Nine Everyday Uses For Plain Old White Vinegar

We all run into situations where we end up using chemical products we don’t want to use. So, it’s nice to know there’s a safer alternative. Trusty old vinegar, especially white vinegar, can solve many of those problems without side effects. Here are nine ways to use it at home.

White Vinegar vs Cider (or other) Vinegar vs Cleaning Vinegar

Not all vinegars are equal. One reason why I specify white vinegar rather than apple cider or other kinds of vinegar is price. White vinegar only costs about $ 2.50 a gallon. Another is because other vinegars have residues in them. The same apple cider vinegar with the “mother” that is so beneficial when consumed, will clog the tiny openings in your nebulizer. It might leave smelly residue on your pets, or particles on your bathroom shower walls or door. Why pay more when white vinegar gives better results?

Most white vinegar is 5% strength. Another product, called cleaning vinegar, is a bit stronger at 6%. Cleaning vinegar has a bit more punch, but watch the price. At $ 5/gallon, it’s not THAT much better. At $ 3/gallon, it’s a deal.

Personal Uses for Vinegar

Vinegar to Prevent Cellulitis

This trick is one I figured out when my lower leg flared up on a weekend when the doctors’ offices were closed. I’d had cellulitis before and didn’t want it to progress to the infection stage. But it wasn’t worth a trip to the emergency room, either.

I figured that it couldn’t hurt to try the vinegar treatment – better that than do nothing. After soaking a dishtowel in vinegar (I could have used any type of vinegar as the residue wouldn’t make a difference,) I wrung it out and wrapped it around my ankle and lower leg for about 30 minutes. It worked. The inflammation went down right away and it didnt feel hot anymore. I did this again the second day, and my leg returned to normal by the third day.

Caution, though. If you do this and don’t get noticeable results within an hour or two of the first application, do seek medical care. If it’s hot and tender, definitely go to an urgent care or the emergency department. People have been hospitalized for cellulitis.

Vinegar to Remove Dry Skin

One outcome of treating the cellulitis was that the some of the vinegar dripped down to my foot. After 30 minutes of that, my dry, “summer foot” callouses began to break down. After scrubbing them with a washcloth to remove the vinegar-saturated, calloused skin, I was down to nice, soft skin on my feet. Compared to using lotion, which often took several applications, over several days, resulting in only partial softening the vinegar worked in less than an hour.

I’ve noticed, also, that anytime I work with vinegar, my hands are softer. And that’s better than using chemical laden lotions.

Vinegar as Pet Wash and Flea Killer

Like most cats, Mr. Mooo hates baths, so, we keep this torture as short as possible. This is as much for our benefit as his – he’s been known to draw blood the longer he’s kept wet. Judging from his angry eyes and iron grip on the edge of the sink (if not my arm,) I’m sure he hates this, but it cleans him nicely and leaves his fur extra soft.

While he rarely has fleas, we found that washing him with plain white vinegar kills any fleas he does have, immediately. They fall off easily during rinsing.

While, even with a thorough rinsing, he might smell vinegary for a while, the smell goes away completely once he’s dry. It also rinses off much easier than pet shampoo, so he, and we, are in and out much faster. And if he gets away before he’s completely rinsed, the vinegar won’t hurt him. I don’t know how licking off shampoo would affect cats, but it can’t be or taste good.

If you’re camping or RVing and have to wash your pets, especially outside, white vinegar is a godsend. No one’s going to care if you rinse a vinegar soaked dog in a river, or from a hose in the camping area.

Vinegar IS a weed-killer, so rinse where nothing desirable is growing, like a lawn or flower bed. Most RV slips have patios, dirt or graveled areas where you wouldn’t want weeds growing anyway, so you can knock out two jobs at once this way.

Practical Uses for Vinegar

Vinegar as Weedkiller

Speaking of weed-killer, white vinegar is a perfect choice. It’s natural, so no chemicals. Mix it with some magnesium and your weeds will wilt in about a day, and you’ll do no harm to the environment, people or critters. But, it can also kill off plants and grass that you want to keep, so apply it directly on the weeds you want to kill.

Vinegar to Remove Hard Water Stains

One day my husband decided to clean the shower door with vinegar instead of the chemical products we usually used for this purpose. Hard water is the toughest thing to clean in a shower, but white vinegar makes it a snap to clean off.

He was amazed at how easily and thoroughly it cleaned everything. It’s even easier when you use one of those Mr. Clean white sponges. But even with a regular or scrubber sponge, it works so nicely that I wonder how commercial products ever made it to the shelves. No chemicals, no smells, no fumes. And it disinfects, too.

Vinegar for Cleaning the Stove 

Easy-off and similar products clean ovens, stove tops, grills, very nicely. But they give off toxic fumes, and an RV is so small a space that everyone has to get out if they want to breathe safely.

On the other hand, good old white vinegar can cut right through those burnt spots. Well, not right through, but spray it with vinegar and let it sit a while. Then scrub it off with a scrubber sponge or a Mr. Clean sponge. If it doesn’t come off right away, spray the stubborn spot down then warm the oven or microwave before scrubbing to soften those stubborn stains.

Vinegar for Cleaning Burnt Pans

We’ve all burned something while cooking, then get frustrated about how to clean it up. Vinegar is excellent for loosening burnt on foods. Pour a layer of vinegar, enough to cover the burned-on area, and simmer it for a few minutes. Let it sit for an hour, then scrub it off. Heating it usually works when you need a bit more cleaning power.

Vinegar for Cleaning the RV’s Black Tank

Most of us use the bacteria solutions in our black tanks, but sometimes that’s not enough. About once a month we pour a gallon of cleaning vinegar into the tank to help break down whatever solids that are stuck to the tank. Because vinegar kills bacteria, pouring the usual tank solution with bacteria would be a waste of that product, so save it for the next time you flush the tank.

Vinegar for Cleaning Respiratory Equipment

If you use any type of respiratory equipment at home, you may wonder about the best way to clean it. This equipment can range from nebulizers for breathing treatments, to CPAP machines, to oxygen concentrators, and anything you reuse.

I’m a retired respiratory therapist (RT) and, at one time, owned a medical equipment company. I’m disappointed in how things have changed over the years. It used to be that an RT came to your home and showed you how to assemble, disassemble and clean this equipment. But lately, the trend is toward just delivering the equipment via UPS or FedEx, assuming you will read and understand the instructions. That is, if they’re even included.

The good news is that cleaning this equipment isn’t difficult. Just disassemble the pieces of the nebulizer, or water bottle for the concentrator, or CPAP, or whatever equipment you reuse for any type of treatment. Pay close attention to how the pieces go together so that you can re-assemble them easily.

Then soak them in white vinegar mixed with water for about 30 minutes. Then rinse them and lay them on a paper towel to dry before reassembling them. Hang tubings so they can drain and dry faster. Alternatively, reassemble them and run the equipment so that the airflow dries the insides of the tubes, nebulizers, bottles, etc.

Distilled water is best, but people have used tap water with no problems. Recommendations vary from using one part vinegar to either three or four parts water (20% to 25% vinegar solution.) While either concentration works, it does matter that you use white or cleaning vinegar and not cider vinegar, because the particles can clog the tiny openings in nebulizers and water-bottle filters.

Hope these tips make your RVing life a little easier and healthier.

Fulltimers in spirit since 1999. We’ve worked from home since 1977 and have plenty to share about that. As a full timer, the ability to work from wherever we take our RV is a survival tactic. Our travels our funded through writings, Udemy.com courses, Shoestring Startup™ business books, teaching courses in working from home or RV, courses in genealogy, and our affiliate sales of similar materials. Our resource pages are accessible through http://www.adhocgroup.net. Everyone can do something, and we’ll help you live healthier by making a living from whatever it is you do, naturally. Full timing was the best decision we ever made. We enjoy a healthier lifestyle and time to give and take according to the opportunities life presents us.

Nine Everyday Uses For Plain Old White Vinegar

Nine Everyday Uses For Plain Old White Vinegar

We all run into situations where we end up using chemical products we don’t want to use. So, it’s nice to know there’s a safer alternative. Trusty old vinegar, especially white vinegar, can solve many of those problems without side effects. Here are nine ways to use it at home.

White Vinegar vs Cider (or other) Vinegar vs Cleaning Vinegar

Not all vinegars are equal. One reason why I specify white vinegar rather than apple cider or other kinds of vinegar is price. White vinegar only costs about $ 2.50 a gallon. Another is because other vinegars have residues in them. The same apple cider vinegar with the “mother” that is so beneficial when consumed, will clog the tiny openings in your nebulizer. It might leave smelly residue on your pets, or particles on your bathroom shower walls or door. Why pay more when white vinegar gives better results?

Most white vinegar is 5% strength. Another product, called cleaning vinegar, is a bit stronger at 6%. Cleaning vinegar has a bit more punch, but watch the price. At $ 5/gallon, it’s not THAT much better. At $ 3/gallon, it’s a deal.

Personal Uses for Vinegar

Vinegar to Prevent Cellulitis

This trick is one I figured out when my lower leg flared up on a weekend when the doctors’ offices were closed. I’d had cellulitis before and didn’t want it to progress to the infection stage. But it wasn’t worth a trip to the emergency room, either.

I figured that it couldn’t hurt to try the vinegar treatment – better that than do nothing. After soaking a dishtowel in vinegar (I could have used any type of vinegar as the residue wouldn’t make a difference,) I wrung it out and wrapped it around my ankle and lower leg for about 30 minutes. It worked. The inflammation went down right away and it didnt feel hot anymore. I did this again the second day, and my leg returned to normal by the third day.

Caution, though. If you do this and don’t get noticeable results within an hour or two of the first application, do seek medical care. If it’s hot and tender, definitely go to an urgent care or the emergency department. People have been hospitalized for cellulitis.

Vinegar to Remove Dry Skin

One outcome of treating the cellulitis was that the some of the vinegar dripped down to my foot. After 30 minutes of that, my dry, “summer foot” callouses began to break down. After scrubbing them with a washcloth to remove the vinegar-saturated, calloused skin, I was down to nice, soft skin on my feet. Compared to using lotion, which often took several applications, over several days, resulting in only partial softening the vinegar worked in less than an hour.

I’ve noticed, also, that anytime I work with vinegar, my hands are softer. And that’s better than using chemical laden lotions.

Vinegar as Pet Wash and Flea Killer

Like most cats, Mr. Mooo hates baths, so, we keep this torture as short as possible. This is as much for our benefit as his – he’s been known to draw blood the longer he’s kept wet. Judging from his angry eyes and iron grip on the edge of the sink (if not my arm,) I’m sure he hates this, but it cleans him nicely and leaves his fur extra soft.

While he rarely has fleas, we found that washing him with plain white vinegar kills any fleas he does have, immediately. They fall off easily during rinsing.

While, even with a thorough rinsing, he might smell vinegary for a while, the smell goes away completely once he’s dry. It also rinses off much easier than pet shampoo, so he, and we, are in and out much faster. And if he gets away before he’s completely rinsed, the vinegar won’t hurt him. I don’t know how licking off shampoo would affect cats, but it can’t be or taste good.

If you’re camping or RVing and have to wash your pets, especially outside, white vinegar is a godsend. No one’s going to care if you rinse a vinegar soaked dog in a river, or from a hose in the camping area.

Vinegar IS a weed-killer, so rinse where nothing desirable is growing, like a lawn or flower bed. Most RV slips have patios, dirt or graveled areas where you wouldn’t want weeds growing anyway, so you can knock out two jobs at once this way.

Practical Uses for Vinegar

Vinegar as Weedkiller

Speaking of weed-killer, white vinegar is a perfect choice. It’s natural, so no chemicals. Mix it with some magnesium and your weeds will wilt in about a day, and you’ll do no harm to the environment, people or critters. But, it can also kill off plants and grass that you want to keep, so apply it directly on the weeds you want to kill.

Vinegar to Remove Hard Water Stains

One day my husband decided to clean the shower door with vinegar instead of the chemical products we usually used for this purpose. Hard water is the toughest thing to clean in a shower, but white vinegar makes it a snap to clean off.

He was amazed at how easily and thoroughly it cleaned everything. It’s even easier when you use one of those Mr. Clean white sponges. But even with a regular or scrubber sponge, it works so nicely that I wonder how commercial products ever made it to the shelves. No chemicals, no smells, no fumes. And it disinfects, too.

Vinegar for Cleaning the Stove 

Easy-off and similar products clean ovens, stove tops, grills, very nicely. But they give off toxic fumes, and an RV is so small a space that everyone has to get out if they want to breathe safely.

On the other hand, good old white vinegar can cut right through those burnt spots. Well, not right through, but spray it with vinegar and let it sit a while. Then scrub it off with a scrubber sponge or a Mr. Clean sponge. If it doesn’t come off right away, spray the stubborn spot down then warm the oven or microwave before scrubbing to soften those stubborn stains.

Vinegar for Cleaning Burnt Pans

We’ve all burned something while cooking, then get frustrated about how to clean it up. Vinegar is excellent for loosening burnt on foods. Pour a layer of vinegar, enough to cover the burned-on area, and simmer it for a few minutes. Let it sit for an hour, then scrub it off. Heating it usually works when you need a bit more cleaning power.

Vinegar for Cleaning the RV’s Black Tank

Most of us use the bacteria solutions in our black tanks, but sometimes that’s not enough. About once a month we pour a gallon of cleaning vinegar into the tank to help break down whatever solids that are stuck to the tank. Because vinegar kills bacteria, pouring the usual tank solution with bacteria would be a waste of that product, so save it for the next time you flush the tank.

Vinegar for Cleaning Respiratory Equipment

If you use any type of respiratory equipment at home, you may wonder about the best way to clean it. This equipment can range from nebulizers for breathing treatments, to CPAP machines, to oxygen concentrators, and anything you reuse.

I’m a retired respiratory therapist (RT) and, at one time, owned a medical equipment company. I’m disappointed in how things have changed over the years. It used to be that an RT came to your home and showed you how to assemble, disassemble and clean this equipment. But lately, the trend is toward just delivering the equipment via UPS or FedEx, assuming you will read and understand the instructions. That is, if they’re even included.

The good news is that cleaning this equipment isn’t difficult. Just disassemble the pieces of the nebulizer, or water bottle for the concentrator, or CPAP, or whatever equipment you reuse for any type of treatment. Pay close attention to how the pieces go together so that you can re-assemble them easily.

Then soak them in white vinegar mixed with water for about 30 minutes. Then rinse them and lay them on a paper towel to dry before reassembling them. Hang tubings so they can drain and dry faster. Alternatively, reassemble them and run the equipment so that the airflow dries the insides of the tubes, nebulizers, bottles, etc.

Distilled water is best, but people have used tap water with no problems. Recommendations vary from using one part vinegar to either three or four parts water (20% to 25% vinegar solution.) While either concentration works, it does matter that you use white or cleaning vinegar and not cider vinegar, because the particles can clog the tiny openings in nebulizers and water-bottle filters.

Hope these tips make your RVing life a little easier and healthier.

Nine Everyday Uses For Plain Old White Vinegar

20 Little Known Uses of Frankincense Essential Oil

20 Little Known Uses of Frankincense Essential Oil

From Anxiety to Addiction: The Top 10 Uses of CBD Oil

Scientific research shows that cannabidiol or hemp CBD he is a component of the traditional marijuana, but it lacks the psychoactive effects that are often associated with marijuana use. Cannabidiol oil has ten medical uses that you might not have known.

Digestive Aid

When cannabidiol binds to cannabinoid receptors in a person, it stimulates the individual’s appetite. These receptors play a major role in regulating feeding behavior. Some diseases interfere with the appetite to the extent that they can prevent a patient from recovering, and such patients can benefit from this oil.

Moreover, cannabidiol is good at easing nausea and vomiting. People who are enduring chemotherapy and treatments from serious diseases and are suffering from the conditions can have the most benefit from this compound.

Anxiety Relief

Cannabidiol can also relieve severe social anxiety. In a 2001 study, researchers investigated the effects of this oil on people with generalized social anxiety disorder and confirmed that it significantly reduces anxiety, discomfort in speech performance and cognitive impairment. While the group that used cannabidiol showed great results, the other group showed higher anxiety, discomfort, and cognitive impairment.

Cancer Spread

Research has shown that cannabidiol may have significant protective effect against the development of certain types of cancer. This oil can prevent some types of cancer by inducing the death of tumor cells, controlling and preventing the spread of breast cancer cells, and inhibiting cancer cell growth. According to California Pacific Medical Center, the oil prevents breast cancer cells from traveling to distant tissues by inhibiting ID-1 gene aggression.

Antipsychotic Relief

Cannabidiol also relieves psychotic symptoms that are associated with schizophrenia, researchers at the University of Cologne in Germany have revealed. Schizophrenia affects approximately 1.1 percent of adults in the U.S., making the demand of this compound high.

Diabetes Prevention

In a recent study, the use of this oil led to the prevention of the development of diabetes in nonobese diabetic mice. This happened because it prevented the production of a cytokine that plays a significant role in many autoimmune diseases.

Insomnia

For many people, this compound is the best for those who want drugs that aid sleep. Unlike most drugs, it does not habit forming. A CDB-heavy strain will help you when you need it most.

Acne

This compound can treat acne, according to the Journal of Clinical Investigation. Scientists used cannabis-derived cannabidiol on the sebaceous glands of a human being and discovered that it acts as an efficient sebostatic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Fibromyalgia

The most common treatments for this condition are corticosteroids, opioid pain medications, and anti-inflammatory medications. A 2011 research study indicates that this oil can also treat fibromyalgia. The researchers recruited 56 participants and asked half of them to use cannabidiol and another half to use traditional methods to treat their conditions. All participants who used this oil saw a significant reduction in their symptoms and pain, but the other team did not see much of an improvement.

Crohn’s Disease

Cannabidiol could be very effective at treating bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease. This compound interacts with the systems that regulate gut functions. Its anti-inflammatory abilities inhibit this condition from progressing and ultimately bring a lot of relief to Crohn’s patients.

Cigarette Addiction

Cannabidiol can play a major role in the smoking-withdrawal process. In a double-blind study, 24 smokers received either a placebo or inhaler of cannabidiol, and they were asked to take a puff every time they craved for a cigarette. Over the week, those who were taking the cannabidiol inhaler registered a nearly 40 percent drop in their intake, while the rest saw no change in the number of cigarettes they consumed.

From Anxiety to Addiction: The Top 10 Uses of CBD Oil

15 Amazing Uses of Himalayan Salt You’ve Never Heard Before

15 Amazing Uses of Himalayan Salt You’ve Never Heard Before

101 Science-Backed Uses of Coconut Oil

The benefits of coconut oil have been proven by almost 2,000 studies. But most people only know the obvious benefits like balancing hormones or moisturizing skin. In this article, I will share 101 powerful benefits of this superfood.

Coconut oil health and wellness uses

1. Teeth and bones: Research shows coconut oil strengthens bones and teeth since enhances absorption of calcium and magnesium.

2. Breastfeeding: Taking 3 tablespoons of coconut oil daily increases milk in breastfeeding moms.

3. Insulin: It helps regulate blood sugar levels since it increases secretion of insulin.

4. Prevent nose bleeding: Coconut oil can help prevent nose bleeding caused by extreme heat or cold.

5. Reduce stress: Massaging your head with coconut oil can relief stress and fatigue.

6. Aid Digestion: Coconut oil eliminates digestive problems because it contains saturated fats help regulate fungi and bacteria in the gut.

7. Weight loss: Taking this oil helps regulate appetite thus promoting weight loss.

8. Better nutrient absorption: It increases the bioavailability of vitamins and minerals.

9. Boost Metabolism: Research shows coconut oil boosts metabolism and fat burning.

10. Improve thyroid function: People with thyroid disorder can benefit from taking coconut oil.

11. Treat a sore throat:  Taking a teaspoon of coconut oil three times a day can treat sore throats and coughs.

12. Nausea: Rubbing this oil on your forearm and inside of the wrist can fight stomach upset.

13. Improve gum health: Coconut oil pulling heals gum bleeding.

14. Cognition and productivity: Coconut oil is a source of energy that can improve cognition and productivity.

Coconut oil body and hygiene uses

15. Soften skin: Mixing coconut oil with salt and rubbing it on the skin will make it soft and smooth.

16. Remove age spots: You can fade age spots by applying coconut oil  2-3 times a day.

17. Bug bites: Apply coconut oil on bug bites to reduce itchiness and enhance healing.

18. Dandruff: Coconut oil moisturizes the scalp and removes dandruff. It also prevents oiliness in the scalp, which causes dandruff.

19. After shave: Coconut oil can be used as an after shave. It helps heal the skin and doesn’t clog pores.

20. Eye cream: Applying coconut oil on the eyelids can reduce wrinkles, puffiness, and bags.

21. Straighten hair: Rubbing it on the hair thoroughly can make it straight and wavy.

22. Treat burns: Apply it on burns to help them heal faster and prevent scars.

23. Bruises: Heals bruises and reduces swelling.

24. Lip balm: Can be used to soften and protect the lips.

25. Cradle cap: It will nourish your baby’s skin and help eliminate cradle cap.

26. Deodorant: You can use coconut oil as a deodorant.

27. Lubrication: Coconut oil can be a sex or masturbation lubricant.

28. Nipple cream: It can be used to treat dry or sore nipples.

29. Massage oil: Simply apply it on your palms and rub.

30. Treat acne: Applying it on the skin can treat acne.

31. Skin problems: It can eliminate skin problems like dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

32. Remove makeup: Coconut oil does a great job rubbing off makeup.

33. Treat sunburns: Apply it on the affected area to relief sunburns.

34. Toothpaste: You can make toothpaste by mixing coconut oil with baking soda.

35. Stretch marks: Reduces stretch marks but doesn’t eliminate them completely.

36. Heal tattoos: Coconut oil helps heal and moisturize fresh tattoos.

37. Prevents and treats wrinkles

38. Treat infected ears: Apply 2-3 times a day.

39. Helps heal and repair damaged tissues.

40. Pre-shave: Applying it before shaving can prevent pimples and infections.

41. Sunscreen: It has small amounts of sun protection factor.

42. Wash your face: Apply it on your face then wash it off after 2 minutes.

43. Prevents hair loss

Coconut oil and topical health issues

44. Treat fever allergies

45. Reduces muscle soreness: Apply on a sore muscle.

46. Relief lower back pain

47. Heal athletes foot

48. Treat acne

49. Remove Warts: Apply it on the wart 3-4 times a day.

50. Reduce herpes symptoms

51. Treat pink eye: Apply around the eye.

52. Reduce itchiness

53. Remove congestion

54. Reduce cellulite

55. Apply on boils

56. Circumcision healing

57. Removes toenail fungus

58. Head lice

59. Treat gum disease

Coconut oil internal health uses

60. Reduce asthma symptoms

61. Better bowel movement

63. Prevent breast and colon cancer

64. Treats depression: Especially when combined with omega 3s.

65. Regulate blood sugar

66. Reduce epileptic seizures

67. Reduce gas and bloating

68. Cholesterol: It reduces bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol.

69. Treat adrenal and chronic fatigue

70. Prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s (study)

71. Reduce autism symptoms

72. Treat candida

73. Better circulation

74. Treat colds and flu

75. Strengthen immune system

76. Treat lung disease (study)

77. Treat liver disease

78. Prevent migraines

79. Reduce ulcers symptoms

80. Prevent tooth decay

81. Treat pancreatitis

82. Prostate enlargement

83. Dissolve kidney stones

84. Eliminate brain fog

85. Reduce menstrual pain and cramps

86. Treat hemorrhoids

87. Treat Jaundice

88. Prevent throat infections

More coconut oil uses

89. Insect repellent

90. Homemade Exfoliator

91. Anti-fungal cream

92. Vapor rub and cold remedy

93. Diaper rash guard

94. Gives youthful glow

95. Reduce cracked heels dryness

96. Laundry detergent

97. Remove gum from furniture or hair

98. Shoe shiner

99. Fight inflammation

100. Prevent bone loss

101. Treat sick pets

Bonus: Prolong freshness of eggs –Applying it on egg shells prolongs the life of eggs.

For more information on staying healthy and improving your physique, get the 2-MINUTE ritual that melts belly fat. And don’t forget to like our Facebook page.

101 Science-Backed Uses of Coconut Oil

Top 15 Terrific Uses for Tea Tree Essential Oil

Top 15 Terrific Uses for Tea Tree Essential Oil

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum), A common Food Spice that offers A Long List of Traditional Uses

Clove is one of the highly prized spices, native to the Maluku islands in Indonesia. The spice actually is dried aromatic flower buds of an evergreen rainforest tree in the family Myrtaceae, Sygizium aromaticum

It is available throughout the year and commercially harvested primarily in Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Zanzibar. It is widely recognized all over the world for its medicinal properties and culinary qualities.

The spice is widely used in Asian, Middle-East, and African cuisines in the preparation of curries, gravy items, and marinades. It is used along with other spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper in the cooking of Biryani (spiced rice).

Clove essential oil is used as an active ingredient in cosmetic products and the healing of many disorders. In the Middle East, it is added to beverages, at times along with cardamom and peppermint.

Clove has been used for thousands of years in India, China, and South East Asia, not only as a spice and condiment but also as a remedial herb for many ailments. Ayurvedic practitioners, for instance, use clove for tooth decay, halitosis, and bad breath, among others. In Traditional Chinese medicine, clove is considered an aphrodisiac.

Scientists have determined and isolated many bioactive compounds from clove, including (but not limited to) phenolic compounds: flavonoids, eugenol, hydroxybenzoic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, and hydroxyphenyl propene; phenolic acids: gallic acids and its derivatives, hydrolyzable tannins; and other phenolic acids: caffeic, ferulic, ellagic and salicylic acids. Flavonoids found in lower concentration in cloves, including kaempferol, and quercetin and its derivates (glycosylated) .

Clove flower buds contain up to 18% of essential oils, which comprises, eugenol, eugenol acetate, humulene, geranyl acetate, and caryophyllene oxide. Other volatile compounds present in lower concentrations in clove essential oil are beta-pinene, farnesol, limonene, benzaldehyde, 2-heptanone and ethyl hexanoate.

Clove is considered as an important medicinal plant due to the wide range of pharmacological effects owed to its traditional uses for centuries and reports in literature.

Health Benefits 

Digestive: Clove aids digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes. It is also used to alleviate flatulence, gastric irritability, dyspepsia, and nausea. Roasted powdered clove is usually taken with honey as a remedy to relief digestive disorders.
Antibacterial: Clove found to have 29 phytochemicals with antibacterial properties against a number of pathogens including specific bacteria that spreads cholera.
Anti-carcinogenic: Clove really attracts the attention of scientists for its anti-carcinogenic properties. A study demonstrated that clove may be helpful in controlling lung cancer in its early stages.
Hepatoprotective: Metabolism, in the long run, results in increased free radical levels. Antioxidants prevent free radical induced tissue damage by preventing the formation of radicals, scavenging them, or by promoting their decomposition. Clove offers a high amount of antioxidants which may be beneficial in protecting organs from the detrimental effects of free radicals, including the liver.
Anti-diabetic: Consuming cloves on daily basis may be beneficial in regulating blood sugar in diabetics. A study has revealed that clove extract imitates insulin in certain ways and help in controlling blood sugar levels.
Anti-osteoporotic: Phenolic compounds in clove such as eugenol and its derivatives, and bioflavonoids including flavones and isoflavones have been particularly found to be helpful in preserving bone density and the mineral content of bone, as well as increasing tensile strength of bones.
Anti-Mutagenic: Mutagens is defined as chemical compounds that change the genetic makeup of the DNA by causing mutations. Biochemical compounds found in cloves such as phenylpropanoids shown to have anti-mutagenic properties. When administered to cells treated with mutagens, they were found to be able to control the mutagenic effects.
Immunostimulant: A study showed that clove essential oil stimulated the immune system by increasing the white blood cell count, thereby improving delayed type hypersensitivity. The study also demonstrated that it restored cellular and humoral responses in cyclophosphamide-immunosuppressed mice in a dose-dependant manner.
Hypocholesterolemic: One clove study found that a daily dose of cloves lowered cholesterol while improving insulin performance.

Antiviral: Dr. James A Duke in his ethnobotanical database shows that clove contains 21 phytochemicals that may act as antiviral. Taking clove tea either alone or combined with other antiviral herbs such as thyme, rosemary, cinnamon or neem may help in shortening of the flu or colds duration.

Reverse atherosclerotic plaque
Speaking about cholesterol-lowering and antioxidant properties of clove, I would like to share a little tip on how to possibly reverse atherosclerotic plaque in arteries in our body especially those located in the brain, heart, penis and feet.
Take 1 teaspoon of clove powder, 1 teaspoon of ghee or pure butter along with 1 teaspoon of pure pomegranate juice. Pomegranate syrup may also be used.
Traditional uses
Clove either alone or combined with other herbs can be used traditionally to treat candidiasis, bad breath, toothache, wounds, dental abscesses, muscle sprains, painful ejaculation, cholera, gingivitis, cold, cramps, cough, bloating, gastroenteritis, emphysema, diabetes, osteoporosis, stye (hordeolum), acid reflux, attitude sickness, typhoid, scanty menses, flu, grey hair, insect bites, entamoeba, schistosomiasis, sore throat, asthma, stomachache, headache, nausea, vomiting, fever, indigestion, and coryza.

Other traditional uses include relieving diarrhea, pneumonia, premature ejaculation, fatigue, lower back pain, sinusitis, phlegm, headache, hematemesis, acid reflux, bronchitis, irritable bowel syndrome, dizziness, and yellow teeth.

Note: Most of the traditional uses of clove in the aforementioned list can be found by browsing various alternative healing websites owned by Indian herbal practitioners or holistic health advocates.

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum), A common Food Spice that offers A Long List of Traditional Uses

15 Uses For Healthcare FSA Money

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15 Uses For Healthcare FSA Money

All-party group calls for legalisation of cannabis for medicinal uses

Cannabis should be made legal in Britain for medicinal uses, according to a cross-party group of MPs and peers who led an inquiry into the drug’s potential to help patients.

The recommendation from the group chaired by Lady Meacher would put the UK in line with at least 11 other European countries and 24 US states where laws already allow people to use the drug to alleviate chronic pain and other symptoms.

In a report published on Tuesday, the group calls on the government to introduce a system that grants people access to cannabis for medical reasons, and to decriminalise the growing of small amounts at home for the same purposes.

The group took evidence from more than 600 patients and medical professionals on the use of cannabis as a medicine and commissioned a consultant neurologist, Prof Mike Barnes, to review published research on the drug’s potential to alleviate medical problems.

His review found “good evidence” that cannabis can help with chronic pain, muscle spasms often associated with multiple sclerosis, the management of anxiety, and nausea and vomiting, particularly when caused as a side-effect of chemotherapy.

The inquiry heard that scores of patients had sought out cannabis to relieve their symptoms even though it was illegal, and that users often found it impossible to get expert medical guidance or supervision as to how they should take the drug. The report claims 30,000 people in the UK use cannabis as a medicine, but adds that the figure could be as high as 1 million, according to the campaign group End Our Pain.

“In Professor Barnes’s report we now have irrefutable evidence that cannabis is an effective medicine for very large numbers of people,” Meacher told the Guardian. “These are people who are suffering the most appalling chronic illness involving severe neuropathic pain, interminable nausea, and anxiety, and all these conditions can be helped, not in every case, but in many cases where prescribed medicines do not work or because there are such appalling side-effects that the person is worse off with prescribed medicine than without.

“About 30,000 patients in the UK currently risk arrest and in some cases are being arrested for buying their medicine from illegal drug dealers, and that is an appalling state of affairs,” Meacher added. “This money goes to drug dealers and terrorists, and we could avoid putting this money into the hands of these people by legalising cannabis for medicinal uses.”

The report, Access to Medicinal Cannabis: Meeting Patient Needs, from the all-party parliamentary group for drug policy reform, challenges the government’s classification of cannabis under schedule 1, which is reserved for drugs that have no recognised medicinal uses. Under the scheme, the production, possession and supply of cannabis, along with LSD and mescaline, is allowed only for research and other special purposes.

Caroline Lucas, the co-leader of the Green party and an author of the report, said: “The case for legalising the production and use of medicinal cannabis is overwhelming. Doing so would give immediate relief to people in pain, and the evidence from around the world shows that it can be done without increasing drug-related harms.”

David Nutt, formerly the government’s chief drugs adviser and now a professor of neuropsychopharmacology at Imperial College London, said it was “outrageous” that the government had “dragged its heels” over legalising cannabis for medicinal uses. The pursuit of patients who used the drug to alleviate pain and other symptoms caused harm and wasted vast amounts of taxpayers’ money in police and court time, he added.

“Cannabis has been a medicine for more than 4,000 years, and in the UK was in the pharmacopoeia until 1971 when the USA forced us to remove it as part of the war on drugs. Now, over 200 million Americans have access to medicinal cannabis whereas we do not,” Nutt said.

Mark Ware, a medical cannabis researcher at McGill University in Montreal, said that if the UK was serious about legalising medicinal cannabis, it would do well to learn from the Canadian legal framework.

“We have encountered many of the issues that the UK will inevitably face,” he said, citing the supply of quality-controlled cannabis with a choice of varieties and routes of administration, education on using the drug, and health risks. “Medical cannabis access is an issue that should be faced head-on, openly and collaboratively,” he said. “It is not an issue that patients or health professionals can afford to ignore.”

All-party group calls for legalisation of cannabis for medicinal uses

10+ Great Health Benefits and Uses of Flaxseed

Some people regard flaxseed as one of the most amazing plant foods on earth. There’s proof that it may help lessen the risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and cancer. That is quite something for a tiny seed, especially during the 8th century when King Charlemagne put his faith in the health benefits of flaxseed that he ordered his subjects to consume the beneficial seeds.

Flaxseed could be the world’s first superfood, and it has been around since 3,000 BC. Many centuries later, many of modern foods contain flaxseeds. In Canada and the U.S. in 2010 alone, at least 300 new flaxseed-based goods were created. The consumer demand for flaxseed-based products has increased significantly, together with its agricultural use.

Flaxseeds are sometimes called linseeds. They are small and are tan or brown in color. The tiny seeds are the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, and the top source of lignans, which provide one of the best antioxidant benefits for cellular heath, hormone balance, and anti-aging.

Flaxseed Health Benefits

While flaxseed benefits cannot be conclusively established, research shows that flaxseed may decrease the risks of acquiring certain cancers as well as lung and cardiovascular diseases.

Helpful Weight Loss Aid

A study published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that flaxseeds can help a lot in weight loss. Flaxseed has plenty of fiber and beneficial fats that can make you feel full for a long time. You consume fewer calories which could help you lose weight in no time.

Also, the amazing seeds have mucilage gum content in high levels. Mucilage can help the stomach keep the food for a longer time and boost nutrient absorption. Flax is also rich in insoluble and soluble fiber that can reduce cravings for sugar, aid in fat loss, and promote colon detoxification.

Defensive Effect Against Cancer

Flaxseed may provide a defensive effect against prostate cancer, colon cancer, and breast cancer as recent studies have suggested. There are at least two components of flaxseed that seem to fight cancer.

In animal studies, the flaxseed’s omega-3 fatty acid known as ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) slowed down the growth and incidence of tumor. The lignans may also have provided some sort of protection to counter cancer.

Hinder Cardiovascular Disease

Diets that are rich in flaxseed omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent the build-up of plaque deposit in the arteries. It can also inhibit the hardening of the arteries. The omega-3 fatty acids may also help maintain the natural rhythm of the heart as well as treat arrhythmia or the irregular beating of the heart.

Lower Cholesterol Levels

The Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism found out that incorporating flaxseeds in your daily diet can reduce cholesterol levels naturally. The fat and cholesterol get trapped by the soluble fiber, which the flaxseeds contain. The trapped fat and cholesterol won’t be absorbed into your body.

The soluble fiber can also trap bile, which is the product of cholesterol in the gallbladder. The digestive system excretes the bile, and drive the body to produce more bile. The extra cholesterol found in the blood is used to produce bile. As the excess cholesterol in being used, the overall cholesterol level diminishes.

Improve Blood Sugar Levels  

Preliminary research also insinuates that regular consumption of lignans that are found in flaxseed may fairly make your blood sugar level better.

Decrease Inflammation

Flaxseed’s lignans and ALA may diminish the swelling that comes with certain illnesses like asthma and Parkinson’s disease. The two components in flaxseed can help block the discharge of agents that can cause the swelling.

Alleviate Menopausal Symptoms

In 2007, a published study reported that a group of women in their menopausal stage were able to cut the occurrence of their hot flashes in half by mixing 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds in their yogurt, drinks, or cereal two times a day. These women also noted that the hot flashes they experienced became less intense. They noticed improvement after consuming the flaxseeds in a week and they were able to enjoy the maximum benefits of flaxseeds within two weeks.

More Uses

If you want to have healthy nails and skin as well as shiny hair, then include 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil to your everyday routine or consider mixing 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds to your smoothie or drinks. The flaxseeds can give your hair and skin the healthy glow that they need, all thanks to the presence of B-vitamins and essential fats in flaxseeds.

Flaxseeds have no gluten and they are a great grain-free option in cooking. Individuals who suffer from Celiac disease or are sensitive to gluten will benefit a lot from using flaxseeds.

Sources: foodrevolution.org, medicalnewstoday.com, draxe.com

READ MORE BY AUTHOR ALEX JORDON.

10+ Great Health Benefits and Uses of Flaxseed

Usain Bolt uses homeopathy for sports injuries- you can too

Usain Bolt uses homeopathy for sports injuries. Bolt has used homeopathic remedies since he was 16 years old. When he injured a hamstring in July of 2016, Usain Bolt withdrew from the Olympic trials. Using homeopathic remedies, Usain was able to heal his hamstring and go on to win numerous Olympic Medals in the Rio Olympic Games of 2016, including his third consecutive gold medal in the 100-meter race, just one month after his injury.

About Usain Bolt and homeopathic treatment for hamstring injury

Usain Bolt is an Olympic Gold medalist from Jamaica. In July 2016, he was diagnosed with a grade 1 tear of his hamstring muscle. One month after homeopathic treatment, he was able to compete and win Olympic gold medals. His treatment was conducted by Dr. Hans-Wilheim Muller-Wohlfahrt. Usain Bolt has been a patient at this clinic since he was 16. Because Bolt was born with a spinal curvature called scoliosis, he has often developed back pain needing treatment. Dr. Muller-Wohlfahrt specializes in sports medicine and is the doctor to many other famous athletes, including Boris Becker and the German Football (soccer) team.

Common homeopathic remedies for sports injuries

ARNICA

Arnica is the most common remedy used for acute sport injuries. Arnica is of particular use when there is swelling or bruising. Arnica can be used in low potencies every 15 minutes, or until bruising is reduced.

BELLIS PERENNIS

For deeper bruising, Bellis perennis can be useful. This remedy is also useful for tearing of muscles.

LEDUM

Ledum is the remedy of choice when the bruising is black or to treat sprained ankles. This remedy is especially indicated if the injured area feels cold but is made worse by the application of heat. The person needing Ledum is often relieved by the application of ice to the injury.

NUX VOMICA

Nux vomica can be used to treat stiffness after muscle overuse. Stiffness and overuse injuries are well treated by Nux vomica.

Usain Bolt and homeopathy

Arnica, Ledum, Bellis and Nux are likely remedies that Usain Bolt used in recovering from his torn hamstring. Homeopathy has a long history in clinical use for sports injuries.

About the author:

Melanie Grimes, CCH, is a writer, health educator and homeopath. She is a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists. She has taught at Bastyr University and lectured internationally. Follow her blog at MelanieGrimes.com. To order professional quality vitamins, visit her online vitamin shop at https://www.healthwavehq.com/welcome/mgrimes.

Sources include:

https://homeopathyresource.wordpress.com/2016/08/19/sprinter-usain-bolt-bounces-back-from-injury-with-the-aid-of-homeopathy-to-win-gold/

https://drjafersadiq.wordpress.com/2016/08/10/why-do-world-famous-athletes-use-homeopathy/

http://usainbolt.com

http://olympics.cbc.ca/news/article/usain-bolt-wins-200-gold-andre-grasse-gets-silver.html

Usain Bolt uses homeopathy for sports injuries- you can too

Oregano: Top 8 Specific Health Benefits and Healing Uses of This Herb

As a great herb that has lots of medicinal properties, oregano popularly used in many dishes all over the world, it adds savor to your food and especially goes well with eggplant, tomatoes and all kinds of meat. What’s more, regular consumption of oregano also helpful for you overall health.

Here are top natural health benefits of oregano you should keep in mind:

1-Full of Vitamins and Minerals

Oregano is rich in vitamin K, which is a very important vitamin for both brain function and bone health. It’s also high in several essential minerals, including iron and manganese. So oregano is one such tasty and healthy herb you should include into your diet, feel free to buy some and enjoy!

2-It’s Super Rich In Fiber

Oregano is rich in fiber. It’s said that “Fiber is king”! It’s not only boosts weight loss, prevents heart disease, also has other potential benefits such as: controls blood sugar, treats skin problems, lower the risk of hemorrhoids, reduce kidney stones and gallstones.

3-It Has God Anti-viral and Anti-bacterial Properties

With anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, oregano provides protection against several infections that caused by viruses and bacteria, such as colds, flu, mumps as well as other issues that caused by viruses.

4-It Protects You Against Fungal Infections

This is because of its anti-fungal properties. So it’s highly recommended to use oregano oil regularly, both internally and externally to prevent fungal infections.

5-Oregano Offers Rich Antioxidants

According to a research:

“…On a per gram fresh weight basis, oregano has demonstrated 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples, 30 times more than potatoes, 12 times more than oranges and 4 times more than blueberries.”

One of the most important antioxidants in oregano is rosmarinic acid, which is very strong to support your immune system health, thus protecting you against many diseases.

6-Anti-inflammatory Properties

Oregano is useful for relieving any type of inflammation, both internal and external due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

7-Oregano Aids in Digestion

It’s recommended to use oregano oil as a digestive aid, as it’s well known for its ability to stimulate the flow of bile into the digestive organs, thus enhancing the digestive process.

8-It Combats Aging

It’s rich in antioxidants, while aging is largely the effect of oxidation and free radicals. That’s why oregano is so effective to support graceful aging.

Sources: healthdiaries.com, globalhealingcenter.com, antioxidants-for-health-and-longevity.com

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Oregano: Top 8 Specific Health Benefits and Healing Uses of This Herb

41+ Medicinal Uses & Benefits of Coconut Oil

A large number of research studies on coconut oil has revealed health benefits that affect our entire body, inside and out. Coconut oil’s main fat is lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid that positively affect our cholesterol levels. It is a great source of vitamins E and K, and iron, and has both antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It has many health benefits, medicinal uses, and some other uses.

41+ Medicinal Uses & Benefits of Coconut Oil

-Boosts energy and endurance, enhancing physical strength.
-Helps protect against kidney disease and bladder infections.
-Helps dissolves in kidney stones.
-Act as a chemical barrier on the skin to ward off an infection.
-Reduces symptoms associated with eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
-Maintains a natural chemical balance of the skin.
-Softens skin and helps relieve dryness.
-Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots.
-Keep healthy looking hair and complexion.
-Protect skin from ultraviolet radiation coming from the sun.
-Helps control dandruff.
-Cure liver disease.

Read: DIY Homemade Toothpaste Reverses Gums Disease & Whitens Teeth Naturally

-It is lower in calories than all other fats.
-Good for thyroid function.
-Coconut oil has no harmful side effects.
-Is completely non-toxic to humans.
-Repair and heal damage tissue.
-Boost immune system function.
-Improves digestion and bowel function.
-Relieves pain and irritation caused by hemorrhoids.
-Help in reducing inflammation.
-Helpful in gallbladder disease.
-Relieves in Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers.
-Kills fungi and yeasts that cause ringworm, athlete’s foot, diaper rash, and other infections.
-Kills tapeworms, lice, and other parasites.
-Provides a nutritional source of quick energy.
-Helps to prevent obesity and overweight problems.
-Coconut oil improves cholesterol ratio reducing a risk of heart disease.

Read: Chia Seeds: REVERSE Depression, Reduce Blood Sugar Spikes, Fight Cancer & Boost Energy

-Helps to prevent periodontal disease, toothache, and tooth decay.
-Best as a protective antioxidant.
-Protect from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease.
-Does not deplete the body’s antioxidant reserves like other oils do.
-Improves utilization of essential fatty acids and protects them from oxidation.
-Helps to in chronic fatigue syndrome.
-Kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS.
-Kills bacteria that cause ulcers throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum disease and cavities, pneumonia and other diseases.
-Reduce health risks associated with diabetes.
-Helpful malabsorption syndrome and cystic fibrosis.
-Improves calcium and magnesium absorption and supports the development of healthy bones and teeth.
-Protect against osteoporosis.
-Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Read: Why Diabetics Love Quinoa? How to Prepare Quinoa For Diabetics?

-Coconut oil improves insulin secretion and stabilize of blood glucose.
-Relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body.
-Reduces epileptic seizures.
-Protect the body from breast, colon, and other cancers.
-Soften and deodorize your feet.
-Coconut oil can prevent nose bleeding
-Improvements in menstruation regarding pain
-May relieve acid reflux and indigestion when taken with each meal

Sources:

–http://www.swansonvitamins.com/blog/natural-health-tips/using-coconut-oil

–http://healthimpactnews.com/2011/80-uses-for-coconut-oil/

–http://greatist.com/health/genius-ways-to-use-coconut-oil

-http://everydayroots.com/coconut-oil-uses

41+ Medicinal Uses & Benefits of Coconut Oil

Prime 8 Advantages And Uses Of Pomegranate Seed Oil For Your Skin

Made by cold pressing the pomegranate seeds, pomegranate seed oil is packed with a lot of nutrients and is employed both internally and externally for its medicinal properties. It is really well-liked been employed for skin care, as an wonderful ingredient in numerous skin care merchandise, pomegranate seed oil is useful for skin and health in a lot of methods:

one. Prevents skin aging

Pomegranate seed oil has powerful anti-inflammatory properties thanks to the punicic acid and omega 5 fatty acid. This makes it fight towards totally free radicals hence avoiding skin aging.

2. Heals dry skin

Pomegranate seed oil is ideal for dry skin, as it absorbs deeply into the skin and will moisturize your skin properly.

3. Prevents skin infections

If you are struggling from some skin infections such as eczema and psoriasis, consider to use pomegranate seed oil. With very good anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, it aids you deal with these skin infections.

4. Makes your scalp healthier

Pomegranate seed oil soothes and combats the scalp bacteria due to its antipruritic properties. It also works fantastic to balance the PH level of the scalp, which will reduce the hair greasiness and stimulate the hair follicles.

5. Repairs wounds

Application of pomegranate seed oil can aid restore skin cuts and wounds. It has been found to fix cuts and other types of breaks on the skin speedily and no scars will be left thanks to its strong properties.

6. Keeps skin smooth

Pomegranate seed oil is packed with iron, an crucial mineral that assists soak up oxygen. And oxygen is carried to the skin cells, this will make skin seem smooth and fresh.

seven. A very good oil for oil cleansing

Oil cleansing is a fantastic way to cleanse your face and make your skin healthier. Pomegranate seed oil is wealthy in flavonoids and punicic acid to deeply nourish the epidermal layer of your skin. For oil cleansing, combine pomegranate seed oil with other oils for better outcomes, some oils such as coconut oi, sesame oil, avocado oil, olive oil and castor oil are all functioning nicely.

8. Prevents skin cancer

As pomegranate seed oil has powerful anti-oxidant and anti-tumor selling properties, when applying it to the skin, it could inhibit the development of skin cancer.

When utilizing pomegranate seed oil, make sure to pick the natural natural ones, which are often safer and a lot more effective to use. It can be used alone and also mixed with other oils and then utilized to the skin.

And even pomegranate seed is an superb ingredient for skin care. Here is a wonderful shower scrub recipe you can make at home to make your skin soft and smooth:

Components:

• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil


• 2 tablespoons coconut or turbinado sugar


• two tablespoons raw honey


• 1 tablespoon ground pomegranate seeds


• 1 teaspoon finely grated natural orange peel


• one teaspoon rose water

Combine all elements in a glass bowl and mix effectively with a wooden spoon.

When you have a shower, apply this mixture on your skin and massage gently. Then rinse with warm water.

Sources:
1)http://www.3fatchicks.com/3-elegance-advantages-of-pomegranate/
two)http://www.onegreenplanet.org/life style/how-use-pomegranates-on-your-skin/
three)http://www.care2.com/greenliving/homemade-pomegranate-beauty-scrub.html

Prime 8 Advantages And Uses Of Pomegranate Seed Oil For Your Skin

Roz Chast Uses Dark Humor To Cope With Aging Parents

In her memoir, “Can not we speak about anything a lot more PLEASANT?” Roz Chast confronts the cruel realities of very sophisticated old-age. Copyright Roz Chast 2014

Individuals who come from a family members in which no ever dies really do not have to fret about a parent’s finish-of-lifestyle care. For everyone else, there’s Roz Chast.

In her newest book, Cannot we talk about anything a lot more PLEASANT? the prolific author and cartoonist for The New Yorker magazine chronicles how she coped with her parents’ outdated age. Her brutally sincere memoir covers all the troubles – from dementia and incontinence to the large monetary and emotional toll. We empathize with her nightmare, welcome the occasional comic relief and recognize that we are not alone.

Readers will understand here the nerdy, worrywart characters who populate Chast’s droll cartoons, but this is not, at its heart, a humorous book.

Like so several other infant boomers, Chast lived in denial about outdated age for a prolonged time. She and her husband moved to Connecticut, from Brooklyn, NY, and for eleven years her mothers and fathers came to check out the family they were raising, rather than the reverse.

Her efforts in among to manage the circumstance by phone will resonant with any person who’s ever been there, accomplished that. In one particular call, she finds out that her mother, who is recovering from cataract surgical treatment, drove to the supermarket with a patch above her eye. In yet another, her elderly mother and father inform her that they can’t use the area heater she sent them simply because it has a three-prong plug.

Bit by bit, Chast realizes that they are going downhill. But currently being a cartoonist, she uses photos – not just words – to portray this: An elderly couple sitting on a sofa connected to skis, descending a mountain, whilst their daughter watches in utter panic and careens down a faraway hill. Chast, who is an only child, assumes a more active role. By this time the two mothers and fathers are 93, her mom has fallen several times and her father is showing signs of dementia.

Chast calls in an elder attorney – an individual who, as she says, specializes “in the two things that my parents and I discovered it most difficult to talk about: DEATH and Income.” Her dad and mom need to have essential estate organizing paperwork, like a will and an advance directive – a written statement that expresses your wishes about end-of-life care.

As is so usually the case, the actual bone of contention is the power of lawyer – a document that authorizes a trusted loved ones member, good friend or advisor to act as your agent in a assortment of fiscal and legal matters if you turn into incapacitated.

In the worst-situation scenario, it is a license to steal, and Chast’s parents completely value what she describes as the threat that she will abscond with their money and get a drawer of cashmere sweaters. This is not ordinarily a humorous subject, but Chast’s cartoon panels mock them hilariously: An elderly couple hands in excess of a bag of money to their greedy daughter, who promptly directs them to a nursing residence labeled “Trail’s End.”

“I’d heard about a dozen versions of the story above the years. Heartless youngsters, elderly victim-parents,” Chast writes. “It was unhappy to consider about them imagining me waiting in the wings and licking my chops.” Nor did they seem to recognize that if she had “wanted a drawer of goddamn cashmere sweaters,” she could have simply afforded to buy her own.

The downward trajectory accelerates right after a fall leaves her mother hospitalized for two weeks and Chast will take her father home with her to Connecticut. In quick buy she realizes that his senility is worse than she imagined. “Any Florence Nightingale-sort visions I ever had of myself – an unselfish, patient, sweet, caring child who happily tended to her parents in their old age – had been destroyed within an hour or so,” she writes.

The up coming four many years are hell, but by no indicates surprising. With support from kindly neighbors and city Meals on Wheels, she tries to make it feasible for them to “age in area.” They resist hired aid, not wanting “strangers in the apartment.” But they do not want to move to “assisted living” both. Ultimately Chast persuades them to opt for a “trial stay” at a facility close to her Connecticut residence. “The Place,” as she calls it, fees $ 7,500 per month for starters, and about twice that significantly when they each and every call for round-the-clock care.

Left to clean out their grimy, four-space apartment, Chast portrays the detritus in phrases and images. She sketches their collection of canceled and uncanceled bank books going back more than 40 many years, assigning them names like, “Flatbush Scrimper,” “Rainy Day Bank” (its emblem is a closed umbrella), and “You In no way Know Cost savings Financial institution.”

Only photos could do justice to some of the other items she finds. Chast consists of interior shots of the medication cabinet and the refrigerator and views of her outdated bedroom, dealing with a church wall, with piles of papers and books stacked everywhere. It’s a depressing scene that Chast says brings about her to begin searching at her own things “postmortemistcally.”

In the finish, she takes most of the photograph albums all the letters her dad and mom wrote to every single other (like although her father was stationed in New Guinea during Planet War II) and a handful of other things with sentimental worth. She leaves nearly everything else behind for the super to deal with.

Her descriptions of what takes place subsequent, as 1 mother or father, and then the other, dies, is gruesome. It leaves us, along with Chast, doubting whether we want to reside to extremely advanced outdated-age.

While all this is going on, Chast uses the equipment of her trade to record what is occurring. As things deteriorate, her drawings move from whimsical to dark. The closing pages contain a dozen deathbed sketches of her mother and an illustration of the garments closet exactly where she now keeps her parents’ cremains.

Possibly much more heart wrenching for those who have followed and admired Chast’s operate, is her effort to come to terms with her relationship with every single parent. She remembers her father fondly. Not so her overpowering mom – a retired assistant principal in the New York City public colleges who constantly had to be proper about every thing, the two at work and at property. At age 97, in a state of complete psychological and physical decay, she clings so tenaciously to lifestyle that even hospice staff give up predicting when she will call it quits.

The book is in the long run a search back at the grown-ups who contributed to Chast’s miserable childhood. We often suspected that her enormously anxious, quirky cartoon figures were born of deep private expertise. Now Chast, who will flip 60 this 12 months, leaves no doubt. This book involves old family photographs of the never-smiling tiny lady who grew up to be a cartoonist and make other folks laugh.

Archive of Forbes Content articles By Deborah Jacobs

Deborah L. Jacobs, a lawyer and journalist, is the author of Estate Preparing Smarts: A Sensible, User-Pleasant, Action-Oriented Guidebook, now offered in the third edition.

Roz Chast Uses Dark Humor To Cope With Aging Parents

Ketamine could deal with depression illegal drugs do have their uses | Sue Blackmore

‘Commonly used antidepressants such as Prozac can take weeks to perform. A fast-acting option would be so useful.’ Photograph: Design and style Pics Inc/Rex Features

Could ketamine, that notorious celebration drug, treat depression? It would seem so. Final results of a new trial have just been launched and medical professionals say the results are surprising and dramatic. Twenty eight folks had been slowly injected with a low dose of ketamine – all significantly depressed patients who didn’t respond to traditional treatment method. Eight reported feeling much better and 4 improved so drastically that they were no longer classed as depressed at all. One went for a stroll on her personal for the very first time in ten many years some remembered that this was how they employed to believe, and relatives said they had acquired their loved ones back.

Some people look amazed that an unlawful street drug can have such good utilizes, but they ought to not be. Without a doubt, a lot of other well-liked recreational medicines have useful therapeutic possible. But our system of prohibition can make it exceptionally tough to do investigation with these medicines, and falsely demonises them.

Ketamine – usually identified as K or “Particular K” – is fundamentally an anaesthetic, although it is utilized far more often on cats and horses than grownup humans because of its peculiar side-effects. In higher doses it leads to paralysis and anaesthesia, but in reduced doses it causes hallucinations, euphoria, time distortion, synaesthesia, and strange dissociative results. I have had ketamine only after. I wanted to attempt it, in risk-free problems, because of my function on out-of-physique and close to-death experiences, and the claim that K could induce them. I was injected with a dose just below that needed for unconsciousness, and the results have been dramatic. I did indeed come to feel as however I was not portion of my physique. I was paralysed except for my eyes, struggling to make sense of anything going through unusual visions and hearing each tiny sound as even though it filled my head. But despite the fact that this was exciting and intriguing, I concluded it was nothing at all like the spontaneous out-of-body experiences that I and numerous other folks have had.

So why does it impact depression? Prior research on rats identified the receptor in the brain on which ketamine acts, and showed that blocking this receptor decreases background exercise in the brain. This, some argue, is equivalent to the impact of electroconvulsive treatment, which is really unpleasant and now rarely employed even although its effects on lifting depression can also be dramatic.

Far more frequently employed antidepressants, this kind of as Prozac, operate to improve ranges of serotonin in the brain. Amongst their disadvantages are that they do not perform for every person, have unpleasant side-effects, and even when they do operate, can get weeks to get impact and to dress in off yet again. This is why a rapid-acting antidepressant would be so valuable. In this new study, some individuals seasoned unpleasant side-effects for the duration of the slow infusion, but not soon after it stopped, and the good results began speedily, lasting anything from six hours to nine months with most lasting about two weeks. In a previous trial, half the sufferers improved inside of two hours and by the finish of the first day in excess of 70% had been better and almost thirty% symptom-totally free. Yet another modest study showed similarly dramatic effects on bipolar disorder.

These results are very good news without a doubt, but need to we be shocked? No. All medication have multiple results and any psychoactive drug as strong as ketamine is bound to have unexplored likely. The sad reality is that when any drug is located to be enjoyable – for partying, for pleasure or even for spirituality – it will get stamped on and manufactured unlawful. After that occurs, study is manufactured exceptionally difficult and the possible of the drug is ignored. This has been tragic in the case of LSD, which is perhaps the most feared and demonised of all psychoactive medicines. Through its power to transform the mind it has lengthy been recognized to release the terminally unwell from nervousness and help them to die far more peacefully. Aldous Huxley was provided LSD on his deathbed. Now, at last, the first trial for a lot more than 40 many years has confirmed this, and there is hope that LSD’s potential can finally be appreciated. Organisations such as Maps and the Beckley Foundation are, against the odds, pioneering research on the therapeutic prospective of cannabis, ecstasy, and psilocybin amongst other folks. It is long overdue.

Ketamine could deal with depression illegal drugs do have their uses | Sue Blackmore

The Sun uses Page 3 models to make women aware of breast cancer

The Sun has challenged the growing anti-Web page 3 campaign by linking the use of its topless models to a breast cancer awareness charity.

It has joined forces with CoppaFeel! in purchase to inspire women to verify their breasts on a normal basis.

3 pages of today’s Sun, which includes the total front page, plus a foremost report, are devoted to the initiative.

Today’s Sun front web page

The paper programs to make it a typical weekly characteristic with Webpage three versions involved in “check out ‘em Tuesday” reminders.

In a video on its website, Sun editor David Dinsmore says: “I’m truly proud to be part of this and to be joining up with Coppafeel! We considered we could do some genuine great with web page three.”

And the charity’s founder, Kris Hallenga, talks of page 3 currently being “a brilliant platform to get across a life-saving message. They are the most popular boobs in Britain. And for us to be hopping on the back of that web page and The Sun as a complete is a huge opportunity.”

Hallenga founded CoppaFeel! in 2009 with her twin sister right after she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 23. But the late diagnosis meant the cancer spread to her spine and is now incurable.

She launched the charity due to the fact she realised that there was no organisation at the time urging younger girls to be breast aware.

In its editorial, The Sun factors out that 12,000 ladies in Britain die of breast cancer each 12 months. “It is a nationwide result in for concern that the numbers who often check out their boobs for lumps are so reduced.

“Only 18% do so as frequently as as soon as a fortnight. And which is only element of the dilemma. Practically half of Britain’s girls would not check out the GP even if they considered some thing was wrong. Youthful ladies are the worst offenders.”

The Sun uses Page 3 models to make women aware of breast cancer