Beauty Pick: A Natural Nail Polish

No-Miss is my favorite nail polish and the only brand that I use right now. It is long lasting with a wide variety of colors.  No-Miss produces non-chemical and non-cancerous products without harming the environment.

No- Miss is for those who have/ are changing their lifestyles and are improving not only the inside of their body by eating healthy foods. They are also focused on the products they are using on the outside that are equally effective. More people are becoming more health conscious and are realizing using harmful chemical products are hurting US as well as the environment. 

No-Miss can be purchased at Whole Foods or on the No-Miss website. The cost is $7.95 per bottle. I have not yet tried the other No-Miss products. Until then happy painting!  

Health Pick: Are You Using Apple Cider Vinegar?

Image found at freepik .com 

Natural Apple Cider Vinegar is made from crushing natural organically grown apples and putting them in wooden barrels to mature. In this process, sugars are broken down by bacteria and yeast. In the first process sugars are turned into alcohol. After the alcohol ferments further, it turns into vinegar. The main ingredient in vinegar is acetic acid. Apple Cider Vinegar has been used for thousands of years for weight loss and has gained its popularity in the United States in the 1950's. It has been known to kill head lice, warts, reverse aging, ease digestion and cleanse the body of toxins. With patients that suffers from Diabetes, it has been known to reduce glucose levels, because of the chromium. It has also been found to reduce cholesterol levels and bring blood pressure to normal levels.

Natural Apple Cider Vinegar has an acidity of 5 to 7. It contains minerals that are essential to a healthy body like: potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, sulfur, copper, iron and silicon. Apple Cider Vinegar is considered alkaline. Chemical pure vinegar is acetic acid. An eight year study was done on the effects of Apple Cider Vinegar and found that it helps with: sinus infections, acne, flu, chronic fatigue, candida, acid reflux, sore throats, arthritis, gout and food, pet and environmental allergies.

I have used Apple Cider Vinegar and found that it helps you to feel fuller faster. I would drink about a cup before meals. As a result I would eat a lot less food. I didn't do it long enough to measure the results but I noticed a big difference for it being a food suppressant. I have used it for acid re-flux and it defiantly works, we have thrown out the Pepto Bismol for good!

As always consult with your Medical/ Health Adviser before trying or using any new herbal remedy. This is for informational purposes only, not to treat or cure any diseases.       

  

Beauty Pick: The Loofah Comes From A Fruit

Loofahs can come in natural and synthetic forms. A Loofah is a natural sponge that originated in Asia. The natural Loofah that we use today, is made from a ripe dried fruit.  Back in the old days the Loofah was only found in peasant homes and was called the “poor mans kitchen and bath sponge. 

The Loofah helps with exfoliating the skin and by removing dead skin cells. When washing, apply a little pressure while doing circular motions, to promote better circulation. It is important to moisturize after exfoliating to insure soft skin. After each use, make sure that all the soap is rinsed from the Loofah. Place it in an area where it can fully dry, to prevent from mold and/or bacteria growth. To clean your Loofah, soak it in water with a couple of tablespoons of vinegar. It is suggested to replace your Loofah monthly.       

   

Beauty Pick: Aloe Vera for Beauty

Image found at Buzzle.com

I've decided to write on Aloe Vera because someone close to me told me they were allergic to Vitamin E (last weeks health pick).  This person shared that they used Aloe Vera for healing of a scar and this is what got me more interested. Testimonies I have gotten from people, Vitamin E works better on healing without leaving a scar than Aloe Vera does; but it is a great alternative. For this week I found Aloe Vera has so many awesome ways to heal. I had to do a Aloe Vera post for Beauty and for Health.

Aloe Vera originated in Africa and in the West Indies. It has benefited man for over 4,000 years. It is known for its natural healing and regenerative properties. In the United States it is grown commercially in California, Florida, Texas and certain green houses in Oklahoma. Aloe Vera has had different names over the years: Greek Scientist called it “ The Universal Panacea.” Egyptians called it “ The Plant of Immortality.” The American Indians called it “ The Wand of Heaven.” Now it is also called “ The Sun Plant ” or “ Lily of the Desert” or “The Medicine Plant.”

Aloe Vera is a good as a toe nail fungus remedy. The regular use of Aloe Vera helps grow healthy shiny nails. Soaking or rubbing the feet with Aloe Vera can help reduce growth of fungi. In a few months time it will help your over all immune system.

For the skin Aloe Vera speeds up the healing process. Aloe Vera is good for scrapes, burns, sun burns and bruised skin as well. It also works well as a long lasting sun screen.

Aloe Vera is good for moisturizing the face. It helps pimples disappear overnight. It also helps with rashes and/or skin with discoloration.

For a hygiene issue that everyone has at some point or another is bad breath. Some have used the actual Aloe gel fresh from the plant. It is rubbed on the gums and the teeth. It also helps with canker sores and boils in the mouth. Another pesky problem for many is dandruff. Some have applied the gel directly to their scalp and over time they have seen the dandruff disappear completely.

If your hair is thinning or missing Aloe Vera will bring it back. It takes about up to a month to see results. It has been reported that the new hair growth will be black in color.

Extra Picky Tip ~ *Aloe Vera should be the Barbadensis Miller Species for maximum benefit *

As always consult with your Medical/Health Adviser before trying or using any herbal remedy. This is for informational purposes only, not to treat or cure any diseases.

Health Pick: FDA Wants To Ban Natural Vitamin Supplements

Image found at how to make hair grow faster.com

There is a bill being proposed called the Dietary Supplement Safety Act. This bill will allow the FDA to remove natural vitamin supplement products from the market place. The FDA has already been trying to push having Vitamin B6 to be banned and be used as a pharmaceutical prescription drug to treat diabetic kidney failure. 
Here is an example in money terms the prescription drug Lovaza. This is a drug that is used to treat heart patients and it is nothing more than Omega- 3 fish oil. A 30 day supply of Lovaza is $195.00. You can buy the same natural supply in stores for around $30.00.
The Natural Vitamins are becoming the pharmaceutical company's biggest competition. This means anyone paying taxes will pay 500 % more towards taxes for basic nutrients. For example Vitamin A will have some  crazy name slapped on it by a pharmacutical company and charge us $200 for a natural vitamin. Another concern with the lack of Vitamin supplements is that we will experience more common diseases that third world countries experience because lack of nutrition. 
Don't loose hope when and if we see the shelves empty of vitamins. You can still get nutrients from "Super Foods." Juicing Organic Fruits and Vegetables is a great alternative. Many people don't think about it but our Organic seasonings that we have in our cabinets have vitamin properties in them as well. 
Always remember that knowledge is power. The more you research; the more you learn, the more you prosper. Taking time for a little preventative care today will save you money, time and memories with the investment that you make in your health today.                    

Beauty Pick: No More Scars With Vitamin E Oil

Image found at mylot.com

My Husband and I have had good experiences with Vitamin E oil. When he was younger he had a hot water radiator accident. When the cap was removed all the gushing hot water came rushing out and shot up and burned him on his shoulder. He used Vitamin E oil on the burn and you could never tell that he was ever burned there.

My experience with Vitamin E oil has been great. This previous summer I burned my hand really bad when I was cooking. I was nervous to cook for a couple of weeks after it happened. My first response was cold water and sleeping with my hand in a bucket of ice. The area that got burned turned black. I put Vitamin E oil on the burn day and nite. I wrapped the burn in an ace bandage. I do not have any marks on my hand from the burn and I am very thankful for the Vitamin E.

Vitamin E was discovered in 1922. It received its name in 1924 and the scientific name is tocopherol. Vitamin E is a fat soluble nutrient that acts like an antioxidant in the human body. Synthetic versions have been found to be ½ effective, that was found in research.

If you have a problem with cold sores Vitamin E is good for preventing them. I can't speak from experience with this because I don't get cold sores but there have been studies done and people have reported relief by using Vitamin E oil. It can also be used as a lip balm to keep your lips smooth and crust free. Vitamin E oil can also be used on your face if you don't have overly oily skin. It helps with small lines and crows feet.

Vitamin E oil can be used for sunburns. Many sunscreens have Vitamin E as an ingredient. I can testify to this after a few days of desert fun. I was so red and my skin was on fire. I was Vitamin Eeeeed up and very shiny. It really did help soothe the pain of the burn and I could walk without the owie, owie, owie. It can also provide protection from more sun exposure or prevent from getting a sun burn all together. The Vitamin E is absorbed by the epidermis layer of the skin and heals the damage by the Ultra Violet Radiation.

For dry skin, Vitamin E prevents water loss from the skin and helps with retaining natural moisture. You can re- invent your dry skin and make it look healthy and well moisturized. Vitamin E helps with the production of two important protein components collagen and elastin. Improving the skins elasticity. While this process is taking place the Vitamin E is softening the skin as well. This reduces the visibility of age spots and troubling lines and wrinkles. Vitamin E is a main ingredient in many anti-aging creams and lotions on the market. It can also be used on different type of scars (including pimple scars). It will do this by lightning up the scar or mark left behind by the injured area and/or pimples. The scar will continue to fade over time. Vitamin E speeds up the process of regeneration of skin cells and are replaced with new ones. This helps get rid of the scar tissue.

There is relief for itchy stretch marks from Vitamin E oil. You can also prevent stretch marks and if you already have them just apply the Vitamin E oil to get rid of them. It helps the targeted area grow new skin cells and helps restore natural elastic properties. Vitamin E oil can help skin conditions such as: Psoriasis and Eczema. The antioxidants in Vitamin E bring down the inflammation in the skin.

As always consult your Medical/Health Adviser before trying or using any herbal remedy. This is for informational purposes only, not to treat or cure any diseases.

Health Pick: By Readers Request : Acai

Image found at revolution foods.com

My experience with Acai is first, I usually can't pronounce it correctly. It is pronounced (ah-sigh-hee) and I usually say (Akee) I don't know why I continue to pronounce it this way. I constantly correct myself and I still end up with (Akee). Maybe that is why this grape like berry is frustrating for me. My favorite natural energy drink has Acai in it and my morning shake mix has Acai as one of the ingredients. I have tried a couple of juices that were a Acai and berry blend that I didn't care to much for the taste. It all depends on what you try and how the Acai is processed.

Acai berries are from the Brazil rain forest region. They grow on a 90 foot palm tree and are a reddish purple colored fruit. It is one of the few fruits that contains monounsaturated fats (MUFAS). It has been said to taste like a combination of berries and chocolate. The Acai berry is 95% seed and only 5% is used to make food and drinks. With a life span of less than 24 hours after it is picked , it is recognized as one of the healthiest foods in the world. Brazilian people have used the berries for years to treat skin conditions and digestive problems.

When buying Acai make sure that it is 100% pure Acai and is freeze dried. Make sure there is no fillers or additives. Acai extracts are not the best because when the fruit is extracted they lose their nutritional properties. Researchers believe that Acai has the highest concentrations of antioxidants of most foods on the planet. These antioxidants fight excess free radicals(atoms, molecules, or ions that if allowed to run free in the body it will increase the aging process and cancers.) With anthocyanins and flavonoids properties in Acai, it fights off these free radicals.

The rumor that Acai helps with cancer comes from the study that Stephen Talcott and his team did on Leukemia cells that were tested. This test was done on only a cell – culture model and not in humans. Mr. Talcott believes that this will most likely work in humans, but nothing is confirmed yet.

A lot of people have lost a lot of money due to Acai. Due to the fake free trials floating around the internet. There has not been any conclusive evidence at this time that Acai helps people lose weight. I have researched different 30 day cases that didn't feel much different after taking Acai and didn't notice any weight loss.

When buying Acai look for Organic 100% freeze dried Acai made from Acai skin. The drying techniques make a huge difference on the effectiveness of the Acai. Stay away from spray dried which means it was sprayed with hot gas. Also stay away from foods and drinks made from the Acai seed.

As always consult your Medical/Health Adviser before trying or using any herbal remedy. This is for informational purposes only, not to treat or cure any diseases.  

Beauty Pick: A Natural Quick Do It Yourself Micro Dermabrasion At Home

Image found at salon.com

What you will need:
Clean Hands
1 Tbsp of Baking Soda 
Warm Compress  

Steps:
1. Place a warm wash cloth on your face for 3 minutes
2. Remove and Wet your face with warm water
3. Dip your fingers into the Baking Soda
4. Rub Baking Soda on face in circular motions 
5. Leave on for about 10 minutes and then wash off              
    
Results: The Baking Soda will: soften skin, kill germs, while removing dead skin and removing oil.  

Health Pick: Can Maca Help With Getting Pregnant?

Image found at ferturperu.info

I was shopping in the grocery store with my Husband and we were approached by a couple and they shared their experience with weight loss and eating better. They then shared their “extra energy boost “ that came from Maca and they proceeded to show us a Maca candy bar.  We then tried the candy bar, it had a coffee ground texture to it,  I was not so much a fan of. We did then get the Organic Maca Powder that we started using in our breakfast shakes and still do until this day.

Maca is from South America and was domesticated over 2,000 years ago. It has been used by natives of Peru for thousands of years. It helps your energy, stamina, libido(extra energy), and balances the hormones for men and women. The energy that is provided by Maca is related to the energy boost that one may receive from Ginseng. Maca is a vegetable that is in the same family as: Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Radishes and Turnips. Maca is a relative of the Mexican Yam. In appearance it kind of resembles a large radish or beet. Maca grows in volcanic soil and is mineral rich because of this. It grows in altitudes up to 11,000 feet. There is no other food in the world that can grow in such high altitudes with such frost like conditions and still survive.

Maca is easy to digest and has a lot of essential amino acids. To help with regularity, it has high fiber content and is excellent for constipation. Maca has a lot of Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.

Dr. Gloria Chacon is considered the most knowledgeable person on the planet about the effects of Maca. Her research started in 1961 and continues to this day. The results of her research showed increase fertility in: Cows, Dogs, Guinea Pigs, Humans, Rams and Rats. In the human studies, Maca increased  Adrenaline, libido and sperm. It decreased: Anxiety, Stress and lowered blood pressure.   

It has been reported that Maca improves memory and concentration, reduces stress and fatigue along with reinforcing the immune system. It helps prevent heart disease by removing and controlling LDL (bad cholesterol) Organic Maca can be purchase at Whole Foods Market, Health Food stores and Online. It can be found in the form of capsules and powder. When buying make sure that you are getting Organic and 100% Maca powder that it is not cut with any fillers.      

*EXTRA PICKY TIP ~ At one point in history, the Conquistadors were demanding they were paid in Maca instead of Gold.*

As always consult your Medical/Health Adviser before trying or using any herbal remedy. This is for informational purposes only, not to treat or cure any diseases.

    

Beauty Pick: Castor Oil Helps Your Hair, Skin & Nails

video created by Back Two Natural

Castor Oil became my best friend when I had an experience that all Women hope to never experience.  Yes, the pain of a terrible hair cut. There it is when you look in the mirror. You are continuously reminded every time when you try to style your hair. My hair cut was pretty bad. The style was suppose to be a long feathered hairstyle that came out as a  short and one side was longer then the other mess. It was so bad that I had to curl the ends of my hair on one side super tight so it would match the other side to look even. That is when I decided to put Castor Oil to the test and it helped grow my hair back out and even thicker than before.  I have been hesitating, but I am ready to get my hair cut and styled again, but I am startled of getting another Edwards scissor hands back in my hair.

Castor Oil comes from the Castor plant that is grown in a sub-tropical and/or tropical environment. The best kind of Castor Oil is the cold pressed and hexane free; that comes from the pressing of the seeds with no heat. Castor Oil is a non-toxic and is quickly biodegradable. Its evil counter part petroleum can pose health hazards and takes forever for the biodegradable process.

For the skin, Castor Oil has Ricinoleic Acid in it that helps reduce Viruses and Bacteria, which makes this great for Acne. It has been said that Castor Oil works better then anti-aging creams. The Castor Oil is more deeply absorbed in the skin then other plant oils. This gives the skin a fresh youthful glow. The Castor Oil boost the bodies lymphocytes (type of white blood cell) repairing the cells and healing the skin tissue.  If you have a problem with dark marks on your skin due to pimples and or other skin abrasions, use Castor Oil over a couple of months time for the skin to return to its natural skin tone. Castor Oil is thick and sticky in texture, allowing you to use small dabs to get full coverage over the intended area. It really does last for along time, I have had my bottle for a little over six months and that is with daily use of my Husband and I.

Remember that Castor Oil does promote hair growth.  If you have hair troubled places on your face, try to avoid those areas and apply sparingly around those trouble spots. The Castor Oil only promotes hair growth where it has once grown before. It will not grow in the Vellus hair areas (the invisible hair or for some the peach fuzz on the face). If you have had laser hair removal and you don't want the hair to grow back, do not put the Castor Oil on the areas that have had the hair removed. Don't forget about your eye lashes, this will help them grow too.  You don't have to go through the pain of getting fake eye lashes and using that chemical glue. Most of the products on the market that promote eye lash growth, has Castor Oil in it. Be careful to not get the Castor Oil in your eyes, it can be painful. 

If you have had an accident where you have lost your hair for example from a (burn or a perm accident), you can apply the Castor Oil and over time the Castor Oil will induce hair growth to the hair follicles.  There are many reasons for hair loss, it may be from hormone imbalances to nutrient deficiency. At all ages our body goes through different changes and as a result we often see it in our brush and in our drain. Castor Oil has anti-bacterial and anti-fungicidal properties. Putting Castor Oil on the scalp protects from infections that cause hair loss. It also has Omega-9 fatty acids that nourish the hair and prevents the scalp from drying. Your hair will have more of a shine and a softness to the touch.

Have you Over tweezed your eyebrows or over shaved them? It can leave your eyebrows bare. I think most of us Women do it somewhere in our teens and we thought there is no hope, but there is. Just put some Castor Oil over the brow and over time you will gradually see the eyebrows filling in to where they naturally grew.    

If those cute shoes are taking a toll on your feet and adding a little extra corn or callus to your feet, Castor Oil and a old pair of socks, will be the best pair you have ever met. By putting the socks on at bedtime with Castor Oil will soften the skin and soothe the aching pain and soreness.  Other painful skin conditions that are treatable are Eczema and Psoriasis. For the nails just apply Castor Oil with a Q-tip to your cuticles to prevent your nails from cracking by softening the cuticles.  When added to the entire nail it moisturizes the nail keeping it strong and healthy.

Castor Oil is used in: Creams, Deodorants, Hair Oils, Lip Glosses, Lip Sticks, Lubricants, Mascaras, Perfumes, Soaps, Shampoos and Sunscreens.

As always consult you medical/health adviser before trying or using any herbal remedy.  This is for informational purposes only, not to treat or cure any diseases.

*EXTRA PICKY TIP ~ Castor Oil helps prevent stretch marks by applying it to worrisome areas*   

Health Pick: Goji Berries Do What?

Image found at mydailyfind.com

These little raisin look a likes are a causing a lot of buzz. Goji Berries have been part of my daily morning shake for quite a while now and I have been happy with the results. First we will start off with what is a Goji Berry? It is a red berry that is tangy and sweet in taste with a chewy texture. I use the USDA Certified Organic Goji Berries. They have been used for over 6,000 years in China, India and Tibet by herbalist.

Goji Berries (Wolfberries) are considered a Super Food that provides a lot of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. There is over 15% protein, 21 minerals and 18 Amino Acids. The super berries have been very effective against diseases like Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease, Cholesterol and Diabetes to name a few. There are many healing properties from these berries such as protection for the liver, helping with eyesight, improve circulation and increase fertility.

For those looking to shed a couple pounds, a personal study was done by Samantha Barston of News 6. She had great results in 4 weeks time she lost 25lbs. As well, Goji Berries offer a great energy boost, while strengthening the immune system. It aides with digestion and helps maintain a healthy blood sugar. The Goji Berry stimulates the secretion of natural RGH “youth hormone” to fight against aging. It reduces fatigue and helps with the libido.

You can incorporate Goji Berries in your daily routine as a snack, maybe a trail mix. They can be eaten raw or cooked. For lunch throw them on as a salad topper. You could even put them in a tasty smoothie or juice. Save calories by putting them on ice cream or yogurt instead of an unhealthy topping. The Organic Goji Berries can be purchased in Whole Foods Market, Health Food Stores and online. They are sold in the form of dried, powder or juice.

As always consult with your medical/health advisor before trying or using any herbal remedy. This is for informational purposes only, not to treat or cure any diseases.

Foodie Pick: Why Is Organic Better?

Image found at thedailygreen.com

When you walk into a store that has only Organic produce the smells are overwhelmingly amazing. You can close your eyes and smell the apples, oranges, broccoli, bananas and ohh the strawberries. When you pick up the apple you do not see a reflection of yourself on the waxy surface; but from the smell of the apple you can almost taste the fresh crisp apple in your mouth. Organic foods are produced without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers. They do not contain GMO’s (Genetically Modified Organisms). The plants or animals DNA have not been altered and the food was not grown in a lab. 

I pick Organic food because it taste better and it still has its nutrients. It has not been washed in Clorox. The crops don’t have synthetic pesticides, artificial fertilizers or use radiation to kill bacteria. Animals on Organic farms eat only Organic feed.

The animals are not confined and can roam around free. The animals are Not injected with antibiotics or synthetic growth hormones.

I do not want my fruits and vegetables to be soaked in a Clorox bath were they loose all their nutrients and flavor and then sprayed with a waxy substance so the can be pretty. Gallery lights are set above the produce so it can shine off the wax and almost sparkle. I want to see natural texture and bruises that tell you when the fruit and vegetables are ripe. I would have never thought so many pesticides were used. There are about 40 pesticides used on non Organic brown rice. About 51 pesticides used on non Organic leafy green vegetables. Those non Organic strawberries have a whopping 59 pesticides used on them. Why I am trying to stay away from so many chemicals, because the exposure to chemicals can cause DNA damage and breakage. This leads to genetic mutations, cancer, and sometimes death. Organic is good for life.

*EXTRA PICKY TIP – Your investment in your health today; will save you thousands of dollars in healthcare cost in your future. *

Beauty Pick: What is Witch Hazel Good For?

Image from theshaveshed.com

The time is here where your face is dry and itchy and Witch Hazel is here to help. Witch Hazel (Hamamdis Virginana) is a shrub that is found in North America that has been used by the Native Americans for many years. Witch Hazel has been taught to me by the older women in my family to be used as a facial cleanser. If you have had a long night with the baby, studying, or just doing to much; a Witch Hazel compress to the rescue. Soak a clean wash rag in cold water with Witch Hazel for ten minutes and your eyes should return to bag- less puffy -less eyes. It helps with eliminating acne, controls blemishes and is a toner as well. It keeps your face moisturized and prevents skin dryness. Most of the beauty creams on the market have Witch Hazel as an ingredient, but it is often listed under another scientific name.

The healing properties are amazing with Witch Hazel with healing bruises and wounds faster. It also helps with achy muscles. If it is put on an insect bite it will reduce inflammation as well as itching. It can soothe razor burn; it can be applied before or after shaving. If you nick yourself while shaving the Witch Hazel will clean the cut and protect against infection.

Using Witch Hazel after a sun burn will speed up the healing time with preventing the scaling skin from peeling and flaking. If you continue to have dry patches on your skin just apply the Witch Hazel right after showering, the moisture soak right into your skin.

You can stumble across Witch Hazel at almost anywhere. Your local pharmacy stores, most grocery stores and if you still come up short in your area, you can buy online.

*Extra Picky Tip – Witch Hazel is good for a diaper rash, just apply with a cotton ball. *

As always check with your medical/health advisor before trying or using any herbal remedy. This is for informational purposes only, not to treat or cure any diseases.

Tested uses of Witch Hazel ~ Acne, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, anxiety, athlete's foot, bruising, burns, cancer prevention, circulatory disorders, colds, colitis, dandruff, dermatitis, diaper rash, diarrhea, eczema, edema, eye disorders, fevers, headache, heavy menstrual bleeding, hemorrhage, herpes simplex virus, high blood sugar/glucose intolerance, itching, pain, gum disease, poison ivy, psoriasis, skin rash, tuberculosis, vaginal dryness, venereal disease, vomiting and wrinkle prevention.

Pick of the Week: Need Energy! Check out this PICK!

I first discovered this drink at the Whole Foods in San Diego, Ca. I have been a fan ever since. It gives you a great energy boost without the crash. This is a Hot Pick!