Category: Healthy Techniques

The Truth About Coconut Oil: 9 Facts You Need To Know

facts-about-coconut-oil-10-1422643135

Coconut oil is one of the few foods that can actually be classified as a superfood. There is such a hype surrounding the product that it really makes you wonder what the sudden ubiquitousness of this tropical plant is all about.

  1. It contains a unique combination of fatty acids with powerful medicinal properties

Coconut oil contains what is known as medium chain fatty triglycerides, which are fatty acids of a medium length. Most are considered to be long-chain in fatty acids, but coconut oil is metabolized differently. They go from the liver to the digestive tract, where they are then used as a quick source of energy.

  1. Places that eat coconut oil are considered to be the healthiest on the planet

Coconut oil is still considered to be an exotic food in our Western Society, primarily consumed by health conscious people. In some parts of the world, however, coconut oil is a dietary staple. In the South Pacific, they eat over 60% of their calories from coconuts, and they are the largest consumers of saturated fat in the world. They also have excellent health, not even a shred of evidence leading to heart disease.

  1. Helps to control weight

One 2009 Study looked at the weight loss link between consumption of coconut oil and found that it reduced abdominal obesity. Coconut is easy to digest, and also protects the body from insulin resistance.

  1. Good Source of Lauric Acid

The lauric acid in coconut oil can kill bacteria, viruses, fungi, and help stave off infections. When the oil is enzymatically digested, it forms a monoglyceride known as monolaurin. Lauric acid and monolaurin help to kill harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

  1. They can reduce seizures

A ketogenic diet is a low carb diet that is very high in fat; this leads to increased concentrations in ketone bodies in the blood. For some reason, this type of diet can reduce the rate of seizures in epileptic children.

  1. Ease Digestion

Many people suffer from digestive issues; those people should consider adding coconut oil into their diets. Coconut oil benefits digestive disorders including IBS and microbial stomach bugs. The fatty acids contain antimicrobials that have a soothing effect on bacteria, candida, and even parasites that cause poor digestion.

 
  1. Helps to Manage Type 2 Diabetes

A recent study done by the Garvin Institute of Medical Research showed that coconut oil helps to protect against insulin resistance, thereby reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

  1. Cooks at high temperatures

Because of the medium chain fatty acids, coconut oil has a higher smoking temperature than most oils. You might find that you like it better than your usual olive oil, especially if you are cooking recipes that require a higher cooking temperature. Olive oil oxidizes when it reaches smoke point causing free radicals.

  1. Slows Fine lines and aging signs

Coconut oil is not just for consumption, but it has many beauty benefits as well! It helps to keep the connective tissue strong, preventing wrinkles and skin sagging. Apply the oil directly to your face to soften the appearance of fine lines or use it daily to give a lovely moisturizing glow!

Sources:

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/11/18/coconut-oil-uses.aspx

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/the-amazing-health-benefits-of-virgin-coconut-oil.html

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Categories: Cleansing Disease & Prevention Eating Healthy Food General Health Healthy Choices Immune System Information Lowering Cholesterol Managing Diabetes Natural Cures Reversing Damage

Scientists Find Vessels That Connect Immune System And Brain

Photo credit: Topic / Shutterstock.
It used to be thought that the lymphatic system stopped at the neck, but it has now been found to reach into the brain
In contradiction to decades of medical education, a direct connection has been reported between the brain and the immune system. Claims this radical always require plenty of testing, even after winning publication, but this could be big news for research into diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) and Alzheimer’s.

It seems astonishing that, after centuries of dissection, a system of lymphatic vessels could have survived undetected. That, however, is exactly what Professor Jonathan Kipnis of the University of Virginia claims in Nature.

 

Old and new representations of the lymphatic system that carries immune cells around the body. Credit: University of Virginia Health System

“It changes entirely the way we perceive the neuro-immune interaction,” says Kipnis. “We always perceived it before as something esoteric that can’t be studied. But now we can ask mechanistic questions.”

MS is known to be an example of the immune system attacking the brain, although the reasons are poorly understood. The opportunity to study lymphatic vessels that link the brain to the immune system could transform our understanding of how these attacks occur, and what could stop them. The causes of Alzheimer’s disease are even more controversial, but may also have immune system origins, and the authors suggest protein accumulation is a result of the vessels failing to do their job.

Indeed, Kipnis claims, “We believe that for every neurological disease that has an immune component to it, these vessels may play a major role.”

The discovery originated when Dr. Antoine Louveau, a researcher in Kipnis’ lab, mounted the membranes that cover mouse brains, known as meninges, on a slide. In the dural sinuses, which drain blood from the brain, he noticed linear patterns in the arrangement of immune T-cells. “I called Jony [Kipnis] to the microscope and I said, ‘I think we have something,'” Louveau recalls.

Kipnis was skeptical, and now says, “I thought that these discoveries ended somewhere around the middle of the last century. But apparently they have not.” Extensive further research convinced him and a group of co-authors from some of Virginia’s most prestigious neuroscience institutes that the vessels are real, they carry white blood cells and they also exist in humans. The network, they report, “appears to start from both eyes and track above the olfactory bulb before aligning adjacent to the sinuses.”

Kipnis pays particular credit to colleague Dr. Tajie Harris who enabled the team to image the vessels in action on live animals, confirming their function. Louveau also credits the discovery to fixing the meninges to a skullcap before dissecting, rather than the other way around. This, along with the closeness of the network to a blood vessel, is presumably why no one has observed it before.

The authors say the vessels, “Express all of the molecular hallmarks of lymphatic endothelial cells, are able to carry both fluid and immune cells from the cerebrospinal fluid, and are connected to the deep cervical lymph nodes.”

The authors add that the network bears many resemblances to the peripheral lymphatic system, but it “displays certain unique features,” including being “less complex [and] composed of narrower vessels.”

The discovery reinforces findings that immune cells are present even within healthy brains, a notion that was doubted until recently.

June 3, 2015 | by Stephen Luntz

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10 Common Habits that Damage Your Kidneys

kidney1

 
The kidneys are important body organs, they take care of the urination process in our bodies by filtering body waste and excess of water. Despite being such an important component of our body many of us do not properly care for them and millions of people die each year from kidney disease.

There are habits many of us have that can harm our kidneys.

Here is a list of some habits to avoid for healthy kidneys:

1. Drinking inadequate water

Not drinking enough water is the biggest contributor to damage that our kidneys bear everyday. The main job of our kidneys is to drain metabolic waste from the body and regulate erythrocyte balances. When we do not stay properly hydrated, the renal blood flow decreases, ultimately resulting in accumulation of toxins in the blood.

2. Long-term full bladder

A habit many of us have is delaying the call of nature. When we leave the bladder full of urine for an extended time, different complications in urinary tract may arise: Hypertrophy of detrusor muscle is one example of such complications which may lead to formation of diverticula. Hydronephrosis (increase of urine pressure in kidneys) is another example which is caused by chronic back pressure on kidneys, ultimately resulting in renal failure and even the need for dialysis.

3. Consuming too much sodium

Metabolizing the sodium we consume is another job for our kidneys. The salt we eat is the prime source of sodium and the majority of our sodium intake needs to be excreted. When we eat excessive salt the kidneys keep busy excreting sodium, which may cause long term stress on our kidneys.

4. Consumption of too much caffeine

When we feel thirsty we often choose beverages other than water like soft drinks and sodas. Many of these beverages contain caffeine. Caffeine can elevate blood pressure and high blood pressure puts strain on the kidneys which can damage them.

5. Pain-killer abuse

Taking pain-killers for low-grade pain is a bad habit many people have. Most pain-killers have severe side effects and can damage different organs, such as kidneys. Research shows taking pain pills long term reduces blood flow and deteriorates kidney’s function.

6. Too much protein

Over-consumption of red meat and other protein-rich foods can deteriorate damaged kidneys condition. A protein-rich diet is essentially healthy unless you suffer from kidney damage and your doctor recommends a protein-restricted diet. Too much protein increases the metabolic load on our kidneys.

7. Too much alcohol consumption

When we drink alcohol we often ignore the proper quantity suitable for good health. Too much alcoholic intake is a kidney-damaging habit. Alcohol contains toxins which put stress on our kidneys and can damage them.

8. Smoking

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking is bad for almost every organ of the body, including the kidneys. Several studies have shown the connection between smoking and kidney disease.

9. Ignoring colds and flu

Ignoring the common cold and flu is a habit that can cause kidney damage. Studies show people who have kidney disease also have a history of avoiding resting while sick.

10. Sleeplessness

During the night when you sleep, renewal of organ tissues occurs. Therefore, when you do not get sound sleep, this interrupts the renewal process, resulting in damage to the kidneys and other organs.

Original Article – Organic Health

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Categories: Cleansing Disease & Prevention Eating Healthy Healthy Choices Healthy Techniques Kidney Health Reversing Diseases Well Being

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This Little Known Chinese Herb Kills 12,000 Cancer Cells For Every Healthy Cell

chinese herb

There is a very high chance that you or someone you know suffers from cancer. But, you shouldn’t fear you can kill cancer cells with this Chinese herb!
About 2 out of every 5 Canadians will develop cancer within their lifetime. Every one in four of the Canadians dies from cancer they were diagnosed with. One out of every two men and one out of three women will be diagnosed with cancer. These numbers have skyrocketed since the recording of cancer, and more people are asking questions.

New research is being done every day that puts into question the two approved treatments for cancer, which is radiation and chemotherapy. Scientists have found that chemo fuels cancer growth and kills the patient faster, yet nothing has changed; both are extremely toxic to the human body.

This Chinese herb could be eligible for the list of cancer killer of alternative methods of treatment. Artemisinin can kill cancer cells and can do it at a rate of 12,000 cancer cells for every healthy cell. This herb is 100 times more selective in killing cancer cells as opposed to normal healthy cells. It is 34,000 times more potent in killing cancer cells over its cousins.

This wormwood extract was used centuries ago by the Chinese for healing purposes, and the treatment became lost over time. It has been rediscovered because of the ancient manuscript that contained medical remedies. It can kill 12,000 cancer cells for every healthy cell, which means that it could be turned into a drug of minimal side effects.

“The compound is currently being licensed by the University of Washington to Artemisia Biomedical Inc., a company that Lai, Sasaki and Narendra Singh, UW associate professor of bioengineering, founded in Newcastle, Washington for development and commercialization. Human trials are at least several years away. Artemisinin is readily available, Sasaki said, and he hopes their compound can eventually be cheaply manufactured to help cancer patients in developing countries. Artemisinin reacts with iron to form free radicals that kill cells. Since cancer cells uptake relatively larger amounts of iron than normal cells, they are more susceptible to the toxic effect of artemisinin. In previous research, we have shown that artemisinin is more drawn to cancer cells than to normal cells. In the present research, we covalently attached artemisinin to the iron carrying plasma glycoprotein transferrin. Transferrin is transported into the cells via receptor-mediated endocytosis and cancer cells express significantly more transferrin receptors on their cell surface and endocytose more transferrin than normal cells. Thus, we hypothesize that by tagging artemisinin to transferrin, both iron and artemisinin would be transported into cancer cells in one package. Once inside a cell, iron is released and can readily react with artemisinin close by tagged to the transferrin. This would enhance the toxicity and selectivity of artemisinin towards cancer cells. We found that holotransferrin-tagged artemisinin, when compared with artemisinin, was very potent and selective in killing cancer cells. Thus, this ‘tagged-compound’ could potentially be developed into an effective chemotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment.”

Sources:

http://www.washington.edu/news/2008/10/13/scientists-develop-new-cancer-killing-compound-from-salad-plant/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22185819

http://www.cancer.ca/~/media/cancer.ca/CW/cancer%20information/cancer%20101/Canadian%20cancer%20statistics/canadian-cancer-statistics-2013-EN.pdf

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This Is What Happens To Your Body When You Switch To Organic Food

 organicdaughter

By this point we are all more than aware of the options we are faced with when shopping for food, especially produce. Mostly because of its higher price point – although the gap is shrinking – the vast majority of us opt away from the organic section to buy conventional. This Swedish family, featured in the video below, is of no exception, as they too have spent their entire lives eating conventionally grown and produced food.

That is until Coop, a Swedish supermarket chain, challenged them to go completely organic for two weeks. This transition was monitored and studied by The Swedish Environmental Research Institute to see firsthand whether or not an organic diet positively impacted the lives of this young family.

The results are quite drastic and might just convince you to go organic, check it out:

This isn’t the only study to examine the issue. A recent study conducted by researchers from RMIT university, published in the journal Environmental Research, found that an organic diet for just one week significantly reduced pesticide exposure in adults by 90 percent.

Cynthia Curl, an assistant professor in the School of Allied Health Sciences Department of Community and Environmental Health at Boise State university, recently published a pesticide exposure study in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives. Results of her research indicated that among individuals eating similar amounts of vegetables and fruits, the ones who reported eating organic produce had significantly lower OP pesticide exposure than those who normally consume conventionally grown produce. You can read more about that here.

The Importance In Thinking Long Term

As the video clearly shows, there certainly is a lot to be gained health-wise by making the decision to eat organic as often as possible. With this understanding in mind, is it really worth saving some money at the cash register today if it ultimately could lead to even more costly long-term problems?

Living in a world dominated by affordability and convenience, far too many of us are casting aside what we know to be beneficial for our health. This is not only helping to create the first generation of children who will not outlive their parents, but is also keeping organic produce at its higher price point.

The more we collectively demand to eat organic, the closer we come to a world where organically grown produce once again becomes the norm and the standard. In that world, more attention would be placed on finding ways to grow and produce organics more efficiently, hopefully making it more affordable in the process.

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What are your thoughts on the conventional versus organic debate? Did the study conducted in this video help to sway or strengthen your stance? Let us know via the comment section below.

For those that are interested, I also encourage you to find out more about the full study HERE.

To view a couple of other studies that have been published regarding pesticide reduction levels measured in adults when switiching to organic produce, click HERE.

May 18, 2015 by

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Categories: Cleansing Disease & Prevention Eating Healthy Food General Health Healthy Techniques Information Natural Cures Organic Food Your Body

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50 Things You Can Stop Buying and Start Making

50 things

You might be realizing that most of the products out there that aren’t made organically or naturally contain a lot of toxic chemicals. Not only that, many of these products can be harmful to our environment in a number of ways.

Making things yourself not only saves you money and helps the environment, but it lets you know where your products are coming from and exactly what’s in it.

You can make anything from food items to personal care and cleaning products all in very simple ways.

 

Remember: whenever you can, use organic foods and ingredients in recipes. Use sea salt instead of table salt. Use healthy oils like coconut oil. Use raw cane sugar or honey as sweetener instead of refined white sugar. Choosing the cleanest ingredients is the best choice for your mind and body.

 

50 Things You Can Start Making

(Click on the corresponding links to get the recipes and more information)

Homemade Ketchup – This ketchup won’t break the bank, tastes better than the real deal and contains no added sugar – so it’s nutritionally good for the whole family.

 

Homemade Mayonnaise – This is a great recipe for any mayonnaise lover out there wanting to make their own at home, it’s simple and easy and tastes better than the store bought versions.

 

Peanut Butter – It is so simple to make this pantry staple it would be silly to buy it. With only 3 ingredients you can make a simple tasty Peanut Butter for your whole family.

 

Simple Loaf Of Bread – This is a classic recipe for you to make and stop buying your normal weekly loaf of bread – nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread. Saving you pennies and preservatives.

 

Homemade Nutella – It would make more sense to give your children chocolate spread which you made and know exactly what is in right? Then how about this fantastic recipe…

 

Homemade Butter – Instead of buying preservative laden, calorific heavy butter from the store, make your own butter with just 4 ingredient and a standard kitchen mixer…so simple yet so tasty.

 

Homemade Yoghurt – This recipe makes a thick and creamy yoghurt that would rival any store bought version. Once you learn this method you won’t be buying it again!

 

Spice Mixers – Did you know that store bought spice mixers and rubs have all sorts of questionable ingredients in them like fillers, preservatives and other unwanted fake flavor enhancers? It is far healthier, cheaper and tastier to make your own, here are 17 combinations to start you off…

 

Salad Dressing – This simple recipe for homemade salad dressing will jazz up any old salad and make it fabulous. Forget the store bought versions, get your aprons on and get making.

 

Homemade Maple Syrup – This classic sauce is so expensive nowadays, did you know it is so simple and easy to collect your own!

 

Honey Shampoo – This shampoo helps reduce frizz, combat dandruff, moisturizer and softens you hair all in one. A natural, kind to your skin shampoo that will make you think twice next time you are in the store.

 

Coconut Oil Deep Conditioner – With just three ingredients, you can whip up an economical, natural and luxurious conditioner to treat your hair, leaving it soft, manageable and shiny.

 

Body Wash – If you want to save money but have little time to spare, then this is the natural alternative is for you. A simple recipe and method which makes a soapy bubbly wash great for all skin types.

 

Shaving Cream – This shaving cream will leave your skin soft and smelling fantastic. With ingredients like coconut oil, Shea butter, mint and rosemary you will feel invigorated and fresh after every shave.

 

Squeezable Homemade Toothpaste – Ditch those commercial toothpastes on the market and opt for this natural re-mineralizing toothpaste that encourages white healthy teeth and improves oral health.

 

Minty Mouthwash – Not only is it chemical and alcohol-free, it’s practically free, well nearly is at $0.02 /oz! You will save loads on money this, and improve your family’s oral health at the same time – simple.

 

Super Strength Herbal deodorant – Rather than use expensive chemical filled deodorants, why not make your own? This requires just a few ingredients, is “super strength” and totally natural! (Alternative Link)

 

Honey, Beeswax & Almond Oil Moisturizing Creme – This recipe was  first devised almost 2000 years ago. It’s thick, velvety and decadent qualities will leave your skin silky smooth and hydrated.

 

Homemade Natural Sun Screen – Most sun screens contain toxic chemicals and other harmful ingredients that could actually damage you when they should be protecting you. Check out this natural alternative and make the swap.

 

Cleansing Wipes – These organic  wipes are totally natural and only contain ingredients you are aware of. Perfect for cleansing your face or as baby wipes for diaper changes.

 

Mascara – Arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, nickel, lead and thallium are toxins we do NOT want to be applying to our skin! So opt for this homemade version and you will save money and protect your skin.

 

Tinted Lipstick – This recipe includes beeswax pastilles, Shea/cocoa butter and coconut oil. It allows you to customize it with different natural powders, such as beetroot powder for red hues, cocoa powder for brown hues and bentonite clay for a matte texture.

 

Eye Liner – How would you like to be able to make your own natural eyeliner (which can also be used as a smokey eyeshadow) for just $0.24? If yes – then check this recipe out.

 

Bronzer – This homemade bronzer is really easy to make, simple to customize and so much better for your skin than store-bought varieties. A brilliant way of saving money too.

 

Natural Blush – Give your cheeks a rosy tint and brighten up your complexion with this easy natural blush recipe. Cosmetics are so pricey these days now really is the time to start making your own.

 

Foundation – This foundation from Robin at ThankYourBody.com contains all natural and non-toxic ingredients, it works fantastically (see a before and after foundation picture on the blog) and it’s really easy to make.

 

Under Eye Serum – Ingredients such as tamanu oil, vitamin E oil, grapefruit seed extract, avocado oil, carrot seed oil and more make this such an effective anti-wrinkle eye serum that is totally natural.

 

Copycat Burts Bees Lip Balm –  This wonderful copy cat recipe from HappyMoneySaver.com reveals how you can make your own version of Burts Bees Lip Balm (Normally priced $2.50) for just $0.12 per tube – what an incredible saving!

 

Lavender Bath Salts – Making these lavender bath salts couldn’t be simpler. You need just a few ingredients such as Epsom salts, sea salt, dried lavender buds and lavender essential oil and then you just have to follow the instructions.

 

Anti-wrinkle Cream – Have you ever been tempted by those “miracle” creams that will make you look “ten years younger” that all the major beauty companies produce? Well most are packed with chemicals, preservatives and artificial ingredients and on top of that, they are outrageously expensive. Make your own instead!

 

Lemon Lavender Aromatherapy Candle – These Lemon Lavender Aromatherapy Candles burn clear and fragrant – unlike many toxic store bought candles that release smoke and soot – and will make a wonderful addition to your home.

 

Reed Diffusers With Essential Oils – You can buy one in the stores, but usually they are quite expensive and the scents are made primarily from chemicals. Instead why not make your own at home? You can use any essential oils you like and can blend different oils together to create an aroma that is perfect for you and your family.

 

Homemade Potpourri – Potpourri is so simple to make it would be silly to pay for it. You can tailor the fragrances with your favorite smells and add some seasonal elements to make it even more special.

 

Homemade Herbal Incense – Incense can be a wonderful way to add a beautiful aroma to your home so take a look at this fantastic video which shows you how to make your own homemade incense with herbs.

 

DIY Scented Plug-in Refill – This fantastic tutorial which reveals how to get rid of the horrible toxic liquid found in chemical laden store bought plug-ins and replace it with health giving, wonderfully fragrant, toxin free essential oils.

 

Essential Oil Jelly Air Freshener – The great thing about these jelly air fresheners are that you can add ANY essential oil you want to, or even blend a few different oils together. Perfect if you have a particular scent you are trying to create.

 

Homemade ‘Fake Febreeze’ – A bottle of Febreeze is currently selling on Amazon for a whopping $6.99, yet you can make a homemade version that’s just as effective (and natural) for only $0.15. If you buy just one bottle per month, then that’s a monthly saving of $6.75 – and a yearly saving of $81! (We suggest you use a homemade natural fabric softener for this recipe.)

 

Homemade Mod Podge – If you are a keen crafter and go through tonnes of Mod Podge then why not have a go at making some for yourself, you will be surprised at how much you will save.

 

Un-paper Towels – Are you fed up of buying endless paper towels? If so, then this is the answer for you, these will act just like paper towels, but look pretty, and are totally re-usable, meaning you only have to purchase the materials once. Not forgetting them being economically friendly.

 

Homemade Natural Bleach Alternative – If you find bleach cleaners too strong and sometimes irritate your skin or eyes, then this alternative promises to clean just like bleach but without the harmful side affects.

 

Beeswax Furniture Polish – This is a  really simple recipe for a beeswax furniture polish that will restore shine and add gloss to your wooden furniture returning it to its original beauty. No need for expensive store bought polish!

 

Homemade Bath Tub Scrub – A wonderful bathtub scrub enriched with lemon essential oil and a surprising ingredient…ground up eggshells which give the scrub its abrasiveness and mixed with baking soda and a citrus-y essential oil makes this fantastic bathtub scrub a real winner.

 

World’s Best Homemade Laundry Detergent – It is all natural, it is much cheaper (you’ll be saving around $0.16 per load!), it cleans incredibly effectively, it works in all washer types and it’s also safe for septic tanks.

 

Homemade Liquid Dish Soap – This homemade liquid dish soap is fantastic. It’s natural, organic and antibacterial. Plus it’s a great money saver! To make a 32 oz batch costs about $1.20 compared to $4.47 for the equivalent in Dawn dish soap.

 

All-Natural Foaming Hand Soap – This homemade foaming hand soap is: natural, green, non-toxic, chemical free, organic, gentle and Antibacterial. What more could you want from a hand soap?

 

Homemade Dishwasher Detergent Cubes– These are so simple to make, it simply requires mixing four simple ingredients together: washing soda, Epsom salt, Borax and lemon juice and then allowing to dry. The resulting cubes work wonders on your dishes!

 

Homemade Natural Fabric Softener – Want to make your laundry smell amazing, stay fresh and soft, well this is the recipe for you. Most fabric softeners are really toxic and could be harmful to skin.

 

Natural Disinfectant Spray – It contains just four ingredients: water, eucalyptus, lavender and tea tree essential oil (all of which can be bought here). The essential oils have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antibiotic properties helping to clean and disinfect surfaces in your home without the chemicals, without the expense and with a wonderful aroma, too!

 

Non-Toxic Glass Cleaner – Here’s a great tutorial revealing how to make your own green, non-toxic, all-natural glass cleaner for just $0.45 per bottle! Best of all, this cleaner works better than any commercial cleaner you can buy in the stores – and you can feel happy that you are not putting yours – or your families – health at risk with toxic chemicals.

 

Source: Natural Living Ideas via Collective Evolution

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Still Believe Nature Got It Wrong? Top 10 Health Benefits of Marijuana

There is no plant on Earth more condemned than marijuana. We’re talking about a living organism which governments have taken upon themselves to designate as an illegal substance. Despite no existing evidence of anyone ever dying of a marijuana overdose, possession of this plant is still illegal in many parts. Marijuana has been found to suppress cancer, reduce blood pressure, treat glaucoma, alleviate pain and even inhibit HIV. It is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective. Can you understand more now why it’s illegal?

No Independent Study Has Ever Linked Marijuana To Psychosocial Problems

Cannabis is one of the most powerful healing plants on the planet. Dozens of studies have made pseudoscientific attempts to indicate that young people who use cannabis tend to experience psychological, social problems and mental decline. However, there is no evidence that marijuana use is directly linked with such problems, according to the results of a study published in The Lancet.“Currently, there is no strong evidence that use of cannabis of itself causes psychological or social problems,” such as mental illness or school failure, lead study author Dr. John Macleod of the University of Birmingham in the UK told Reuters Health.

“There is a great deal of evidence that cannabis use is associated with these things, but this association could have several explanations,” he said, citing factors such as adversity in early life, which may itself be associated with cannabis use and psychosocial problems.

Macleod and his team reviewed 48 long-term studies, 16 of which provided the highest quality information about the association between illicit drug use reported by people 25 years old or younger and later psychological or social problems. Most of the drug-specific results involved cannabis use.

Cannabis use was not consistently associated with violent or antisocial behavior, or with psychological problems.

In another study, Scientists from King’s College, London, found occasional pot use could actually improve concentration levels.

The study, carried in the American Journal of Epidemiology, tested the mental function and memory of nearly 9,000 Britons at age 50 and found that those who had used illegal drugs as recently as in their 40s did just as well, or slightly better, on the tests than peers who had never used drugs.

‘Overall, at the population level, the results seem to suggest that past or even current illicit drug use is not necessarily associated with impaired cognitive functioning in early middle age,’ said lead researcher Dr Alex Dregan.
Dr Dregan’s team used data on 8,992 42-year-olds participating in a UK national health study, who were asked if they had ever used any of 12 illegal drugs. Then, at the age of 50, they took standard tests of memory, attention and other cognitive abilities.

Overall, the study found, there was no evidence that current or past drug users had poorer mental performance. In fact, when current and past users were lumped together, their test scores tended to be higher.

The Age of Deception is Ending

In 2003, the U.S. Government as represented by the Department of Health and Human Services filed for, and was awarded a patent on cannabinoids. The reason? Because research into cannabinoids allowed pharmaceutical companies to acquire practical knowledge on one of the most powerful antioxidants and neuroprotectants known to the natural world.

The U.S. Patent 6630507 was specifically initiated when researchers found that cannabinoids had specific antioxidant properties making them useful in the treatment and prophylaxis of wide variety of oxidation associated diseases, such as ischemic, age-related, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The cannabinoids are found to have particular application as neuroprotectants, for example in limiting neurological damage following ischemic insults, such as stroke and trauma, or in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and HIV dementia. Nonpsychoactive cannabinoids, such as cannabidoil, are particularly advantageous to use because they avoid toxicity that is encountered with psychoactive cannabinoids at high doses useful in the method of the present invention.

In a historic and significant moment in American history, last November, Colorado became the first US state to legalize marijuana for recreational use. The impact of the decision could ripple across the entire country with vast opportunities to educate millions on the top health benefits of marijuana.

With the passage of I-502 in the 2012 Washington State election, marijuana also became legal in Washington–not just for medical use, but also for recreational use. Weed is still illegal as far as the United States government is concerned, but Washington and Colorado both have yet to figure out how that will work. It’s certain that this issue will continue to evolve and smooth out as time goes by, but the remaining states will eventually follow suit or be left behind with outdated laws.

Top Health Benefits

It’s no surprise that the United States has decreed that marijuana has no accepted medical use use and should remain classified as a highly dangerous drug like heroin. Accepting and promoting the powerful health benefits of marijuana would instantly cut huge profits geared towards cancer treatment and the U.S. would have to admit it imprisons the population for no cause. Nearly half of all drug arrests in the United States are for marijuana.

According to MarijuanaNews.com editor Richard Cowan, the answer is because it is a threat to cannabis prohibition “…there really is massive proof that the suppression of medical cannabis represents the greatest failure of the institutions of a free society, medicine, journalism, science, and our fundamental values,” Cowan notes.

Besides the top 10 health benefits below, findings published in the journal PLoS ONE, researchers have now have now discovered that marijuana-like chemicals trigger receptors on human immune cells that can directly inhibit a type of human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) found in late-stage AIDS.

Recent studies have even shown it to be an effective atypical anti-psychotic in treating schizophrenia, a disease many other studies have inconsistently found it causing.

1. Cancer
Cannabinoids, the active components of marijuana, inhibit tumor growth in laboratory animals and also kill cancer cells. Western governments have known this for a long time yet they continued to suppress the information so that cannabis prohibition and the profits generated by the drug industry proliferated.

THC that targets cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 is similar in function to endocannabinoids, which are cannabinoids that are naturally produced in the body and activate these receptors. The researchers suggest that THC or other designer agents that activate these receptors might be used in a targeted fashion to treat lung cancer.

2. Tourette’s Syndrome
Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological condition characterized by uncontrollable facial grimaces, tics, and involuntary grunts, snorts and shouts.

Dr. Kirsten Mueller-Vahl of the Hanover Medical College in Germany led a team that investigated the effects of chemicals called cannabinols in 12 adult Tourette’s patients. A single dose of the cannabinol produced a significant reduction in symptoms for several hours compared to placebo, the researchers reported.

3. Seizures
Marijuana is a muscle relaxant and has “antispasmodic” qualities that have proven to be a very effective treatment for seizures. There are actually countless cases of people suffering from seizures that have only been able to function better through the use of marijuana.

4. Migraines
Since medicinal marijuana was legalized in California, doctors have reported that they have been able to treat more than 300,000 cases of migraines that conventional medicine couldn’t through marijuana.

5. Glaucoma
Marijuana’s treatment of glaucoma has been one of the best documented. There isn’t a single valid study that exists that disproves marijuana’s very powerful and popular effects on glaucoma patients.

6. Multiple Sclerosis
Marijuana’s effects on multiple sclerosis patients became better documented when former talk-show host, Montel Williams began to use pot to treat his MS. Marijuana works to stop the neurological effects and muscle spasms that come from the fatal disease.

7. ADD and ADHD
A well documented USC study done about a year ago showed that marijuana is not only a perfect alternative for Ritalin but treats the disorder without any of the negative side effects of the pharmaceutical.

8. IBS and Crohn’s
Marijuana has shown that it can help with symptoms of the chronic diseases as it stops nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

9. Alzheimer’s
Despite what you may have heard about marijuana’s effects on the brain, the Scripps Institute, in 2006, proved that the THC found in marijuana works to prevent Alzheimer’s by blocking the deposits in the brain that cause the disease.

10. Premenstrual Syndrome
Just like marijuana is used to treat IBS, it can be used to treat the cramps and discomfort that causes PMS symptoms. Using marijuana for PMS actually goes all the way back to Queen Victoria.

Mounting Evidence Suggests Raw Cannabis is Best

Cannabinoids can prevent cancer, reduce heart attacks by 66% and insulin dependent diabetes by 58%. Cannabis clinician Dr. William Courtney recommends drinking 4 – 8 ounces of raw flower and leaf juice from any Hemp plant, 5 mg of Cannabidiol (CBD) per kg of body weight, a salad of Hemp seed sprouts and 50 mg of THC taken in 5 daily doses.

Why raw? Heat destroys certain enzymes and nutrients in plants. Incorporating raw cannabis allows for a greater availability of those elements. Those who require large amounts of cannabinoids without the psychoactive effects need to look no further than raw cannabis. In this capacity, it can be used at 60 times more tolerance than if it were heated.
Raw cannabis is considered by many experts as a dietary essential. As a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, raw cannabis may be right u there with garlic and tumeric.

Marco Torres is a research specialist, writer and consumer advocate for healthy lifestyles. He holds degrees in Public Health and Environmental Science and is a professional speaker on topics such as disease prevention, environmental toxins and health policy.

Sources:
scribd.com
bigbudsmag.com
berkeleypatientscare.com
washingtonpost.com
about.com
safeaccess.ca

 

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How To See Without Glasses, No Matter How Bad Your Vision Is

How to improve your eyesight naturally

 The video below details an easy way to temporarily focus your vision when you don’t have glasses or contact lenses.  This one simple trick could come in handy if you lose your glasses.

 

•Antioxidants such as Vitamin A, Vitamin E and C have been proven to reduce the risk of eye diseases.  Particularly, lutein and zeaxanthin are natural antioxidants which play the role of natural sunglasses. They are concentrated in the macula region of your eye and they protect you from damaging UV light and oxidative damage. The best food sources of lutein and zeaxanthin are:
-Kale
-Spinach
-Chard
-Parsley
-Chicory
-Collards
-Other leafy green vegetables.
You can also find them in:
-Pumpkin
-Squash
-Broccoli
-Brussels sprouts
-Peas

•Vitamin D can drastically improve your eyesight. Consequently, Vitamin D deficiency leads to vision problems. Studies on  laboratory mice have revealed that six weeks of vitamin D supplementation led to reduced inflammation of the retina and drastically improved vision. Besides getting Vitamin D from the Sun, you need to consume foods rich in fat soluble vitamins such as organ meats. This might shock you, but wearing sunglasses can prevent you from getting proper sunlight which affects different processes in the body.

•Omega-3 Fatty Acids help protect optic nerve disorders such as glaucoma. Did you know that Eskimos have a much lower rate of glaucoma than any other people because of their high intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. After all, they eat a lot of fish. Omega-3 is a tricky one: it’s called essential fatty acid because your body can not produce it on its own, it has to be acquired through food. By the way, this is one of the reasons to breastfeed because Omega-3 fatty acids are found in breast milk.  Some of the best sources of Omega-3s in food are hemp seed/oil, flaxseed and oil, English walnuts, chia seeds, salmon, and herring. If you want to know more follow this link read 32 ways to obtain Omega-3 balance.

These are just a few examples of natural alternatives that will improve your eyesight. As I said earlier, glasses and contact lenses will worsen your eyesight overtime, which your doctor has never probably told you (they are in the money making business too). But you can address the problem yourself because it starts with food, real food!

 

Source: livingtraditionally.com

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10 Things You Need To Eliminate From Your Life Immediately

 

1. Negative people.

I think it’s important to keep people in your life who hold your feet to the fire and want to see you achieve your dreams and be the best person you can be. There’s a solid difference between those kinds of people and negative people. Negative people think you’ll fail because they don’t trust you. Negative people don’t even really want you to succeed.

2. Caring about your mistakes.

Learning from your mistakes is crucial for growing and preventing those mistakes in the future, but don’t get hung up on it.

3. Worrying about the past.

Similar to caring about your mistakes, don’t sweat the past. It happened. You can’t go back in time.

4. Your self image.

I used to have real self image problems, but I didn’t fix it by forcing a more positive image on myself. I just stopped having a self image. It’s been incredible. I just don’t care anymore. Leads to some interesting outfits, sure, but life is way more relaxed.

5. Feeling sorry.

If you find yourself apologizing over things you shouldn’t be apologizing for, just knock it off. You’re brainwashing yourself into believing a false reality where you’re always at fault. You aren’t. Quit with the sorry.

6. Saying yes.

If you don’t want to. Don’t be weak in the face of the hard ask. Just say no if you don’t want to.

7. Trying to impress everyone.

You’re probably just fine how you are. No need to dress to impress.

8. Saying what people want to hear.

Hey, be honest. If you have something to say, say it. There’s no need to sugar coat your thoughts and feelings. Be out there, out loud, and real with people. They’ll respect you for it.

9. Your limiting beliefs.

One thing that tends to derail me is the belief that now isn’t the right time. Now is now, and the best time to start anything you want to do is at this moment. Don’t let core beliefs slow you down. They’re here to lift you up, not hold you down.

10. Worrying about the future.

The future is coming one way or the other. Be ready for it, but don’t spend your time in worry about it. It won’t do you any good at all.

 

May 3, 2015

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Categories: Do's & Don't's Healthy Techniques Positive Mental Attitude Psychology Spiritual Energy Superior State of Mind Well Being Your Mind

7 Stretches in 7 Minutes For Low Back Pain Relief

If your low back is feeling stiff, achy and about to spasm (or you’re already there), then do the following nine stretches. Try performing this sequence three times a day. Once the pain is considerably less, you can reduce the sequence to once a day and ultimately three to four times per week.

When you’re ready to start, lie down on the bed or floor (preferably on a carpet, rug or yoga mat).

Pelvic Tilt Warmup

Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. In this relaxed position, the small of your back will not be touching the floor.

Perform a pelvic tilt by tightening your abdominal muscles so that the small of your back presses against the floor. Hold for 5 seconds, and then relax. Repeat this move three times and gradually build to 10 repetitions.

Next, take a deep breath and on the exhale contract your abdominals, pulling your belly button towards your spine. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Now, you are ready to begin stretching.

7 STRETCHES IN 7 MINUTES FOR LOW BACK PAIN RELIEF

1. Hamstring Floor Stretchhamstringfloorstretch2

What it works?  Back of thighs (the hamstrings)

Hold for 30 seconds. Do this 2 times for each leg.

Helpful Tip: Contract your abdominals when bringing your legs up.

 

2. Knees to Chest StretchSingle_knee_to_chest_stretch-300x146

What it works?  Hips/ Glutes (aka Butt)/ Lower Back

Hold for 20 seconds. Repeat on other leg.

Helpful Tip: With your abdominals contracted, try to straighten your right leg. If you experience any discomfort in your back, leave your right leg bent.

 

3. Spinal Stretchspinalstretch

What it works?  Lower Back/ Obliques

 

Hold for 20 seconds. Repeat on other knee.

Helpful Tip: Contract your abdominals before bringing your knees up and over.

 

4. Piriformis Stretchpiriformisstretch21

What it works?  The Glutes

Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat with other leg.

Helpful Tip: Contract your abdominals before crossing your leg and resting your foot on the opposite knee.

5. Hip Flexors Stretchhipflexorstretch

What it works?  Hips/ Front of thighs (quadriceps)

Hold for 30 seconds. Switch sides and repeat stretch.

Helpful Tip: Remember to contract your abdominals, keep your shoulders down and back straight.

 

6.  Quadriceps Lying Down Stretchquadslyingdownstretch-300x111

What it works?  Front of thighs (quadriceps)

Hold for 30 seconds. Switch sides and repeat stretch.

Helpful Tip: Contract your abdominals before grasping the top of your foot and bringing it to your butt.

 

7A. Total Back Stretchtotalbackstretch11

7B. Then Try This…totalbackstretch2 What it works?  Entire back/ Shoulders/ Arms

Hold for 10 seconds.

SUCCESS!  Hopefully, you are now experiencing noticeable low back pain relief.

Sticking to a regular back stretching routine will hopefully keep your back stronger and less likely to become injured.

by MICHELLE TOOLE

 

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Categories: Healthy Techniques Pain Relief Your Body