Is Recession Preparing a New Breed of Survivalist? [Survival Today

Yahoo ran an interesting article this morning indicating a rise in the number of survivalist communities cropping up around the country. I have been wondering myself how much of the recent energy crisis is causing people to do things like stockpile food and water, grow their own vegetables, etc. Could it be that there are many people out there stockpiling and their increased buying has caused food prices to increase? It’s an interesting theory, but I believe increased food prices have more to do with rising fuel prices as cost-to-market costs have increased and grocers are simply passing those increases along to the consumer. A recent stroll through the camping section of Wal-Mart did give me pause - what kinds of things are prudent to have on hand in the event of a worldwide shortage of food and/or fuel? Survivalist in Training

I’ve been interested in survival stories since I was a kid, which is funny considering I grew up in a city. Maybe that’s why the idea of living off the land appealed to me. My grandfather and I frequently took camping trips along the Blue Ridge Parkway and around the Smoky Mountains. Looking back, some of the best times we had were when we stayed at campgrounds without electricity hookups, because it forced us to use what we had to get by. My grandfather was well-prepared with a camp stove and lanterns (which ran off propane), and when the sun went to bed we usually did along with it. We played cards for entertainment, and in the absence of televisions, games, etc. we shared many great conversations. Survivalist in the Neighborhood

http://prettysmartnaturalideas.wordpress.com/2007/09/

DRY/NORMAL SKIN KIWI FACIAL CLEANSER
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

Dry/Normal Skin Kiwi Facial Cleanser

1 application

1 kiwi fruit
2 heaping T plain yogurt
1 T orange water
1 T apricot oil
1 T honey
1 heaping t almonds, finely ground
2 dr tangerine, or orange, oil

Liquify kiwi fruit in food processor.
Add other ingredients, save tangerine/orange oil, and process for 30 seconds, until thick and creamy.
Add tangerine/orange oil last. Stir in well.
Gently massage over neck, face and upper body to cleanse.
Rinse well, and follow with toner and moisturizer.

Categories: ARCHIVES · Dry skin · POSTS
DRY SKIN FACIAL OIL
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

FACIAL OIL FOR DRY SKIN

7 dr Geranium
4 dr rose
14 dr sandalwood
2 oz carrier oil (grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, etc.)

Thoroughly blend all ingredients

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · Dry skin · POSTS
DRY SKIN TONIC
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

Dry Skin Tonic:
3 oz rosewater
1 dr sandalwood
1 dr rosewood

Combine and mix thoroughly.

Categories: ARCHIVES · Dry skin · POSTS
WRINKLE CHASER
September 17, 2007 · 1 Comment

WRINKLE CHASER
1 Treatment
Softens, smoothes dehydrated, chapped, red, rough skin. Also this mixture

3 C distilled water
1 T fennel seeds, crushed
2 dr rose oil

Crush seeds and mix ingredients well.
Apply to face one to two times weekly.
Follow with mask and moisturizer.

Store any unused mixture in the refrigerator.

Strained and cool for a soothing facial splash, mouthwash, or hair rinse.

Adapted from The Herbal Body Book, Stephanie Tourles, 1994

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
REJUVENATING OILS FOR THE SKIN
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

The following oils rejuvenate the skin. They are good for mature, dry skin.
Chamomile
clary sage
eucalyptus
frankincense,
geranium
jasmine
lavender
lemon
neroli
sweet orange
rose
rosemary
sandalwood
tea tree
ylang ylang.

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
Mature Skin Rose-Otto Moisturizer
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

2 dr vetiver
2 dr frankincense
2 dr rose-otto
1 oz light unscented cream or moisturizer

Blend oils thoroughly into unscented moisturizer or cream
Apply as needed to your b

Thoroughly blend oils with light, unscented cream or moisturizer
Apply to skin as needed

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
REJUVENATING FACE OIL
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

1-1/2 oz. jojoba
10 drops borageoil
10 dr vitamin E oil
3 dr geranium
3 dr neroli
3 dr rosewood
2 dr fennel
2 dr frankincense
2 dr sandalwood
1 dr vetiver

• Blend first three oils.
• Add essential oils.
• Blend thoroughly.
• Following cleansing and toning, apply several drops oil to face, and massage in

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
MATURE SKIN FACE OIL #3
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

1 – 2/3 T jojoba oil
5 dr lavender
3 dr lemon
2 dr sandalwood

blend and apply

Jojoba oil helps reduce lines and wrinkles and is good for blemished and/or combination skin.

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
MATURE SKIN FACE OIL #2
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

4 dr chamomile
5 dr carrot seed
8 drops geranium
5 drops lavender
1 dr patchouli
2 dr sandalwood
1/4 C apricot kernel or hazelnut oil

Blend the oils thoroughly.

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
REJUVENATING & REFRESHING SKIN SPRAY
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

Fragrant Skin Rejuvenating Spritzer
1 green tea bag – or – 1 capsule green tea extract
1 C boiling water
VITALITY BLEND: 2 dr lemon and 2 dr peppermint
CALMING BLEND: 2 dr lavender. 2 dr chamomile

• Brew tea bag or capsule in boiling water and for five minutes.
• Remove teabag (if used).
• Add choice of essential oils
• Decant mixture into 8-oz spray bottle
• Refrigerate
• Mist face and body lightly to refresh, rejuvenate, and cool skin.

http://prettysmartnaturalideas.wordpress.com/2007/10/

[If I don’t have the essential oils needed, I use strong herb teas, LOL, that is what I used before I learned of essentials.
granny]

HEALING OIL BLEND #2
October 6, 2007 · No Comments

Use to speed healing

3 drops eucalyptus
1 drop niaouli
1 drop palmarosa
1 drop spearmint
1/8 C jojoba oil

Blend.

From Incense, Oils, and Brews, by Scott Cunningham

Categories: ARCHIVES · FIRST AID · HEALING · POSTS · RECIPES
Tagged: healing blend
ALL PURPOSE HEALING BALM
October 6, 2007 · 1 Comment

HEAL EVERYTHING BALM

2 t powdered myrrh
2 T beeswax
2 t comfrey root
2 T liquid lecithin
2 t chamomile
2 t honey
2 t lavendar

Infuse in:
3/4 C carrier oil

add essential oils:
10 drops lavendar
5 drops tea tree
2 drops rosemary
1 vitamin E capsule
2 oz beeswax

Categories: ARCHIVES · AROMATHERAPY RECIPES · FIRST AID · HEALING · POSTS · RECIPES
Tagged: balm, beeswax, chamomile, comfrey root, honey, lavender, lecithin, myrrh, rosemary, tea tree

INSECT BITES and STINGS
October 6, 2007 · 3 Comments

FOR ITCHY INSECT BITES
to alleviate swelling and relieve itching of insect bites.

1 drop Roman Chamomile
1 drop tea-tree
1 drop savory
2 oz. witch hazel extract

Blend oils with witch-hazel.
Soak a cotton ball in the mix and dab on insect bites.
Also helps protect skin from infection resulting from scratching

NIAOULI TO RELIEVE ITCH FROM BITES
Niaouli oil relieves the itch, helps reduce swelling, and
helps insect bites heal faster

2 drops niaouli
2 T witch hazel
mix niaoli and witch hazel and apply to the affected area

INSECT BITES SWABS
Moisten a cotton swab in fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or witch hazel

Add 1 -2 drops of lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, or lemongrass oil to the swab then dab on the bite.

INSECT BITES AND STINGS

Oils to Use: Lavender or tea tree

DIRECT APPLICATION
Dab a drop of lavender or tea tree on the
affected area.

COLD COMPRESS FOR SWELLING
If bite site is swollen, apply a cold compress made with
2 drops lavender
2 drops chamomile

INSECT BITE OIL
Lavender helps stop itching and reduces
swelling and risk of infection.

1 t lavender essential oil
1 T vegetable oil

Combine lavender oil and vegetable oil and
dab mixture directly on bite as needed.

Store in a tightly closed glass bottle

BEE, WASP, TICK, SPIDER STINGS & BITES
combine lavender with echinacea and bentonite clay into a poultice.
The clay pulls the poisonous material from the bite or sting to the skin surface and keeps it from spreading.

Echinacea lessens any allergic response.
Lavender stops itching and reduces swelling.

OILS FOR INSECT BITES
Apply 1 drop of undiluted lavender or tea tree oil directly to the bite.

Other oils to use diluted
Lemon, Eucalyptus,
Pine, Basil, Bergamot, Chamomile, Lemongrass,
Patchouli.

Dilute by moistening a cotton swab with lemon juice, cider vinegar, or witch hazel and adding 1 -2 drops of the essential oil to the swab. Dab on skin as needed

BUG BITE REMEDIES
To help sooth the bite site and relieve discomfort.
Apply to bite every few hours! The first ingredient is a carrier oil.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1 t Aloe Vera Gel
5 drops Geranium
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1 t Borage
2 drops juniper berry
2 drops tea tree
1 drop lemon
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1 t of Aloe Vera gel
5 drops chamomile
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1 t flaxseed oil
2 drops sweet basil
2 drops lemon
1 drop marjoram
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1 t sesame oil
2 drops juniper berry oil
2 drops sweet basil
1 drop lime
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1 t Aloe Vera Gel
5 drops lavender
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BITE & STING POULTICE
1 T echinacea root tincture
1 T distilled water
1/8 t lavender essential oil
1 T bentonite clay

Combine the tincture, water and lavender essential oil.
Add mixture to the bentonite. Stir slowly as liquid is absorbed.

Paste should be tacky enough to adhere to skin.
Apply directly to bite as needed.

Store in tightly covered container.
If mixture dries out, stir in distilled water, as needed, to return it to paste consistency.

Categories: ARCHIVES · AROMATHERAPY RECIPES · FIRST AID · POSTS · RECIPES
Tagged: bentonite, infection, insect bites, itching, lavender, poultice, stings, swelling, tea tree

LAVENDER OIL FOR ALLERGIES & SINUSITIS
October 6, 2007 · 1 Comment

Allergies such as hay fever often cause sinusitis.
Dilute lavender oil in a carrier oil and massage some into the sinuses at either side of the nose to help to clear the condition.

Categories: ARCHIVES · AROMATHERAPY RECIPES · HEALING · POSTS · RECIPES
Tagged: hay fever, lavender, sinusitis

PALMAROSA TO SPEED HEALING
October 6, 2007 · No Comments

diffuse palmarosa in the room to speed the body’s ability to heal
aids in physical, emotional, mental and spiritual healing

Categories: ARCHIVES · AROMATHERAPY RECIPES · FIRST AID · HEALING · POSTS · RECIPES
Tagged: AROMATHERAPY RECIPES, diffusion, HEALING, palmarosa

LAVENDER OINTMENT
October 6, 2007 · No Comments

LAVENDER OINTMENT

4 T olive oil
3 to 4 T beeswax
3 T cocoa butter
1 vitamin E capsule
15 drops lavender essential oil

Combine olive oil, beeswax, cocoa butter and heat in the top of a double boiler.
Remove from the heat.
Add vitamin E and lavender oil, and beat thoroughly

Pour into small jars. Allow mixture to cool before covering.

Categories: ARCHIVES · AROMATHERAPY RECIPES · FIRST AID · HEALING · POSTS · RECIPES
Tagged: beeswax, cocoa butter, FIRST AID, HEALING, lavender, ointment

LAVENDER/SANDALWOOD OINTMENT
October 6, 2007 · No Comments

Excellent for burns, chapped lips, cold sores, and more

4 T olive or almond oil
3 to 4 T beeswax
3 t cocoa butter
2 t lanolin
10 drops vitamin E oil
15 drops lavender essential oil
15 drops sandalwood essential oil

Combine the olive (or almond) oil, beeswax, cocoa butter, and lanolin.
Heat thoroughly in the top of a double boiler.
Remove from heat.
Add the vitamin E, lavender & sandalwood oils and mix well.
Pour into small jars..
Allow to cool before covering with lids.

will keep from 6 to 12 months.

Categories: AROMATHERAPY RECIPES · FIRST AID · HEALING · POSTS
Tagged: burns, chapped lips, cold sores, FIRST AID,

HEALING, lavender, ointment, sandalwood
HEALING OIL BLEND #1
October 6, 2007 · No Comments

HEALING OIL BLEND #1

apply to speed healing

4 drops Rosemary
2 drops Juniper
1 drop Sandalwood
1/8 C jojoba

From Incense, Oils, and Brews, by Scott Cunningham

Categories: FIRST AID · HEALING · POSTS
Tagged: healing blend

FIRST AID KIT
October 6, 2007 · No Comments

a small First Aid Kit to carry with you.

LAVENDER: an all purpose oil for wounds,burns,
insomnia, irritability, this one will
help you to relax wherever you are
PEPPERMINT: to keep you alert
TEA TREE: for cuts, scrapes,insect bites

Add your favorite oils to round out your kit.

Categories: FIRST AID · POSTS
Tagged: cuts, FIRST AID, insect bites, insomnia, irritability, lavender, peppermint, rekaxation, scrapes, tea tree

http://prettysmartnaturalideas.wordpress.com/2007/12/

CLOVE MOUTHWASH
December 31, 2007 · 3 Comments

Clove Mouthwash

1/4 C vodka
1/2 C distilled water
1/4 t honey
1/4 t cinnamon
1/2 t ground cloves (or or clove oil)

* Combine ingredients. Mix well to completely dissolve honey.
* If desired, strain to remove ground clove residue, if used.
* Pour mixture into clean bottle.

Categories: ARCHIVES · AROMATHERAPY RECIPES · NATURAL PERSONAL HYGIENE · POSTS
Tagged: clove oil, mouthwash, NATURAL PERSONAL HYGIENE, oral hygiene

JAPANESE WATER CURE

You have heard it before: Drink lots of water to stay healthy.

Now, this from Japan:
My Japanese room-mate has told me that it is fashionable in Japan to drink water immediately upon arising, because Japanese research has shown that this “Water Treatment” can effect a 100% cure for a number of diseases, including:

arthritis

epilepsy

hemorrhoids (piles)

asthma

ear, nose, throat disease

kidney and urinary tract diseases

body aches

eye disease

meningitis

bronchitis

gastritis

menstrual and other female reproductive disorders

cancer

headaches

obesity

constipation

heart disease

tuberculosis

diabetes

heart palpitations

vomiting

diarrhea

high blood pressure

METHOD OF TREATMENT
• Upon arising in the morning, before you brush your teeth, drink 640 ml (approximately 2-1/2 C) water.
• After drinking the water, brush your teeth and gargle, as desired, but wait 45 minutes before eating or drinking anything else.
• After 45 minutes, eat your normal breakfast.
• Avoid eating or drinking for 2 hours during the treatment period.

NOTE: The elderly or infirm, who cannot tolerate 4 glasses of water at once should build up their water intake gradually, from 1/2 C to the recommended 2-1/2 C before breakfast.

Although there are no side effects to this totally natural treatment, in the beginning, you may notice an increased frequency of urination until the body accustoms itself to the new pattern of water intake.

RECOMMENDED SCHEDULE OF TREATMENT
for alleviation or cure

• Arthritis patients should follow the 3 days during the week 1, then begin the full daily treatment in week 2.
• Cancer – 180 days
• Constipation – 10 days
• Diabetes – 30 days
• Gastritis – 10 days
• High Blood Pressure – 30 days
• Tuberculosis – 90 days

Japanese researchers suggest that the Water Treatment be added permanently to one’s daily routine for ongoing benefit.

Categories: ANTI-AGING · GENERAL AROMATHERAPY · HEALING · NUTRITION
Tagged: arthritis, cancer, constipation, diabetes, diarrhea, HEALING, high blood pressure, japanese water cure, miracle cure

http://prettysmartnaturalideas.wordpress.com/2007/09/page/2/

MATURE/DRY SKIN FACIAL OIL
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

1 1/2 oz jojoba oil
10 dr borage oil
10 dr vitamin E oil
3 dr geranium
3 dr neroli
2 dr fennel oil
2 dr frankincense
2 dr sandalwood
1 dr vetiver

• Mix first three oils.
• Add essential oils.
• Blend thoroughly.
• Apply a few drops of blend to face morning and evening, after cleansing and toning!!

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
MATURE SKIN FACE MASK BLEND
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

1 dr jasmine
1 dr rose
1 dr ylang ylang
1 dr lavender
1 t grapeseed oil
1 t jojoba oil.

• Blend oils
• Massage into face and neck area daily.

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
MATURE SKIN FACE MASK 2
September 17, 2007 · No Comments

2 drops Sandalwood
1 drop Frankincense
2 T honey.

• Combine ingredients
• Apply the mask to clean skin.
• Leave on for 15 minutes, then
• Rinse thoroughly.

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
MATURE/DRY SKIN FACE MASK
September 14, 2007 · No Comments

MATURE/DRY SKIN FACE MASK

t honey
2 dr sandalwood
1 dr frankincense
1 t enzyme powder (optional)

Mix ingredients in the palm of the hand. Blend well.

Apply mask to clean skin. Relax for fifteen minutes,then rinse thoroughly.

Use once weekly.

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
MATURE SKIN FACE OIL
September 14, 2007 · No Comments

MATURE SKIN FACE OIL

5 dr lavender
2 dr rosemary
2 dr sandalwood
1 oz. jojoba oil

Blend all ingredients.

Use as moisturixer and at night.

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
DRY, WRINKLED SKIN
September 14, 2007 · No Comments

DRY WRINKLED SKIN
Avocado oil absorbs quickly into finer, drier skin.
Owing to the rich, heavy consistency, it provides
very good moisturizing.

4 t avocado
4 dr frankincense
2 dr rose essential oil
2 dr neroli

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
ANTI-AGING SKIN INFO & BLENDS
September 14, 2007 · No Comments

ANTI-AGING SKIN INFO & BLENDS

Recommended essential oils for skin which needs toning
and toning are: Rose Otto, Frankincense, Myrrh, Geranium,
Neroli, and Sandalwood.

Carrier oils recommended are: Jojoba, Apricot Kernel, Sweet
Almond, and Avocado.

BLENDS:
2 dr Frankincense
4 dr Sandalwood
1/3 C carrier oil
*******************************************
1 dr Myrrh
1 dr Rose Otto
5 t carrier oil
******************************************
1 dr Geranium
1 dr Myrrh
2 dr Neroli
6 t carrier oil

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES · POSTS
ANTI-AGING FORMULAS: Over 20, Over 30, Over 40, Over 50
September 14, 2007 · No Comments

ANTI-AGING: Over 20/30/40/50

Use treatments nightly on face, and neck, to collar bone.

ANTI-AGING FOR OVER 20s
Wrinkle Prevention for those over 20
8 dr Neroli
5 dr lavender
5 dr fennel
3 dr German chamomile
8 dr geranium
1 dr carrot seed
30 ml hazelnut, almond, or apricot kernel oil
*******************

ANTI-AGING FOR THOSE OVER 30
10 dr yarrow
2 dr patchouli
10 dr palmrosa
8 dr clary sage
7 dr fennel
8 dr rose
5 dr carrot seed
5 dr borage seed
5 dr jojoba oil
30 ml. hazelnut or apricot kernel oil
*****************

ANTI-AGING FOR THOSE OVER FORTY
10 dr neroli
10 dr lavender
10 dr frankincense
2 dr rosemary
10 dr fennel
3 dr lemon
10 dr carrot seed
10 dr evening primrose
30 ml hazelnut, almond or apricot kernel oil.
******************
ANTI-AGING OIL FOR THOSE OVER FIFTY
5 dr galbanum
5 dr rose
10 dr neroli
3 dr lavender
2 dr myrrh
10 dr carrot seed
10 dr rosewood (bois de rose)
10 dr evening primrose
10 dr borage seed oil
30 ml hazelnut or apricot kernel oil

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES
ANTI-AGING FACE & NECK OIL
September 14, 2007 · No Comments

ANTI-AGING FACE & NECK OIL

3 dr. frankincense
3 dr. neroli
1 dr. Lavender
3 dr. rose
30 ml. almond oil

Mix essential oils with 30 ml almond oil.

Massage into face and neck morning and night.
Evens out blemishes and refines fine lines

Categories: ANTI-AGING · ARCHIVES
BOTTLE/CONTAINER SUPPLIERS
September 6, 2007 · No Comments

http://www.sks-bottle.com/
www.containerandpackaging.com
www.sunburstbottle.com
www.specialtybottle.com
www.essentialsupplies.com

Categories: ARCHIVES · SUPPLIERS

http://prettysmartnaturalideas.wordpress.com/2007/09/page/3/

LOTION/MASSAGE BARS
September 6, 2007 · No Comments

LOTION/MASSAGE BARS

3 oz beeswax
2 oz mango butter
1 oz almond oil
1 oz jojoba oil
1 oz hemp oil
Essential oils

Melt beeswax over low heat.
When beeswax has melted, add mango butter.
Remove from heat when mango is almost melted.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix thoroughly
Add fragrance, and/or coloring.
Pour into empty deodorant tubes and let set completely.

Categories: ARCHIVES · NATURAL PERSONAL HYGIENE
CONTAINER SUPPLIERS
September 5, 2007 · No Comments

If you are making your own products, eventually, or right now, you will find that you need to get containers….

You can save empty containers that once contained something else….

If you scour discount stores and craft stores, you may find containers that will do, or are even perfect…….

BUT eventually, you will probably need more containers.... or you will want containers of a specific size or application.

CONTAINER SUPPLIERS THAT I HAVE SEEN RECOMMENDED OVER TIME (they go in order by the frequency of mention)

http://www.sks-bottle.com/
www.containerandpackaging.com
www.sunburstbottle.com
www.specialtybottle.com
www.essentialsupplies.com

Categories: ARCHIVES · GENERAL AROMATHERAPY · NATURAL DEODORANTS · NATURAL HOME PRODUCTS · NATURAL PERSONAL HYGIENE · POSTS · SUPPLIERS
Tagged: aromatherapy, bottle suppliers, bottles, containers, essential oils
BASIC SPRAY DEODORANT & VARIATIONS
September 5, 2007 · No Comments

BASIC SPRAY DEODORANT & VARIATIONS

INGREDIENT INFORMATION:

WITCH-HAZEL EXTRACT is available in drugstores, supermarkets, health food stores. Its properties include curbing inflammation, oils absorption, and mild astringency. Regular use brings about reduction of pore size, which inhibits the production of excessive sweating.

ZINC-OXIDE POWDER neutralizes odor. The slightly greasy consistency and white color of the powder homemade deodorant produce a milky appearance in the deodorant. Zinc Oxide neutralizes body odor, is antiseptic and astringent, and does not irritate skin.

Always shake the deodorant before using, to mix the zinc oxide back into the solution.

ALOE-VERA JUICE cools,heals, and moisturizes, providing a pleasant, refreshing feeling in the heat of the summer.

BASIC RECIPE
2 t zinc-oxide powder
2/3 C witch-hazel extract
2 T aloe-vera juice

• Place witch hazel in a small bowl.
• Stir in zinc oxide.
• Add in aloe-vera and EOs.

Decant mixture into 8 oz. spray bottle (NOTE: It is best to use a dark glass bottle, but, if you do not have access to dark glass spray bottles, use what you have or can get. Life will go on.)

Refrigerate deodorant spray to increase shelf life.

TO BASIC RECIPE ADD:

FOR DAILY USE: 30 dr. rose-geranium EO
Rose geranium oil has a high level of terpene alcohol, which curbs growth of odor-causing bacteria.

FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: 30 dr. calendula extract and 10 dr. lavender EO
Calendula and lavender are powerful odor and bacteria fighters, yet have a soothing effect on the skin.

FOR EXCESSIVE SWEATING: 30 dr. sage EO
Sage oil inhibits the activity of the sweat-glands up to 50%. It has astringent and antiseptic qualities, in addition to the ability to gently constrict pore size.

Categories: ARCHIVES · NATURAL DEODORANTS · NATURAL PERSONAL HYGIENE

http://theherbgardener.blogspot.com/2008/01/four-thieves-vinegar.html

Monday
Four Thieves Vinegar

In my explorations of the history and uses of lavender, I came across some interesting information about Four Thieves Vinegar. I’d heard of it before, but didn’t know what it meant:

The Legend of Four Thieves Vinegar

One version goes that in the 1630’s, when the plague was raging in France, the town of Toulouse was beset with looters. Four looters were apprehended, but rather than punish them, the judge offered them a deal. Amazed at their continued health after wandering though homes and businesses abandoned by their terrified (or dead) owners, the judge offered to let the thieves go if they gave him the secret of their resistance to the plague.

What was their famous secret? It was a vinegar made from thyme, rosemary, sage, and lavender. This infusion was termed thieves vinegar. Although garlic was added to the mixture later, this basic infusion became famous, and was used for hundreds of years, both internally and externally, to provide protection from the dreaded plague.

How to make Four Thieves Vinegar

There are a number of recipes available for four thieves vinegar, but the original was probably something like this:

Use equal parts thyme, rosemary, sage, and lavender. Place herbs in a jar and cover with (apple cider) vinegar. Seal and place in a cool, dark place for six weeks. Strain into a spray bottle or clean jar and use as a disinfectant.

The original herbal ingredients are all strong antibacterial agents, as is the vinegar.

Variations on the recipe add sweet smelling herbs like mint and lemon balm to the mixture. Garlic was also added, and although it was probably an excellent addition from an antibacterial standpoint, it was not one of the original herbs used.
Stumble Upon Toolbar

Labels: four thieves vinegar, vinegar of four thieves

2 comments:

R.K.Rao said...

Health is wealth and Herb is Health and Wealth
Herbs are natures remidies with marvellous curutive power.
Herbs are not drugs but they are full of divine energy. they cure diseases without any side effects in the body.
For more details visit my blog : http://wwwhealingherbs.blogspot.com

22 January, 2008 09:17
Anonymous said...

This stuff works great, but the four thieves originally used vinegared red wine, not apple cider vinegar.

[ticks too?]

http://crawling-insects.suite101.com/article.cfm/control_bed_bugs_naturally

Control Bed Bugs Naturally
Important Facts About Biting Bugs

http://theherbgardener.blogspot.com/2009/05/get-rid-of-bed-bugs.html

snipped.........

Get Rid of Bed Bugs

If you want to try an herbal solution in your home, or are staying in a location where bed bugs might be present, there is a spray you can make that will discourage them. It will keep bed bugs away from both you and your bedding. I recommend using essential oils because they are very concentrated. Essential oils are created through distillation, like spirits, and even when they’re diluted, they have a strong scent.

Herbal Bed Bug Spray Insecticide

This spray will act as a good deterrent. In higher concentrations, it might stain clothing and bedding, and could even cause headaches and nausea, so don’t increase the essential oil concentrations unless you plan on being out of the room overnight and have stripped the bed. Oh, and the term essential oil is a misnomer. The liquid isn’t oil based so don’t worry about greasy residue.

Bed Bug Spray Recipe

1 Cup Water
10 drops lavender essential oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil
10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
3 drops essential oil of clove (optional)

Place in a fine mist spray bottle, and shake well before using.

I want to include some cautions here. Never work with essential oils unless you are wearing gloves. Undiluted essential oils can be dangerous if absorbed through the skin. Another possible problem is that essential oils, even diluted, can have an adverse effect on some cats, so keep kitty away.

Other Options for Controlling Bed Bugs

If you want to avoid bringing bed bugs home with you when you travel, try keeping sachets of herbs in your suitcase. The smell will keep them out of your belongings and help you avoid an infestation in your home. Tuck two sachets into your suitcase, one on either side. It’s a good idea to place a couple in the pockets of your hanging garments, or in any folded clothing you plan on placing in hotel room drawers.

The sachet recipes I have below should each fill seven to ten small muslin bags. I’ve included a link to muslin bags available Online, but you can probably find them at your local craft store or make them yourself.

Bed Bug Herb Sachet 1

1 Cup dried Eucalyptus leaves
½ Cup dried rosemary
½ Cup dried lavender buds
10 Large cloves

Bed Bug Herb Sachet 2

1 Cup loose-leaf black walnut tea
½ Cup dried eucalyptus leaves
½ Cup dried lavender buds
¼ Cup dried thyme
2 Bay leaves

Bed Bug Control Tips and Tricks

Bed bugs don’t like heat, so you can stick your linen or clothes in the drier for twenty to twenty five minutes to kill the critters. You can do the same thing with your drapes. Another way to heat-treat your linen is to hang it outside on a clothesline during a hot afternoon.

You can also treat your mattress by steam cleaning it with a small hand held steamer to kill any bed bugs, eggs or larvae that might be present. It will kill dust mites too. Throwing some lavender essential oil into the steamer water wouldn’t hurt either. The scent will even help you get to sleep at night. Heck, after dealing with these little @!#%, you’ll probably need a good night’s sleep.

Bed bugs are tough. They are very invasive and can go long periods without eating. They are small and can hide almost anywhere. They find new feeding grounds by hiding in or on objects people bring into their homes regularly, like luggage, handbags, coats, or cardboard boxes. An herbal DIY solution might work if you have a few bugs, but if you have an established bed bug community in your home, there are professional eradication methods that use natural pesticides, like pyrethrin, you might want to try.

For more bed bug facts, visit my article: Control Bed Bugs Naturally

Ran across this on the net... Hope it is what you are looking for...

How to make homemade toothpaste and tooth cleansers?

On this page you will find lots of homemade toothpastes and tooth cleansers.

Homemade Mint Tooth Paste

Ingredients:
6 teaspoons baking soda
1/3 teaspoon salt
4 teaspoons glycerin
15 drops peppermint
Directions:
Mix thoroughly. Should be a tooth paste consistency. For flavor you can add a few drops of peppermint or wintergreen. Store in a container. You’ll be surprised with how fresh your mouth feels.

Super Cleanser

Ingredients:
Hydrogen peroxide (a few drops)
Baking soda
Directions:
Make a paste by combining the two ingredients. Use this paste on your teeth and also gently rub along your gums two times a week.

Toothpaste Recipe

Ingredients:
1/4 tsp peppermint oil
1/4 tsp spearmint
1/4 cup arrowroot
1/4 cup powdered orrisroot
1/4 cup water
1 tsp ground sage
Directions:
Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl. Add water until paste is desired thickness / consistency. Store at room temperature in a tightly covered jar.
Substitute 1/2 tsp each of oil of cinnamon and oil of cloves for peppermint/spearmint if desired.

Old Fashioned Tooth Powder

2 Tbsp dried lemon or orange rind
1/4 cup baking soda
2 Tsp salt
Place rinds in food processor, grind until peel becomes a fine powder. Add baking soda and salt then process a few seconds more until you have a fine powder. Store in an airtight tin or jar. Dip moistened toothbrush into mixture, brush as usual.

Loretta’s Toothpaste

1 Tsp baking soda,
1/4 Tsp hydrogen peroxide
1 drop oil of peppermint
Mix to make a paste, dip toothbrush into mixture, brush as usual.

Basic Toothpaste

1 Tsp of the Old Fashioned Tooth Powder
1/4 Tsp Hydrogen peroxide
Mix into a paste and brush as usual.

Strawberry Tooth Cleanser

1 Tsp of the above Old Fashioned Tooth Powder
1 Tbsp crushed ripe strawberries
Mix strawberries and powder into a paste and brush as usual.

Vanilla & Rose Geranium Toothpaste

1/2 ounce powdered chalk
3 ounces powdered orris root
4 teaspoons of tincture of vanilla
15 drops oil of rose geranium
Honey, enough to make a paste
Combine all ingredients and mix until you have a paste the consistency you like. Store in an airtight container. Use a clean stick (popsicle) to scoop paste onto brush. Store the stick in same container.

Ben Franklin’s Toothpaste

Honey
Ground charcoal
Mix into a paste and rub on teeth for whiteness.

Lemon Clove Tooth Cleanser

Mix:
Small amount of finely powdered sage
1 ounce of finely powdered myrrh
1 pound powdered arrow root
3 ounces powdered orris root
20 drops oil of lemon
10 drops oil of cloves
12 drops oil of bergamot
Rub oils into the powdered ingredients until thoroughly mixed

Simple toothpaste mixture

Bicarbonate of soda
Salt
Water
Glycerine
Peppermint oil
Mix 3 parts bicarbonate of soda with one part salt. Add 3 tsp of glycerine for every 1/4 cup of this mixture, then add enough water to make a thick paste. Add a few drops of peppermint oil for better taste

Fruit teeth cleaners

1.Rub a lemon rind on your teeth to remove brown stains. Rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward.
2.Clean your teeth with a fresh strawberry. Rub it over and between your teeth.

http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com/beauty/homemade-recipes/toothpaste.htm

Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.