Category: Natural Recipes & Remedies

Buying organic might be the number one way to ensure that the foods purchased are free from pesticides.

The price of organic produce can make it financially impossible for some people to make the purchase.

Spraying your produce with a natural vegetable wash, is a way to clean up some of the pesticides that could work their way into your produce.

If you purchase your produce in stores, you might find that, some of them will have a wax coating.  Using a homemade produce wash is a gentle way to strip the wax off the fruit. Stores carry a variety of vegetable washes. Homemade vegetable washes are cheaper than the store bought vegetable wash, and more effective than water.

Why are vegetable washes effective?

Vinegar contains acetic acid. This acid is effective in killing bacteria, dissolving sprayed on wax, and the pesticide residues.

Homemade veggie wash recipe

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup vinegar
• 2 Tbsp baking soda
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice

Directions for harder skinned produce

1. Spray fruits and vegetables with your all natural veggie wash Scrub it wash into the skin, rinse with water. Directions for soft skinned produce
2. Fill a large mixing bowl with equal parts water and vinegar Let set for five minutes
3. Wash and rinse your fruit

Suggested items to purchase

1. Vegetable scrub brush to scrub the vegetables with your homemade vegetable wash.
2. Spray bottle to store your all natural vegetable wash

Storage tips

When not in use, store the natural vegetable wash in the refrigerator, since this will increase the shelf life. Create natural vegetable washes to remove pesticides from produce.

Products that are good for you can, at times, be more expensive. The good news is that many products can be made at home.

 

Did you know that Dream pillows used to be called comfort pillows? I found that out in my second grade class. For the record, I had no clue what dream pillows were either. However thanks to my amazing second grade teacher, Mrs. Kyte,  she clued me in, and since then, I’ve always had them.

We loved Mrs. Kyte, she made our classes interesting; she brought in a lot of fun educational tools that stimulated us and made us want to learn more. We went on day trips in the woods near our school, where she pointed out vegetation, and talked about their scientific properties. We collected samples from a nearby stream, which we were able to view through the class microscope. Mrs. Kyte, made our daily subjects fun, and we eagerly lapped up the information.

Anyway back to those dream pillows…

Mrs. Kyte told us that dream pillows used to be called comfort pillows. As she passed around the tiny pillow, she talked about its history. We all impatiently waited our turn to get a sniff of the pillow. The smell was pleasant, with hints of lavender, valerian, and a few other dried herbs I couldn’t detect.

While our class was marvelling about the pillow and how delightful it smelled, Mrs. Kyte went on to say that these tiny pillows were used in sickrooms since it was believed that it could ease the anxiety, and the occasional nightmares that accompanied the medication administered. She named the herbs she used in her dream pillow; valerian, catnip, and lavender,  was all herbs I was very familiar with. Since we had them growing in our herbal garden, she also mentioned herbs that were new to me.

That day, I couldn’t wait to get home from school. Brimming with knowledge about those dream pillows and I attempted to make my own. Although it didn’t have the range of herbs that were in hers. I used what was in our herb garden; mint, lavender, and rose. I created my own pillow pattern, and before too long I had a sweet smelling dream pillow. I loved the smell of my dream pillow so much, I made more, and eventually started putting them in my clothes drawer. I discovered they lightly scented my clothes. I already knew the herbs worked as an insect repellent. Years later I discovered that mice hated mint.

As I became older, dream pillows became increasingly popular. I started seeing them crop up in the new age stores I frequented in my twenties, and I finally started seeing them in stores like Whole Foods market too. These days, I don’t use dream pillows too much in my pillow case however you’ll usually see some type of pillow in my clothes drawer, and if you look closely you’ll most likely see a pillow tucked away in my shoe closet too.

Sweet Dreams Pillow Recipe

• 1 cup mugwort
• 1/2 cup rose petals
• 1/2 cup sweet hops
• 1/3 cup lavender buds
• 1/3 cup crushed catnip
• 1/4 cup valerian
• 1/4 cup peppermint
• 10 drops lavendar essential oil
• 5 drops myrrh essential oil

 

Directions

1. Make cloth bags from 6 x 12″ piece of material
2. In a bowl mix all ingredients together
3. Add essential oils
4. Mix until blended
5. Using a funnel fill bags with your mixture
6. Sew the bags shut or use velcro to seal (I prefer velcro since I can refresh the herbs.)

How To Increase Your Dream Pillows Life

Keep your dream pillow sealed in a storage container when not in use. I don’t use too much plastic in our house but I do store my herbs in Ball Mason Jars and my dream pillows are stored in Pyrex glass storage containers. When I converted to glass I initially was concerned about glass dishes around my then toddler. Seven years later, I still have the same storage containers, and have added a few more glass containers to the list too.

My daughter enjoys dream pillows and has quite a collection in her room. Over the years, I’ve sewn my daughter several dream pillows. She loves them and has a them tucked in various corners, and clothes drawers throughout her room.

Question: Have you ever used dream pillows? Let others know about your experience, leave a comment.

 

If you’re looking for natural remedies for nail fungus or simply looking for  an all natural anti-fungal foot powder recipe. You’ve come to the right place. Over the past several days, I’ve been writing about nail fungus, and ways we can prevent it.

In part two of the series, I included recipes that might help eliminate the annoying nail fungus. The essential oils used in two recipes ae anti-fungal, anti-viral, and great for speeding up the healing process. Those natural ingredients can be effective in the treatment of fingernail or toenail fungus.

If you’re trying to eliminate nail fungus, Celebrate Life’s Minty fresh anti-fungal foot powder is another great natural homemade recipe to add to your arsenal. Not only is this foot powder anti-fungal, it eliminates odor too. The essential oils used; peppermint essential oil, lavender essential oil, and tea tree are all effective in keeping funky foot odor at bay. So even if you don’t have foot problems, you can use this recipe.

I created this recipe several years ago for my father. I knew that my dad occasionally suffered from the athlete’s foot (he still walks into the public showers without any shoes.) I told him he could potentially pick up all sorts of germs doing that, but he still refused to wear any shoes.  My dad was skeptical about natural remedies, but he used it anyway. I recall this was one of the gifts I’d prepared for him on Father’s Day. I honestly believe he mainly used it to please me, he requested more once the first batch ran out. The anti-fungal foot powder worked. I’m happy to report that years later, my father finally wears shoes when he’s taking a shower at the gym.

Celebrate Life’s Minty fresh anti-fungal foot powder

• 3/4 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup corn starch
• 15 drops peppermint essential oil
• 15 drops of lavender essential oil
• 10 drops of tea tree essential oil

Directions

1. Add essential oils to the powder and mix thoroughly
2. Store in a glass jar or shaker container.
3. Keep in a cool dark place.
4. Shake well before using.
5. Dust on bare feet
6. Put on socks and shoes as normal

You can double or triple the ingredients. The shelf life, for these ingredients are a year, although all of mine have lasted a lot longer.

I store my dry ingredients like herbs and clays in bulk. I purchase 24 ball mason glass jars. You can buy them in a variety of sizes.

Natural Ingredient information

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda is effective for eliminating foot odor. My shoes that recieve a lot of activity get a dusting of baking soda, or a recipe that includes it.

2. Corn Starch

If you thought corn starch was only for cooking you’re wrong, corn starch is extremely effective at absorbing moisture. Since, I dislike wearing sock or nylons. I always use a natural foot powder recipe, or plain corn starch in my shoes. The results are no sweat adding a few drops of essential oils to my workout shoes means no funky foot odor.

3. Lavender Essential Oil

Cuts down on the healing time, natural antiseptic, effective against burns, great for relaxation, etc., Lavender essential oil, comes in many varieties.

4. Peppermint essential oil

Peppermint essential oil has numerous benefits. It’s anti-viral, antifungal, its used as an insect repellent and it’s leaves your feet smelling nice.

5. Tea Tree Essential Oil

Is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, and it also helps fight infection. This amazing essential oil has been used for centuries.

I hope you enjoy you’ve enjoyed part three in the nail fungus series. Remember you can use these natural anti-fungal nail recipes even if you don’t have a nail fungus.  The natural ingredients listed, are gentle but if you’ve never used the ingredients before, it might be a great idea to do a skin patch test.

If you were to visit my home, you’d notice that the majority of the products in my home are all natural. In some cases, the shelf life, is a lot shorter than their chemical counterparts, but the added bonus to the natural alternatives is that they don’t have the side effects associated with them, like many of the products that contain chemicals.

 

In the last article, I wrote about what nail fungus is, what causes it, and a few things you can do to prevent getting it. However if you already have nail fungus you might want to try these natural approaches to eliminating the nail fungal infection before using over the counter remedies.

As stated, the nail fungus recipes are natural, smell pleasant (depending on which essential oils you add) and  they have therapeutic benefits too. You might find a few of the items needed in your home. Others, such as the essential oils, you might not have. However, you can usually pick them up at a health food store or you can order the essentail oils needed online. Just make sure that you are getting the essential oil and not something simply called “lavender oil” or “lavender perfume oil.” There’s a huge difference.

Celebrate Life’s Aromatic Foot Bath For Nail Fungus Prevention

• 6 cups warm water
• 6 cups Apple Cider Vinegar (I use Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar)
• 4 drops of lavender oil (optional)
• 4 drops of tea tree oil (optional)

Directions

1. Soak your feet in a basin for at least fifteen minutes.
2. Remove your feet from the basin.
3. Dry your feet thoroughly.

Although I haven’t experienced toenail fungus. Occasionally I do pamper my feet with a foot bath. It feels great, and it’s yet another way I get that all  important “me time”. When drying off your feet, use an aborbent towel and make sure your feet are thoroughly dry. A quicker way is to use a hair dryer to thoroughly dry your feet. Don’t forget to dry between your toes! It’s important that your feet are completely dry! As mentioned in the prior article, nail fungus loves moist places, keep your feet dry!

Celebrate Life’s leave on solution for nail fungus prevention

• 3 tbsp of Apple Cider Vinegar
• 3 drops tea tree essential oil
• 3 drops neem oil

-Neem oil smell is similar to garlic. It has a lot of amazing properties, one of the most noteable is that it’s antifungal. About five years ago, my grapevine had some type of fungus. It wasn’t bearing fruit. Knowing about the amazing antifungal properties of neem oil, the next season, armed with my neem oil solution I went out and sprayed my grapevine. The fungus was eliminated and it started bearing fruit. Did you know that neem oil also makes a great insect repellent? I used it on some of my garden plants.

Directions

Shake well and put into a bottle. I highly recommend glass. Store in a cool place.

How To Use

Dab a few drops of this solution onto a cotten ball or swab and apply around the affected nail two – three times daily.

Book: Encyclopedia of Essential Oils written by Julia Lawless

Information about ingredients used in nail fungus recipes

In our Westernized culture, many of us quickly reach for allopathic medication without researching the ingredients, or wondering what type of effect they might have on our bodies. The natural ingredients I’ve included in the recipes are gentle, and I’ve used extensively over the years. I’m not writing about items I’ve never used.

I’ve always been a crunchy type of girl/woman. I questioned everything since I can remember. My father lovingly referred to me as his little question box, so naturally as I got older, those questions turned me into a natural researcher. The majority of my cleaning products, and remedies I used to combat physical ailments are made from natural ingredients. Since I’ve seen amazing results first hand, I’m happy to share them with others.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar can be a strong fighter against nail fungus. Apple cider vinegar works by acidifying the nail. It aggressively attacks the fungal infection at the place where it’s protected. The nail covering.

Taking apple cider vinegar orally will supposedly speed up the healing process. I use Apple cider Vinegar. I normally take two tablespoons, three times daily. It’s one of the many nutritional tools I use to attack any “germs” that might want to infect my body. I have to warn you that Apple cider vinegar is fairly strong, and most people never get used to its taste. However, you can add apple cider vinegar to fruit juice, combine it in salads, or sprinkle over your meal. Due to its acid content, it’s important to brush your teeth thoroughly after using, since over time the acid can damage the tooth enamel.

2. Tea Tree Essential Oil

Is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, and it also helps fight infection. This amazing essential oil has beenn used for centuries. I make a homemade cleaner that includes tea tree essentail oil. About four years ago, I effecitvely used it to treat my daughter of chest congestion.

3. Lavender Essential Oil

Cuts down on the healing time, natural antiseptic, effective against burns, great for relaxation, etc., Lavender essential oil, comes in many varieties, I tend to pick the ones that have a more floral scent.

4. Neem Oil

Is taken from the Neem tree. It smells strongly of garlic and is extremely effective in killing infection, fighting fungus. About three years ago, my grape vine suffered from some type of fungal infection. Creating a homemade solution that included neem oil was an extremely effective way to stop the fungus, and cause my grapevine to start producting grapes once again.

Natural remedies for nail fungus: When will I see results?

Natural treatments typically have fewer side effects than allopathic treatments. The same is true of nail fungus treatments. It’s usually recommended to continue the holistic treatment for three to four months before moving onto another approach. In some cases, I’ve read have taken about a year. So relax, be patient and perhaps look at this time as your “me time” a chance to unwind, even if it’s just for 15 – 20 minutes.

That being said, If the natural remedies haven’t worked, you might want to seek the advice of a physician to look at other ways to eliminate the toenail fungus. It’s important to remember that our diet plays an important role jn our nail health. If you’re following an unhealthy eating lifestyle, your body will be more susceptible to  variety of health related conditions, including toenail fungus

If you’re looking for additional information about essential oils, I highly recommend purchased The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils by Julia Lawless. Although I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Julia Lawless, I’ve purchased several of her books. Over the years, her name has been referenced in a few of the aromatherapy classes I’ve attended. The Encyclopedia of Essential oils have been reprinted at least once since I purchased it in the mid 90’s, and it’s still an excellent source for those wanting additional information about essential oils.

A few years ago, one of my friends suffered from nail fungus. She wasn’t too happy since it meant she’d be hiding her feet behind closed shoes or attempting to mask the offending nail fungus with nail polish. Frustrated she asked me did I know of any holistic approach to treat her toenail fungus? I surely did.

Instead of posting everything within one post, I’ve decided to break it up into a series. In the first part, we’ll learn what nail fungus is, some of its symptoms, and ways we can prevent nail fungus from starting. In the second part of the series we’ll check out a few natural approaches that might help with the ugly nail fungus.

What is Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus or onychomycosis is a tiny organism that can affect the nails of the finger and toes. It’s a common condition that many people suffer from. Did you know that More than 35 million people suffer from nail fungus?

Feet are prime real estate for nail fungus

Our nails are the perfect spot for fungus. The sensitive skin of our fingers and toes are protected by our nails. This hard covering can make it difficult to get to the fungus. Fungus thrives in warm, moist, and dark places which is why you mainly see fungus on the toenails. Many of us have our feet hidden  behind socks, nylons, and shoes for a good part of the day. Which can be the ultimate spot for nail fungus to hang out and party. Keeping our feet covered creates the perfect environment for nail fungus to thrive.

Naturally, some feet will be more attractive for fungus than others; I’ve decided to list a few things that might make your feet a high risk for toenail fungus.

Factors that can contribute to nail fungus

• Working in a humid or moist environment
• Improper ventilation of feet
• Walking barefoot in damp places (pools, gyms, & showers)
• Smoking
• Sweaty feet
• Artificial nails
• People with diabetes
• Family history of nail fungus
• Weak immune system (unhealthy eating habits)

Symptoms of Nail Fungus

• Brittle nails
• Thickened nails
• Distorted appearance
• Discolored nails

-Nails can turn brown, black, yellow, or green. This is caused by debris building up under the nail.

Fungus Prevention

• Antifungal Spray
• Don’t go barefoot in public
• Healthy diet
• Don’t trim or pick at skin around the nails.
• Choose your pedicure salon wisely. Make sure the salon sterilizes its instruments or bring your own.
• Ditch the nail polish and artificial nails.

-If you have nail fungus it can be tempting to hide it under a coat of polish however this can prevent the fungus from healing and may increase the infection.

• Wear appropriate socks and change socks daily.
• If possible, take your shoes off during the day.
• If you have nail fungus, wash your hands after touching the infected nail.

-Don’t forget germs can spread from nail to nail.

Be proactive, use a few of the fungus preventions suggested. This can be an extremely effective in keeping your toenails free from fungus. Not to mention a nice aromatherapy based spray will have your feet smelling good too.Stay tuned for the next part of the series where we’ll look at some holistic remedies that can be used for nail fungus.

What happened to my friend? The holistic remedies, combined with the tips I suggested for nail fungus prevention, was all that was needed to rid her toenail of the unsightly fungus. At times that’s not enough, in extreme cases surgery is needed.

Next in Series: Natural Remedies for Nail Fungus

As a child, the few times I had an upset stomach my mother would always give me a “natural tonic” of homemade ginger tea. Occasionally she would add honey and lemon to sweeten it. I loved it. It soothed my stomach upsets quickly, and soon I was back to my old self, full of energy.

My mother used a variety of natural remedies for my brother and me. She was a strong advocate of natural healing. Back then, I didn’t know why ginger worked so well. I was just happy it did. As I became older, I looked into the reasons why ginger was effective for a variety of ailments. What I found out was intriguing.
Ginger is a rhizome (underground stem.) It is harvested year-round. The longer it stays underground, before it’s harvested, the hotter an spicier it gets which makes it even more effective.

Health Benefits of Ginger

For centuries, ginger (usually called “ginger root”) has been used as an extremely effective remedy to heal a variety of ailments; digestive disorders, diarrhea, the common cold, menstrual cramps, fungus, heart conditions. It’s also been used to loosen phlegm, relieve gas, and to soothe sore throats. Over the years, it’s natural healing powers has caught the attention of science. Researchers have used Ginger effectively in certain cancer prevention. The healing powers of ginger are amazing.

Morning Sickness

When I was pregnant I briefly experienced morning sickness. I say “briefly” because once I started drinking ginger tea on a daily basis, the nausea I had been experiencing vanished. Ginger tea, quickly became my “drink of choice.” I loved ginger so much, I started using it regularly in the various vegan dishes I’d prepare.

Ginger reduces mentrual cramps

I start drinking Ginger tea a few days before my menstrual cycle. If you’re experiencing cramping, this can be, an effective way to eliminate menstrual cramping naturally.

Why is Ginger effective?

Ginger contains volatile oils which is believed to contribute to the medicinal effects of ginger. My mother was definitely on to something with ginger tea! When my seven-year old daughter has had a mild stomach upset I’ve made her ginger root tea also.

I’ve included a healthy recipe for ginger tea below. Occasionally I add the leaves of mint or lemon balm. Served hot or cold, it’s a delicious and soothing drink, with the added bonus of being great for the digestive system.

Ginger Root Tea

• 4 cups of water
• 2-3 inch piece of fresh ginger root
• optional: stevia, honey, or lemon

Instructions

1. Scrub the Ginger root and cut it into thin slices.
2. Bring the water to a boil in the teapot
3. Add Ginger
4. Cover the teapot, reduce heat, and let simmer for about 20 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy!

Natural Ginger Soda

If I want a fizzy drink, I’ll purchase naturally carbonated soda and add my ginger root tea. I sweeten it to taste to create my own “homemade ginger ale.” That’s the quick way I make Homemade ginger ale. The longer way, involves fermentation, stay tuned as I’ll be posing my fermented homemade ginger ale next week. I’ve already created the article, the only thing left for me to do is publish it.

A little about me:

A few years ago, I decided to go back to college to pursue another degree; Masters degree in Traditional Naturopathy. Being a natural health advocate, my focus is looking for natural ways to cure the variety of health related ailments. Of course, the natural approach isn’t always possible. I also believe if we take action before issues arise, by reclaiming our health, we can avoid many of the health related issues that are prevalent today.

I do think, the foods we eat, the amount of exercise we do, and our emotional health is closely tied together. If we’re deficient in one or more areas, it can have a negative impact on our health.