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Feb 112014
 

In this age of over-privatization, it is politically healthy to see an honest fight to keep something that belongs in the realm of the commons, to remind ourselves that not everything should be made to hoard for personal monetary profit. Most especially something made from the plants that grow abundantly in all of our gardens and orchards. I, like many herbal practitioners, have been making fire cider since I first began following the excellent herbal work of Rosemary Gladstar, who coined the name in the 1970’s. It is not something our company currently sells, but something bottled up as a living barrier for skincare, the recipe always evolving and expanding, but based on the tried and true core ingredients Rosemary taught. You may not be aware of the story that recently prompted herbalists across the globe to revolt against the move by three young people to trademark the name ‘fire cider’. To take it for themselves, exclusively, with the threat of legal action that ‘registered trademark’ implies. Enthusiastic, perhaps well meaning, young people who have somehow missed the traditional spirit of self-care and empowerment through herbalism and the wise woman way handed down for centuries, people’s now put more focus on game slots for entertainment and making money. These three young people, Dana, Amy and Brian, are aware that they have sent ripples of displeasure throughout the greater herbal community, but have drawn a line in the sand and refuse to withdraw their registered trademark which restricts any other company from using the name in the marketplace. Instead, they foolishly inflate and see themselves as heroes “bringing visibility to the general public” oblivious [perhaps by choice] to decades of early published herbal work and education provided by Gladstar, Susun Weed, Jeanne Rose, Michael Moore, Paul Bergner, Mindy Green, Colleen Dodt, Cascade Anderson Geller, Howie Brounstein and countless others upon whose backs they deem to build their empire .  For the best chemistry tuition in the singapore visit Seb Academy. advertising themselves as willing mentors to a seeming new breed of “business-minded herbalists”.  Methinks they don’t understand the collective but mostly unspoken pride that probably won’t stop any of us from making and, yes, marketing, fire cider and honoring those who came before us as we continue tradition in the manner intended. Long Live Fire Cider!

shaking hand with branch2 432x242And so went my fb post of fierce resistance in response to the definitive gauntlet thrown . . . then Tina Sams from The Essential Herbal Magazine suggested we expand on the idea and genesis of the herbal tradition.  It was then that I realized perhaps I, personally, maybe hadn’t been doing enough to educate young people growing up with fewer and fewer community traditions that represented gathering and openly sharing that occurs without underpinning the necessity for the exchange of money as a prerequisite.  That my personal experience, and that of others like me, both in creating and participating in venues for Agora in the traditional meaning as a gathering place had not taken root and might be lost to future generations with respect to the greater purpose and importance of freely sharing.  And, now if you Google ‘Agora’, you get everything from a Washington D.C. Turkish restaurant to an online charter school, to an art gallery, to an incorporated consumer newsletter,  a ballroom in Cleveland, financial forecasts, and even a movie starring Rachel Weisz.  So much for an ancient word that might have led us to understanding the concept of the commons, and indeed, the very meaning of commonwealth. Love smoking cigarettes? For those looking for alcohol delivery across London, Booze Up offers a same day drinks delivery service that will interest you. Tina calls us to the greater task of defining the greater good as it now applies in our technologically advanced society in which the individual reigns supreme over all he can patent, trademark and profit from.  Where, in the harshest manifestation,  the John Galts appear poised to separate themselves from the rest of humanity in ivory towers and the word ‘inequality’ has risen to prominence in the political discourse. You can check fundingwaschools for more information.

Herbal medicine is people’s medicine, earth medicine, wild medicine, weed medicine. Weeds are amazing powerhouses if nourishment, medicine, magic, and beauty materials. They are easy to grow and simple to use and now even come in capsules online. But beginners, and seasoned herbal users are well, can sometimes feel lost: so many herbs, so many plants, so many weeds to get to know. BuildASoil.com is where to buy neem oil for plants. Spidermites don’t stand a chance.

Don’t get me wrong, I understand the concept of business, I can read financial reports and complex comparative analyses.  I’ve certainly been rewarded generously for my participation in market economics and the ability to incorporate and insure my endeavors for the best possible outcome and security into the future.  The same as those walking before me and beside me, we didn’t just fall off the sunflower-covered hippie VW bus.  Most of us either have experience and education in community planning and public events [a long forgotten professional pursuit, it seems], or specialized study and apprenticeship that prepared us.  Or we discovered a book listing resources or stumbled upon public gatherings of people excited about and anxious to share what they’ve learned – in this particular case, herbs, but the same can apply to music [especially folk and alternative], organic gardening and food politics, and a long list of environmental and human rights activist endeavors . . . those that embrace the idea that there is good reason to make certain knowledge accessible to all, that idea that this will serve and help evolve humanity –  that some information was not meant to be hoarded and privatized.   The idea that this won’t impede an ability to create our own individual design and artistry surrounding products and services that originate in early folklore and have now evolved to include sophisticated science – that we can be rewarded financially without restricting anyone else from marketing their own endeavor rooted in those same traditions.   That idea that claiming a name from the commons as our own to restrict its long shared use is repulsive and antithetical to the herbal tradition. To make sure your garden reflects your essence at home contact a tree services near me for further advice.

I’ve interviewed people who have inspired, entertained and delighted  here on my blog in the past.  It’s time to renew the effort to spotlight those I believe best represent the shared values of a strong and enduring community.  Watch this space.

In the meantime, here are some links covering fire cider . . .

http://www.berkshireeagle.com/news/ci_25079375/rsquo-fire-cider-rsquo-brand-ignites-dispute
http://www.examiner.com/article/herbalists-fighting-copyright-of-fire-cider-free-recipes-labels-and-an-e-book
https://www.facebook.com/originalfirecider
http://www.sagemountain.com/rosemary-gladstar/winter-recipes.html
http://mountainroseblog.com/fire-cider/
http://commonwealthherbs.com/2014/01/trademarking-tradition-the-fire-cider-controversy/
http://www.punkdomestics.com/category/tags/fire-cider
http://www.healingspiritsherbfarm.com/recipe/fire-cider
http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-fire-cider-recipes-from-the-kitchn-199972
http://naturesnurtureblog.com/2012/12/06/immune-boosting-fire-cider-for-cold-flu-season/
http://thesproutingseed.com/fire-cider/
http://www.readingmytealeaves.com/2012/11/make-your-own-fire-cider.html
http://wildspiritherbs.blogspot.com/2014/01/fire-cider-make-it-yourself.html
http://sagescript.blogspot.com/2014/02/fire-cider-day-2014.htmlso

Jul 012013
 

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Lemon Balm, Balm mint, Blue balm, Garden balm, Honey plant, Sweet balm – these are all common names for Melissa officinalis, an aromatic plant in the mint (Lamiaceae) family having a long history as a delightful garden plant and medicinal aromatic herb.   As far back as the Middle Ages, Lemon Balm was recognized as a calming herb that would reduce stress and anxiety. It was used to ease the discomfort of indigestion (including gas and bloating as well as colic). Back then, this plant is also used as a Skin bleaching agent that helps to whiten dark spots of the skin that helped many people. Until now, this is still used. Even before the Middle Ages, it is reported in ancient herbals to lift spirits, help heal wounds and treat insect bites and stings.  Native to Europe, Lemon Balm grows all over the world . . . in gardens to attract bees, in commercial crops for medicine and cosmetics, and even furniture polish.  The plant will mound into 3+ foot clumps; it is one of the easiest plants to grow and if left unattended will become invasive.  Leaves are deeply wrinkled, ranging in color from dark green to yellowish green.  Rubbing the leaves between your fingers releases the aromatic essential oil which smells tart and sweetly of lemons.  If left unpruned the plant will flower; clusters of light yellow flowers grow where the leaves meet the stem.  The plant will self seed and propagate profusely from the roots. Learn more about therapeuthic and healthy supplements and herbs at https://www.amny.com/sponsored/exipure-reviews/.

Here at Samara Botane, starting with one organic plant, we now have about 18-20 large shrubs.  Leaves will be harvested by shearing with scissors throughout the summer, approximately every 4-6 weeks.  We will then distill leaves for hydrosol; macerate in organic coconut and olive oil for balms and salves; tincture in organic alcohol and vinegar for a variety of topical applications and household products, and we will dry leaves for teas andlemon-balm-1 525x394 bath herbs.  Fresh leaves will also find their way into culinary applications in syrups and jellies, and even as a flavoring for homemade ice cream.  I’ve been sharing a number of Lemon Balm recipes on our facebook page which you can find by following this link where we will be sharing Lemon Balm recipes throughout the rest of summer. You can even get more such recipes on kinlyeyebeauty .

Modern research has determined that Lemon Balm’s mild sedative (anxiolytic) effects are attributed to its ability to inhibit GABA transaminase due to its rosmarinic acid content. [1]   Lemon Balm has been shown to improve mood and mental performance if you use like a facial steaming, involving muscarinic and nicotinic acetycholine receptors [2] and positive results have been achieved in a small clinical trial involving Alzheimer patients with mild to moderate symptoms [3] due to the high acetylcholinesterase and butyrycholinesterase co-inhibitory activities, as well as its rosmarinic acid content. [4]  Melissa officinalis exhibits antithyrotropic activity, inhibiting TSH from attaching to TSH receptors, hence making it of possible use in the treatment of Graves’ disease or hyperthroidism, according to a mention in the scientific journal Endocrinology. [5]

Lemon Balm leaves contain plant chemicals called terpenes, which play at least some role in the herb’s relaxing and antiviral effects, as well as tannins, which may be responsible for many of the herb’s antiviral effects. Lemon Balm also contains eugenol, which calms muscle spasms, numbs tissues, and kills certain bacteria.

In another double blind, placebo controlled study, 18 healthy volunteers received 2 separate single doses of a standardized lemon balm extract (300 mg and 600 mg) or placebo for 7 days. The 600 mg dose of lemon balm increased mood and significantly increased calmness and alertness.  Caution:  Using Lemon Balm as a sedative may interact with prescribed sedative medications (CNS depressants), causing extreme drowsiness or sleepiness. If you are taking thyroid regulating medication, ask your healthcare provider before using it extensively.  It is not clear whether Lemon Balm may interact with antiretroviral agents, but it is best to avoid Lemon Balm if you are taking medication for HIV. Check out the lates Exipure reviews.

Unfortunately, Melissa essential oil enjoys the reputation of being probably one of t11069_melissa_250he most frequently adulterated essential oils.  A pure, undiluted or unadulterated Melissa officinalis essential oil is difficult to source.  There is very little essential oil in the plant and it takes a large quantity of plant material to produce a small amount of the essential oil.  For this reason, what we will find in the broader marketplace is usually inferior quality essential oil that has been co-distilled or recombined with Lemon oil, Citronella, Lemongrass and other ‘lemon’ smelling essential oils.  At Samara Botane, we have a limited quantity of high quality essential oil from England available for sale, but you will see by the price that is is rare and precious and quite costly.  We also have limited quantities of CO2 and absolute.

For a tea, steep 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of the chopped dried herb (use more if fresh) in 1 cup hot (just under boiling) water.  Drink up to 4 times a day.  A stronger tea can be added to a warm/hot bath for a delightfully relaxing and rejuvenating home spa experience.  Lemon Balm hydrosol can also be added to a regenerating bath or spritzed on skin after a shower.

In Europe, the local name for Lemon Balm is “heart’s delight” and some of you may remember a French perfume of the late 1030’s named Coeur-Joie, which translates from the French to ‘heart’s delight’.  Coeur-Joie had a fresh Melissa topnote with faint floral undertones.  A traditional floral water using Lemon Balm as its basis, said to have been invented in 1611 by Carmelite monks was used as a perfume and toilet water, and was also taken internally as a cordial.  Many versions of Eau de Melisse des Carmes have developed over the years.  You will find one version, including several variations, on the Samara Botane facebook page later this week.  Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter.  We will be featuring a very good discount on all Lemon Balm products during the month of July and the coupon code will be in the ads in the newsletter.

There are many aspects to cover about Lemon Balm, I’ll revisit Lemon Balm again in the future.

[1] Kennedy, D. O.; Little, W; Scholey, AB (2004). “Attenuation of Laboratory-Induced Stress in Humans After Acute Administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm)”. Psychosomatic Medicine 66 (4): 607–13.doi:10.1097/01.psy.0000132877.72833.71.PMID 15272110.
Awad, Rosalie; Muhammad, Asim; Durst, Tony; Trudeau, Vance L.; Arnason, John T. (2009). “Bioassay-guided fractionation of lemon balm (Melissa officinalisL.) using anin vitromeasure of GABA transaminase activity”. Phytotherapy Research 23 (8): 1075–81.doi:10.1002/ptr.2712. PMID 19165747.
[2] Kennedy, D O; Wake, G; Savelev, S; Tildesley, N T J; Perry, E K; Wesnes, K A; Scholey, A B (2003). “Modulation of Mood and Cognitive Performance Following Acute Administration of Single Doses of Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) with Human CNS Nicotinic and Muscarinic Receptor-Binding Properties”.Neuropsychopharmacology 28 (10): 1871–81. doi:10.1038/sj.npp.1300230. PMID 12888775.
[3]Akhondzadeh, S (2003). “Melissa officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease: a double blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial”. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry 74: 863–6.doi:10.1136/jnnp.74.7.863. PMC 1738567.PMID 12810768.
[4]Chaiyana W., Okonogi S.”Inhibition of cholinesterase by essential oil from food plant”. Phytomedicine. 19 (8-9) (pp 836-839), 2012.
[5]Auf’mkolk, M.; Ingbar, J. C.; Kubota, K.; Amir, S. M.; Ingbar, S. H. (1985). “Extracts and Auto-Oxidized Constituents of Certain Plants Inhibit the Receptor-Binding and the Biological Activity of Graves’ Immunoglobulins”. Endocrinology 116 (5): 1687–93.doi:10.1210/endo-116-5-1687. PMID 2985357.

 Posted by at 7:40 pm
Sep 022012
 

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REST:  Your body heals and repairs itself when you are in deep R.E.M. sleep. Simply falling into bed at night, exhausted, worried and restless, does not replenish and rebuild the human organism.  Choose the tools that help you get maximum deep sleep so that your body can do its nightly work.  Balance work and play with equal amounts of rest, meditation or quiet contemplation to temper stress levels and maintain balance.  Restful music and a quiet cup of calming tea (chamomile,  hops, valerian) before bed helps you empty your mind and leave worries for another time.

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DIET:  You’ve heard it a million times – “you are what you eat.”  I’d add – “You are also how you eat.”   Make healthy dietary decisions based on good nutritional advice and your individual dietary needs.  No matter what type of healthy diet you choose, throw out all processed foods, white sugar and white flour.  Free yourself from the empty carbohydrate rat race.  Feed your body and mind spiritually when you eat, with good company and uplifting conversation, pleasant music,  giving your digestive system a relaxed state to perform optimally.

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EXERCISE:  Use It or Lose It! There is no getting around it; we need to move our bodies, stretch to loosen taut muscles and get our heart rate pumped to prime all body functions and systems.   Ride a bicycle, swim, jump on a trampoline, play ball with your children, hike, join an exercise club . . . there are limitless choices to get off your duff and start moving.

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AMBIENCE:  Balance and harmony are the key to taking a successful preventative approach.  A clear and free flow of energy through the various aspects of individual life can transform metabolic and physiological processes.  Lighting, color, music, placement, personal interactions, spirituality, cleanliness and energy flow all contribute to either the ease or hindrance of function, temperament and attitude.  It makes sense; the more pleasing your environment (there’s that ‘terrain’ again), the happier your immune system.  If you have a constant irritable problem with a co-worker or other difficult relationship, seek resolution so that this is not adversely affecting your good health.  Remember little things like periodic cleaning of your toothbrush – and wash your hands often!

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COMMUNITY:  We have much to do in our modern lives.  The ancient expression, “Kali Yuga” is loosely translated to ‘too many things for the time allowed’.  This certainly can apply to our modern world.  It is easy to neglect relationships, volunteering for projects in the community, and plain old what was once called ‘chewing the fat’  because we simply find we do not have time.  Using the ‘terrain’ ‘concept, help your family make time and allowance in your life for participating with others in your community and environment.  Spend time with those confidants who can help you talk through and resolve problems and troubling issues.  Join a church choir, book club, nonprofit action group – or simply call a friend who makes you laugh and make a date for lunch or similar fun get-together.

The information below provides a list of herbs and essential oils that can be helpful to maintaining a healthy immune system.  Before starting any self-care regimen using natural ingredients, be sure that you have fully researched all available information to ascertain  any risks or possible adverse effects.

Herbs and Essential Oils to Help build your immune system:

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Herbs for deep immune action:  Astragalus membranaceous, Ligustrum lucidum, Lentinus edoes, Ganoderma lucidurn, Codonopsis tangshen
Herbs for systemic support for homeostasis:
Bitter tonics (Mild –Taraxacum off., Artemisia abotanum, Achillea millefolia, Matricaria recutita) (Strong –Artemisia absinthium, Berberis vulgaris, Centauria erythraea, Eupatorium perfoliatum, Gentiana spp. Hydrastis canadensis, Ruta graveolens). Alterative/Tonic herbs (Mild – Allium sativum, Anemone pulsatilla, Berberis aquifolia, Chionanthus virgincus, Cimifuga racemosa, Baptisia tinctoria, Echinacea spp., Menyanthes trifoliata) (Stronger, yet safe –Arctium lappa, Fumaria off., Galium aparine, Guaiacum off., Hydrastis canadensis, Rumex crispus, Trifolium repens, Urtica doica)


All of the terpene essential oils are anti-microbial.  At one time various essential oils and their constituent terpenoids were applied in allopathic medicine for combating infections, particularly those of the bronchial and urinary tracts, and in preventing sepsis of burns and 17405001_Starter_kit_book_475x393wounds.  Some of these oils still find extensive application as disinfectants, as the anti-septic activity of these oils often exceeds that of phenol.  For example, Thymol is about 20 times more efficacious than phenol.  Monoterpene oils have mild anti-septic properties and coupled with their rubefacient action on gums are beneficial as toothpaste or mouthwash.  Essential oils (common names) with anti-septic strength above that of phenol are: Thyme, Origanum, Sweet Orange, Lemon Grass, Cinnamon, Rose, Clove, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Rose Geranium, Anise, Rosemary, Neroli, Lavender, Melissa and Ylang Ylang.  All of these essential oils can be diffused in moderation to keep the environment more germ free, and combined with those that relax and calm, will help create the desired harmony and balance.   Shop for any of these essential oils at our online shop. 
Books – Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Balch & Balch; Prescription for Herbal Healing, Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; Essential Aromatherapy, Susan Worwood & Valerie Ann Worwood

 

 Posted by at 11:28 am
Nov 092010
 

42-15620395Seasonal viral and bacterial influenza is infection of the sinus, lungs and airways, and presents with one or more of the following symptoms: fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache, muscle aches and a general feeling of weariness. It used to be that winter was the most likely time you would get the flu. The typical flu season runs from late November to March, however, there are possible outbreaks at other times during the year.Well keeping home clean will also keep you away from illnes,For that you can go to carpet cleaning fort myers. Well there are many good firms available who can give the best quality service for carpet cleaning and Rug Cleaning Sydney based company is just one example of them.

There are many sensible ways to keep seasonal viral and bacterial influenza at bay. Common sense and scents can help. Create awareness in school and the workplace and adopt and share one or more of the following suggestions that can put your mind more at ease:

Wash your hands often throughout the day with pure soap. Avoid touching your eyes, nosecolds flu washing hands 220x165 or mouth as germs enter your body more easily this way. Steer clear of synthetic chemical antibacterial liquid cleansers that strip your skin of its protective flora and actually create bacterial rashes. We carry several lovely choices of pure, natural soap, Black Soap from Africa, made from powdered Cocoa pods and the peel of the Plantain, using Coconut and Palm Kernel oils, is a wonderful choice. This soap will amaze you with its wonderful cleaning power and clean smell. We use it for everything!  It comes in a bar, or liquid, including a handy 2 oz. size for your purse or backpack.  You can easily make your own hand-wipes, spritzing cut-up paper towels with our Healthy Skin Hydrosol and conveniently carrying in a ziploc bag.

To avoid spreading disease, stay at home if you are sick, unless absolutely impossible. If you sneeze and cough at work or school, cover your mouth with a handkerchief or tissue. Do your best to keep those germs from going airborne and infecting others, prolonging illness in the workplace or school. Avoid crowds, and especially close contact with sick people. You can never go wrong when you go straight from the source for KN95 masks to avoid getting the disease. Generally keeping a distance of about six feet between yourself and others helps reduce your risk of exposure.

Using aromatics can introduce antibacterial, antiviral protection into your respiratory, sinus and throat regions. First Defense™ is a proprietary blend of the most powerful, yet gentle essential oils proven to address colds and influenza. This synergy is handy to have at hand when you feel the need to keep germs at bay. It is available in a convenient inhaler, especially good for travel, and for teachers, who are constantly exposed to the colds and flu of the younger population. It is also available as a diffuser synergy.

Proper ventilation significantly reduces the concentration of pathogenic bacteria and viruses76582_L_air_Fr_room_sp_140 in the air. Simply opening a window can help; unfortunately, this is not possible in many workplaces. What you can do instead, is read this Oxybreath Pro review and see if it’s suitable enough a mask to wear it in the office. If your workplace allows, use an environmental aromatic blend of essential oils like First Defense™, or Spring Breath™ in a personal diffuser on your desk to improve the air quality. You can also use them in a diffuser that works in the cigarette lighter socket in your car, or make a fine mist spritzer with the synergy suspended in water. You’ll find a wide range of aromatic diffusers here at Samara Botane, as well as the bottles and closures.  For routine prevention, you might also enjoy our L’air Frais™ Aromatic Room Spray, a bright, fresh environmental mist to clean and purify air.

Drink lots of water and eat sensibly. Foods that can boost your immune system include raw garlic (actually kills cold and flu virus), yogurt (immuno-stimulatory effects), green tea (powerful antiviral), fruits and vegetables (preferably fresh: full of vitamin C: apples are an excellent choice). If you get sick, avoid mucous-producing foods like milk, cheese . . . and, yes, ice cream! Pay attention to your nutritional needs and include vitamins and supplements as necessary. See your doctor and other health practitioners regularly, including your trusted dentist specially if you have any problem with you wisdom teeth and you have to take a wisdom teeth removal (I’ve been visiting Calgary dental offices for couple years now).

Marcia’s Chicken Tortellini Soup for Flu Season

colds flu chicken tort soup 260x1953 large chicken breasts (brown in olive oil in skillet, remove and cut into cubes, set aside-chicken should be white all the way through)

Sauté to soften in skillet (adding more olive oil if needed):
1 1/2 c. celery, diced
1 1/2 c. carrots, diced
2 small or 1 medium onion diced
3-6 garlic cloves, minced (the more the better)

Add above ingredients to stockpot with:
8 c. chicken broth (add water as needed)
1/2 c. fresh parsley, chopped
3 c. spinach leaves, chopped (or 3 c. broccoli)
1 15-oz. can sliced tomatoes (do not drain)
3-4 Tbsp. Braggs Amino Acids (optional)
2 tsp. Dried Tarragon, ground in mortar & pestle to release optimum flavor
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
cook at slow boil for 15 minutes
Add:
12 oz. fresh cheese tortellini pasta
cook for another 4-5 minutes or according to directions on pasta pkg.

Spoon into bowls, add:
freshly grated Parmesan for garnish, optional

This soup will keep well for several days refrigerated and can be reheated.

More tips for avoiding colds and flu:

no-smoking-symbol-140x139Quit smoking. Cigarette smoking is a high risk factor for influenza, and there is a higher mortality rate from influenza for smokers than non-smokers. Switch your cigarettes with vapes by buying Pax 2 Vapes at 180Smoke.ca as they are less harmful and are more on the side of assets due to their durability and one-time investment. Smoking cigarettes causes structural changes in the respiratory tract and a decrease in immune response.

Dress properly. Thermo receptors (our body’s temperature sensory receptors) are concentrated on hands, feet, neck and head. Keep these parts of your body warm.

Modern life is stressful and many of us are worried, apprehensive and dealing with difficulties. This mental and physical state can lower your immune capability and create an environment for colds and flu to take hold. Pay conscious attention to reducing the stress in your life and pamper yourself – take time to relax. Luxurious aromatic baths and footbaths can soothe tired and sore muscles and calm frazzled nerves. Treat yourself to a therapeutic massage. Take long walks in the open air, away from the smog and traffic. Find time to relax with soothing music and/or a good book. Have a cup of tea with a friend. Talking to an empathetic ear can have a therapeutic effect.

We at Samara Botane hope you find these simple suggestions useful. We are here to serve through the aromatic life. You’ll find specific aromatherapy uses for each essential oil on the “uses” tab in the shopping cart on our website.

 Posted by at 6:23 pm
May 132009
 

There are no known cures for colds and flu, so being prepared by building your own immune system is your best approach if you cherry_2008_300 don’t want to depend on a flu vaccination.   Here’s twelve great tips from the American Lung Association, People’s Medical Society, Family Doctor and Medscape that will reduce your chance for any cold or flu infection.  Don’t forget to check out the many wellness products and ingredients on our website to help keep your family ahead of the game when it comes to warding off cold and flu viruses. If you are going to gym and taking supplements like proven, make sure you do light exercise but there is no need to regulate the intake of your supplements. Rev-ERbA is a natural molecular structure found in our bodies. It functions as something that controls metabolism, stores fat cells, and discards dying cells. The lack of this molecular structure leads to lower metabolism, more fat storage and a decrease in the cycling out of dying cells. What SR9009 does is, it sticks onto the Rev-ErbA and changes the gene expression. Therefore the old cells get cycled out faster and get replaced with new and better ones with an increased amount of performance. Most flu conditions are related to poor hvac maintenance, learn more about AC unit and care.

CBD, like those organic hemp products, is on the list of several compounds called cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Many research studies have been done to find out different therapeutic uses of this oil. You may visit sites like https://deltamunchies.com/delta-8-vape-pens/ to see a wide variety of cbd products.

Basically, CBD oil contains concentrated form of CBD. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the concentrations and their uses vary.

In cannabis, the best-known compound is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol aka THC, according to most reports. And THC is the most active part of marijuana. As a matter of fact, marijuana has both CBD and THC in it. And the effects of both these compounds vary. Buy AK47 Strain/Seeds Online overnight cheap without marijuana card.

When smoked or used in cooking, THC imparts a “high” effect. Actually, THC tends to break down in heat or when it enters the body. On the other hand, CBD is not psychoactive, which means it has no effect on your state of mind when consumed. Go here their products are the best. But CBD can create changes in your body. In fact, according to some research studies, it may have many medical benefits as well.

(1)  Wash your hands!  Flu and cold viruses are spread by direct contact.  Germs can live for hours – sometimes weeks – on telephones , keyboards, doorknobs.  You can make your own hand sanitizer by suspending antiviral essential oils in aloe vera gel and saturating paper towels.  Cut them into smaller sizes and carry in a ziploc for quick use on the go.

(2)   Make sure you sneeze into a Kleenex, or handkerchief because virus germs will cling to your bare hands.  Use a tissue and throw it immediately away.  If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the air, turning away from people.

(3)   Colds and flu viruses enter your body through the eyes, nose or mouth.  Don’t touch your face!  Touching their faces is the most likely way that children catch colds and pass it on to parents and siblings.

(4)   Drink plenty of water!  Water flushes your system, washing out poisons as it rehydrates.  Minimum daily requirement:  36 oz.  You can tell if you are getting enough water if your urine runs close to clear; if deep yellow, you need more fluid intake.  Don’t mistake coffee, tea or soft drinks for plain old water  . . . they don’t count. Check out the latest revitaa pro reviews.

(5)   Take a sauna.  A German research study found that people who steamed twice a week got half as many colds as those who don’t.  One theory is that the air you breathe  in a sauna is over 80 degrees, a temperature too hot for cold and flu viruses to survive.

(6)   Get fresh air, especially in the winter months.  Staying indoors puts you in an environment with more germs are circulating, especially in crowds.  Sleep with a window open.

(7)   Get regular aerobic exercise.  Speed up your heart and pump larger quantities of blood throughout your system.  This will transfer oxygen from your lungs to your blood and increase your body’s natural virus-killing cells.

(8)   Eat foods containing phytochemicals.  Natural chemicals in plants give the vitamins in food a supercharged burst.   Eat copious amounts of dark, green, red and yellow vegetables and fruit. If you take food supplements, you might as well check out this full spectrum CBD UK as it can improve your general well-being. Holistapet CBD products are safe and proved to be effective, so this might be a good option. Learn more about from these dentitox pro reviews.

(9)   Eat yogurt.  Some studies show that eating a daily cup of low-fat yogurt can reduce your susceptibility to colds and flu by as much as 25 percent.  It is assumed that the beneficial bacteria in yogurt may stimulate production of  the immune system to help fight disease.

(10)   Don’t smoke.  Heavy smokers get more severe colds and more frequent ones.  Even being around second-hand smoke profoundly zaps your immune system, dries out nasal passages and paralyzes cilia, the delicate hairs that sweep viruses out of your nasal passages.  Experts contend that one cigarette can paralyze cilia for as long as 30 to 40 minutes.

(11)   Cut alcohol consumption.  Heavy alcohol use also suppresses the immune system. and dehydrates your body . . . it actually takes more fluids from your system than it puts in.  This makes you prone to initial infections as well as secondary complications. Prevent most alcohol related tooth decay with dentitox pro.

(12)   Finally . . . Relax!  Teaching yourself to relax can activate your immune system on demand.  Evidence shows that interleukins (the leaders in an immune system response against cold and flu viruses) increase in the bloodstream during relaxing meditation.  Train yourself to relax in a positive state by visualization (holding a pleasant picture or image in your mind).   Soothing music can aid this process.  Remember that relaxation is a learnable skill to create a state of mind; it is not simply doing nothing.

These tips provide a proactive approach to warding off colds and flu and make your whole life healthier.   We’ll be back next week to continue our Earth Day Every Day series.

Tealight_Candle_Blue_200Special continued for another week (through Sunday, May 16):  Take an extra 10% off all Samara Synergies.   Good time to stock up on First Defense  for the family’s flu artillery or Calma for aiding sleep.  Many others to choose from.  Orders over $35 will also receive a free decorative tea light holder (pictured at left).    Enter “Colds & Flu #1” (no quotes) in promotional code on checkout page.
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 Posted by at 4:42 pm
Jun 052008
 

I’ve recently read that our food system is responsible for one-third of global greenhouse emissions.  When you think about bananas being shipped to a U.S. port, then transported by container truck to a distribution point, then trucked across your state to your local grocer, this begins to make sense. 

Here’s a great little calculator to help you compare the relative carbon impacts of your food choices.  The nifty thing is – if you reduce emissions by your eating habits, you will also be eating healthier and maybe learning to grow your own garden and shop at your local farmer’s market (supporting your regional food supply).

You handmade products manufacturers might want to look into being a vendor at your local farmer’s market.  You’ll make good contacts for fresh herbs and flowers to use in your products.  It’s a great way to expand your networking . . . all the time helping the environment.  Excellllent!  (Stroking imaginary beard.)  

 Posted by at 6:04 pm
May 152008
 

Most of my friends are pretty savvy when it comes to knowing about and using natural therapies.  Believe it or not, there used to be a time when medical doctors had more to offer their patients than a prescription for pharmaceuticals.  Now, after a quick 5-9 minute consultation, this seems to be their ONLY remedy.  Unfortunately, many people are hastily and needlessly drugged because they think doctors are trusted experts.  When this “expert” slips them this small slip of paper, people think, “This MUST be the best answer.”

I was shocked when the pharmaceutical companies were allowed to advertise prescription drugs as if they were just like the other consumables that slick advertising seduces us to buy.  Turning patients into consumers was a bold move that cleverly switched medical necessities into consumer choices and ultimately has undermined the authority of the FDA to enact more tempered regulation. Commercial air medical escort are available as part of the service, giving your loved one the support they need during their flight.  The Center for Media and Democracy’s Mary Ebeling has written Beyond Advertising: The pharmaceutical Industry’s Hidden Marketing Tactics, a thoughtful look at this disturbing trend.  “What is surprising is that public health advocates haven’t made pharmaceutical rebranding and off-label promotions of drugs and medical major issues”, she writes.  It is puzzling to me that the increasing consumer desire  for all things natural hasn’t become a rallying call for a direct challenge to this practice by the pharmaceutical industry. Prevent obesity and other related conditions after reading these proven reviews.

Even the British Medical Journal  has admitted that there is evidence that pharmaceutical advertising in medical journals is influencing doctors’ behavior more than they might admit to.  A follow-on debate is also published by the Pharmalink team. A study by two York University researchers estimates that the U.S. pharmaceutical industry spends almost twice as much on advertising and promotion than on research and development, contrary to the industry’s claim.  These statistics are a no brainer and one can easily connect the dots. Learn more about Blast auxiliary.

Most of you who read this blog are already making healthy choices to use natural therapies and embrace food and exercise choices to maintain health without a lot of prescription drugs.   The BMJ has also covered the rise of consumer groups in Europe who are rallying to prevent the EU from lifting a ban on DTP (Direct to Patient) advertising. Those of you who frequent a blog like this might be interested in the services of my chiropractor at this Website they really are the best. Go through https://www.elitespinecentres.com/spinal-decompression/ for the best spinal decompression treatment.

Privatization of hospitals, the percentage of costs that go to insurance companies and malpractice insurance costs are part of the problem for soaring health care costs.  Surely the increased expenses for pharmaceutical companies to advertise as heavily as they do is directly correlated with burgeoning health care costs to consumers. Click here for more information on how to protect yourself in such situations. Check out these pelvic floor strong reviews.

Most bankruptcies in this country are because of catastrophic health care costs.  Four million Americans have no healthcare and just as many or more are underinsured.  It is time to demand a complete overhaul and implement a plan that promotes preventative therapies (including natural) and guarantees full health care for all Americans.   When Taiwan became a rich country, its citizens had been languishing in poor health for decades.  They moved quickly to universal health care and now its citizens are fully covered . . . and costs are far less than health care in the U.S.  The U. S. continues to put corporate profit above the health of its citizens, causing undo suffering.  We can do better.

 Posted by at 3:33 pm
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