http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-8790/5-unique-teas-with-amazing-health-benefits.html

How To: Make Your Own DIY Remedy for Spring Allergies

My husband wants to take chlorophyll, but doesn’t know which one to take, Spirulina Tablets or Wheatgrass Juice. Since they both have chlorophyll, we decided to compile their nutrients and compare:

Wheatgrass Juice Nutrients

http://www.nutritional-supplement-bible.com/wheatgrass-juice-nutrients.html

The desire for information on wheatgrass is understandable given its amazing health benefits, which are considerable. What does wheatgrass juice contain? It is rich in chlorophyll, contains potent and nutritionally dense vitamins like A, C, E, and K. Moreover, it also has an abundance of B vitamins including, biotin, folic acid, Vitamin B-12 (especially important for women), thiamin, pantothenic acid, and riboflavin. It also has an abundance of enzymes.

Wheatgrass health benefits include powerful antioxidant capabilities, anti-bacterial, even antiviral advantages as well. It is, like bee pollen, considered a panacea. But how can wheatgrass improve your health? Wheatgrass health benefits include, improved oxygenation of the blood thus expediting cleansing of the body, removing toxins, and in regulating blood sugar levels (glucose). Generically, here are the chief benefits of wheatgrass juice nutrients:

• Purifies the liver
• Reduces high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Helps prevent and cure cancer
• Purifies the blood
• Helps restore natural hair color (in other words, can help turn gray hair to its natural color when taken consistently with a clean system)
• Improves dental and gum health
• Helps remove harmful toxins and metals from system

While this is not a comprehensive list, you can see the wheatgrass benefits are quite remarkable

Wheatgrass Nutrition Facts

Vitamins
Wheatgrass contains high amounts of vitamins A, E and B. It also contains many minerals and trace elements: Calcium, Phosphorus, Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron and Zinc.

Amino Acids
Wheatgrass also contains twelve amino acids including the eight essential amino acids: phenylalanine, valine, threonine, tryptophan, isoleucine, methionine, leucine, and lysine. Essential amino acids are those that the body cannot create, they must be obtained through one’s diet.

Predigested Food
Wheatgrass juice is considered a predigested food. It does not require enzymes for breaking down proteins. Wheatgrass juice contains both amino acids and glucose therefore it is readily assimilated in the body.

Chlorophyll
Wheatgrass juice is rich in Chlorophyll. Chlorophyll has a molecular structure almost identical to the hemoglobin molecule of human blood. Chlorophyll in the wheatgrass juice helps the blood carry Oxygen to all the cells.

Chlorophyll cleanses the liver, tissues and cells and purifies the blood. Wheatgrass juice helps remove toxic heavy metals such as lead, mercury, aluminum, that have become stored in the tissues of the body.Wheatgrass juice aids in detoxification by breaking up impacted matter in the colon. It also helps fight infection therefore aiding the body’s natural self healing process.

Profile: Spirulina

http://wellnessmama.com/4738/herb-profile-spirulina/

don’t like using the term superfood, though it could certainly be applied to Spirulina. Though not technically an herb (actually an cyanobacteria), it boasts its fair share of health promoting properties. It is rich in in Chlorophyll, and like plants, gets its energy from the sun.

What is it?

Spirulina is a natural “algae” (cyanbacteria) powder that is incredible high in protein and nutrients. When harvested correctly from non-contaminated ponds and bodies of water, it is one of the most potent nutrient sources available. It is largely made up of protein and essential amino acids, and I typically recommend it to clients who decide to remain vegetarian for its high natural iron content. It is often touted for its high B-12 content, though there is a lot of debate about if this particular form is a complete and absorbable form of B-12 and I don’t recommend it completely in place of animal products.

The high concentration of protein and iron also makes it idea during pregnancy, after surgery or anytime the immune system needs a boost.

Health Properties:

Though it does taste like pond scum, Spirulina has some great health-boosting qualities:

• Spirulina is 65% protein and amino acids including the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA) which has gotten a lot of attention for its anti-inflammatory properties, especially when taken with other quality Omega-3 supplements like Fermented Cod Liver Oil. (I suspect that the benefits of GLA in Spirulina are even more than what the studies have found since these studies often use vegetable oils for their GLA source, and the other inflammatory compounds in vegetable oils can interfere with the anti-inflammatory ability.) It contains all essential amino acids.
• Spirulina contains Omega 3-,6 and 9s and is especially high in Omega-3s.
• Spirulina is extremely high in Chlorophyll, which helps remove toxins from the blood and boost the immune system.
• Spirulina has a very high concentration of bio-available iron and is excellent during pregnancy and for those with anemia and will not cause constipation.
•  Spirulina is a great source of other nutrients including (according to Wikipedia): “Spirulina contains vitamins B-1(thiamine), B-2 (riboflavin), B-3(nicotinamide), B-6 (pyridoxine), B-9 (folic acid), vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A and vitamin E. It is also a source of potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium,  manganese, phosphorus,  selenium, sodium and zinc. Spirulina contains many pigments which may be beneficial and bioavailable”
• This Spirulina (from Mountain Rose Herbs) was tested be an independent laboratory and found to have an ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) of over 24,000 which is 4x the ORAC score of blueberries. The ORAC score is generally used to measure antioxidant ability and concentration in different foods.
• Spirulina is also incredibly high in calcium with over 26 times the calcium in milk, making it excellent for children, the elderly and during pregnancy.
• Some research has suggested that Spirulina may be helpful in allergies and allergic reactions.
• Spirulina’s phosphorus content makes it helpful as part of a tooth remineralization regimen.
• Emerging evidence suggests that it binds with radioactive isotopes and may be useful for radioactivity exposure or radiation therapy.
• The protein in Spirulina is highly usable and has a net protein utilization rate of between 50-61%
• Spirulina can bind with heavy metals in the body and help remove them.
• Spirulina can increase fat burning during exercise.

• Spirulina Powder Benefits

• http://thelistlady.hubpages.com/hub/Spirulina-Powder-8-Benefits

  Spirulina is considered a super food because it is a potent source of nutrients. It contains as much as 70% protein, and is a good source of chlorophyll, B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, and iron. Spirulina also contains more beta-carotene than carrots as well as the essential fatty acid known as GLA.

  Used since ancient times for its many nutritional benefits, spirulina continues to be used today as an antiviral, an antioxidant, a lipid-lowering agent and as an aid for weight loss. Spirulina (spirulina plantensis), is a type of blue-green algae that grows in warm, alkaline waters.

  Following is a list of the many benefits of using spirulina

  1 – Anti-aging - Easily digested, powdered spirulina is filled with antioxidants. The beta carotene in spirulina is beneficial for good vision and eye health. Iron-rich and a low fat protein, spirulina can be an ideal meat substitute. Sprirulina also builds lactobacillus in the gut, and aids in the assimilation of food as well as elimination – which helps relieve constipation.

  2 – Immunity - For strengthening the immune system, spirulina powder helps the body produce additional red and white blood cells. It also helps the body’s natural ability to cleanse and detoxify.

  3 – During Pregnancy - Spirulina powder is a beneficial supplement to use during pregnancy because it provides protection against iron-deficiency anemia and provides needed protein.

  4 – For Infants and Children - Spirulina has been studied as a nutritional food supplement to prevent malnutrition. Spirulina is also a good source of iron for children with iron-deficiency anemia.

  5 – Type 2 Diabetes - Spirulina is also being studied for type 2 diabetes mellitus because it shows promise for reducing fasting blood sugar levels.

  6 – Nasal Allergies - Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, spirulina powder has shown improvements in certain aspects of nasal allergies.

  7- For weight loss - Spirulina has long been marketed as an appetite suppressant.

  8 – Pets – Spirulina powder is sold as a supplement for fish, birds, dogs, cats and other pets. Dogs and cats taking spirulina have healthier skin, a more lustrous coat and fresher breath. Spirulina is also added to many premium aquarium foods to improve growth, color, and survival rates.

6 Amazing Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, also known as Melaleuca oil, is an essential oil derived from the leaves of an Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia through the method of steam distillation. The oil is clear to pale yellow in color and has a fresh, woody, camphoraceous odor.

It is highly beneficial for health because it has several medicinal properties. For instance, it has antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, expectorant,stimulant, and insecticide properties. Furthermore, it is usually considered safe as it is non irritant and non-toxic in nature.

Given below are 6 wonderful benefits of using tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is useful for fighting infections because it works as an immuno-stimulant. Thus, it increases the body’s ability to get rid of infections.

Tea tree oil, in particular, is considered good for treating eczema, athlete’s foot, ringworm, boils, warts, etc. and relieves itching caused by these problems.

Thus, when dealing with these infections you can either dilute tea tree oil in water, or mix about ten drops of this essential oil in carrier oil such as almond oil, olive oil, coconut oil, etc., and then apply on the affected area.

It is suggested to avoid applying tea tree oil directly on sensitive skin, or else it may give rise to redness, itching and irritation.

Besides, pure tea tree oil can be used to heal cold sores. You can even apply dilute tea tree oil (one part oil and one part water) on the affected area several times in a day. Plus, you may mix about six drops of tea tree oil in your bath water and soak in it for a while.

In addition, it helps soften corns and calluses. Moreover, tea tree oil can be used for cuts, scrapes, burns, insect bites, scabies, minor wounds, ingrown hair, razor burns, skin tags, chicken pox, candida, ear infection, and so on.

This oil is not meant to be ingested, but you can massage your gums with it or use tea tree oil toothpaste to cure mouth ulcers and gum infection.

Alternatively, you can add three drops of tea tree oil a cup of warm water and gargle with this solution twice or thrice daily to get rid of gum inflammation, bad breath, laryngitis, etc.

Tea tree essential oil works as a great beauty aid. It removes excess oil and fights off bacteria causing acne and pimples.

In fact, it is considered as effective as benzoyl peroxide, which is often used for eliminating acne and blemishes.

Hence, you can prepare a solution by mixing equal amounts of tea tree oil and water, and apply it regularly on your face two times in a day (morning and night) with the help of a cotton swab.

Make sure you wash your face before putting tea tree oil. Before applying it on your face though, it is recommended to conduct a patch test on the inside of your forearm to check your sensitivity. This essential oil can be used for treating nail fungus, as well.

Tea tree oil is helpful in preventing and treating head lice. Therefore, you can simply mix it in your shampoo (put two drops of the oil per ounce of shampoo).

Besides, you can 20 drops of tea tree oil in two ounces of carrier oil, apply this solution on your hair and leave for a few hours before shampooing.

Alternatively, you can use a mixture of a pint of water and 25 drops of tea tree oil, three times in a day. These remedies, however, are not a substitute for combing.

Hence, you will still have to comb out the lice and remove their eggs. Furthermore, you can combine two ounces of vodka, one ounce each of water and glycerin, half an ounce of tea tree oil, and soak your lice comb in this mixture to kill the lice and eggs.

Moreover, in case you are bothered about lice in your clothes, you can put 12 drops of tree oil in your washer along with the detergent while washing your clothes.

This is yet another benefit of using tea tree oil on your hair. You can mix this essential oil in your regular shampoo (one drop of tea tree oil per ounce of shampoo) or use a specific anti-dandruff shampoo containing 5% tea tree oil.

Furthermore, you may apply a few drops of tea tree oil directly on your scalp before shampooing to cure scalp problems and get rid of dandruff.

Besides, you can use a combination of tea tree oil and rosemary oil to treat dry, flaky scalp. You can also mix tea tree oil with water and spray it on your scalp throughout the week as a hair spritz.

When dealing with sinusitis, bronchitis, cold, flu, sore throat, cough, whooping cough, asthma, and other respiratory ailments, you can add tea tree oil to a vaporizer to get rid of chest congestion.

Plus, you can put several drops of tea tree oil in boiling water, cover your head with a paper towel, and inhale the steam. In addition, it can be mixed with some carrier oil and massaged on to the chest.

Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties and flushes out uric acid build-up. Hence, it helps heal sore muscles, mild sprains, and arthritis pain by desensitizing irritated nerve endings.

Moreover, it relieves wrist pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. Thus, you can massage the affected area with some carrier oil mixed with two drops of tea tree oil.

If you are not sure where to get tea tree oil from, them you can purchase it from a drugstore or a health food store. It is usually available in the health and beauty section of the store.

Though this oil is mostly safe, still it can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals, especially those who are allergic to eucalyptus, cloves, etc.

Read more about 6 Amazing Benefits of Tea Tree Oil at Speedyremedies.com

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-common-flowers-you-didnt-know-you-should-eat.html

violets, rose hips, dandelions, day lilies, squash blossoms, calendula, hibiscus, honeysuckle, lilac and carnations!

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-8108/13-common-ailments-you-can-treat-with-peppermint-oil.html

13 Common Ailments You Can Treat With Peppermint Oil

By Ashley Turner

Peppermint (Mentha piperita), like lavender, is another incredibly versatile essential oil! Known as one of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion, scientists have researched its effects on the liver and respiratory system, as well as its ability to improve concentration and mental accuracy. The fragrance of peppermint is purifying and stimulating for the mind, which makes it a great natural pick-me-up. Here are some common ailments that may benefit from treatment with this essential oil:

1. Indigestion/Diarrhea

Place 4-6 drops of peppermint oil in the palm and rub over the stomach and around the naval to relieve indention, gas and diarrhea.

2. Heartburn

Add a drop of peppermint oil to herbal tea (with agave or honey to emulsify/blend the oil and the tea) to aid in digestion and relieve heartburn.

3. Nausea

Massage several drops of peppermint oil on the abdomen, or place 2-3 drops in hands, gentrly rub together, cup palms and deeply inhale to relieve nausea.

4. Travel sickness

Rub 4 drops of peppermint oil on the chest and stomach to relieve travel sickness. I always carry it with me while flying or during long train and car rides!

5. Hiccups

To stop hiccups, apply a drop of peppermint oil on each side of the fifth cervical vertebra (up three notches from the large vertebra at the base of the neck).

6. Inflammation (unbroken skin)

Massage several drops of peppermint oil on an area of injury or chronic inflammation.

7. Bruising (unbroken skin)

Apply peppermint oil immediately to an injured area (not broken skin) — bruised shin, hit on the foot or hand — to relieve pain. If skin is broken, apply around but not on the open wound.

8. Fever

Rub several drops of peppermint oil on the bottom of the feet to reduce fever.

9. Itching

Apply a drop of peppermint oil topically on unbroken skin to stop itching.

10. Poison Ivy/Poison Oak

For poison ivy or poison oak, apply peppermint oil directly or dilute with vegetable mixing oil (coconut, sesame, etc).

11. Headache

To relieve a headache, rub a drop of peppermint oil on the temples, forehead, over the sinuses (stay away from the eyes) and on the back of the neck.

12. Trouble with alertness/concentration

Place 2 drops of peppermint oil on the tongue and rub another drop under the nose to improve alertness and concentration. Diffuse in your office or home.

13. Congestion

Place a drop of peppermint oil on the tongue and inhale into the nose and sinuses to relieve congestion from a cold. Diffuse in your room.

Peppermint is one of my favorite essential oils — never leave home without it!

Please leave a comment below with any essential oil questions, and be sure to share how you use your favorite essential oil!

Published March 15, 2013 at 7:01 AM

Here are some common uses for Irish Moss gel:

http://some-like-it-raw.com/2011/12/09/superfood-irish-moss/

* Gives a creamy, light texture to desserts
* Can also be used to firm up raw desserts
* Replaces some of the fat in dressings and sauces
* Makes smoothies extra thick and creamy
* Replaces some of the nuts in raw ice-cream and cheese

The many health benefits of Irish Moss include:

* Alkaline forming
* Cuts calories in rich desserts and sauces (the gel is virtually calorie-less)
* Has a soothing effect on the bodies’ mucous membranes, including the digestive tract, and so helps alleviating constipation,indigestion, nausea, ulcers, and so on
* Due to its antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial and anticoagulant activities (much like coconut oil) it can be used topically (like a skin moisturizer) to alleviate rash, eczema, pimples and sunburn. It is also said to give the skin back elasticity and hereby reducing wrinkles and varicose veins
* Thanks to these same properties it is said to be very helpful with the flu, congestion and coughs
* Irish Moss, like other sea weeds, is an excellent source of the essential mineral iodine. If you don’t eat much (iodine-fortified) bread, adding a good source of iodine to your diet is vital for good thyroid function
* Irish Moss is also a good source of calcium, magnesium, potassium, selenium, zinc, pectin, vitamins A, B, C, E and K and essential amino acid taurine, which can be scarce in the vegan diet

Zheng Gu Shei - has remarkable healing stories with muscles, joints, tendons and bones, as the healing begins in the bone marrow. Use the lotion liberally and daily. Its very drying so one must put on lotion afterwards. Available at Acupuncture offices and Chinese Herb Shops

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-7654/the-benefits-of-using-aloe-vera-for-skin-care-and-more.html

The Benefits Of Using Aloe Vera For Skin Care And More

By Elizabeth Rocchino

Here are 8 benefits of using aloe vera gel:

1. It treats sunburn.

Aloe Vera helps with sunburn through its powerful healing activity at the epithelial level of the skin, a layer of cells that cover the body. It acts as a protective layer on the skin and helps replenish its moisture. Because of its nutritional qualities and antioxidant properties, the skin heals quicker.

2. It acts as a moisturizer.

Aloe moisturizes the skin without giving it a greasy feel, so it`s perfect for anyone with an oily skin complexion. For women who use mineral-based make-up, aloe vera acts as a moisturizer and is great for the face prior to the application to prevents skin drying. For men: Aloe vera gel can be used as an aftershave treatment as its healing properties can treat small cuts caused by shaving.

3. It treats acne.

Aloe vera gel contains two hormones: Auxin and Gibberellins. These two hormones provide wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin inflammation. Giberellin in aloe vera acts as a growth hormone stimulating the growth of new cells. It allows the skin to heal quickly and naturally with minimal scarring.

Aloe is soothing and can reduce skin inflammations, blistering and itchiness, while helping the skin to heal more rapidly. Additionally, in Ayurvedic medicine, Aloe is used to effectively heal chronic skin problems, such as psoriasis, acne and eczema.

4. It fights aging.

As we age, everyone begins to worry about the appearance of fine lines and the loss of elasticity in their skin. Aloe leaves contain a plethora of antioxidants including, beta carotene, vitamin C and E that can help improve the skin’s natural firmness and keep the skin hydrated.

5. It lessens the visibility of stretch marks.

The skin is like one big piece of elastic that’ll expand and contract as needed to accommodate growth. But if the skin stretches too far, too fast (due to pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss) the elasticity of the skin can be damaged. That’s what leaves those unsightly stretch marks. These marks appear due to minor tears in the layers of the skin caused by sudden and excessive stretching. Aloe vera gel can help hide these stretch marks by healing these wounds.

6. It’s nutrient rich for good health.

This solid material contains over 75 different nutrients including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, sugars, anthraquinones or phenolic compounds, lignin, saponins, sterols, amino acids and salicylic acid.

7. It soothes in periodontal disease.

According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, it’s extremely helpful in the treatment of gum diseases like gingivitis, periodontitis. It reduces bleeding, inflammation and swelling of the gums. It is a powerful antiseptic in pockets where normal cleaning is difficult, and its antifungal properties help greatly in the problem of denture stomatitis, apthous ulcers, cracked and split corners of the mouth.

8. It aids in digestion.

The internal benefits of aloe vera are supposed to be just as amazing. The plant is said to improve the digestion and to relieve ulcers. Some people consider it a laxative, while others attribute that effect to its digestive qualities (which normalize the system and induce regularity). The juice is also prescribed for arthritis and rheumatism. To test any of these claims, steep the cut foliage in water or chew pieces of the fresh leaf

3 Key Essential Oils to Have in Your Home

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-7671/essential-oils-101.html

Lavender

One of the most versatile oils, lavender is well known for its aromatic properties and ability to calm and relax the body and mind. It can also be used to relieve skin irritation (perfect for cold winter months) – and soothes cuts and burns. I always carry lavender and just used it this week to relieve a minor burn suffered at Starbucks, when my hot tea spilled. No redness, sting or inflammation occurred.

Lavender may also be added to favorite recipes and beverages to enhance flavor! Lavender water, tea and chocolate are my favorites (only in glass or stainless steel).

Peppermint

Naturally refreshing, peppermint is a great way to achieve mentally clarity, reduce fatigue and increase energy before a workout. It aids digestion and can be added to tea, water or food. I always carry peppermint when I travel to relieve motion sickness (especially in India or NYC cabs!), energize after a long flight and relieve nasal congestion.

Lemon

Also a very versatile oil, lemon can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces and packs a double punch as an incredibly uplifting and energizing scent for body and mind. The powerful antioxidant d-limonene supports healthy immune system function. Add to a variety of foods and beverages to create flavor. Lemon oil acts to alkalize the digestive tract and is a great substitute for lemon water when you don’t have real lemons to squeeze.

Here’s to a feast for the senses!

Published February 7, 2013 at 10:11 AM

About Ashley Turner

Ashley Turner, MA, MFTI – Recently named the #2 Online Influencer for Stress Relief, Ashley is a Mind-Body Psychotherapist, Ordained Priestess, author and Yoga-Meditation instructor in Santa Monica, CA. Elevating personal growth as a lifestyle, Ashley is the creator of 4 best-selling yoga dvd’s, co-author of Aroma Yoga and offers FREE weekly videos on AshleyTurner.org. For more information on essential oils click here.