Carry Oscillo for First Sign of Flu

Travelers love to bring home lasting memories of their trips, but flu isn’t one of them. Getting sick far away from the comforts of home can ruin an entire vacation or business trip. Since travel often requires close contact with a large number of people, commuters are more susceptible to germs and flu.

“Confined to smaller spaces, breathing recycled air and touching more common surfaces, travelers have an increased risk of infection,” says Dr. Robert Schiller, department chairman of Family Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. “The proximity of passengers and the high occupancy in airplanes, buses, trains and even cruise ships increase the chance of coming into contact with someone with flu. The anxiety of traveling, lack of exercise and sleep, and limited food choices associated with travel can take a toll on your health.”

Since flu is often transmitted hand-to-hand, travelers should wash their hands often and avoid rubbing their eyes or nose. Dr. Schiller also advises travelers to avoid putting their faces directly on airline-supplied pillows or blankets that haven’t been cleaned. Another general rule for air passengers is to drink at least 4 to 8 ounces of water for every hour of flight time, which keeps the body hydrated and lessens the chance of catching a virus.

For those unfortunate enough to get sick while traveling, many doctors recommend homeopathic medicines to combat the first signs of flu-like symptoms like feeling run down, fever, chills and body aches.

“Because of their inherent safety, I recommend homeopathic medicines like Oscillococcinum as a first course of treatment. In general, homeopathic medicines don’t cause drowsiness and don’t interact with other drugs,” says Dr. Schiller. “Oscillo® works best when taken at the first sign of flu-like symptoms, so it’s important to pay close attention to symptoms and, whether on the road or at home, be prepared by having Oscillo on hand.”

Ideal for people on the go, Oscillococcinum dissolves quickly under the tongue and does not require water. Compact and portable, it can conveniently be stored in a travel bag, backpack or purse.

“Travel should be an enjoyable stress-free experience for all involved,” Dr. Schiller says. “Those who take to the roads, rails and skies should take any precautions they can to ensure they are healthy enough to enjoy their time away.”

What Type of Winter Travelers Benefit from Oscillococcinum?

• Vacationers with Busy Itineraries
  Oscillo does not cause drowsiness, allowing vacationers to do what they like to do best.
• Parents and Children on Holiday TravelOscillo is recommended for children 2 years of age and older with no risk of overdosing. Because it doesn’t mask symptoms, both parents and doctors can detect a more serious condition, should one arise, and respond faster. Additionally, children love the sweet-tasting pellets that dissolve under the tongue.
• College Students on Break or Traveling HomeOscillo is easy to take. No water is necessary. Portable and compact, individual Oscillo doses can be separated and kept in several handy places such as purses, backpacks and travel bags.
• Seniors and “Winter Snowbirds”Oscillo can safely be taken in conjunction with other medications and is not contraindicated with pre-existing conditions.
• Business TravelersOscillo does not cause drowsiness, allowing the business traveler to focus on what’s important.

- Boiron, http://www.oscillo.com/press-room/first-sign-of-flu/

Studies Continue to Tout the Benefits of Fish Oil

Fish oils have been in the news a lot lately because of their many health benefits. In a recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, scientists from the University of Reading in the UK reported that fish-derived Omega-3s were shown to help protect the blood vessels surrounding the heart and may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.*

While the American Heart Association and other experts recommend eating oily fish at least twice weekly (mainly those low in mercury such as salmon, sardines, and herring) some people find this difficult, either because they don’t cook fish regularly or because they don’t like the taste. Purifiedfish oil supplements may provide a convenient and healthful alternative.* When choosing a fish oil supplement, be sure to pay attention to the following key features:

• High potency: Look at how much Omega-3 is in each softgel—not how much fish oil. Choose a supplement that contains at least 1,000 mg Omega-3 per softgel.
• Purity: Look for the IFOS (International Fish Oil Standards™) seal to ensure your fish oil exceeds published international standards for the lowest levels of toxins.
• Freshness: Opt for a supplement packaged in a dark-colored glass bottle designed to protect the oils from light and moisture.
• Enteric coating: Enteric coated softgels help deliver the healthy Omega-3s directly to the intestines where they are absorbed. Lipase (an enzyme) may also be added to help with digestion of the oils.

In addition to their extensively studied heart health benefits*, Omega-3 essential fatty acids from fish—including EPA and DHA—have been shown to support brain, eye, and joint health as well as promote healthy immune function and mood.*

*Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA & DHA Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

- Renew Life, http://blog.renewlife.com/studies-continue-to-tout-the-benefits-of-fish-oil/

Autumn Planting, Spring Harvest

Some things take time. Garlic, for instance, takes all winter to germinate in the soil before sprouting in spring. Check your zone to see what will grow best in your area through the cold months. Here is a list of what to plant now for spring harvesting.

Kale and Collard Greens: These two leafy greens are tough enough to withstand the harsh winter. They also taste better after a cold-planting! These plants are cut-and-go crops, so you can cut what you need during the winter and it will re-grow. Remember to keep sprouts covered during snowy months.

Winter Onions: These will grow through the winter. Making sure they are kept fed and covered will produce a hearty crop in the summer.

Garlic: Garlic should be planted in the fall for a spring/summer harvest. Plant garlic bulbs 3 inches down and mulch well. The end result is definitely worth the wait!          

Broccoli and Cauliflower: Hearty enough to survive the cold months. Check your zone before planting. Cover with mulch.

Root Vegetables: Carrots, Parsnips, Beets, Rutabaga, and Turnips. If they sprout, leave the green tops, but if flowers develop cut those off. Mulch around the greens and cover if the winter is harsh.

Herbs: Do not leave them outside. Bring pots inside with herbs to ensure they keep growing through the winter. Keep in a well-lit area.

Helpful Tips:

1. Remember when planting in the fall it is crucial to top the garden off with plenty of mulch.

2. Feed the seeds! You can easily purchase seed feed at any gardening or home-repair store. Make sure to fertilize the soil when planting and again after seeds are planted.

3. Cover the seedlings. If your plants begin growing before winter has approached, you can easily cover them with tenting.

~CJ LaRose, Senior Supervisor

Fall Harvest

Harvesting your garden can be a chore, but also a fun task for the whole family. In my family, we have the kids help plant, pick and cook garden items. A fun task for children is to have them pick beans and peas. Simply show them when to pick the pods or point out ready to harvest foods. When pods feel full, it’s time to pick them. Including children in gardening helps them gain responsibility and helps you out! This simple task turns into an educational game with lessons that can be used throughout their lifetime. 

Here is a cheat sheet of when to pick the most common fruits and vegetables. Remember that every plant is different – even varieties within a species – some will take longer to mature and some mature quickly.

• Beans: When you can see the inner seeds. Or, when the pod feels full.
• Carrots: Harvest when the tops of the carrots are 1 ½ inches in diameter. There should be at least 3/5 inches of top root (the lovely green) showing. Be gentle when pulling!
• Corn: Puncture a kernel with your fingernail. If a milky liquid flows out, the corn is ready to harvest. If the liquid is clear, the corn is not ready. If the liquid is thick like toothpaste, the corn is over mature. The tops of the silk will be brown when the corn is ready to pull.
• Cucumbers: Perhaps one of the easiest to harvest, this vegetable really depends on what size you want and what variety they are. Some varieties will be thick and long; others are short and stumpy. Either way, look for dark green color before picking.
• Potatoes: When the leaves die back is when to pull potatoes. Purchasing a potato hook will help you pull potatoes more easily and will save a lot of time and backache.
• Summer Squash: When you can easily stick your fingernail in the skin.
• Winter Squash: When you cannot stick your fingernail in the skin. Knock on the outside, it should sound hollow.
• Tomatoes:When ripe: red or bright orange. They should still be form, but a little soft on the bottom. Pull from the vine. You can set tomatoes on the counter to ripen.
• Watermelon (and other melons): When the leaves close to the fruit have begun to turn brown. Knock on the outside; if it sounds hollow, it is ready to harvest. 

Recipe:

Smashed Red Potatoes with Crème Fraîche

Ingredients:

3 lb. red potatoes
Peel of 1 lemon
1 ½ tbsp. Kosher salt
4 tbsp. butter
1 c. Crème fraîche
1/4 c. chopped chives
Freshly ground pepper

Directions:

In a large pot, place potatoes and enough cold water to cover by 2 inches. Add lemon peel and salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and gently boil until potatoes are tender, 25 minutes.

Drain and transfer potatoes to a large bowl; discard lemon peel. Add 3 tablespoons butter. Using a wooden spoon, lightly mash potatoes, allowing some chunks to remain. Gently stir in crème fraîche and chives. Season with additional salt, if desired. Top with remaining butter, season with pepper, and garnish with chives.

Source:  http://www.countryliving.com/food-drinks/recipes/a4131/smashed-red-potatoes-creme-fraiche-recipe-clv0413/

- Courtney LaRose, Senior Supervisor

What is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ-10) is a vitamin-like nutrient that plays a key role in energy production in every cell; in the process, it collectively contributes to the body’s total energy levels.* CoQ-10 also functions as an antioxidant and assists in protecting cells from free radical damage.* Additionally, it helps support heart and brain health.* 

Ubiquinone is the chemical name for the most common supplemental form of CoQ-10. The body routinely converts ubiquinone to ubiquinol, the reduced form of CoQ-10 that is sometimes incorrectly referred to as the “active” form. Both ubiquinone and ubiquinol are active and required for biochemical reactions within cells and play vital roles in energy production and heart health.* Some people cannot optimally convert ubiquinone to ubiquinol in their cell membranes for full antioxidant protection.*1 They might prefer to supplement with ubiquinol because it can be easily assimilated since it does not require conversion. 

Who should consider taking CoQ-10 Supplements? 

• Those looking for antioxidant and energy support* 
• Those seeking to support heart and brain health* 
• Those taking cholesterol-lowering statin medications** 
• Those concerned with aging Vegetarians (CoQ-10 is naturally found in foods, predominantly in meat and fish) CoQ-10 plays a key role in energy production and contributes to the body’s total energy levels.* 

What’s So Special about Solgar® CoQ-10?
For more than 65 years, quality has been Solgar’s guiding principle. Everything we do—from choosing the finest natural raw materials, to state–of–the– art manufacturing, to the premium product that appears on the shelf—must meet our own Gold Standard™ of excellence. 

That’s why Solgar ® CoQ-10 formulas supply KanekaQ10® , an all-natural, clinically researched form of CoQ-10 bio-identical to the kind produced in the body. Made in the U.S. and studied for more than 30 years, KanekaQ10® is sourced from fermented yeast unlike most CoQ-10 products which are derived from tobacco or bacteria. Solgar also offers KanekaQH® ubiquinol, which is made from KanekaQ10® . 

Solgar ® CoQ-10 products are available in kosher-certified and vegetarian formulas, vegetable capsules and softgels, and a broad range of potencies from 30 mg–600 mg. Solgar also offers Megasorb formulas which provide CoQ-10 in a base of rice bran oil to promote enhanced absorption.* Plus, Solgar ® CoQ-10 formulas are free of gluten, wheat, and dairy.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
 **CoQ-10 is not intended to serve as a replacement for Statin Therapy, nor should you discontinue taking any prescribed medications while supplementing with CoQ-10.

Source: http://www.solgar.com/pub/solgarscience/20131225211414_2013CoQ10BrochureReprintWeb.pdf

DIY “Cheerful You” Body Oil

Summer is almost over, bringing back-to-school shopping, changing schedules and shorter days. Keep your mood bright and cheery through these transitions with a simple aromatherapy recipe which features Uplifting Geranium, Calming Lavender and Inspiring Lemongrass essential oils.

Ingredients :

1-1/2 oz Grapeseed Oil

1/2 oz Apricot Kernel Oil

4 drops Geranium Essential Oil

4 drops Lavender Essential Oil

3 drops Lemongrass Essential Oil

Directions :

• Combine all ingredients in an Amber Glass bottle.
• Use 2 to 3 Tbsp in bath or apply to damp skin after showering.

- Nancy Mayne, Director of Wellness

Planting Plump Pumpkins…and Other Squash

Squash are one of my favorite vegetables. They’re so versatile! You can easily turn them into Gluten Free pasta, a sweet pie, yummy kabobs with onions and so many more! 

There is a large variety of squash. Finding the right one can be a challenge. Here is a quick “cheat sheet” to finding the perfect one for you.

Acorn

This small acorn-shaped squash is loaded with fiber. I use this as a vessel for fillings. Cut it in half, roast it, then fill it with apples, raisins, chestnuts, or create your own unique yummy recipe.

Butternut

The most common squash used in Fall and Winter. Its skin is thin and easy to peel with a pairing knife. This squash is dense and creamy, allowing it to be used in savory and sweet recipes. Substitute butternut for pumpkin in pies to create a new and lovable recipe.

Delicata

Similar to butternut squash…or a sweet potato. The skin is totally edible and has a sweet flavor.

Hubbard

One of the largest varieties, the skin can range from bright orange to a blue color. The skin is edible, however, try mashing it or pureeing it before consumption, as it is very mealy.

Kabocha

This Japanese squash is newer to the US market, but has quickly become a favorite and household staple. Kabocha are drier and denser than most squash, but are easily roasted.

Pumpkin

My all-time favorite squash – for many reasons – can be used in savory or sweet dishes. A personal favorite of mine is pumpkin ravioli. Fill ravioli pasta with pureed pumpkin, Gouda cheese, and salt for a sweet and savory dish. Pumpkins can be on the sweet side, especially the skin. You can use the skin in dessert recipes, but I omit the skin when cooking pumpkin for a savory recipe. The flavor is there, but the sweetness is not.

Spaghetti

This squash is easy to use for….SPAGHETTI! When cooked, the inside separates from the skin, looking much like spaghetti noodles. Use in place of noodles for a low-calorie, low-carbohydrate, and gluten-free option.

Planting Tips

• When planting winter squash, it is important to remember when to plant. Typically right after the last frost (March) is the best time. Planting seeds this early ensures plenty of time for the fruit to ripen. On average, it takes winter squash 80-120 days to mature after seeds are planted. If you would plant seeds now, they would be ready for picking between October 9^th and the first week of November. It is also important to look at zones when planting – simply go to the USDA website to find the zoning map. This will give you a better indication of when to plant in your area and when to expect the first and last frost of the year. Stop planting seeds fourteen weeks before the first expected frost (November). 
• It is okay for winter squash to be ripening even after the first frost. Their outer “shell” protects the fruit within from harsh temperatures.
• When harvesting, simply knock on the outside – a mature squash will sound hollow. Remember to cut the squash from the vine, rather than yanking or pulling it off. Cutting allows the plant to re-grow from that vine. Pulling can damage the vine and the plant, altogether.
• Remember to keep winter squash in a cool, dry place when storing. Winter squash can be stored for months if stored properly! Avoid moist or damp locations, as the dampness will rot the squash from the outside.

Simple Recipe: Pumpkin Soup

Perfect for those cold autumn and winter evenings, this soup is sweet and savory.

1 3-pound sugar pumpkin or 3 pounds kabocha or butternut squash—peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces

5 tablespoons olive oil

kosher salt and black pepper

4 leeks (white and light green parts only), chopped

4 to 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

sour cream, croutons, and paprika (preferably smoked), for serving

1. Heat oven to 400° F. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the pumpkin with 3 tablespoons of the oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Roast, tossing once, until tender, 20 to 25 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the leeks and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the roasted pumpkin, 4 cups of the broth, and ½ teaspoon salt and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

3. In a blender, working in batches, puree the soup until smooth, adjusting the consistency with the remaining broth as necessary. (Alternatively, use a handheld immersion blender in the saucepan.) Top the soup with the sour cream and croutons and sprinkle with the paprika, if desired.

- - CJ LaRose, Senior Supervisor

Sources:

http://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/growing-squash/growing-winter-squash-zmaz10jjzraw.aspx

http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/squash/growing-winter-squash.htm

http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/shopping-storing/food/common-types-winter-squash

http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/pumpkin-soup

Local Beekeeper Helps Bees and You

For the past few years, the media has been buzzing about bees. Reduction in colonies and erratic behavior has been a worldwide concern. CCD (Colony Collapse Disorder) has been keeping scientists busy trying to investigate the why's of the sudden disappearance of worker bees in the Western honey bee colony. By 2007, a group of commercial beekeepers in the U.S. reported bee colony losses between 30-90%.

What would life look life without bees? The British Beekeepers Association indicates that one third of our food is pollinated by bees. Bees effect a significant amount of the global food industry - two hundred and fifteen billion dollars worth.

Mark Brubaker, from Gardeners, PA, delivers raw honey to The Healthy Grocer. A family owned business, started by his father, approximately ten workers (all family) can be seen working with the 25,000 bee colonies on his property. "We work to keep the bees alive and pollinating," says Brubaker.

Brubaker also works with other beekeepers in Washington state, Michigan and Florida to source other honey options including buckwheat honey, orange blossom honey and bee pollen.

"Bee pollen consists of bee saliva and enzymes, mixed with pollen that the bees have brought back to the hive on their bodies. The bees pack the pollen into granules; honey and nectar are sometimes added to the granules. Bee pollen contains small amounts of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Bee pollen will vary from batch to batch and by location, because the pollen component will be unique to the plants the bees have visited. If pollen is collected from residential or farming areas where pesticides and other chemicals are used, these will remain in the final product," according to Aisle 7.

Brubaker indicates that while his family does not source bee pollen, he is happy to work with a Michigan beekeeper for it. "It's a lot of work." 

A special pollen trap is used at the entrance of bee hives. The responsible beekeeper has to check the trap daily as the contents are wet and can quickly grow mold. "It's a perishable crop," says Brubaker.

Bee pollen can then be dehydrated upon collection to eliminate moisture or can be immediately frozen for future use.

While "Modern clinical evidence of the medicinal properties of bee pollen is lacking," Livestrong.org indicates "People use it to improve athletic performance and memory, prevent hay fever and treat respiratory infections, endocrine problems and colitis." However, use with caution. Strong allergic reactions have been found to occur. 

Raw honey, however, contains carbohydrates to help stamina and locally sourced honey is often used to support seasonal respiratory support. Since ancient times, honey has been used for it antibacterial properties in supporting the healing of wounds. In Ayurveda (the world's oldest healing system), honey is a key ingredient in jump starting the digestive tract first thing in the morning. Boiled water is cooled to a tolerable temperature in a cup, lemon juice is added and a tablespoon of raw honey follows. Drink before consuming any other liquid or food. 

Supporting local beekeeper, Brubaker, may just help the bees and our health.

- Susan Kiskis, General Manager

DIY Foot Odor Powder

Sneakers, ballerinas and canvas shoes tend to hold odors, especially in the heat of the summer. Keep things fresh by sprinkling some of this bacteria-fighting powder into your offending footwear.

Ingredients :

6 Tbsp Baking Soda

4 drops Lemongrass Essential Oil

4 drops Sage Essential Oil

Preparation :

Combine all the ingredients and mix thoroughly. Allow to dry before using. Store in a glass jar. Spoon the mixture into shoes and leave overnight. You can also dust your feet once or twice daily.

- Nancy Mayne, Director of Wellness

Chlorella: The Fresh Water Super Food

Chlorella is a fresh water micro-algae, originating in the waters of Japan and one of the oldest living organisms on the planet. The green algae is a complete protein with impressive chlorophyll content and antioxidants, as well as essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and fiber. With a highly dense nutrient profile, chlorella is considered a super food—one that may be more nutritious than more commonly known greens like kale, spinach and broccoli.

While chlorella’s tough cellular walls make it difficult to digest, scientific research has led to the production of chlorella supplements that are more easily digested, thus allowing its nutrients to be more readily absorbed. The green super food is a rare vegetarian source of vitamin B-12, which helps support adrenal function, calms and maintains a healthy nervous system and is necessary for metabolic processes. 

Vitamin B-12 is important to DNA synthesis and maintaining healthy nerve cells. Like spirulina, chlorella also contains a high level of chlorophyll, which is responsible for the algae’s vibrant green color. Known for its ability to detoxify, chlorophyll may aid in cleansing the body of potentially harmful toxins.

Source Naturals Yaeyama Chlorella is a high quality dietary chlorella supplement, made with 100% Non-GMO freshwater chlorella that is grown on the coral reef island of Ishigaki, Japan. It is free of binders and fillers and suitable for vegans, vegetarians and is hypoallergenic. Source Naturals goes to great lengths to offer quality products which include testing all products with ingredients from Japan. In addition to testing for radiation, Source Naturals tests Japanese-sourced ingredients for purity, micro-contamination, as well as ingredient identification.

  

-Stephen Howe Jr, Customer Care Lead & Marketing Assistant

Sources:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/126505-benefits-spirulina-chlorella/, http://draxe.com/7-proven-chlorella-benefits-side-effects/, http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART02810/facts-about-vitamin-b, http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/health-benefits-chlorella-versus-spirulina-10339.html

Top Tips for Growing Herbs at Home

Herbs can be used not only for cooking, but for medicinal purposes, as well. Herbs such as lavender, rosemary, and lemon balm have been used for centuries and revered for their medicinal properties. I always have a lavender and aloe plant – regardless of the season – in my home ready for use.

Here are a few helpful tips to keeping your herbs in tip-top shape:

1.      Planting herbs is easy! You can easily find the herbs you want in any store or online. Buying seeds versus a seedling is a hard choice. If you have time to nurture seeds, planting seeds can be easy, but frustrating. Seeds take time to mature and grow. However, if you are always busy, you may want to purchase a small plant.

2.     When the herbs are growing, remember to cut them often! Cutting them often will ensure new growth for future use.

3.      Like all garden plants, herbs can be classified as annual, perennial, or biennial. Annual grow only for one season and must be replanted each spring. Perennial live for several years – they die in the fall, but they grow back in the spring. Biennial grow for two years – there are few herbs that are categorized as biennial (Clary Sage and Parsley, for example).

Annual Herbs:

Basil
Chamomile
Cilantro
Cumin
Dill
Fennel

Perennial Herbs:

Catnip
Chives
Lavender
Lemon balm
Mint
Rosemary

4.      Most herbs will thrive with about 1 inch of water a week. Herbs in raised beds and pots will dry out more quickly and will need watered more frequently. Keep the surrounding areas weed free. Weeds suck up the water and will quickly drain soil of any water or nutrients. Also, don’t drench your herbs in water. Too much water in the soil causes the roots to be water-logged. This will often kill the plant or fungus will begin to grow on the plant.

5.      Keep herbs out of direct sunlight. Making sure the herbs get an even amount of sunlight and shade is crucial to the plants growth. Too much sun will bake the herb and drain any water from the soil that it needs.

Top Five Herbs for Summer Cooking:

-Basil – good for Italian cooking!

-Chives – pairs well with root vegetables (potatoes, turnips, etc).

-Rosemary – pair with pork and chicken.

-Dill – pairs well with fish.

-Mint – perfect for Mojitos!

Herb Butter (My Own Recipe)

Ingredients:

½ pound unsalted butter, room temperature

¼ teaspoon fresh minced garlic

1 tablespoon fresh minced scallions or chives

1 tablespoon fresh minced dill

1 tablespoon fresh minced parsley

1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients. Stir with a spatula until well mixed. Do not whip! Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.

- CJ LaRose, Senior Supervisor

Sources: http://ext100.wsu.edu/kittitas/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2014/02/Annual-Perennial-and-Biennial-Herbs-in-Your-Garden1.pdf, http://www.bhg.com/gardening/vegetable/herbs/herb-care-guide/, http://www.garden.org/plantguide/index.php?keyword=Herbs

DIY Shave Oil

Treat your Dad or yourself to this home-made shave oil. It feels and smells luxurious.

Ingredients :

2 oz Grapeseed Oil

1-1/2 oz Coconut Oil

6 drops Cedarwood Essential Oil

4 drops Sandalwood Precious Essential Oil

4 drops Lavender Essential Oil

Preparation :

Combine all ingredients in a dark glass bottle. Shake well.

Use :

Wash your face, place a warm cloth over your whole face and leave on for 2 minutes. Remove the cloth. Apply the oil mixture, then shave. No need to wash off the oil residue.

-Nancy Mayne, Director of Wellness

Tips for Growing Amazing Backyard Tomatoes

Gardening season is in full swing! Every year, I plant several varieties of tomatoes. Have you ever had tomatoes split on the vine? Or, they just won’t turn red? Here are a few helpful tips for growing luscious red tomatoes. 

1. Don’t over water! This is the most important part of growing tomatoes. Since tomatoes are water-based, drowning the plants in water only water-logs the roots, creating an overfull vine and fruit. Water your tomatoes only when the soil feels dryer, not when it is damp or even semi-damp.

2. When planting, remember using a tomato cage or fence will help stabilize your plants as they grow.

3. Take time out of your busy day to actually go look at the plants. Are there black spots on the leaves? Are your tomatoes red? If they are red, pull them to eat before they burst. Are they a dark orange, almost red? Pull them, set them in a pan near a window with sunlight. They will ripen. Do you notice any bugs? Ants? Little black beetles? Treating an infestation early is always a good idea, especially with tomato plants.

Treating an Infestation:

1. Use new mulch or compost every season. Ridding the garden beds of old mulch, weeds, dry leaves, etc. will help prevent a bug infestation. Also, remember that if you are using mulch, lay it before planting. Tilling your mulch into the soil is also a good idea if you want to use mulch. Personally, I have always used compost or a good quality soil if I need the extra dirt for my garden. Usually tilling is enough.
2. Plant marigolds. Marigolds naturally repel many insects, including mosquitoes. Also, planting Citronella is a great idea not only to keep your garden insect-free, but also for humans and pets.
3. Keep your foliage and compost areas dry! Wet compost and foliage encourages insect growth – particularly mosquitoes.

4. Watering on a consistent basis is crucial. Tomatoes require about 2 inches of water per week. Check the soil every day – morning and evening. Right after dawn and dusk are the best times to water. Never water your garden during peak sun hours – between 10 am and 2 pm.

Tomato and Feta Salad

2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced

1 ounce Feta cheese, crumbled

2 fresh leaves Basil, chopped

1 teaspoon Olive Oil

Pinch of salt

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Chill before serving.

- CJ LaRose, Senior Supervisor

The Importance of Moisturizing Your Skin

Our skin is the largest organ in the human body. It protects us from the elements, aids in regulating body temperature and allows us to touch and feel. While it is common to focus one’s attention upon facial skin care, it is important to treat the rest of our skin with equal care. After all, a person’s skin is the first thing we see, as it covers us from head to toe.

While skin acts as our protective barrier from an ever-changing environment, we must remember the importance of doing our part to help skin perform its job. As dry skin often indicates an impaired barrier function of the skin, we must first and foremost maintain our skin’s moisture. Choosing the right moisturizer differs from person to person, dependent upon skin sensitivity, pigmentation and oiliness, upon many other factors. Remember, once applied to skin, the products and ingredients that we choose are often absorbed into the skin or metabolized, so be aware of your skin’s reaction to applying new moisturizers.

Here are some tips:

• Year round, apply a daily moisturizer with broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Reapply as directed on the product label. 
• Choose products without known irritants, such as synthetic fragrances and other chemical ingredients.
• Be aware of your skin’s reaction to fragrance, whether natural or artificial in origin. Those with sensitive skin may only tolerate fragrance-free products.
• When cleansing your skin, use the same caution in choosing products as with moisturizing. Although you are washing these products from your skin, this short period of contact can still allow irritants to harm your barrier function.
• Almond Glow from Home Health is an exceptional moisturizing option for those seeking a product made with only natural ingredients. This body lotion is formulated with pure plant oils-peanut, olive and lanolin oils-that naturally condition skin and vitamin E, a known antioxidant.
• Certain medications and consumption of alcoholic beverages can dehydrate the skin.

-Stephen Howe Jr, Customer Care Lead & Marketing Assistant

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/picture-of-the-skin, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14572299, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2958188/, http://www.dermalinstitute.com/us/library/18_article_The_Top_Three_Causes_of_Dry_Dehydrated_Skin.html

DIY Body Butter

Looking to make a luxurious homemade gift for your mom, sister, daughter, wife or self this Mother’s Day? This recipe is a little more elaborate than many that I post here, but the end result is worth the efforts.

Ingredients :

1 tsp Beeswax, finely grated and tightly packed

4 tsp Cocoa Butter

1 tsp Coconut Oil

1 tsp Shea Butter, chopped or shaved

2 tsp Avocado Oil

1-¼ oz (7-½ tsp) Sweet Almond Oil

4 drops Ylang-Ylang or Lavender Essential Oil

2 drops Sandalwood Precious Essential Oil

Preparation :

Heat the Beeswax and Cocoa Butter in the top half of a double boiler until melted. Remove from the heat and add the Coconut Oil, stirring until it has melted. Let cool until the outside of the container is just slightly warmer than your hand. Add the Shea Butter, Avocado and Sweet Almond Oils, beating with a whisk until smooth. Add the Essential Oils one drop at a time, beating after each addition until thoroughly blended. Spoon into glass jars.

-Nancy Mayne, Director of Wellness

Outdoor Hands Scrub

We live on the creek and love to play hard and work hard outside. Throughout the Spring and Summer I frequently make batches of this simple scrub and leave it on the bathroom sink for the entire family to use. I also make a variation with the juice of half a lemon as a grease-cutting agent for my husband to use in his workshop.

Ingredients :

1 to 1-½ cup Granulated Sugar

1 cup Oil (Almond, Grapeseed, even Olive, whatever you have on hand)

10-12 drops Essential Oil of your choice (optional)

Juice of ½ Lemon, if needed

Preparation :

Start by mixing one cup of sugar with the oil with a fork. The final consistency should be that of good sandcastle-making sand, so depending on the oil you use, you may need to add more sugar. Lastly, add the essential oils and lemon, if desired.

-Nancy Mayne, Director of Wellness

Staff DIY Favorite

Nature’s Shield Bug Repellent

 

Ingredients :

4oz Distilled Water

2 Tbsp Witch Hazel with Aloe

1 tsp Vegetable Glycerin

20 drops Nature’s Shield Repellent Blend Essential Oil by Nature’s Fusions

Preparation :

Pour the distilled water, witch hazel and glycerin into an empty spray bottle. Add 20 drops of Nature’s Shield.

Natural repellents should be re-applied every few hours.

Shake well before each use. 

-Nancy Mayne, Director of Wellness

Staff Picks

Simply Delish!

Simply Delish Natural Strawberry Jel Desserts taste just like the good, old-fashioned jello desserts from your childhood: They are sweet, brightly colored treats that wiggle while you eat them, and that’s just half the fun! Simply Delish has created a Jel dessert that is free of sugar, gelatin and artificial ingredients, so those with special diets can enjoy these fruity & fun snacks too!

-Stephen Howe, Jr., Marketing Assistant

Afternoon Pick-me-up

My favorite of the month is New England Naturals Organic Berry Coconut Granola. Loaded with organic raspberries, blueberries & coconut chips, this isn’t your average granola. Oh, and the best part? It’s gluten free & unsweetened, so individuals with special diets can enjoy this sweet & crunchy granola as well! For breakfast, I mix mine into my favorite Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey. It makes for a great snack too. Grab a handful right out of the bag and you've got yourself a nutritious mid-afternoon pick-me-up!

-Stephen Howe, Jr., Marketing Assistant

Spring Look

With spring quickly approaching, it’s time to get out of the house! And what better way than to look your best…Mineral Fusion developed wonderful Water-based mascaras for sensitive skin that don’t clump or burn your eyes. My favorite, Graphite, is a jet black color – perfect for a night on the town. This mascara is made for length! While providing full lash coverage, it also nourishes the fine lashes. I love Graphite Mascara and always recommend Mineral Fusion to my friends.

-CJ LaRose, Senior Supervisor 

Hydration On The Go

Are warmer temps encouraging you to be more active? Activz Coconut Water Powder is a natural electrolyte replacement made from young coconuts that helps you to rehydrate naturally. This is a drink you can take with you anywhere, just add water or juice. Try Activz in your smoothies for a tropical twist!

-Mona Claypoole, Director of Marketing

Sore, Tired, Achy Muscles?

The temperatures are warming and you want to get moving. There's nothing like a few rounds of golf, a hike, gardening or a workout to help you feel recharged. But after activities, you may find that your muscles are too sore for you to move.

Sometimes, muscles are just sore from use, not from overuse. Sore muscles can be painful and stiff enough to keep you from your activities the next day.

If your muscles are tired or fatigued you can generally loosen them up and the sore feeling will go away once you get them moving. Here are some tips to help you get over sore muscles and stiffness:

o        Soaking in a very warm bath for 30 minutes may help with relaxation and help to loosen up muscles.

o        Apply an ice pack to the painful area to help reduce the soreness, which may be caused by swelling or bruising.

o        Apply Boiron Arnicare to the area to help with the symptoms of muscle pain, stiffness, swelling and bruising. Arnicare helps you feel better faster.

o        Apply a topical rub with a heating sensation may help to get the blood flowing to your sore muscles, loosening them up and helping them to work better.

o        Light exercise such as Yoga and stretching can help with the blood flow to the muscles and get you moving again.

o        A 20-minute stretching and relaxing massage can help to loosen up stiff, sore and tight muscles.

-Mona Claypoole, Director of Marketing