Weekly Roundup - Living On Nothing Edition [Survival Today

Did you hear about the guy that lives on nothing? No seriously, he lives on zero dollars a day. Meet Daniel Suelo, who lives in a cave outside Moab, Utah. Suelo has no mortgage, no car payment, no debt of any kind. He also has no home, no car, no television, and absolutely no “creature comforts.” But he does have a lot of creatures, as in the mice and bugs that scurry about the cave floor he’s called home for the last three years.

To us, Suelo probably sounds a little extreme. Actually, he probably sounds very extreme. After all, I suspect most of you reading this are doing so under the protection of some sort of man-made shelter, and with some amount of money on your person, and probably a few needs for money, too. And who doesn’t need money unless they have completely unplugged from the grid? Still, it’s an amusing story about a guy who rejects all forms of consumerism as we know it.

How to Brew Your Own Beer and Maybe Save Some Money. A fantastic introduction to home brewing, something I’ve never done myself, but always been interested in trying. (@Generation X Finance)

Contentment: A Great Financial Principle. If I had to name one required emotion for living a frugal lifestyle it would be contentment. Once you are content with your belongings and your lot in life you can ignore forces attempting to separate you from your money. (@Personal Finance by the Book)

Use Energy Star Appliances to Save On Utility Costs. I enjoyed this post because it included actual numbers, and actual total savings, from someone who upgraded to new, energy star appliances. (@The Digerati Life)

Over-Saving for Retirement? Is it possible to “over-save” for retirement? Yes, I think so. At some point I like the idea of putting some money aside in taxable investments outside of retirement funds, to be accessed prior to traditional retirement age. (@The Simple Dollar)

40 Things to Teach My Kids Before They Leave Home. A great list of both practical and philosophical lessons to teach your kids before they reach the age where they know everything. I think that now happens around 13 years-old. (@My Supercharged Life)

Index Fund Investing Overview. If you are looking for a place to invest with high diversification and relatively low fees (for broader index funds with low turnover), index funds are a great place to start. (@Money Smart Life)

5 Reasons To Line Dry Your Laundry. My wife and I may soon be installing a clothesline in our backyard. In many neighborhoods they are frowned upon - one of the reasons I don’t like living in a neighborhood. I digress. One of our neighbors recently put up a clothesline, and we might just follow his lead. (@Simple Mom)

* 4 Quick Tips for Getting Out of a Rut * Young and Cash Rich * Embracing Simple Style * First Trading Experience With OptionsHouse * The Exponential Power of Delayed Consumption * How Much Emergency Fund is Enough? * 50 Questions that Will Free Your Mind * Save Money On Car Insurance

http://www.pioneerthinking.com/cr_healingfood.html

The Healing Power of Your Next Meal
by Charles Remington

Early man has known that his Creator has made provision for healing dating back five thousand years ago. The first recorded writings of Indian culture called The Veda’s document man’s knowledge of healing through nutrition. Bible scriptures from thirty five-hundred years ago show man divinely inspired to write, “God would bless his food and water and take sickness from among them” (Exodus 23:25). As a nutritionist, I have witnessed thousands of patients be restored to health from disorders ranging from gastric disturbances, intestinal conditions, type II diabetes, hypertension, obesity and the list goes on. By developing a healthy nutritional lifestyle we can bring a balance and harmony back to our human existence and it can begin with the next meal you eat.

To understand the healing power of your next meal, you must have a basic knowledge of the process foods we eat have on digestion, absorption and elimination. Digestion of carbohydrates begins in the mouth, both by mechanical breaking down of food and chemical digestion through the salivary enzyme amylase.

In the stomach, gastric juices consisting of hydrochloric acid and pepsin start to digest proteins, and the partially digested food turns into a paste like substance called chyme. As the chyme is released into the small intestine, digestive bile from the liver, gallbladder and pancreatic enzymes, along with enzymes from the exocrine cells in the mucosa of the small intestine complete the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. The digested food is now absorbed by the intestinal wall lining called the villi and enters into the blood stream. The nutrient void food then moves into the large intestine, where there is an absorption of water and electrolytes and the formation, storage and elimination of feces.

I have walked you through the digestive process because maintaining good gastrointestinal and intestinal health depends on proper digestion. The following factors eating slowly, regular scheduling of meals and balanced macro-nutrition (30% protein, 50% high fiber, low glycemic carbohydrates and 20% essential fatty acid fats), can restore health to stomach lining and improve detoxification function of intestines. This will prevent unnecessary entrance of toxins into the blood and maintain good colon health.

Each healing meal should also provide essential micro-nutrients (vitamins, minerals, enzymes and important phytochemicals from plant-based fruits, vegetables and whole grains). These photochemicals though classified as nonessential are receiving much of the
recent scientific research moving us from the mind-set of foods preventing deficiencies, to foods healing a disease and promoting longevity.

Plants, like humans, are susceptible to disease and viruses and have developed their own protective substances, called phytochemicals. Mounting research reveals that many phytochemicals also protect humans from cancers and diseases. The following is a list of foods, which provide protective plant chemicals and the conditions they protect us from, and the research to support its claims.

Whole Grains - The best sources are wheat, rice, barley, oats and rye. Whole grains are the seeds of the plant and consist of an outer shell called the bran, the middle called the endosperm and inner called the germ. Whole grains are excellent sources of folate, B vitamins, magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, chromium, phosphorus and Vitamin E. Folate helps decrease levels of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood. High levels of homocysteine in the bloodstream are linked to risk of heart disease. Whole grains contain phytochemicals called phytosterols, phenolic acid and lignans. Studies have shown that whole grains reduce risk of several cancers, type II diabetes, they lower cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease and they reduce inflammation, lowering risk of cardiovascular disease. In a recent study at University of Utah, Dr. Martha Slattery found that high intakes of whole grains, especially high fiber cereals, reduced the risk of rectal cancer by 31%. A high fiber diet (more than 34 grams daily) reduced rectal cancer by 66%. In a recent study at Tufts University, Dr. Nicola McKeown reported participants who consumed at least three servings daily of whole grains are less likely to develop insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome which are precursors of type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber, both insoluble and soluble. In a resent study reported by Harvard School of Public Health, Doctor Qi and colleagues found that women with diabetes that consumed more whole grains, bran and cereal fiber had lower blood vessel inflammation that has been linked to heart disease.

Dark Colored Fruits and Vegetables - They are part of the largest group of phytochemicals called flavonoids. They are characterized by dark colored fruits and vegetables and the best sources are, blueberry, strawberry, cranberry, bilberry, blackberry, apples, red and black grapes, eggplant, peppers, broccoli and onions. There are more than 4,000 flavonoids and are broken into subgroups called, anthocyanidins, proanthocyanidins, polyphenolic acid, quercetin, ellagic acid and tannins. Studies show that dark colored fruits and vegetables are powerful anti-oxidants, some have fifty times the antioxidant activity of both vitamin C and vitamin E. Studies show that flavonoids in fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of arthritis, atherosclerosis, diabetes and cancers. They protect the collagen protein in joints and blood vessels from free radical damage, which reduces edema, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. A resent study reported by Cornell University showed the flavonoid, quercetin in apples could protect the brain against neuro-degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinsonism. This was a follow up to an earlier study at Cornell University by professor Lee, who found that the photochemical in apples and berries has a stronger antioxidant protective effect than Vitamin C against colon and liver cancer cells. Blueberries have 40% more antioxidant than the next highest strawberries. Neuroscientist, James Joseph from Tufts University, discovered in addition to fighting disease and cancer, blueberries prevented short-term memory loss that accompanies aging.

Legumes - They are in a group of vegetables that include beans, peas, lentils and soybeans. Legumes are rich in folate and fiber. They become a complete protein when combined with whole grains like, rice, wheat, barley and oats. Legumes are packed with the phytochemicals, phytosterols, saponins, lignans and isoflavones. Legumes help prevent breast, prostate and colon cancers. Soybeans contain substances that destroy beta carotene and vitamin B-12 and vitamin D. Beans and peas have an anti vitamin D compound. It is a good practice to balance the consumption of legumes with fresh fruits and yellow and dark green vegetables to provide beta carotene Vitamin B-12, and whole grain cereals. Recent findings from the University of Illinois under the direction of Professor Singlstary, show saponins found in soybeans, garbanzo beans and navy beans, reduce risk of colon cancer. Isoflavones found in soybeans, chickpeas and other legumes gained attention, when researchers reported women in Japan and China who eat diets high in isoflavones, reported fewer menopausal symptoms and lower incidence of heart disease and osteoporosis, than Western women who consumed less. Studies show the high soluble fiber in legumes lower cholesterol levels. Lima beans, kidney beans, navy beans, soybeans and other legumes can all help lower your cholesterol, according to James W. Anderson, M.D., an expert in cholesterol research who is professor of medicine and clinical nutrition at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine in Lexington. The reason these high-fiber legumes are so effective is because they also contain pectin. In one study, Dr. Anderson asked men to eat 1 1/2 cups of cooked beans a day. The result? Their cholesterol plummeted 20 percent in just three weeks.

Red, Orange and Yellow Fruits and Vegetable - They are in a group of fruits and vegetables called carotenoids. Carotenoids are found in all plant foods. In simple terms, the greater the intensity of color, the higher the level of carotenoids. Carotenoids are rich in antioxidants and are found in tomatoes, sweet potatoes, oranges, grapefruit, summer squash, along with many others. Carotenoids contain the phytochemicals, alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene and lutein. Carotenoids provide many health benefits which include growth and repair of tissue and help our bodies fight bacteria and infection. Some carotenoids can be converted to Vitamin A, especially the beta-carotenoids. As potent antioxidant, carotenoids prevent free radical cells from damaging DNA, through oxidation. This is an important factor in cancer prevention. Studies show that carotenoids may lower risk of heart disease, stroke and help to avoid diverticulitis, cataracts and macular degeneration. A six-year Harvard Medical study of 48,000 men, showed that the phytochemical, lycopene found in tomatoes reduced risk of prostate cancer by 34% over men who eat less. The study also showed the processing of the tomato into sauce or paste, increased the lycopenes bio availability.

Cruciferous Vegetables - They are from the plant family called Brassica, which consists of broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale and several others. Cruciferous vegetables contain a sulfur compound called glucosinolates. When glucosinates are chopped or chewed they release the phytochemicals; isothiocynantes and indoles. High intakes of cruciferous vegetables have been associated with lower risk of lung cancer and cancer of the colon. It’s believed that glocosinalte hydrolysis may alter the metabolism of sex hormones in a way that inhibit the formation of a hormone influenced cancers like prostate and breast cancers. Resent studies from Georgetown University Medical Center, under the direction of Fung-Lung Chung have found that glucosinolates help to both eliminate carcinogenic toxins in the body and encourage the self-destruction of precancerous cells. Researchers from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle reported that men who eat 1.5 cups of cruciferous vegetables a week can reduce the prostate cancer risk by 40%. Researchers concluded the phytochemical, isothocynates help produce enzymes that destroy cancer causing cells.

Anti-Bacterial Vegetables - They come from the subgroup of cruciferous vegetables called thiosulfonates. They are found in onions, garlic, leeks and shallots. Unfortunately they are looked down upon because of their strong sulfur odor, but what might keep your friends away is what keep the bacteria and viruses away. They contain the phytochemical allylic sulfides, which block the activity of toxins produced by bacteria and viruses. Allylic sulfides protect the immune system, lower risk for some cancers, lower cholesterol. They act as a natural antibiotic against viruses, bacteria and parasites. Researchers at John Hopkins University reported that phytochemicals found in garlic and onion kills pylori, the bacterium responsible for most gastric and stomach ulcers and stomach cancers. When cooking with good oils, like olive oil, heat changes it’s structure into trans-fatty acids or bad fats. Adding garlic or onions to the oil will keep this degradation from occurring for up to 20 minutes.

In closing, I encourage all who have an ear to listen to enlarge your belief and purpose for what you eat at your next meal. Look beyond it will keep you a certain size or satisfy some physical or behavioral hunger, but that your next meal can start to heal you, or better yet prevent a disease from forming. The best offense against disease is a good defense. It’s much easier to prepare than to repair. Stop thinking that the squeaky hinge gets the oil and take action before you squeak. Healing is a process and it can start with the healing power of your next meal.
The Author:

Charles Remington
Nutritionist
www.thefatlosscoach.com

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/of_itchyskin.html

Soothing The Itch - Natural Remedies For Itchy Skin
by Ololade Franklin

Has your scalp or skin ever been uncomfortably itchy? Do you know someone who has an itchy scalp or itchy skin? Itching can cause extreme misery for the sufferer, however many causes of itchiness can be solved with simple remedies. There are many reasons why the scalp or skin may be irritated. So before you seek a dermatologist?s help, ask yourself the following:

1) Are you using a shampoo or shower gel made from detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate? Although these detergents lather wonderfully they can dry your scalp or skin out to the point of being extremely itchy. Consider switching to a natural soap-based liquid or bar cleanser, or try making your own cleansers yourself. Natural soaps are much kinder to the skin and scalp because they are made from vegetable oils instead of petroleum derivatives.

2) Is your laundry detergent making your skin itch? Laundry detergents are made from harsh cleansers and they are so strong that some of the residue may be left on your clothes even after the rinse cycle. When you dry your clothes, that laundry detergent residue is left on them. When you wear your clothes the laundry detergent residue comes into contact with your skin. As an alternative try a natural laundry powder available at health food stores or make your own soap, grate it, and use it as a natural laundry powder.

3) Are you suffering from allergic reactions to one or more food items? Commercially prepared foods contain many different ingredients which can sometimes cause allergic reactions. Try changing your diet by eliminating one food item at a time and see if this helps.

4) Has your skin come into contact with a bacteria or fungus that could cause itching (like athlete?s foot)? Try applying tea tree oil, or a product containing tea tree oil to the spot that is irritated. According to Dr. Ruth Winter, M.S., author of A Consumer’s Dictionary Of Cosmetic Ingredients, tea tree oil is ‘eleven to 13 times stronger than carbolic acid’ and is non-toxic to the skin.

5) Are you suffering from bug bites? Bites from mosquitos and other insects usually swell and cause intense itching. Try applying several drops of lavender essential oil directly on the bug bite itself to soothe the itching.

The Author

Ololade Franklin publishes Making Good Scents(TM) a newsletter for those who want to make their own skin care products. For information about Making Good Scents(TM) visit http://www.MakingGoodScents.com

http://www.globalarticle.com

Article Posted: July 31, 2006

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/bw_shave.html

Tips for a Great Shave!
By Buck Williams

Warning - this is the long answer - but isn’t a couple of minutes of reading worth it? After all, your face is the first thing they notice......

1. Make Sure Your Beard is Thoroughly Wet

One of the keys to a great close shave without irritation or skin rash is to make sure your beard is thoroughly wet. Facial hair will absorb moisture up to 30% of its volume. Hair swollen with water becomes quite weak and therefore easier to cut. Showering before shaving is the ideal way to ensure you beard is properly moistened. If a shower is not possible, rinse your face and then apply a warm moistened towel to your face for at least a couple of minutes. This is the technique that barbers use. Never shave cold or apply shaving products to a dry face.

2. Use a Quality Shaving Cream

Use a shaving cream that has a high concentration of lubricants (eg silicones) and moisturizers. The best shaving creams create a rich creamy lather and do not foam up like the cheaper drug store brands. The less “foaming” in the shave cream the better, as it is what is in contact with the skin and beard that matters - all else is wasted. Less resistance, less irritation and less nicks also mean a longer lasting blade! While the primiary function of the shaving cream is to lubricate your face so that the razor will glide smoothly and effortlessly across the surface, it also serves to lock the moisture into the whiskers, keeping them soft and upright, primed for the cut. The ideal scenario is to leave the shaving cream on your face for at least a minute before you begin cutting, so that the beard is as soft and wet as possible.

3. A Shaving Brush is One of the Best Tools

One of the best tools you can use to achieve the optimum shave is a shaving brush (as top barbers do). A shaving brush does a couple of things. First, it helps raise the hair so that a closer cut is possible. Second, it helps create a rich creamy lather with the shaving cream that stays close to the skin. And, finally, it helps remove dead skin cells (exfoliation) which reduces the chance of blemishes, razor bumps and also helps the skin look and feel smooth and healthy. Always look for a shaving brush with bristles that have the right balance between softness (to create a rich creamy that stays close to the skin) and resistance to raise the beard (making a closer cut easier!)

4. Apply the shaving cream using the brush in a circular motion ending in an upward stroke to help lift the beard up and away from the face.

5. Use a Quality Razor and Change the Blades

Always use a good quality sharp razor blade. Be sure the blade is sharp. You’re not just cutting off hair, you’re also scraping off up to two layers of surface skin when you shave. A dull blade is more traumatic to the skin, making your face feel scratchy and look blotchy. Depending on the toughness of your beard, change the blade somewhere between every three and every ten shaves, if you shave every day. Two weeks is too long to go without changing blades. Regardless of the number of shaves, if the blade is dulled, ditch it.

As to which brand of razor to use - we think you can’t go wrong with any of the Gillette Mach series. Of course there are very high quality and expensive razors available at specialty retailers that you may want to try.

Rinse your blade under hot water before you begin to shave and after every few swipes. This removes the accumulated shaving cream, whiskers, and skin goop. For a really close shave, remoisten the section you just shaved, by spreading a thin layer of lather from another area of your face, and then swiping that area again. Keep everything moist. (Note: The use of hot water here is to help lubricate, has nothing to do with “killing bacteria.”)

6. Use the Razor Properly

Ideally shave in the direction of the beard growth. Start with the sides, then the moustache area and last the chin. The chin hairs are the toughest, so this allows them the most time to soften under the shave cream.

Shaving against the direction of hair growth gives a closer shave, but has two drawbacks:

A. It’s a good way to donate blood, and

B. You run a high risk of cutting off a hair below skin level, causing an ingrown hair (razor bumps) - the whisker grows into the surrounding tissue instead of out of the pore, resulting in inflammation and possible infection.

To avoid these shaving problems, again, shave “with the grain” (that is, in the direction your hair grows.) Each person’s facial hair has its own growth pattern. If you are unsure of the direction of your beard, let it grow for a day or two and you’ll see it.

7. If you want an even Closer Shave

If you wish to achieve an even closer shave (as many barbers do) apply some more lather from your brush (add more cream if necessary) to the areas you wish to shave again. This is one of the extra advantages of using a brush. For most guys, re-shaving certain areas with the grain should do the job. Professional barbers, by the way, usually first shave with the grain, and then re-shave going sideways - but they’re trained professionals!

But, don’t over shave. Too much shaving will cause skin irritation and rashes.

Rinse the blade thoroughly before you put it away. (The water temperature isn’t going to have any impact on bacteria; you’re rinsing the blade to get rid of hairs, shaving cream, oils, and gunk, not to kill bacteria. You’d need to boil the razor for that, which is not necessary.) Do NOT wipe the blade with a tissue or towel—that will just dull it faster.

8. Cleanse and Soothe After Shaving

After shaving, when the skin is most vulnerable (remember, you’ve just scraped off up to 2 layers of surface skin!), rinse the face with warm water and use a facial wash that has a high concentration of tea tree oil (a natural antiseptic that is ideal to help cleanse and protect from spots and shaving rash) and witch hazel (for its soothing, healing and astringent properties).

9. Rinse with the coolest water that is comfortable and pat dry with a clean towel. (Don’t rub! Just pat)

10. Finish off with an Aftershave Moisturizer.

Shaving can remove up to two layers of skin. There is no other regular activity that does this, which is why it is so important to use a good quality moisturizer after shaving. An after shave moisturizer, designed as an after shave balm and moisturizer in one, is the ideal way to replace lost moisture and soothe the skin. And, be sure to use one made just for guys - these formulas are designed so that they are not greasy, absorb quickly and dry with a matte finish so that your face doesn’t look shiny. Typically moisturizers made for women are too greasy as men tend to have not only thicker skin but also oiler skin than women due to men’s larger sebaceous glands. The best aftershave moisturizers not only replace lost moisture and soothe, but also have ingredients that will cool and refresh the skin.

Following these 10 shaving tips should help you achieve optimum skin health, avoid shaving problems and help you look and feel your best.
author

Buck Williams is a master barber with over 15 years of barbering and product development experience for premier barbershops, salons and manufacturers. Most recently, Buck has appeared on TV as a makeover guru, and behind the scenes on TV and film production sets and magazine features helping actors and sports celebrities look their best. Buck’s passion is helping men look and feel their best and believes that a great shave and post shave skin care is so important to the impression you make.

This article on the Shaving Tips and Techniques is reprinted with permission.

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/gf_anxiety.html

Different Herbs for Anxiety Treatment
By: Greg Frost

Anxiety disorders are a common problem, affecting approximately 20 million adults and children in America. Anxiety is a common emotion consisting of uncertainty and worry faced by many, whilst anxiety disorders are when such fears are experienced irrationally. There are many treatments available, ranging from medication to therapy and alternative treatments. One treatment is through using natural herbal supplements.

Natural herbs are less costly than medication, and consist of herbs, vitamins and botanicals. They can be taken individually, or with other supplements, but it is best to first consult your doctor before deciding on natural herbs as a treatment for anxiety disorders. They also have the advantage of having no side effects, as compared to medications which can result in side effects such as nausea. Below are some common herbs used in anxiety disorders treatment.

1. Passion Flower

This is a natural plant that is used to treat anxiety, amongst other ailments. Its has unique calming properties, and can also reduce body tremors from fear. It promotes better sleep, and can act as a painkiller. It also contains anti depressants, and is used for high blood pressure and epilepsy.

2. Lavender

This is a more popular alternative than the passion flower, and is also known for its calming properties. It is also one of the more effective treatments for panic attacks, and is a tonic for the nervous system.

3. Lemon Balm

This is used to calm the digestive and nervous system, and also reduces blood pressure. It is uncertain if used alone, lemon balm is effective for treating anxiety attacks. It is usually taken with Valerian, Chamomile or Passion flower.

4. Kava

It is an effective tranquilizer, and whilst it is not an addictive substance, research suggests that it may be linked to liver problems.

5. Valerian

This is another natural plant used for treating anxiety. It also promotes better sleep, allowing for the body to rest and recuperate.

6. Chamomile

Chamomile flower leaves are used to make tea, and is a natural alternative for treating anxiety. It also reduces fever, encourages sleep and enhances the body’s metabolism.

7. Dandelion

The roots and leaves are used to treat the body’s internal systems, and through it, provide relief for some of the symptoms of anxiety. It is commonly used in salads and tea, and can also be used as a substitute for coffee.

There are many natural treatments available, and herbs have been used for treating illnesses for centuries. However, do keep in mind that it is not a quick fix, and can only alleviate the symptoms of anxiety attacks. It is advisable to seek out behavioral or cognitive therapy so as to eliminate the root of the problem causing anxiety attacks.
The Author

Greg Frost is an authority figure in the Anxiety Treatment field and director of http://www.attackanxiety.org/, a company that provides a variety of Anxiety Attacks information to assist people in treatment

http://www.pioneerthinking.com/nk_oils.html

Oils For The Skin
by: Natalie Katsman

In our days when fats are recognized to be bad for health, and the very word “fat” has a negative meaning, oils, as a source of the unwanted substance, are often misunderstood.

Natural oils contain hundreds of organic constituents such as hormones, vitamins and other natural elements that can be beneficial for the skin.

Natural oils can be divided into two general categories - essential oils and carrier or base oils.

Essential oils are volatile compounds found in plans. They give fruits, flowers, herbs and spices their fragrance and flavor. Obtained by distillation or expression, essential oils are highly concentrated and used at a very low concentration.

Carrier oils, such as almond, sunflower, olive, walnut and other oils are used in higher concentration in cosmetics, or they can be applied directly to the skin to nourish, soften and protect it. They are used as a base in which essential oils are diluted.

Oils are highly penetrating. They easily enter through a cell wall delivering essential vitamins, oxygen, and nutrients. This helps to stimulate cell metabolism and regeneration process.

Ability of oils to penetrate and carry nutrients through the the cell wall to the cell nucleus can prevent cell deterioration that can lead to infections and diseases.

Many oils have anti-bacterial properties, thus helping to reduce infections in sensitive or damaged skin
.

Oils have been successfully used in skin care preparations for centuries. They constitute a substantial part of skin care formulations, and some people actually prefer oils to creams.

It might sound strange, but oils can be used as skin cleansers.
Sunflower (non-refined), olive and almond oils will serve the purpose. Did you know that vegetable oil is a great way to remove oil-based paint from the skin? The same mechanism works with everyday residues and impurities that accumulate on your skin. Oils effectively lift off the dirt, leaving the skin clean and nourished.

If you still prefer water but your sensitive skin feels dry after it, apply oil to the skin prior to washing your face. You skin will feel much softer.

Many oils, such as safflower oil, are rich in essential fatty acids that the body requires for healthy cells but cannot produce by itself. These acids preserve the protective function of cell membranes. Skin that does not get enough of these nutrients loses moisture and elasticity, becomes dry and forms wrinkles and fine lines. Fatty acids can prevent skin dryness and help to restore moisture balance.

Great controversy exists when it comes to the use of oils on acne-prone skin. The anti-bacterial properties of essential oils, such as lavender and tea tree, help to kill the bacteria and counter acne. Basil oil has been successfully used by Indians to clear the skin of the unsightly breakouts.

If your skin is oily, you probably would like to avoid oils. However, if you put too much effort into making your skin drier, your skin can take it as a signal to produce even more oil.

While moisturizing your skin (there are oil-free products designed for oily skin), you can try products with such essential oils as tea tree, basil, eucalyptus, cedarwood, cypress, lemon, or lavender that are known to normalize oily skin and, along with sage and lemongrass oils, to slow down body oil production.

Tea tree oil, chamomile, lavender, geranium, rose, neroli and ylang ylang are recommended for all skin types. These essential oils are soothing, anti-inflammatory, healing and nutritive. Mature skin will also benefit from clary sage, palmarosa, and carrot seed oil - for they are proven to be effective in wrinkle prevention.
author

Natalie Katsman is a co-founder of http://www.natural-aid.com, where you can find fine quality aloe vera products for beauty and well-being and subscribe to HealthySkin Newsletter filled with beauty tips, recipes and information on herbal healing, skin care and cosmetic chemistry. (C) Natalie Katsman, 2003

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/mh_spatreatment.html

Health Spa Treatments
Using Lavender Herbs From Your Own Herb Garden
By Mary Hanna

Health spa treatments can be costly. Have you ever considered creating your own home spa by using lavender and other herbs from your own herb garden? After all of the hours you spent planting and tending to your herb plants, reap another benefit by using your herbs to make herbal cosmetics, herbal teas or herbal medicines and by all means as ingredients for a home spa. Some people have spaghetti herb gardens, or salad gardens even headache gardens, consider this your own Spa Herb Garden!

For very soft touchable skin use Lavender or Calendula leaves and petals. Bruise the leaves and petals and put them into a glass jar. Pour enough olive oil into the jar to cover the herbs. Set the jar on a sunny window and shake everyday for two to three weeks.

Strain the oil through cheese cloth pressing on the solids to remove all essential oils. Reseal the jar and place in a dark place. The herbal oil should last up to one year. This soothing Lavender oil can be applied directly to the skin or used in a bath.

Put lavender flowers and leaves into a warm bath and soak. Or put them in a muslin bag which you will hook over the running water while filling the tub. The Lavender will fill your bathroom with a wonderful scent. Since Lavender is known for its calming effect, what better way to relax after a day of gardening than a long soothing bath filled with Lavender?

Lavender is a natural anti depressant so place bowls of dried lavender around the house. Or since Lavender is known for its calming effect, boil a large pot of water, throw in the lavender, and place a towel over your head as you bend down over the pot. Inhale in the delightful smell and feel its soothing properties from the steam on your skin.

Another lovely way to use Lavender is to sew them into little bags and put them between your pillow and pillow case. The beautiful calming scent will help you sleep.

Calendulas may also be used in the bath. An even better way to use this herb is as an antiseptic. Again, bruise the leaves and flowers and add them to olive oil. It will relieve stings, chapped lips, cuts and burns.

To make you’re own spa loofahs plant Luffa aegyptiaea. For a home spa tool grow the plant in full sun in a place where the plant can climb. When you harvest it, soak it in water to soften the brown skin, peel and set out in the sun to dry. Save the seeds for your next years Spa Herb Garden.

Now let’s make some refreshing teas using herbs from your herbal garden for use in your mini home spa. Most people look at roses as just beautiful blooms, but rose hips have more vitamin C than oranges. The little round balls in the center of the rose is the hips. Gather them and grind them in a coffee grinder. Steep them in very hot water, not boiling, for about ten minutes and enjoy your fruity tea.

For a calming tea try Chamomile or for a refreshing tea try Lemon balm. All of these herbs can be grown in your own yard and will create a wonderful home health spa experience.

Mary Hanna is an aspiring herbalist who lives in Central Florida. Mary has also published articles on Cruising, Gardening and Cooking for more information on these subjects visit http://www.GardeningHerb.com

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