 Preventing cancer can be achieved through diet, exercise and leading a healthy way of life. According to an evaluation from the National Cancer Institute, one in two senior citizens had cancer in their lifetime. Fortunately, there are several techniques to counter this dangerous disease which will help to preserve your health.
Consume Organically grown products
Organic fruits and vegetables are beneficial for many reasons, the main of which is the prevention of cancer. Numerous studies have linked phytochemicals in cruciferous vegetables such as brussel sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower, with a reduction in the occurrence of mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus and stomach cancers. The American Institute for Cancer Research suspects that lycopene found in tomatoes may stop the development of tumors related to abnormal growth of cells. It proved that berries rich in antioxidants reduce inflammation and protects people against lung and colon cancer.
 Lavender is an herb that has been used for centuries and offers a plethora of health benefits. Originally grown in the Mediterranean, lavender flowers and oil are widely used. Dried lavender flowers are used in many natural remedies which proved to have antiseptic, producing calming and relaxing effects. English Lavender is the most common strain of the lavender family which is used in herbal medicine. Because of the tannin, mineral substances, and essential oils, lavender flowers have antiseptic, nerve stimulating, and calming effects. Essential oils derived from a lavender plant serve as a wonderful medicine. Lavender essential oils are used in cosmetology, perfumery and many other areas. The healing properties of oils can help treat bruises and burns; lavender stems and leaves are also used in aromatherapy. In addition, lavender contains the so-called honey, which is an excellent remedy. Lavender is also used in commercial fragrances and lavender scent is traditionally used in sachets and potpourri. Lavender flowers serve as an insect repellent to protect clothes.
Lavender is used as a treatment for the following conditions:
Lavender helps in inducing sleep due to its sedative properties. You can also use it to sooth babies. In order to induce sleep, keep lavender flowers next to your pillow. You can also inhale the scent of lavender by applying its oil to clothes. You can infuse lavender into a tea which serves as a great relief for headaches. The lavender herb helps to get rid of headaches and nausea due to its soothing scent. The calming properties of lavender oil on the senses help relieve depression and anxiety. It can also reduce muscular pains.... To ease muscular pain, add a few drops of Lavender oil into bath water.
- Digestion Problems/Abdominal Pain
The lavender herb may also help in reducing excessive bloating and gas.
The Lavender herb is beneficial in treating rheumatism and arthritis because it tends to relax muscles and ease pain.
The Lavender herb helps in treating asthma, coughs, and colds. By clearing the respiratory pathway, it helps with breathing.
Due to the antibacterial properties of lavender, it can be used in the treatment of skin ailments such as acne, eczema,
infections, psoriasis, and burns. It can be applied to cuts and scrapes in which case it helps speed up the formation
of new tissue.
Lavender has been used for other conditions such as: joint inflammation, fainting, neuralgia, vertigo,heart palpitations, epilepsy, sprains, flatulence, colic, vomiting, toothache, snakebites, loss of voice, abscess, alopecia, athletes foot, insect bites, boils, allergies, sunburn, cystitis, earache.
Thus, lavender possesses many healing properties and can be used for relaxation to relieve stress and insomnia. In addition, the inhalations of lavender infusions will help to consolidate and protect your organism! You will be less susceptible to infections and fatigue. Additionally, both fresh and dried lavender can be used in cooking which adds a beautiful color and a savory flavor to many dishes.
Since it's been all about coconut for me lately, I've decided to maximize and expand my coconut oil horizons. It's actually a win win situation for me because it's a cost saving multi purpose tasker in one jar. And since I love the smell of coconut, it's usage on my skin is also very pleasant. And did you know that Lauric acid is a major component (49%) of Coconut oil which gives it antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial properties? It also has some antioxidant properties. So here are some ways that I've used coconut oil:
- I guess the number one way of using coconut oil for me is adding it in my daily smoothies. Since virgin coconut oil can be used as a natural medicine to fight a cold, flu or viral fever, I use it daily as a preventive measure to strengthen my immune system, or if i feel like I am coming down with something, I take 2-3 tablespoons along with meals. I has definitely been working for me; I haven't really been sick in 2 years now.
- Due to it's high smoke point, cooking with coconut oil is safe at high temperatures. I've substituted coconut oil in a lot of my cooking especially a lot of the breakfast dishes since it gives that a somewhat sweet coconut aftertaste. I also like using it in my roasted dishes (especially with sweet potatoes).
- You can also massage coconut oil into your body which can help in fighting the common cold or flu.
- Shaving my legs. It gives a lot of moisture to my skin. My skin feels really smooth and shiny afterwards.
- Taking my eye makeup off. It is incredibly useful for me since I use waterproof eyeliner. It removes my eye makeup easily without any damage to my skin; I don't have to rub it in too hard like with other products.
- I use coconut oil on my knees and elbows. These are the areas of dry skin, and I've honestly seen the improvement. It doesn't look as flaky and dry.
- Using it as a deep conditioning hair treatment. According to several studies, coconut oil is better able to penetrate the hair than mineral oil. You can do this natural hair mask once a week or couple of times a week, just make sure you rinse it off really good. It took me couple of practice tries to nail down the method. The first time I applied coconut oil to my hair, I didn't rinse it off well enough. So, after blow drying my hair it looked like I used a whole bottle of gel on my hair, or like I hadn't washed my hair in months. You can also leave the treatment overnight for better results.
- Using it as a facial moisturizer. It has really worked for me, but I don't think it would be helpful for people with oily skin.
So as you see there are many ways to utilize coconut oil without spending a lot of money.
 Making Argan Oil When it comes to our face, we can all admit we choose better and more expensive products to use. After all, it's what people look at the most. There are so many options out there that companies throw at us with many promises for better, younger looking skin. I used to think that more expensive products would provide more visible benefits since they need to justify and make up for a high price tag. Now, I not only use a much cheaper product in price but also it's made of only one ingredient - pure organic argan oil. A price tag of around $ 15 dollars a bottle, it truly can be called a miracle cure for your skin. So what is Argan Oil? And where do I even start about all the benefits it provides? First of all, argan oil is a wonderful example of a natural skin care product that truly works. Researchers claim that pure organic Argan oil is beneficial for treating wrinkles, aging, acne, dry skin, hair treatment, dry scalp, hair growth, stretch marks, cracked feet and psoriasis. It was discovered a long time ago in Morocco by French and English tourists, however, for being pretty new to America, the oil has already established its credibility and is highly sought after. The Argan tree grows in Souss valley south east of Agadir and north east Essouira in Morocco. The argan tree lives longer than the olive and requires no cultivation. Traditionally, Moroccan women extract Argan oil by collecting the seeds and then pressing them. In order to obtain 1 liter of Argan oil, it takes about 12 - 20 hours of work by hand. For centuries Moroccan women have used Argan oil to nourish their skin, hair and nails. It's no surprise that it is being called "liquid gold". It is high in vitamin E and essential fatty acids which are beneficial in protecting against premature aging caused by oxidation. Multiple researchers have been pointing to the hypolipemiant and antioxidant properties of argan oil. I've been using it for a couple of weeks, and I not only see the difference in my skin, but also people around me have noticed my healthy glow!
 If you think that changing your eating habits and making healthy organic food as a vital part of your daily life is enough, think again! Undeniably, what we consume on a daily basis summarizes pretty much the major part of our health journey; however, don't forget about other aspects of our daily regiments such as our personal hygiene. Did you ever analyze how much we expose our bodies to toxins daily? Such a simple routine action as brushing teeth can add pollution to our bodies. When it comes to choosing a toothpaste, I used to go for the one with the most promising whitening effect. Truth is, we all want that coveted Hollywood smile.
So recently, it dawned on me to look deeper into the ingredients of "regular" toothpaste. If conventional food brands don't come close to being called "healthy", what makes famous toothpaste brands any better? Let's take a look at one ingredient that toothpastes brag about when it's included in the formula - Fluoride.
Living in Los Angeles is definitely one of the most desired things in the world. What can be more glamorous than Hollywood itself?! However, this opportunity can present itself as a blessing in disguise - you're somewhat forced to keep up with the latest trends of Hollywood. Basically, looking good is a must. It all sounds good if you have the money, but what if you don't? Good News! You do not have to spend hundreds of dollars on beauty products! You can use the same organic all natural products that celebrities use without emptying out your wallet. Have you ever wondered what celebrity skin care products are? Natural - the latest trend of the glamorous women of Hollywood! Let’s face it: beautiful skin is priceless so why not try out the latest celeb secret products! Here is the list of the best products available within your budget:
 1. Megan Fox. Eminence Skincare is said to be Megan Fox's favorite skincare line. She is a fan of the Biodynamic Collection (organic) that they have. In Vogue magazine, the actress revealed that she uses Eminence sweet red rose cleanser. With all naturally organic ingredients these hand-made products are effective and extremely healing. The products are rich in vitamins, active ingredients and nutrients.
 2. Reese WitherspoonReese Witherspoon was recently spotted stocking up on this range of Vitamin C enriched creams. I personally like Reese's young look; the fact that she bought this product makes me think it must be worth taking a look at. The Vita-C Max One Minute Facial will cleanse, tone, moisturize and refine your skin with seven different types of vitamin C.
 3. Jennifer AnistonJennifer Aniston’s skin always looks good. But why? Her most recent find is - Dr. Hauschka Radiant You. (Madonna is also a huge fan of the Dr. Hauschka line.) Jennifer Lopez also raved about Dr. Hauschka, "I love that Rose Cream by Dr. Hauschka. I buy it at Whole Foods," Lopez tells Stylelist. Dr. Hauschka Skin Care products are made with the highest quality botanicals and mineral—ingredients naturally instilled with powerful nurturing properties that work in concert with the body’s rhythms and processes. Cost: $21.95 – $79.95
 4. Kate Hudson, Madonna, Cameron DiazJuice Beauty Green Apple Moisturizer SPF 15 Juice Beauty has made a big splash among celebrities. Voted #1 Organic Brand by style.com and Most Wanted Cosmetic Product by Instyle.com, Juice Beauty counts Kate Hudson, Madonna, Cameron Diaz and Marsha Cross amongst its celebrity clientele.
 5. Gwyneth Paltrow: Earth Mama - Angel Baby Organic Stretch OilGwyneth Paltrow reportedly used the Earth Mama-Angel Baby Organic Stretch Oil on her belly. The skin care product contains natural herbs and oils which you can apply on your expanding stomach, hips and breasts. The product contains natural ingredients which rejuvenate, heal and help make the skin free of unsightly stretch marks which usually occur after birth.
There you have it – the top 5 beauty natural and organic products used by celebs. Check these top 5 skincare products the next time you go shopping for the beauty items. Let me know which ones you like the most!
 Good news! You don't have to spend a lot of money on pampering your skin. If you want happy, moisturized and smooth skin, cucumber is the secret. Cucumbers help to restore the skin's protective layer since they have the same pH as skin. You could just cut them and put straight onto your skin to soften and improve complexion, or you can combine them with other ingredients for rejuvenation. Cucumber makes a great toner as well.
Cucumber mask for dry skin:
- 4 tablespoons of mashed cucumbers mix with 2 tablespoons of sour cream. Apply the mixture to the clean face and leave on for 20 minutes.
Cucumber masks for oily skin:
- mix 1 grated cucumber with the same amount of grated apple. Apply to the face and rinse off in 30 minutes. If you use this mask twice a week, your skin will look fresh and glowing.
- 2 tablespoons of cucumber juice mix with one egg white. Apply to your face and leave on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
Cucumber masks for acne:
- grate 1 cucumber and apply to the face. Leave on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing off. Regular usage of this mask will help you get rid of acne.
Cucumber masks to reduce wrinkles
- mix 1 grated cucumber with 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply to the face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water. This mask will also help to reduce the paleness of your skin.
- mix 1 grated potato with 1 grated cucumber. Apply to the face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.
Cucumber mask for brightening your skin
- Put a cucumber round in 1 cup of lemon juice. Take out the cucumber in 2 hours and wipe your face with it. Do not rinse off the mask for at least 20 minutes.
 Russian tradition of buckwheat The idea of preparing meals with buckwheat is anything but new to me. I grew up eating buckwheat pretty much on a daily basis. Did I get tired of it? At times! But now I am really happy because I was accustomed to it from an early age. In the Soviet Union, if people didn't have much food there was always buckwheat. No matter where you went you didn't have to go far to find it. Not long after moving to California, I got home sick, and the first thing I wanted to have was buckwheat. A simple thing turned out to be a mission. I realized that it's not a common food in US. I ended up finding it at Whole Foods but it was definitely a cultural experience having to look hard for buckwheat. So what is so good about buckwheat? Despite its name, buckwheat has nothing to do with wheat. It is not a cereal grain at all. It’s the seed of the fagopyrum plant, which is in the same family as sorrel and rhubarb. It does not contain gluten. So referring to buckwheat as a seed than a grain would be more appropriate. Buckwheat provides numerous nutritional benefits.
It is a great source of vitamins B1, B2. Rutin that can also be found in buckwheat is actively used in therapeutic preparations prescribed for high blood pressure, rheumatism and other diseases. Rutin also has antioxidant activities, and able to fight against free radicals in your body. Buckwheat is also rich in various minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, copper, zinc and bromine. Most of all, it is a great source of iron, so it is recommended for people suffering from anemia. Researchers have discovered that if you eat buckwheat with fruits, the transition of iron to our bodies will increase. Buckwheat is full of dietary fiber which helps relieve constipation. Buckwheat is a good source of protein. The complete protein in buckwheat has 8 essential amino acids that dont get produced by the body. So buckwheat is more nutritionally valuable than other grains! Here is a great recipe for buckwheat:
Buckwheat Banana Pancakes
Makes 4 pancakes
Ingredients
1 very large egg (70g), beaten
1 ripe banana (95g), mashed
50ml organic milk of your choice
40g buckwheat flour
¼ tsp baking powder
5g raw honey
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
Mix eggs and banana, add cinnamon and baking powder, then milk, honey and flour.
Heat a non-stick frying pan and fry large spoonfulls of the batter mix until little holes appear on the surface. Flip and cook the other side until golden.
Serve with honey or fresh fruits of your choice.
Enjoy!
 In our age of western medicine, the society has turned away from the natural health remedies that were greatly used by our ancestors. We often rely more on the modern chemically produced pills than all natural traditional medicine. As we know, every country has its own tradition of home remedies. Honey has been the main source of sweetness and a home remedy in Russian tradition throughout centuries. Growing up in Russia, I remember having honey on multiple occasions. Whether it was a holiday or just an everyday tea drinking - there was honey! Honey is much sweeter than sugar and is far better for you. Honey is essentially a highly concentrated water solution of two sugars, which our bodies break down easier and faster. Because honey is low on the Glycemic Index, it is gradually absorbed into the blood stream. The health benefits of honey include antibacterial and antifungal properties; it is a great source of vitamins and minerals and contains antioxidants that improve our immunity. Honey also has its effect on weight Loss which makes me mostly excited! Did you know that though honey has more calories than sugar, honey when consumed with warm water helps in digesting the fat stored in your body? But when possible, buy raw honey, organic because the heating during manufacturing destroys nutrients and enzymes. Additionally, locally grown raw honey from the area you live is more beneficial as it possesses the immune stimulating properties needed for your body to adapt to its environment. The best part about it, you don't have to sacrifice the taste of sweetness by using sugar substitutes, but can actually enjoy eating what you like and be healthy at the same time!!! Beauty Recipes for Honey
|
RSS Feed
