspartame breaks down into the chemical Diketopiperazine. This chemical can also occur after Aspartame is eaten. In both animals and humans, Diketopiperazine has been shown to cause cancer, especially in the form of brain tumors.
Once ingested, Aspartame breaks down into three primary components.
PHENYLALANINE It is difficult for the human body to metabolize and get rid of Phenylalanine. At high levels, it builds up in the brain and can cause neurological problems such as schizophrenia, depression, and seizures.
ASPARTIC ACID Nearly half of Aspartame is Aspartic Acid. Aspartate is another name for Aspartic Acid. High levels of Aspartic Acid in the brain can over-stimulate cells and cause them to die. Over time, this can damage neurons and lead to Parkinson’s, memory loss and many other neurological conditions.
METHANOL Methanol in Nature Methanol exists in nature in fruit. However the methanol in fruit is bound to pectin. The human body lacks the enzyme to split methanol off from pectin, so this is passed through the body without doing any damage (when consumed as naturally occurring in fruit).
Methanol As a Component of Aspartame In Aspartame, 10 percent of the substance is unbound Methanol. Unbound Methanol is a poison. The human body’s attempt to deal with unbound Methanol produces results in formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a cumulative toxin that is stored in the human body indefinitely.
Another way that Methanol is released is by storage in conditions warmer than 86 oF. This can also occur when cooking with aspartame. Some speculate that Desert Storm Syndrome’s symptoms can be attributed to formaldehyde poisoning that resulted from heavy consumption of methanol in aspartame sweetened drinks stored in hot conditions. Some of the symptoms of methanol poisoning include depression of the central nervous system, blindness, dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, loss of coordination, and in very large doses, unconsciousness and death.
For a more extensive list of possible side effects of Aspartame consumption, type ‘aspartame side effects’ into your internet search engine.
WHAT SHOULD I DO? * Remove all sugar-free products with Aspartame from your diet. * Use natural sweeteners like honey (in moderation) and stevia leaf. * Keep a record of health changes. Don’t ignore symptoms. * Detoxify. * Exercise to help move toxins out of your system. * Restore depleted nutrients by consuming nutrient dense foods. * Get uninterrupted rest in a DARK room. * Drink plenty of the purest water you can get.
This article is for information purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It is the responsibility of the reader to carefully consider all options and weigh the risks of decisions that could affect health.
A healthy immune system is your best defense against a multitude of illnesses. Once you’re sick however, some illnesses can actually use your powerful immune system against you. This is known as a Cytokine Storm.
WHAT IS A CYTOKINE STORM? Messengers in your body that regulate your immune response to sickness are called cytokines. When cytokines over-stimulate your immune system to produce an exaggerated response to a pathogen, a Cytokine Storm has begun.
Cytokine storms can cause great physical harm. High fever, inflammation and redness along with nausea and weakness are symptoms of a cytokine storm. If the storm is located in the lungs, the combination of overwhelming mucus and inflammation could block airways and cause death. Many believe that the cytokine storm response was what caused the deaths of so many young adults in the 1918 influenza pandemic.
AVOID IMMUNE BOOSTERS DURING A CYTOKINE STORM At the first sign of serious viral infection, herbs and foods which boost the immune response should be avoided. These include herbs such as Echinacea, Elderberry, Pau d’arco, Aloe vera, and Oregano which offer temporary relief followed by more severe symptoms. Additional foods that increase cytokine production (and should be avoided during a Cytokine Storm) include: Sambucol (Elderberry juice), Spirulina and Chlorella algae, Honey, Chocolate, and Kimchi. These foods are good for treatment of less severe colds and flu, but should be avoided when symptoms become severe. USE ANTI-VIRALS TO ATTACK THE PATHOGEN Include herbs which are classified as anti-viral or antipathogenic in order to fight back severe viral infections. These include Garlic, Olive leaf extract, Grapefruit seed extract, Ginger, Mullein, Pine needles, Eucalyptus (inhaled) and Apple Cider Vinegar.
USE IMMUNOMODULATORS TO HELP BALANCE IMMUNE RESPONSE Select herbs and foods that are known as immunomodulators. These help to balance the immune system and bring the immune response back into normal parameters. Herbs and foods known as immunomodulators include Ginseng root, Chamomile, and Olive Leaf Extract.
TREAT THE SYMPTOMS If you are dealing with a Cykotine Storm which has resulted in bronchial inflammation and lots of mucus, you will want to utilize herbs which are anti-inflammatory and help expel the mucus, reducing the symptoms. Eucalyptus (inhaled), Ginger, Mullein, Curcumin (extract of Turmeric), Pine Needles, Apple Cider Vinegar, Onions, Marshmallow, Mustard, Plantain, Pleurisy Root, Red Clover, Yarrow and can help with these symptoms.
APPLICATIONS Most of these herbs can be administered in an herbal tea or in tincture form. Many herbs and Apple Cider Vinegar (diluted with water) can be heated to a simmer in water using the steam as a medicinal vapor. Mustard and onions can be applied via a plaster to the chest. Onions can also be given as an ingredient in a soup. Another effective way to administer these herbs is by applying a low heat and breathing the resulting smoke (incense).
Lots of liquids and rest will also help as the patient recuperates. Monitor symptoms closely and seek additional help at the first sign of a life-threatening condition.
This article is presented for information purposes only and not intended as a substitute for trained medical care. The reader assumes all liability, should be informed, and exercise common sense when incorporating these methods.
There are a LOT of recipes for dishwashing soap. I don’t claim to have the best recipe, but I will share what works for me.
WHY NOT USE SOAP? For dishwashers, you need cleaning power, not soapy suds. If you were to place regular soap flakes into a dishwashing machine, your kitchen floor would soon be filled with lots of bubbles. For a dishwasher, the detergent needs to break down grease, disinfect and rinse clean without leaving soap spots.
ESSENTIAL OILS? I don’t use essential oils in my dishwasher powder. Very hot conditions will neutralize the scent of an essential oil. Good quality essential oils are pricey, so I prefer to use them in applications where they won’t be diminished. Feel free to add essential oil if that is your preference.
KAY’S DISHWASHER POWDER: Mix together 2 cups Borax, 2 cups Baking Soda, ½ Cup salt and 1 cup citric acid. This makes enough powder to just fit inside a quart sized zippered freezer bag. I place this inside a larger gallon sized zippered bag. This is to seal moisture out. The citric acid and baking soda will absorb moisture from the air and clump if the bag is not sealed. I use a DRY kitchen spoon to place a couple of tablespoons of powder in my machine per load. Using this, I’ve never had to use any spot-free solutions for the rinse/drying cycle.
This powder can also be used to wash dishes by hand. Vinegar in your rinse water is helpful for containers that have greasy residue.
A HANDY TIP: I keep a soap dish next to my kitchen sink. The bottom of this dish has drainage holes. I place a sponge beneath these holes so that when the bar soap is used, it drains onto the sponge. If I need to spot clean a dish or a soiled surface, I simply moisten this sponge and use it.
This article is for information purposes only. Utilize these methods at your own risk and using your own discretion.
Grandma managed to keep her home clean long before there was an aisle in the grocery store devoted to perfumed products that promised to make her job easier. Dependence on retail cleaners can leave you wondering if you aren’t spending WAY too much on the latest chemical goo.
The good news is that you can keep more of your hard-earned money AND get your house clean without lots of toxic chemicals. Here are four simple products that you can make to clean several areas of your home.
SCOURING POWDER This is a nice, non-abrasive cleaner that can be used by applying it to a wet sponge and rubbing in a circular motion. You can use Baking Soda alone, but for extra water softening and germ-fighting I use 1 part Borax, 2 parts Baking Soda and ½ part salt. This will take care of some stubborn stains without scratching delicate surfaces. I keep mine in a wide-mouthed container with shaker holes beneath a closeable lid.
ALL PURPOSE SPRAY/RINSE Used as a rinse for the homemade scouring powder, this will create a foaming action. Mix white vinegar and water in equal parts. Place your solution in a pistol-grip sprayer. Spray surfaces you’ve used the scouring powder on, wipe with a damp sponge and rinse. It leaves a gleaming shine. The vinegar cuts the grease and also has anti-bacterial properties. By itself, this is also useful to wipe down tables, counter tops and clean glass and windows. If you use this as an after shower/bath spray it will also discourage mold on your grout. HARD SURFACE, GLASS & DISINFECTANT/CLEANER Mix 1 part rubbing alcohol with 1 part water. For every 2 cups of solution, add 3 tablespoons of white vinegar. Place into a spray container and use to clean hard surfaces that you want germ and streak-free. I like to use this to wipe down metal surfaces as it quickly dries without leaving spots. I also like to use it on light switches, doorknobs, and other surfaces that have a multitude of little hands on them.
SOAP SCUM & MOLD TREATMENT Hard water causes soap to cling to surfaces in the shower and tub. This can lead to a problem with mold. A spray-on treatment for this is to use one part Hydrogen Peroxide and two parts water. Place it into a spray bottle and spray onto the surface. Let it sit for an hour and then clean with scouring powder.
This article is for information purposes only. Utilize these methods at your own risk and using your own discretion.
Parents want to protect their children when surprising circumstances arise. Being prepared helps whether the electricity is out or you’ve been stranded unexpectedly.
PREPARED, NOT PANICKED The temptation to panic is dangerous when in an emergency (reference: RULE OF 3'S TO SURVIVE). Young ones will mirror your feelings. Your efforts to be prepared will give you the confidence you need to reassure your children.
RELEVANCE OF ROUTINE Look for creative ways to implement a daily routine for the sake of your children. This is comforting and offers a sense of stability from the parent to the child.
PASTIMES Amusements help pass the time when you are unable to travel. It is unlikely that you will have access to a source of power to operate electronic games. Craft supplies are wonderful to have on hand; this includes play dough, scissors, paper, tape, markers, glue and other assorted items. Take the time to introduce your children to board games, dolls, toy cars, blocks, puzzles and reading in order that they will be welcomed ‘old friends’ should they need entertainment. It is also wise to keep educational materials stocked (items such as work books, flash cards, pencils, reference books, etc.) in the event you find organized schooling is no longer an option.
HEALTHY ON PURPOSE While access to remedies and treatments are available, utilize them to maintain your dental and overall health. It is far better to meet unexpected events with well-maintained health rather than ailments worsened by neglect. Stock any medicines required by your family members. Get into the habit of observing the sleeping, eating and toilet patterns of your family members so that you will detect illness early and be able to deal with it proactively. Train yourself to be observant of the impact circumstances are having on your loved ones. Otherwise, it will be easy to remain focused on your own challenges to the exclusion of others.
AVOID FAKE FOODS The foods you consume today will affect your health tomorrow. Without proper training children could refuse to consume proper amounts of nutritious foods. Taste buds can be trained to appreciate a variety of tastes and textures available in real foods, but this can be difficult if the pallet has been compromised with processed foods and sugars. Take time to introduce new foods gradually in the diet. Learn about nutrition and basic food preparation -- and teach your children about these things also.
INFANTS & BABIES A baby doesn’t require lots of gadgets for proper care. Just as yesterday’s mothers didn’t require music players, pacifiers, disposable diapers, bouncy seats, carriers, cribs and other accoutrements for infant care, neither are they necessities today. Babies need to be kept fed, clean, dry and warm.
Nursing an infant is a skill that can be learned. Breastfeeding is worth the time investment as it is beneficial to both mother and infant. This can help insure that the smallest family member has a ready supply of nourishment. For bottle-fed babies, you will need to keep formula in stock.
Infants require protection from extremes of cold and heat as their bodies aren’t yet able to regulate temperature. Babies need to be shielded from the summer sun. Umbrellas are useful for this application. Layering clothing in the winter will help protect little ones from the cold. Zippered fleece sleepers can be placed over long thermal underwear for nighttime warmth. Two or three persons sharing a single bed helps to retain warmth during the night. Wool socks, hats and zippered fleece jackets can keep babies warm during the day.
SANITATION During cold temperatures or when water is scarce, there is no need to expect that baths will be a daily occurrence. Select the warmest area you can find and show children how to quickly wash their face, hands, genitals and feet each day. Become diligent about washing hands before meal preparation and before eating. This becomes even more important when conditions are primitive. Take the time to teach older children about latrine construction, placement and proper disposal of waste.
USEFUL ABILITIES Learning life skills gives children more confidence in uncertain circumstances. Teaching your children how to shop, stock a pantry, pitch a tent, build a camp fire, sew, repair small engines, perform CPR, first aid, garden and swim is an investment. Understanding what to do during a fire drill, how to fend off an attack and having practiced other scenarios are real confidence builders. Prepared children aren’t as likely to fall apart emotionally.
When preparedness is made part of your daily living, your children will be better equipped to deal with emergencies. Rather than be fearful, your young ones will understand what is necessary to manage a crisis. Strengthen your family today with these measures.
The rich red color of the beetroot is one of the first indications that it is a blood builder. In fact, this edible taproot could well be called a superfood. 
Beetroot's antioxidants and nitrates support healthy circulation. A chemical chain reaction in the body converts the nitrates into nitric oxide which helps to lower elevated blood pressure and improving blood flow in all parts of the body including the brain, heart and muscles.
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