Using Essential Oils

photo courtesy: essentialoilshoppe.com

Using Essential Oils

Over the past few decades, the use of essential oils in the home has grown dramatically. The delightful fragrances are welcome addition to all sorts of home-made items ranging from beauty products and aromatherapy to cleaners and deodorizers. As more people discover the how versatile the oils are, they are giving up synthetic, manufactured products in favor or more natural, homemade ones. But are essential oils really more natural?

Thanks to a lack of industry standards, confusion over the quality and even the very content of essential oils has become rampant. Terms like “Pharmaceutical Grade” and “Therapeutic Grade” only add to the confusion. Even worse, is the fact that companies are allowed to use terms like “all-natural” and “Pure” even if the product is completely synthetic as long as the word “ingredients” doesn't follow the term. So you can find essential oils whose labels say 100% pure Pharmaceutical Grade and the oil may in fact be totally synthetic.

So how does one find natural, quality essential oils? When choosing essential oils, there are a few things you want to look at. First you want to see how the oils are manufactured. Steam distillation is the most natural way of manufacturing essential oils. It uses steam to extract the oils from the plant material. The next method is what's called “cold press”. In this method, the oils are essentially “pressed” or squeezed out of the plant material. Citrus and Olive oils are typically cold-pressed. Both steam distilled and cold-pressed oils are made naturally. Some oils cannot be manufactured this way due to their content. Those oils are extracted via solvents such as benzene. These oils are best suited for perfumes and use in candles, potpourris and cleaners as the solvents can be irritating to the skin and in some cases, even toxic.

The next thing you want to look at when choosing essential oils, is whether or not the oil contains dilutants, carrier oils or other additives such as preservatives. Many companies dilute their essential oils with what's called a “carrier” oil. Carrier oils are cheaper oils such as Jojoba, coconut or olive oils that blend well with the essential oils but still allow them to carry their scent. Some carrier oils, such as olive oil, will reduce the shelf life of the essential oil, so if you're looking to keep the oil around for a long time, it's best to use oils that are not diluted in any way. Additionally, some additives may be toxic and should be avoided if possible. The best way to really know what's in an essential oil or any product for that matter, is to read the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) on that product. That way, you'll be able to see exactly what's in the product as well as any risks involved in its use. A quick test you can do if you don't have time to read through an MSDS to see if an oil has been diluted, is to place a drop or two on a piece of construction paper or paper napkin. A pure essential oil will evaporate quickly, while oils that have been diluted will leave a ring where the drop was placed. NOTE: this test will not work on oils made from resins or absolutes.

Once you find the oils you are looking for, there are a few guidelines you should follow in their use.

1. Essential oils are highly concentrated. That being said, they can irritate the skin and eyes. Always use caution when using essential oils in beauty/health care. Like anything else, essential oils can cause allergic reactions in people, so it's best to test the oil on a small spot in the inside of your arm before using it.
2. Essential oils may be flammable so use with caution around open flames and other heat sources.
3. Oils that contain solvents, such as tea tree oil should never be disposed of down the drain. Instead, fill the container with cat litter or sand and discard in the trash. Large spills must be treated as a hazardous waste spill.
4. Never use essential oils on babies and children or while you are pregnant or nursing
5. Remember that if you are allergic to the plant or food, you are also allergic to the oil.
6. Never take essential oils internally. Essential oils are for topical use only. Some oils such as clary sage, can cause drowsiness when used in aromatherapy. Use caution driving or operating heavy machinery after using it. In fact, you should give yourself at least an hour before you have to get on with your day.
7. Essential oils should NEVER be used for emergency medical care. Essential oils WILL NOT treat snake bites, sever allergic reactions of any kind, difficulty breathing or severe bleeding or any life-threatening medical emergency . If you or someone you know experience any of these, please call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room.
8. In case of accidental ingestion, call the poison control hotline or go to your nearest emergency room. Poison control number in the US is 1-800-222-1222.
9. Poison control for pets: 1-888-426-4435 Please note that the ASPCA may charge a fee for this service.
10. . There are other numbers that will charge a fee for service, but this one is supposedly free.

Now that we know how to use them, let's take a look at some essential oils and their uses.

Bergamot – is antiseptic, antiviral and antimicrobial. Great for household cleaners

Cinnamon – great for candles, potpourris and room deodorizers. NOT recommended for use on the skin as it is highly irritating.

Clary Sage – soothing scent. Widely used in massage oils and aromatherapy.

Eucalyptus – Mixed with boiling water to clear sinus passages Also good when combined with Camphor.

Frankincense – used for thousands of years in perfumes and incense blends.

Ginger – strong, invigorating scent. Combined with Rosemary in a cream to prevent wrinkles and smooth the skin.

Hyssop – mildly antiviral, it is most often used in combination with either orange or lemon as a mood lifter to treat depression.

Jasmine – beautiful, floral scent. Used in soaps, perfumes and beauty products. Excellent when combined with Gardenia.

Lemon – antiseptic, antiviral, antimicrobial and antidepressant. Best all-around oil to have in the home. Used in combination with Orange or Hyssop to treat depression. Combine with olive oil to use as a furniture polish and with salt water or Bergamot as a cleaner.

Patchouli – warm, earthy scent. Used in perfumes, soaps, incense blends and room deodorizers.

Rosemary – great as a beauty aid and for treating hair, especially hair that is dark in color.

Tea Tree – anti-fungal. Used to treat fungal infections such as tinnia versicolor. Also combined with citronella oil to repel mosquitoes and ticks.

Essential oils are a great alternative to cleaning and beauty/health products for the home. As with anything, it's always good to do your homework before buying or using a product.

Until next time,

Be Well!

Facts About Alternative Medicine

Facts About Alternative Medicine

Alternative Medicine is a term used to identify medical practices that are used to maintain good health. It refers to practices that include those that have been practiced and proven for thousands of years such as Accupuncture. The first recorded document that references accupuncture dates back to roughly 100 BCE. Herbal medicine is a form of Allopathic medicine (not alternative) and has been practiced by nearly every culture for thousands of years and is the very foundation of modern Pharmacology.

So if Alternative Medicine has been around for thousands of years, why are some people claiming it's unsafe? Most forms of Alternative Healing such as Accupuncture, Reiki and Therapeutic Massage are incredibly safe. However, a rise in misinformation about Alternative medicine and herbal healing has lead to some debate about the saftey of their use. Unlike Western Medicine , Forms (Modalities) of Alternative Healing are practiced as a way to preserve health as opposed to simply treating symptoms of disease (also called Allopathic Medicine). Since Western culture doesn't view health as a daily practice, this has lead to some people mistakenly believing that alternative healing should be used in place of allopathic medicine. The result is that diseases go untreated which in some cases, can have serious consequences. They forget that Alternative medicine is not intended to replace medical care for illness. Many Alternative Healing Practioners will tell you that their methods are meant to be practiced in tandem with Allopathic medicine as opposed to it.

To add to the confusion, herbal medicine (a form of allopathic medicine) has been lumped in with Alternative healing creating even more misinformation. The view that because something comes from nature, it's “alternative' has created a dangerous and very misleading precedent. Herbs are simply chemicals in a natural state. Salicylic Acid is still Salicylic Acid regardless of it's form. A hundred years ago, herbal remedies were the norm and handed down from generation to generation. As pharmaceutical drugs became widely available, people gave up their family wisdom in favor of a quick pill they could get at the local pharmacy. To compound the issue, pharmaceutical companies began a century-long campaign of building mistrust in natural remedies, creating terms like “Old wive's tales” and “Hippie Cures” to denegrate anything that wasn't sold by them and so the modern era of “Medicine” was born.

Today however, people are slowly beginning to realize that their ancestors were right about a great many things, including how to treat the sick. The danger arises when people, who have lost all touch with old wisdom, try to recapture it for themselves without any real study. To compound the problem, mass media has created the false image that if something is “Pure” or “Natural” then it must be safe. What's missing are the important facts about drug interactions, dosing and contraindications that our ancestors were aware of. We have become so complacent about our health care, that we have forgotten the most basic rules of medical care. In the United Sates in 2011, there were 98,518 deaths resulting from FDA-approved drugs and a whopping 573,111 serious injuries*. While to date, there has only been a handful of injuries resulting from Herbal Medicine. Still, even one injury is one too many. The key to using any type of medicine safely is to know what you're taking, the potential side-effects and why you need to take the medicine. If the risks of taking a particular medicine (herbal or prescription) outweigh the cure, don't take it.

If you are considering using any type of herb or herbal remedy there are a few things you need to know to keep yourself safe. The first, and most important thing to remember is that herbs are medicines just like the pills your doctor prescribes. In fact, many of the drugs on the market today, come from or are synthesized from herbs, so it's vitally important that you check with your doctor before using any herbal treatment, especially if you are taking prescription medications. Drug interactions can be deadly! Second, NEVER assume that more is better when it comes to any medicine, either herbal or over-the-counter. Proper dosing is essential to treating and maintaining your health. Remember, too much of anything can be dangerous, even water! Third, if you are harvesting herbs for yourself, remember that in many cases, the growth stage of the plant determines the medicinal value. Some herbs/roots can only be harvested when the plant is in a particular stage of growth so be absolutely certain you know EXACTLY what part of the plant to harvest and when before using it. And finally, always check with your doctor and be sure that you know what your condition is before taking any herbal supplements, including vitamins. Some supplements can actually make certain conditions worse. Ginger for example, though an anti-inflammatory, can aggravate symptoms in someone with Lupus or Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Bottom line is that Alternative Medicine is simply another tool we have in maintaining our health. Proven over thousands of years to help keep the body running optimally, it's a great choice for those wanting to maintain and/or improve the quality of their health. It's important to remember however, that it is just that: A tool to maintain health and used as complementary care to treat illness. It is not used to replace standard medical care. Herbal medicine is another form of allopathic medicine and is not an alternative form of healing. Just like pharmaceutical medince, it has it's advantages and risks. Yes, there have been instances where someone attempted to treat themselves with an herb and ended up getting sick. But there are also instances where people have died taking over-the-counter medicine. It all boils down to common sense and education. The more you know and understand about your own health, the more likely you are to make safe decisions regarding your care. Just because something says it's “Natural” doesn't mean it's safe and just because a doctor prescribes a pill doesn't mean it won't kill you. Do your homework. Be informed and most importantly, trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it's not.

Until Next Time,

Be Well!

*Source: “AERS Patien Outcomes by Year” Food and Drug Administration (Washington, DC: US Department of Health and Human Services, March 31, 2010).

http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/Surveillance/AdverseDrugEffects/ucm070461.htm

The Truth About Rainwater Collection

Photo courtesy: motherearthnews.com

From China to India to South America, rainwater collection has been and still is an ongoing practice. In some arid regions, it is a necessity. But until recently, rainwater collection in parts of the United States was intensely restricted. In Colorado, for example, it was believed that people who collected rainwater for personal use were stealing it from those who had rights to watershed areas. In 2007, a study revealed that nearly 97% of rainwater thought to be reaching watershed areas, never did. The water was lost to evaporation and plant use long before it ever got near a watershed area. As a result of the study, the laws were changed in 2009 to allow people who meet certain criteria permission to install rooftop water collection systems. Still, in Colorado you cannot drill a well unless you own 35 acres of land or more. Other States, however are much more reasonable. In fact, in 2012 the State of Oklahoma passed new water legislation that encouraged water conservation. So much so, that their goal is to 

"work toward a goal of consuming no more fresh water in the year 2060 than is consumed statewide in the year 2012." - section 2 of the Water for 2060 act.

Not bad! Ohio and Texas however, are leading the nation in their practices. Water collection is allowed even for potable purposes. In parts of New Mexico, rainwater collection has become mandatory for new dwellings to stave off water shortages during dry seasons. Some states such as Rhode Island and Texas offer tax credits on the purchase of rainwater collection materials. Virginia even offers an income tax credit to any person or company who collects rainwater. For more information on pending legislation, visit the NCSL website at: http://www.ncsl.org/research/energy/energy-environment-legislation-tracking-database.aspx

So why does any of this matter anyway? Water is our most valuable resource. Without it, we die. As the world continues to desertify at an alarming rate and our drinking water becoming more and more contaminated with pollution, we are forced to rethink our water usage. Conservation today, could save lives in the years to come. Definitely something to think as you work out your own water conservation plan. 

Until next time,

Be Well!

How to Grow Veggies and Herbs in Containers

How to Grow Veggies and Herbs in Containers

Growing plants in containers is a great way to grow your own herbs and veggies where space is limited. From tomatoes to potatoes and virtually everything in between, container gardening is as fun as it is easy and the results are often surprising. A single tomato plant grown in a 5-gallon bucket can yield between 20-30 lbs of tomatoes if done correctly.The trick is to remember that plants grown in containers have very different nutritional and watering needs than plants grown in the ground. For starters, choosing the right container is important to the success of your harvest. Plants that grow more than 10” tall or plants whose root base is extensive should not be planted in containers less than 5 gallons. Basil, sage, chamomile, tomatoes and green beans are among those who need a large container. Containers for these plants should have the holes drilled on the side of the container as opposed to the bottom to allow proper drainage and from keeping taproots from burrowing beneath the container. Root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes can be successfully grown in large trash barrels or 55 gallon drums. The same rule for drilling holes applies to these as well. Thick (5 mil or higher) black plastic trash bags are a great alternative for growing plants that love heat like peppers, simply fill the bag with soil, tie shut and lay flat. Cut a small hole on top with a sharp knife and insert your plant. It's that simple! You can use the bags successfully for other plants as well, especially if you want to harden them off in the spring. As the season heats up, simply paint the bags white to deflect harsh sunlight and keep the roots cooler.

When choosing soil for your plants, be sure to check for peat moss and vermiculite content. These two ingredients will ensure proper drainage and help keep moisture locked in. A good soil to try for potted plants is Promix®. The best soil you can use however, is a 50/50 mix of potting soil and compost. The compost will add additional moisture and nutrients your plants will need to stay healthy. To help with drainage, cover the bottom of your pot with ¾ inch of playground sand before adding soil. Don't be afraid to mix a small amount in with your soil too, especially for plants like Lavender and Aloe.

Soil in containers tends to dry out a lot more quickly than the soil in the ground. In hot, dry weather, plants may need to be watered up to twice a day to keep them from wilting. It's always best to check your soil early in the morning. If it's not moist up to the first knuckle on your index finger, you'll need to water your plant so that it doesn't dry out during the day. Check your plants again in the late evening to make sure they haven't dried out too much during the day. If the soil is still moist to the first knuckle, hold off until morning to water. Never water your plants during mid-day, especially if the weather is hot. Even small droplets of water can severely burn your leaves and the sudden moisture can send your plant into shock.

Though most good potting soils contain nutrients to help your plants grow well, over time, those nutrients leach from the soil and must be replaced to keep your plants growing well. Comfrey Tea and worm poop are two completely organic and highly effective fertilizers your plants will love! Comfrey tea is especially good for herbs as it is high in nitrates. Both comfrey tea and worm poop can be added 1-2 times per month as needed. Cow manure is another really good organic fertilizer. It's best to add this to the soil a month or so PRIOR to planting.

Recycling Tips

Photo: dosomething.org

Recycling not only helps the environment by eliminating waste from the landfills, but it also helps decrease the amount of natural resources we need to use, since we already have the materials we need to work with. If you're not already recycling, here are a few easy tips to get you started:

-Create (or purchase) bins to store your recyclables in. They don't have to be fancy or even have the recycle symbol on it. They can be as simple as an old laundry basket. 

-Keep your recycle bins in an area that you are most likely to use them. For example, keep a small bin for paper waste near your desk or wherever you sort mail or use the most paper. Keep a small bin in the kitchen that you can empty into a larger barrel as it becomes full to store items such as paperboard, plastics and aluminum. 

-Keep recycled containers clean so they don't create offensive odors or attract pests like flies, cockroaches and maggots. You can use recycled water to clean them.

-Consider re-purposing items for things you need around the home such as shelving, storage containers and so on.

-To save space in your bins, crush or flatten your recyclables. They will still be recyclable.

-When recycling paper, make sure you remove address labels and confidential information. Those should be shredded.

-Use shredded paper to line animal cages instead of wood chips. You can also add it to worm bedding if you're doing vermiculture.

-Check with your local recycling/waste management office to find out which items are accepted in your area before saving them.

-If you live in an area that doesn't provide curbside recycling, consider only making one to two trips per month. Even better, consider carpooling with neighbors and have fun on the trip!

-remember that anything made of metal can be recycled. Contact your local waste management office to find out how to recycle old appliances.

-If you want to dispose of items such as clothing, furniture, and household items that are still usable, try posting them on Craig's List, Listia and Freecycle so that others can benefit from them as well.

-Most aerosol cans made of steel are recyclable too, so don't forget to add those to your bin.

-Rechargeable batteries contain heavy metals and need to be recycled. Most retailers who sell them, will also take recycled ones.

-Plastic shopping bags can be recycled at many big chain stores including Meijer, Wal-Mart and many chain grocery stores. Some county recycling centers will take them as well depending on where you live. Check with your local center first.

Remember, if every person recycled their trash, we could save over 10.4 MILLION pounds of trash from reaching landfills each year!!! 

Until next time, 

Be Well!

How to Use Less Paper

Photo courtesy: recyclingworksma.com

Every day, we waste millions of pounds of paper. Imagine how many trees we could save if we only recycled all that material! Here are several ways you can start reducing the amount of paper you use and throw away right now!

Save your Paper.

 - Use both sides for printing. 

 - Use the backs of old documents for kids to color on instead of using fresh sheets. 

 - Cut old documents in horizontally and use the backs for scrap paper.

 - Donate your old magazines and newspapers to local hospitals, nursing homes, pre-schools or after-school programs.

 - Share unwanted coupons with your friends and neighbors or donate them to your local food bank or community access organization or try starting a couponing club in your neighborhood. You'll be surprised at how much fun you can have on a dreary afternoon chatting and planning your money-saving shopping trip.

 - If you have internet access at home, try opting to receive bank statements, utility bill statements and other notices via e-mail instead.

Recycle used paper

 - Once you've used a piece of paper as much as you can, place it in the recycle bin. 

 -  Shredded paper can be recycled too, so don't forget to include it in your bin.

 - Keep a recycle bin near your desk or wherever you sort mail. That way, envelopes, junk mail and old statements can be recycled right away.

 - Remember that paper that has been contaminated with food such as food wrappers or paper napkins are not recyclable, so keep those out of the recycle bin so you don't have to sort them out later.

 - Keep another recycle bin in the kitchen to recycle cardboard and packaging. 

 - Know what to recycle. Packaging for frozen/refrigerated foods, hard-cover books, bubble mailers, and paper coated in wax or plastic are not recyclable. If you're unsure about whether an item is recyclable or not, contact your local waste management office.

Reduce Your Junk Mail

Tired of getting piles of junk mail? Here's how to get your name off those lists for good:

1. There are a number of websites available to get your name off junk mail lists. Here are a few good ones:

dmachoice.org  

catalogchoice.org

yellowpagesoptout.com

optoutprescreen.com

2. When filling out applications or contact information on-line, be sure to read every line and un-check boxes that allow companies to contact you with advertisements and special offers. These mailing lists can be shared, bought and sold, so once you sign up for one, you may end up on a number of others as well.

3. Don't sign up for mailing lists as malls, flea-markets and events unless you really do want information being sent to you from that company/organization. Always ask for an email option if one is available. Most companies would be happy to do this as it saves them money in postage as well.

4. You can also contact companies including banks directly and ask them not to send you junk mail, credit card offers, coupons and other solicitations unless you request them. 

5. Be wary of participating in surveys that ask for your address. 

6. You can also place a notice on your mailbox and on your property telling postal workers, salespeople and others that you do not want unsolicited materials being delivered there. 

Get Kids Involved!

Create fun activities using recycled paper for kids and use the time to teach the importance of recycling and conservation. 

A few good sites to get some great ideas are:

spoonful.com 

kinderart.com

babble.com

Until next time,

Be Well!

When to Start your Seeds

Photo courtesy: www.responsibletechnology.org

One of the biggest mistakes gardeners make is starting their seeds too early. As temperatures begin to climb and the days get noticeably longer, the temptation to force the season is great.  Plants that are started to early will elongate (get spindly trying to find sunlight) and become brittle and susceptible to disease. Even if they manage to grow, the rough start will yield a poor harvest, so you'll end up working hard and wasting valuable garden space for nothing.

The first thing you want to consider before starting seeds is your hardiness zone. A hardiness zone refers to the area of the country you live in. Each zone has different plating times due to weather, frost dates and so on. For folks in the US.. a hardiness zone map is available at:

 http://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZMWe

Each zone has different planting requirements, so check to see what the requirements are in your area.  Most seed packets are labeled with zone planting suggestions so check the labels before opening them. 

The next thing you want to consider is the plant itself. Many herbs won't withstand even a light frost, while some thrive in the cooler temperatures, so it's best to read up on the herb before you plant it. Some vegetables like Kale and Carrots (called cold crops) do well in cool temperatures so starting those in a sheltered garden will work just fine during the colder weeks, such as the end of February in zones 9-6 in the US. Zones 5 and above will still be too cold this time of year, so it's best to wait until mid-March or even early April depending on the zone.

Last but not least, always check to see which seeds you can start indoors and which seeds need to be sewn directly into the ground. Remember, each plant has special growing needs, so always do your homework before you plant. That way, you will save valuable time and money and get the harvest you dream of in the end. 

Until next time,

Be Well!

The Magic of Mud

When I was a kid, there were three things that my siblings and I looked forward to each spring: Easter Baskets, puddles and mud. My favorite was mud. Mud pies, mud soup, mud monsters and who can top magical mud that turns monsters into goo and gives you the power to run super fast? 

Little did I know then that all that mud actually had healing properties as well! Perfect for bee-stings (it will literally draw out the stinger!), sunburns (It will cool the burn and actually help the skin heal) and facials (It will draw out any impurities and leave the face/body cleansed and radiant!), mud is one of the most useful, available and natural remedies there is. 

Not only is it great for healing, but mud is also good at keeping away insects (just ask a Caribou!) and believe it or not, for cleaning! Use mud to get tough goo like auto grease and tar off your hands, then wash as usual. 

So this year, reclaim the inner child in you and get out and play in the mud. Scoop out a little for a nice facial while you're at it. You won't regret it. 

Until next time, 

Be well!

Spring Cleaning Recipes

Ahh, the thought of spring! After months of long nights, cold days and snow, just the idea of spring and pretty flowers is enough to brighten anyone's day. As we anxiously await the warmer temperatures, many of us begin our spring cleaning so that once the weather breaks, we can spend it outdoors. This year, why not help the environment and try a few "Green" cleaning tips?

Here are a few to get you started:

For Walls, Floors and Cupboards:

To 3 Gallons of water, add:

1/2 cup Borax
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup white or apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup salt
1 teaspoon of Bergamot or Tea Tree oil.

Stir to blend and wash as usual. Makes a great disinfectant for kitchen surfaces too!

For Wood Furniture:

Combine 1/2 cup olive oil with 1/8 cup lemon juice and 1-2 drops of Vitamin E oil.

Apply with a clean rag. Leaves furniture shiny!

For Drains:

Pour 1 cup of white vinegar followed by 1/2 cup baking soda into your drain and let set for 15 minutes. Rinse with clean, hot water.

For counters, sinks, tub and tiles:

Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 1 cup of Borax and 1 cup of salt. Dampen the area with a clean, damp rag. Sprinkle a little of the mixture onto the rag and rub onto the surface. Rinse clean.

For stains or mildew, add a little lemon juice.

Garbage Disposal

Add 1 lemon, cut up and one cup HOT white vinegar. Let stand 3-5 minutes. Add 2 cups ice chips and 1/2 cup baking soda and turn disposal on. Rinse with hot water. Repeat as necessary.

Dish Washer Detergent:

Mix 2 Tablespoons of baking soda with 2 Tablespoons of Borax and use to wash dishes. For tough grease and grime, sprinkle a little over the dishes as well.

Tea Pots and Coffee Pots

In the pot, combine 1 cup of vinegar and 4 Tablespoons of baking soda. Let fizz, then use the mixture to scrub the pots clean.

Coffee Maker:

Brew 1 quart (less for small coffee pots) and 1/4 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup lemon juice. Allow to finish the cycle, then brew a pot of clean water.

Microwave:

For caked on grime, combine 1 quart warm water, 4 Tablespoons of baking soda and 2-3 drops of Bergamot or Lemon essential oil. Dampen a sponge or clean rag with the mixture and scrub as usual.

For Greasy Grill or Oven Racks:

Place the racks in a plastic bags outdoors. Mix 1 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup ammonia and pour over the racks. Close the bag tightly and let stand overnight. Racks will wipe clean in the morning. Rinse well with hot water.


For Carpets:

Mix 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1/2 cup baking soda and 15 drops of your favorite essential oil. Sprinkle on carpets and let stand overnight. Vacuum as usual in the morning. IMPORTANT: Be sure to test a small, inconspicuous spot with the mixture first, as some oils may stain.

For Smelly gym bags, Suitcases or storage totes:

Sprinkle a little baking soda and let stand overnight. Vacuum out the baking soda and odors in the morning.

Helpful Hint: To prevent critters like cockroaches and bedbugs from climbing into your luggage and coming home with you, sprinkle a little Borax inside. The boric acid will deter the bugs and kill any that come inside.

Experiment with your recipes and have fun!

Until Next Time,

Be Well!

Growing and Using Stevia

photo courtesy: exgrowgarden.com

Over the past decade, Stevia's popularity among gardeners and healthy-conscious people has grown considerably. Part of it's attraction are the super-sweet leaves that are used in place of cane sugar and artificial sweeteners. Up to 30 times sweeter than cane sugar and zero calories, the leaves offer an irresistible alternative for desserts and sweet dishes of all types, including baked goods, since Stevia is heat stable as well.

Stevia is very easy to grow and does well even in colder climates. It is a tender perennial, so it's best to bring this indoors during the winter months. Though it prefers full sun, this tasty herb will tolerate light shade and as long as it has well-drained soil, will grow with very little effort. Starting Stevia from seed can be tricky however. Germination is unpredictable, so it's best to grow this herb from rooted cuttings whenever possible. Plant outdoors after danger of frost has passed. In hotter climates, it's best to grow this plant in an area that gets afternoon shade.

To use Stevia, harvest fresh leaves after the plant has grown to about 8" tall. Dry the leaves out of direct sunlight in an area that gets good air circulation. Once dry, simply crush the leaves and use like regular sugar.

Just a quick note: Though Stevia is heat and shelf stable, it does not work like can sugar in all instances, and should not be used for home canning or to candy fruits.

Until next time,

Be well!

Choosing Organic and Heirloom seeds

For folks in Northern Regions, the beginning of February is always an exciting time. This is when we gardeners order/purchase our seeds and start scrubbing pots and tools getting them ready for planting. Some seeds, such as certain cold crops we can even start now!

To the novice gardener, however, choosing seeds can be a mixture of excitement and frustration. With thousands of varieties and buzz words like "organic" and "heirloom", choosing simple tomato seeds can be exasperating. Here are a few helpful facts to help make the process a little easier.

First up, the buzz words. "Organic" seeds are seeds that are harvested from plants that were grown organically. Typically, these seeds are left untreated. It's important for you to know that organic seeds may NOT be GMO-free. GMO seeds can still be labeled organic if the plants are grown without pesticides.

"Heirloom" seeds are GMO-free. To be considered heirloom, seeds must be 7th generation or later without any genetic modification. Heirloom does NOT mean organic. Heirloom plants may be grown using the full range of pesticides and herbicides as long as they are not labeled organic. GMO seeds are typically never labeled as GMO. Instead, seed companies use clever marketing strategies to gloss over the fact that the seeds are genetically modified. You can quickly weed out the modified seeds by looking for phrases like "Hybrid", "grower-made", "exclusive strain" and industry cues such as a large letter followed by a number such as "F1" after the seed name.

So, if you want seeds that are heirloom and grown organically, it's important to read seed packages and only choose seeds that are labeled as both organic AND heirloom.

Next up, consider your harvest. If you're looking to grow tomatoes for canning for example, don't choose varieties that are "low-acid" as they will interfere with the canning process. Some varieties of vegetables have different light/space requirements for growth as well. Be sure to check growth times and requirements for each before making your selection. For example, if you want to grow green beans, but don't have space for a trellis, you might want to consider growing a bush variety instead.

Last but not least, remember to have fun! Don't be afraid to experiment and keep a journal of the seeds you use along with the results to reference in the future. You'll be pleasantly surprised at how helpful this can be!

Until next time,

Be well!

Natural Valentine

Valentine's Day is a bright spot in an otherwise dreary month. What's not to love about extra hugs, romantic evenings and of course, chocolate? Well, if you're looking to spice up your Valentine's Day this year, here are  few recipes and suggestions for doing it Salvage Earth style!


Before you go spend money on the traditional fare such as teddy bears and flowers, try something natural or homemade instead. Tea bouquets are super easy to make and if your loved one likes tea, will come as a welcome treat! Simply wrap a pipe cleaner around one side of the end of a clothespin and insert a wrapped tea bag into the opening end. Make several of these and bunch together with some pretty ribbon. That's it! If your loved one is a coffee fan, you can substitute the tea bags for single-serve coffee packets instead.

Another fun gift is a batch of home-made chocolate fudge. Quick and easy to make, this recipe is sure to please any chocolate lover!

Ingredients:

3 cups semi-sweet  mini chocolate chips
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (14 oz) can sweetened, condensed milk
1 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)

(for a decadent peanut-butter swirl mix, substitute the butter for 1/4 cup peanut butter.)

Directions:

Combine ingredients in a double boiler and slowly heat until melted, stirring constantly. (or you can place it in a microwaveable bowl and cook on high 2-3 minutes depending on your microwave). Pour into a well-greased 8x8" square pan and refrigerate. If using the peanut butter, hold off on adding it until the chocolate is just starting to melt, then swirl in the peanut butter with a greased spoon for a pretty, marbled effect.

Note: Glass pans work best, but you can use anything.

Now if you're planning a more romantic evening, nothing is more enticing than a sensual massage. The best part is, you can make your own massage oil for a fraction of what you would buy it for in a store and use scents that you love besides.

What you need:

-A clean jar with a lid that seals tight enough to hold liquid.
-1/2 cup Almond oil or extra virgin olive oil.
- A few drops of your favorite essential oil or perfume.

Simply combine the ingredients in the jar and swirl until you get the scent you like.

Herbal bath bouquets are becoming popular once again. A few simple ingredients and you'll have enough to make half a dozen!

Here's what you'll need:

6, (4") squares of pretty fabric or muslin tea bags
2 yards of ribbon (if using fabric)
1/2 cup dried rose petals'
4 tablespoons dried lemon verbena
4 tablespoons dried Rosemary
2 cups lavender blossoms
a few drops of lavender essential oil

Combine all the ingredients in a medium sized mixing bowl. Blend well with your hands. Place 1/4 cup of the mixture in the center of the fabric square or fill the tea bag.  Gather the ends of the fabric up around the mixture and tie off with the ribbon to form a sachet. Place the sachet into a tub of warm water and enjoy! The rest of the mixture can be stored in an airtight jar for up to a year.

Don't forget to add the sachet to your compost heap when you're done with it!

Until next time,
Be well!

Meditation Basics

Meditation reduces stress, improves mood and helps ease depression. It builds heart strength, lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of stress-related diseases. The best part is, you only need about  fifteen minutes of meditation each day to reap the benefits of this wonderful practice.

So how does one meditate, exactly? There are a number of different methods you can use, all of which provide you with great results including mindfulness, transendental meditation, Qi Gong and guided visualization to name a few. If you're just starting out, it's best to start by working on technique and build from there. Consistency is the most important part of meditation. Being consistent in your practice is more important than your technique, so choose a time during the day that you can use regularly. Try to meditate the same time every day and in a place (if possible) that you use for that purpose only. It can be a simple pillow in a corner of your bedroom to a favorite outdoor spot to a whole room dedicated to meditation. Whatever you can make work is great. There is no right or wrong place as long as you're comfortable.

Once you find your spot, it's time to have some fun! Sit comfortably with your eyes closed. Take a few deep breaths in through the nose, and out through the mouth. Focus on your breathing, feeling your lungs expand and contract. Does the air feel warm? Cool? Feel your muscles relax with each exhale. Now, let your thoughts wander. Don't worry about inner stillness just yet. The important thing is that you get into the practice and start allowing yourself to just relax. If you can, try to think of something fun, like walking on the beach, climbing some rocks or enjoying a nice hot bath. Each day, try to hold a visualization of something fun for just a minute longer. Really get into it. If you're seeing a walk on the beach for example, try to imagine what the beach smells like, and feel the sand beneath your toes. After a few days, try to follow your visualization up with just a few seconds of inner silence. Add a few seconds more each day until you can go a full ten minutes. If you have a tough time, there are many audio/visual products on the market today that can guide you through a meditation. There are also a number of other types of meditation that you can try. Mindfulness is another really good one to start with, especially if depression is an issue for you. Start with a few deep breaths, then pick an object like an orange and sit for a few minutes with the orange. Examine it visually. Notice the color, texture and any bumps or marks it may have. Then move to how it smells. Really absorb yourself in it. Does it smell sweet? Bitter? How does it feel? Hold it in one hand and feel the weight of it. Then place it in your other hand. Does it feel the same? What does the surface feel like? Is it smooth? Bumpy? Now break it open and taste it. Notice the flavor and texture. Can you taste it on one part of your tongue more than another? You'll be amazed at how just taking the time to really use your senses and appreciate something can enhance your mood!

Once you're done meditating, it's a good idea to give yourself a few minutes to slowly acclimate yourself back into your day. Don't rush it. Take a minute and stretch, warm up your muscles and allow your mind to adjust to the day. That way, you'll get the most from your experience and want to come back for more.

Until next time,

Be well!