tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51899354179739648802024-03-14T07:53:32.881+11:00PetalDew -Nature's NurturePetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-6092108259660329202012-11-30T17:02:00.000+11:002012-11-30T17:02:31.770+11:00www.petaledew.blogspot.com migrated to www.petaldew.com.au<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Dear Readers/followers,<br />
<br />
Thanks for your continuous support shown so far to my blog.<br />
I will continue to write on 'Natural living' under www.petaldew.com.au.<br />
<br />
Please check www.petaldew.com.au for my blog postings on 'Natural living'.<br />
<br />
Hope you like my new website.<br />
<br />
Thanks and best wishes,<br />
PetalDew - Nature's nurture</div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-61785046008816317642012-11-20T01:39:00.000+11:002012-11-20T01:49:05.218+11:00Candle in the wind<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WGyEI5uyxhQ/UKo9F-EDoKI/AAAAAAAAD3U/f9URDbtPU2c/s400/row-of-beeswax-candles.jpg" /><br />
<i><span style="color: #444444;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 23.33333396911621px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">source of the photo: </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.33333396911621px;">http://www.heathmonthoney.com.au</span></span></i><br />
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><b>H</b>aving experienced
frequent power cuts in my hometown, I felt quiet relieved after I migrated to
Australia. No power cuts except on very rare occasions. </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.33333396911621px;">Hurrah!</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"> But my heart
does miss those times! Power cut in the night provided a good excuse to do nothing.
I still remember how I and my bro used to abandon our school homework and sit
together as a family around the candle light and listen to our father telling
stories and anecdotes. When it is dinner time, we all in unison will decide to
go to the terrace, sit beside the subtle glow of the candle light and eat our
hearty comforting meal of rice and veggie made by our dear mother. If the power
cut gets extended, our time in the terrace gets extended. We end up sleeping in
the terrace listening to the lullaby of twinkling stars and the gentle breeze
blowing the candle. Pure bliss!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">I wanted to bring
back those sweet memories to the present times as well. So I came up with the
idea of "No lights from electrical source on some Saturday nights except for
the light from the candles". On Saturday nights my husband and I enjoy
spending quality family time at home with our daughter. We listen to music,
dance to its tunes, play some board games and finish off with a detox candle
light dinner. It is relaxing and fun with just the lights from the candles in
our lounge, family room and the dining room. </span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 150%;">There
is something so serene about the warm glow of the flame. They warm up the room,
and smell great. </span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have become a
conscious buyer in recent times. When buying things for home, I make sure that
I leave a green foot prints on this earth. In this context, I want to share my
opinion on the candles that I use. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="color: orange;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">What type of candles
are my </span></span><span style="line-height: 27.77777862548828px;">favorite</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">?</span></span></span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="color: orange;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">On our holiday to
Tasmania in 2011, we were in a beautiful small country town called Chudleigh. Chudleigh
is famous for ‘The honey farm shop’. The shop stocks a wide array of Beeswax,
honey and propolis products. I went to the section of the shop selling 100%
beeswax products and the first thing that captured my attention was the beeswax
candles in different forms and sizes. I took one out of the display shelf to
capture its aroma and instantly I was transported to the land of honey, nectar,
flowers and bees. I got a pack of beeswax tea lights and a small pillar candle.
After we got back from our holiday, I straightaway wanted to light the beeswax
candle. I lit the candle and waited for the suspense to break. Just as how I
thought, this beeswax beauty released its natural aroma of honey and </span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 150%;">nectar of the flowers found in the honeycomb.</span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WGyEI5uyxhQ/UKo9F-EDoKI/AAAAAAAAD3U/f9URDbtPU2c/s1600/row-of-beeswax-candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WGyEI5uyxhQ/UKo9F-EDoKI/AAAAAAAAD3U/f9URDbtPU2c/s400/row-of-beeswax-candles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Rows of Beeswax candles </span></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #444444;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">source of the photo: </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.33333396911621px;">http://www.heathmonthoney.com.au/images/products/Candles/row-of-beeswax-candles.jpg)</span></span></i></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">Why Beeswax candles
are good?</span></span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apart from the aromatic
reasons, beeswax candles have other benefits too:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">It is
economical and has a longer burning time. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">Pure beeswax
candles are made from renewable source – only beeswax.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">Beeswax
candles burn cleaner than paraffin candles, producing very little soot.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">It is
smokeless and drips less.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">Pure
beeswax candles contain none of the harmful chemicals found in the paraffin
candles.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">They
have a natural honey scent which smells great and there is no need for
artificial fragrance to be added to make it smell nicer. </span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 150%;">They are great for people who are sensitive to perfumes and
fragrances.</span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">No
toxic wastes are produced in production and burning.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="line-height: 150%;">The
soft warm glow and the beautiful halo which appears around the flame accompanied
with the subtle aroma of honey helps to reduce your stress. It has got a
calming effect on the mind.</span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">- For years alternative health practitioners, entomologists and most notably beeswax candle makers have celebrated the fact that beeswax is the only candle fuel that emits negative ions which in turn cleanse the air. So while beeswax is not the only fuel to emit negative ions it is definitely superior to paraffin and does not contain carcinogenic compounds that paraffin does. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.75pt; line-height: 150%; text-indent: -18pt;">(</span><a href="http://www.smallbones.ca/blog/finally-evidence-that-beeswax-emits-the-most-negative-ions" style="font-family: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.75pt; line-height: 150%; text-indent: -18pt;">http://www.smallbones.ca/blog/finally-evidence-that-beeswax-emits-the-most-negative-ions</a><span style="font-family: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.75pt; line-height: 150%; text-indent: -18pt;">)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">A perfect example of this phenomenon is rainstorms. A
rainstorm is a negative ionic event, which is why we say the air smells so
fresh after a rainstorm.</span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: inherit;">What are the other
natural alternatives?</span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>Soy wax candles:</b></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">S</span></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.75pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">oy wax is an all
vegetable-based wax which contains roughly 85% soy-based material. Soy wax is
non-toxic and burns very cleanly with almost no soot residue. It has a low
melting point and thus the burn pool in a soy wax candle is created quickly and
reaches its maximum diameter quickly. Generally speaking, soy wax has a longer
burn time than paraffin but shorter than beeswax. It is ideal for container
candles. Not all soy candles are created equally. Make sure your soy candle is made from 100% soy bean wax.</span></span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: inherit;">What types of
candles to avoid?</span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;">Stay
away from Paraffin candles. It is derived from petroleum by-products and emits
harmful vapor and black soot. It must be blended with chemicals to release its
fragrance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 150%;">Lighting
many paraffin candles every day for years or lighting them frequently in an
un-ventilated bathroom around a tub, for example, may cause problems related to
cancer and asthma. (<a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8211543.stm">http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8211543.stm</a>)</span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">-<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Avoid artificially </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.33333396911621px;">fragranced</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"> candles: Choose natural beeswax or 100% soy wax candles blended with
pure essential oils.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 150%;">Burn a candle today and
enjoy the full ambiance of light and fragrance all from a natural renewable
source.</span> As I finish writing this post, I can hear a beautiful song playing
on the back of my mind – “candle in the wind” by Elton John. Pure bliss!</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bye for now. With
love from <span style="color: purple;"><b>PetalDew</b></span> – Nature’s nurture.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-35941213327794460072012-11-18T01:15:00.001+11:002012-11-18T01:15:22.565+11:00Natural tip of the week 18112012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-14915603240029867922012-11-15T22:27:00.000+11:002012-11-15T22:30:42.603+11:00Living food: Sprouted seeds, legumes, grains and nuts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sprouts are living food full of health benefits. Sprouting seeds or
grains at home can be creative, cheap, healthy and fun! Due to their high water
content, sprouts contain absorbable protein, calcium, potassium, sodium, iron,
vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 and C. They make a nutritious addition to salads, wraps,
breads, smoothies, juices and crunchy topping on noodles.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FViJTY_jo4U/UKTQAtrJzjI/AAAAAAAAD2c/PUIeHePvrts/s1600/sprout+salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FViJTY_jo4U/UKTQAtrJzjI/AAAAAAAAD2c/PUIeHePvrts/s400/sprout+salad.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">Why sprout?</span></span></h4>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sprouting seeds are consumed very early in its growth cycle. In
approximately 2-5 days, your sprouts will be ready to consume. In its early
stage of the cycle, sprouts accumulate massive amounts of energy which will
soon power a rapid growth spurt. It is this energy that is captured in the
sprouts as protein and enzymes. It is this energy which provides its amazing
nutritional benefits.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">Other health benefits of eating sprouts:</span></span></h4>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Sprouts are called living food because Living sprouts are quality food
of high biophotons (bio meaning 'life'; photon meaning 'electromagnetic') and
Bio-genic nutrition, which provide a high bio-energetic value, to energise our body and help the
entire organism function, and prevent and repair defects. Sprouted seeds and
baby greens are the most beneficial foods, and are called as life-generating
Bio-genic Foods, and it is recommended that they comprise 25% of our daily food
as it offer the strongest support for the regeneration of cells.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Sprouts are a powerful source of antioxidants in the form of vitamins,
minerals and enzymes, which assist in protecting the body from free radical
damage.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Sprouts are alkaline and have an alkalising affect in the body. If we
desire health, the body needs to be alkaline. The immune system is made strong
by high alkaline and alkalising foods.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Sprouts provide us with whole foods, full of living enzymes, a vital
life-force. Eating fresh sprouts provides essential nutrients in an easily
assimilable form. Living enzymes, in sprouts, go to work to predigest the
protein into their constituent amino acids: this makes them easily digested and
absorbed by the body. We can digest sprouts in less than half the time of
cooked foods.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">5. The formula for multi-vitamin B and C is hydrogen, oxygen and carbon,
together with the life-force and elements in the seeds, this creates a complex
carbohydrate, and nutrients are formed. These are the magical substances that
provide the miracle of life and increased nutrients in sprouts.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6. Sprouts have an excellent array of minerals that the body requires.
During sprouting, the minerals are enriched and develop in a chelated form
(which are more easily utilised by the body).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">7. Sprouts have a generous supply of vitamins . In fact the vitamin content
of some seeds can increase from 100% to 2000% in several days of sprouting.
Even soaking seeds, overnight, produces massive amounts of vitamin B complex
and also of vitamin C.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">How to sprout your grains and seeds :</span></span></h4>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Soak half a cup of organic seeds (mung beans, sunflowers etc.) overnight
in a bowl of fresh filtered water.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. The next morning, drain water and rinse well.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Place in a damp sprouting bag (cheese cloth or muslin bag) or a
sprouting glass jar with a cheese cloth cover or mesh.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Every morning and night rinse the sprouts to keep them wet and
mould-free.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">5. Continue the process for desired length of days, usually 2-5 days.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6. Rinse well with fresh water and serve immediately. Yields approximately
2-3 cups.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">What you can sprout?</span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">Soaking and Sprouting chart:</span></span></h4>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">Things to note when sprouting:</span></span></h4>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Always make sure that the soaking, sprouting or seed trays are in a well
ventilated environment. If there is not good air circulation you will find that
you will get fungus growing around the growing roots where it is wettest.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Always make sure that the seeds are able to drain freely and are not
sitting in stagnant water except during the first 12 to 24 hours where the
seeds are initially soaking.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Always wash seeds or seedlings at least twice each day, depending on
heat of the day.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">Simple sprouted salad recipe:</span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Things you need (to make sprout salad for 4 people)</u></span></span></h4>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><br /></u></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gdKPoaWU2cY/UKTO_HinXdI/AAAAAAAAD2E/FSO9HDmPMp8/s1600/sprouts+in+diff+angle+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gdKPoaWU2cY/UKTO_HinXdI/AAAAAAAAD2E/FSO9HDmPMp8/s400/sprouts+in+diff+angle+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Sprouted Mung beans - 1 cup<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Sprouted brown chick peas (</span>Garbanzo<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Beans)- 1 cup<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Sprouted sesame seeds - Half a cup<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Soaked raw almonds - Half a cup<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Fresh coconut shavings - Two tablespoons<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Juice from half a lemon or lime<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Pinch of Himalayan salt<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Cilantro or mint leaves for garnishing<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>How to make it:</u></span></span></h4>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Mix the sprouts and soaked raw almonds in a bowl.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Add shavings of fresh coconut. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Add juice of lemon or lime. Sprinkle </span>Himalayan<span style="font-family: inherit;"> salt and mix well. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Garnish with cilantro or mint leaves.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WkzuO3vfeHY/UKTPU3CuEsI/AAAAAAAAD2M/2KDg_QjdZs8/s1600/sprout+salad+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WkzuO3vfeHY/UKTPU3CuEsI/AAAAAAAAD2M/2KDg_QjdZs8/s400/sprout+salad+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>CAUTION FOR PREGNANT LADIES: </u></span></span></h4>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It is better to eat cooked sprouts during pregnancy. Raw sprouts
should be avoided completely as pregnant women have weaker immune systems and
are more at risk of developing the food borne diseases spread by these sprouts.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Please see <a href="http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/types/fruits/sprouts.html"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/types/fruits/sprouts.html</span></a>. for more details.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy Sprouting!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bye for now. With love from <i><span style="color: purple;"><b>PetalDew</b></span></i> - Nature's Nurture.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-45586846049283741602012-11-08T03:49:00.002+11:002012-11-08T03:59:20.924+11:00Homemade 'Hair Serum' for shiny and silky hair<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kx9aU01RYtg/UJqFRyFZjQI/AAAAAAAAD0o/ojXOHwyylgU/s1600/Hair+serum+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kx9aU01RYtg/UJqFRyFZjQI/AAAAAAAAD0o/ojXOHwyylgU/s320/Hair+serum+final.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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Those two magical words - Serum and potions sounds bewitching like how we hear in the stories from fairy tales. We imagine ourselves applying these magical liquids on our skin and hair. Poof! We transform into a beautiful Snow white with lovely skin and a Rapunzel with tower length hair or into a handsome prince! Ha Ha Ha.<br />
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This link is for those who wants to read Rapunzel story - <a href="http://www.eastoftheweb.com/short-stories/UBooks/Rapu.shtml">http://www.eastoftheweb.com/short-stories/UBooks/Rapu.shtml</a>)<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">What is a serum?</span> </h4>
In the world of skincare and hair care a serum is a liquid formulation. A serum is a targeted treatment that is applied topically to the area to be treated. The recipe I am sharing with you is a simple homemade hair serum.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">What is Hair serum and what does it do?</span></h4>
Hair serum is a hair care solution which makes the hair shiner and does not allow them to entangle. It should be applied after a hair wash .The effect of the serum application remains till the next wash. Hair serum forms a thin protective layer on the hair strands. Hair serum can be gel based or oil based and is usually stored in a spray bottle.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Other benefits of using a hair serum:</span></h4>
- It protects the hair from the damages done by over exposure to sun and hair styling products. .<br />
- It is primarily used for dry and frizzy hair, which breaks easily, or hairs that have under gone excessive chemical treatments like perming, coloring.<br />
- The hair serum provides nourishment to the hair, which makes them strong, and they don't break away easily. It also conditions the hair, which makes them healthy, silky and shiny.<br />
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<i><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Please read on how to apply hair serum and how it works in the following link :</b> </span></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.womanjunction.com/topic/hair/hair-products/hair-serum/">http://www.womanjunction.com/topic/hair/hair-products/hair-serum/</a><br />
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<b>Hair serum sold commercially may not be 100% natural as it contains alcohol and Silicone oil which is inorganic and it also damages the hair by making it more brittle and dry. On top of that, it is expensive.</b><br />
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My homemade hair serum is a oil based serum which contains the goodness of Aloe vera juice, Henna leaves infusion in pure coconut oil and Jojoba oil with added vitamin E. It has lavender essential oil for natural fragrance and to have a calming effect. This homemade serum is less sticky because of the lightness of coconut oil and Jojoba oil mixed with Aloe vera juice.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Recipe for Homemade Hair serum</span></h3>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #4c1130;">Things you need:</span></h4>
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><br /></span></div>
* <u>Aloe vera juice - 3 to 4 tablespoons</u><br />
I extracted aloe vera juice from the aloe vera grown in my garden. Take a medium to large sized aloe vera. Wash it and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove the excess moisture outside. Squeeze the aloe vera gently to allow the juice flow outside into a cup. Make sure that you squeeze out the juice of the aloe vera and not the gel. If the gel comes out too, keep it aside for different use. Alternatively, You can buy aloe vera juice from the shop selling Natural and organic products.<br />
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* <u>100% pure coconut oil - One and a half tablespoons to two tablespoons</u><br />
I used Parachute 100% pure coconut oil which is light and less sticky.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5YAgdTT8_PA/UJqHw_EV4bI/AAAAAAAAD0w/lLUZHUyWfJY/s1600/hai+serum+coconut+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5YAgdTT8_PA/UJqHw_EV4bI/AAAAAAAAD0w/lLUZHUyWfJY/s320/hai+serum+coconut+oil.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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* <u>Jojoba oil - 3 tablespoons</u><br />
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* <u>Handful of fresh Henna leaves (optional)</u><br />
I used henna leaves in this recipe as it is cooling to the scalp and gives a brown tint to the hair when applied regularly (If you prefer brown tints to your hair strands). It is optional to add henna leaves. To know benefits of Henna leaves, please see <a href="http://www.buzzle.com/articles/henna-for-hair-growth.html">http://www.buzzle.com/articles/henna-for-hair-growth.html</a><br />
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* <u>Vitamin E (Available in capsule form) or as a liquid - 4 to 5 drops</u><br />
Vitamin E acts as a natural preservative and keeps your hair healthy.<br />
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* <u>Lavender essential oil - 3 to 4 drops (optional)</u><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">How to make it:</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
1. Extract the aloe vera juice from Aloe vera plant and keep it aside.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aO8vH92f5g/UJqKw4QezPI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/ZMH5zLk63oo/s1600/hair+serum+aloe+vera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aO8vH92f5g/UJqKw4QezPI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/ZMH5zLk63oo/s320/hair+serum+aloe+vera.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. In a pan, heat the coconut oil on a very low flame and add henna leaves to it. Monitor it carefully. Very soon you will notice that leaves change colour to dark brown. This is because the essence of the leaves is absorbed in the oil. After 20 to 30 minutes you will note that the amber colored coconut oil turns into dark brown.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ck8hjuf3Q18/UJqLFtadAnI/AAAAAAAAD1g/EtxxDox9eb4/s1600/coconut+oil+browning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ck8hjuf3Q18/UJqLFtadAnI/AAAAAAAAD1g/EtxxDox9eb4/s320/coconut+oil+browning.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Henna leaves getting dark brown in the hot coconut oil</div>
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3. Strain the oil from the henna leaves in a separate cup using a metal strainer. Now you have Henna infused coconut oil. Keep it aside to cool down.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9EvtjKBxiTc/UJqIh0mmrLI/AAAAAAAAD1A/WXvX5bToVpQ/s1600/straining+henna+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9EvtjKBxiTc/UJqIh0mmrLI/AAAAAAAAD1A/WXvX5bToVpQ/s320/straining+henna+oil.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-REFrQehkxgE/UJqJm1Xs_rI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/VG37WS379ZY/s1600/henna+infused+hair+oil.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-REFrQehkxgE/UJqJm1Xs_rI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/VG37WS379ZY/s320/henna+infused+hair+oil.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Henna infused coconut oil</div>
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4. In a glass cup, mix henna infused coconut oil with Jojoba oil and add aloe vera juice, Vitamin E and lavender essential oil. Stir it well with a clean and dry spoon.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-90VbetRSC7k/UJqJNTCnhNI/AAAAAAAAD1I/GU37TZGZSkI/s1600/hair+serum+mix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-90VbetRSC7k/UJqJNTCnhNI/AAAAAAAAD1I/GU37TZGZSkI/s320/hair+serum+mix.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mixing everything in a glass cup</div>
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5. Store it in a spray bottle.<br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130;">Things to note:</span></h4>
1. Shake the bottle well before you use the serum as aloe vera juice stays separated from the oil.<br />
2. Use only dime size amount of the serum.<br />
3. Adding liquid vitamin E and natural preservative like grape seed extract will extend the shelf life of this homemade serum and prevents spoilage.<br />
4. If you don't have Jojoba oil use light oils such as grape seed oil or Almond oil.<br />
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This homemade hair serum is very effective and not expensive. I love using it after my hair wash. I am not a fan of applying oil on my hair but I like applying this hair serum as it is very light and refreshing because of the aloe vera juice and the Jojoba oil.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kx9aU01RYtg/UJqFRyFZjQI/AAAAAAAAD0o/ojXOHwyylgU/s1600/Hair+serum+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kx9aU01RYtg/UJqFRyFZjQI/AAAAAAAAD0o/ojXOHwyylgU/s320/Hair+serum+final.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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Bye for now. With love from<i><span style="color: #741b47;"> pD</span></i> - Nature's nurture.</div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-58775335150249105562012-11-03T16:37:00.000+11:002012-11-03T16:43:47.700+11:00Toasty oats and sesame seeds encrusted dry fruits cacao rounds<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qOo8ez3Gfw4/UJSnK_fJ1_I/AAAAAAAADzk/eiiCZe7dYJ0/s1600/toasty+oats+ball+final+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qOo8ez3Gfw4/UJSnK_fJ1_I/AAAAAAAADzk/eiiCZe7dYJ0/s320/toasty+oats+ball+final+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Do we say no to chocolates? The sinful taste of cocoa not only satisfies a
grownup’s taste buds but is equally tantalizing to children as well. We
mothers, employ the tactics of disguising the healthy stuff with cocoa and
chocolate flavors to make our children eat without protest. That is the reason
we see chocolate-banana smoothies, chocolate flavored milk and yogurt being
popular among children. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My mission to make my fussy two and half year old daughter to eat dry
fruits and oats is accomplished now! Yes, I made her eat almonds, walnuts,
cranberries and oats. Of course I disguised the healthy nuts and dry fruits in
the form of a tempting treat. To my amazement I saw my “Toasty oats and sesame
seeds encrusted dry fruits cocoa rounds" containing a good balance of
nutrients disappearing quickly in no time. It was eagerly devoured by my
daughter and by her grandparents !<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">Recipe for Toasty oats and sesame seeds encrusted dry fruits cocoa rounds</span></span></h3>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: inherit;">Things you need (for making approx 20 small cocoa rounds)</span></span></h4>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QUFt4j_l5gc/UJSnkTsxq1I/AAAAAAAADzs/Oqf464npQ5A/s1600/materials+for+toasty+oats+ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QUFt4j_l5gc/UJSnkTsxq1I/AAAAAAAADzs/Oqf464npQ5A/s320/materials+for+toasty+oats+ball.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Rolled oats – 1 cup<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Raw almonds and walnuts – 1 cup<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Dried cranberries or raisins – ½ cup<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Raw Cacao powder /Cadburys drinking chocolate cocoa powder (If you don’t
have raw cocoa powder) - 2 tablespoons<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Honey for sweetness – Honey helps the dough to stick together – 1 to 2
tablespoons<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Clarified butter (ghee) – 1 tablespoon<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Sesame seeds – 1 ½ tablespoons<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Cinnamon and cardamom powder – 1 teaspoon each<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Himalayan crystal salt (optional) – ½ teaspoon<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #990000;">How to make it:</span></span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">- In a pan, dry roast the oats for two minutes on a low flame followed by dry roasting the raw
almonds for three minutes to release the nutty aroma.</span></h3>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fzctX97-TpE/UJSpyfJI9wI/AAAAAAAADz0/eKt5uk58vm4/s1600/oats+roast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fzctX97-TpE/UJSpyfJI9wI/AAAAAAAADz0/eKt5uk58vm4/s320/oats+roast.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--7j3BFYeJHw/UJSqCDTZRLI/AAAAAAAADz8/emZquSRO-oY/s1600/roasting+almonds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--7j3BFYeJHw/UJSqCDTZRLI/AAAAAAAADz8/emZquSRO-oY/s320/roasting+almonds.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">- </span></span>Keep the toasted oats
and the almonds aside to cool.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> - In the remaining heat
of the pan, toast the white sesame seeds/ black sesame seeds for less than
a minute. I prefer using white sesame seeds since it has nuttier flavor
and beautiful aroma. Keep this aside which is used to encrust or coat the rounds.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">- In a food processor,
first powder the oats. Keep the powdered oats aside. Reserve 1 tablespoon
of powdered oats to be later on used for coating the rounds.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Next, powder the almonds
and the walnuts. Keep it aside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Blend the cranberries
or the raisins at the end as it becomes a paste when blended and will
stick to the insides of the food processor.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- In a wide vessel, mix all
the powdered and blended ingredients. Add raw cacao powder, cinnamon,
cardamom powder and Himalayan salt and mix it well.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTKk9VKE26c/UJSqbv0QsVI/AAAAAAAAD0E/1GthX1r1PIg/s1600/oats+mixture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTKk9VKE26c/UJSqbv0QsVI/AAAAAAAAD0E/1GthX1r1PIg/s320/oats+mixture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Add clarified butter,
and honey to the mixture and mix it well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Keep a tablespoon of
mixture onto your palm and roll it to make rounds. The mixture should
hold well without crumbling. If it </span>doesn't<span style="font-family: inherit;"> crumble, then proceed with
making the rounds.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- If the mixture
crumbles, add few drops of clarified butter or melted butter and mix it
well. Adding the clarified butter should help the mixture to stick
together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Taste and see if you need
more sweetness. If you need more sweetness, add honey to the mixture.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After you have made the
rounds, moist your palm with clarified butter and press the rounds coating
it with clarified butter. Roll the rounds again, coating it with powdered oats which was reserved earlier.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Finally coat it with
toasted white/black sesame seeds to form a thin crust on the top.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">These healthy oats dry fruits cocoa encrusted rounds will last for a month.
But I bet it will be devoured once it is made. It keeps you full and it is a
good snack on the go. Enjoy!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b><u>A note of caution</u></b>: kids suffering
from nut allergy should avoid taking nuts. Substitute the nuts with ragi flour
aka finger millet flour which is equally nutritious. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #990000;">Health benefits of some of the ingredients I used in this recipe</span></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN"><b>Oats</b>: </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Oatmeal and oat bran are significant sources of
dietary fiber. This fiber contains a mixture of about half soluble and half
insoluble fibers. One component of the soluble fibre found in oats is
beta-glucans, a soluble fiber which has proven effective in lowering<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span class="ilad" style="font-family: inherit;"><span id="IL_AD10" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 50%; background-repeat: repeat repeat !important; cursor: pointer !important; float: none;">blood
cholestero</span>l.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="ilad"><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><b>Almonds:</b> Almonds are rich in
manganese, vitamin E and magnesium. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Almonds
are high in monounsaturated fats, the same type of health-promoting fats as are
found in olive oil, which have been associated with reduced risk of heart
disease.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><b>Raw cacao powder:</b> I prefer using
unsweetened raw cacao powder for this recipe. To see the health benefits of raw
cacao powder, see my posting under my blog </span><a href="http://petaledew.blogspot.in/2012/07/what-is-hype-about-super-food-raw-cacao.html">http://petaledew.blogspot.in/2012/07/what-is-hype-about-super-food-raw-cacao.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Dried cranberries</b>: I used dried cranberries as it has a
yummy tartness flavour. When combined with the sweetness of honey and cacao
powder, the tartness gets evened out and the result is yummy! Dried
Cranberries are the dehydrated version of the Common Cranberry (Vaccinium
oxycoccus). Dried cranberries are high in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
They are used widely for treating urinary tract issues. Dried cranberries are
being studied for possible health uses: fighting bacterial infections,
cardiovascular benefits, immune system strengthening, and anti-cancer
properties. Dried cranberries are even suspected of helping fight tooth decay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Sesame seeds:</b> <span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Sesame
seeds add a nutty taste and a delicate, almost invisible, crunch to many Asian
dishes</span>. Not only are sesame seeds a very good source of manganese and
copper, but they are also a good source of calcium, magnesium, iron,
phosphorus, vitamin B1, zinc and dietary fiber. In addition to these important
nutrients, sesame seeds contain two unique substances:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>sesamin</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><i>sesamolin</i>. Both of these
substances belong to a group of special beneficial fibers called <i>lignans</i>, and have been shown to have a
cholesterol-lowering effect in humans, and to prevent high blood pressure and
increase vitamin E supplies in animals. Sesamin has also been found to protect
the liver from oxidative damage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><b>Himalayan crystal salt :</b> To see the
benefits of Himalayan crystal salt, see my posting under my blog - </span><a href="http://petaledew.blogspot.in/2012/09/good-salt-and-bad-salt.html">http://petaledew.blogspot.in/2012/09/good-salt-and-bad-salt.html</a><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hope you enjoy making these delicious rounds for your children
and why not make these healthy rounds for the upcoming festival – Festival of
Lights (Deepavali)?<span style="background: #F3E7D7;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M7f5PYFOXr4/UJSqulRmMuI/AAAAAAAAD0M/cHKnx5lnmhA/s1600/oats+ball+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M7f5PYFOXr4/UJSqulRmMuI/AAAAAAAAD0M/cHKnx5lnmhA/s320/oats+ball+final.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bye for now – With love from <i><span style="color: #741b47;"><b>pD</b></span></i></span><span style="background: #F3E7D7;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-26406124930327935292012-10-28T02:34:00.001+11:002012-11-15T23:03:51.302+11:00Beautifully Kohled Eyes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">One of my favorite English
proverb is -” Eyes are the mirror (mirrors) of the soul”. Our eyes reflect our
thoughts and speak different languages of our emotions and feelings –
Happiness, amazement, anger, sadness, and excitement. The most attractive part
on a human’s face are the eyes. Applying kohl and other form of eye makeup like
eye liner and mascara gives that extra elegance and sparkle to our eyes. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ui9UciHWrPg/UIv8fYoWzHI/AAAAAAAADzI/HkeF5Q05cSE/s1600/cleopatra+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ui9UciHWrPg/UIv8fYoWzHI/AAAAAAAADzI/HkeF5Q05cSE/s1600/cleopatra+2.png" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kohl
goes by numerous names. It is called Kajal (in Hindi), Kanmai (in Tamil), Surma
(in Turkish) Kuhl (in Arabic). </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">Kohl is widely used in<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">South Asia,
the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Middle East,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-decoration: none;">North Africa</span>,
the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-decoration: none;">Horn of Africa</span>, and parts of<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-decoration: none;">West Africa</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>to darken
the eyelids and as<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-decoration: none;">mascara</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>for the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-decoration: none;">eyelashes</span>. It
is used mostly by women, and by some men and children as it is believed to keep
eye infections and other ailments at bay in addition to its beauty profits. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">Even the ancient Egyptian beauty tips knew the
real secret to beautiful eyes, as one young Egyptian girl noted in a sweet poem
to her loved one:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">
<br />
<span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><b><span style="color: #4c1130;">"Like eye paint is my desire. When I see you,
it makes my eyes sparkle."</span></b></span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Never use ordinary
kohl/kajal available in the market made of sub-standard materials and which is prepared
non-scientifically and <span style="font-family: inherit;">u</span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">nhygienic ally</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 17.77777862548828px;">.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> It may contain harmful ingredients like
lead sulphide and other toxic chemicals harmful to women and small children. There
is no way to tell if any given product is contaminated with lead or not. Buy
100% herbal kohl. In India, some reputed skin-care companies like Himalaya, Shahnaz
Husain and Biotique makes kohl from pure herbal ingredients. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">I made Kohl the
traditional way at home borrowing the recipe from my mother passed on to by my
grandmother. The final product – the kohl is pitch black in colour – darker than
the night sky. It is totally different to commercially available kohl. Homemade
kohl is so cooling to the eyes and very long lasting on the water line. I made
only a tiny weenie bit to last me for a month</span>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Basically </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">a wick
is made from clean, white – preferably new – muslin cloth/ cotton. This is
dipped into a container of castor oil and lit as a lamp. A rounded brass vessel
or kadai is used over this lamp, leaving enough vent to let oxygen in and not
extinguish the lamp. The soot thus collected for few hours on the brass vessel is
mixed with a drop of castor oil /Almond oil to make homemade kajal.</span> Use
the homemade kohl after three to four hours of preparation.<span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><b>Things you need:</b></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v51eLAPBt6g/UIv4W5FXKoI/AAAAAAAADyY/aBiYQUZgKYY/s1600/kohl+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v51eLAPBt6g/UIv4W5FXKoI/AAAAAAAADyY/aBiYQUZgKYY/s320/kohl+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">*Clean cotton wick<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">*Lamp <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">*Rounded brass vessel/ brass plate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">*Castor oil to light the lamp and a drop of either castor
oil/almond oil to add in to the soot <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">*Equal size containers to balance the brass vessel <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">*Clean and dry spoon to scrape off the soot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">*Mittens (to handle hot brass vessel and the lamp)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">*Small container with lid to store your homemade kohl<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Step by step procedure to make homemade Kajal:</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Balance the brass
vessel on top of the two containers as seen in the below photo. Place the
lamp in-between the two containers and place it below the brass vessel.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XghMBxGAlec/UIv48-a68tI/AAAAAAAADyg/ryDUsaz3LWo/s1600/kohl+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XghMBxGAlec/UIv48-a68tI/AAAAAAAADyg/ryDUsaz3LWo/s320/kohl+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Lighted lamp placed in-between two vessels balancing the vessel</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">2. The lighted lamp
placed in-between the containers will produce soot on the bottom of the
brass vessel as per the photo. Leave the lighted lamp under the brass
vessel for one to two hours, occasionally monitoring the whole process.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6HNWpjZlpU4/UIv5YJ_xj5I/AAAAAAAADyo/7s7kgCWDQtc/s1600/kohl+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6HNWpjZlpU4/UIv5YJ_xj5I/AAAAAAAADyo/7s7kgCWDQtc/s320/kohl+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> <b>Soot getting collected on the bottom of the vessel</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">3. Scrape off the
collected soot from the brass container into a clean dry container.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2zcJN0eHNJs/UIv6FGHt3uI/AAAAAAAADyw/XJDtbyzcMj0/s1600/kohl+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2zcJN0eHNJs/UIv6FGHt3uI/AAAAAAAADyw/XJDtbyzcMj0/s320/kohl+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">4. Mix a drop of castor
oil to the soot and mix it well. When adding castor oil, make sure you start
with a drop and don’t make it too paste like consistency as it will smudge
the water line when applied to the eyes. You can add almond oil instead of
Castor oil. It has got similar soothing properties to the eyes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Store your kohl in a small air-tight container. Homemade kohl has
a long storage life. You can apply kohl with the help of a thin applicator like
q-tip or with your clean finger tip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u2a5HGg3gsg/UIv6uXRx2pI/AAAAAAAADy4/nh0zRHL-oI0/s1600/kohl+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u2a5HGg3gsg/UIv6uXRx2pI/AAAAAAAADy4/nh0zRHL-oI0/s320/kohl+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> <b>Tiny weeny bit of my homemade kohl</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">See the difference between homemade kohl and almond kohl from Biotique. The first one is Biotique almond Kohl and the second one that is darker is homemade kohl!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6lTAD_d0cDY/UIv7bhCdM8I/AAAAAAAADzA/vm2-W3paHR0/s1600/kohl+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6lTAD_d0cDY/UIv7bhCdM8I/AAAAAAAADzA/vm2-W3paHR0/s320/kohl+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I love homemade kohl and love using it on my eyes for that smoky effect. It brings fond memories of my grandmother too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Bye from <span style="color: purple;"><b><i>PD</i></b></span> – Nature’s nurture!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-5980388879743669672012-10-19T06:13:00.000+11:002012-11-15T23:03:32.854+11:00Decadent cream of coconut and coffee bean powder facial mask cum scrub<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq042Azxkh8/UIBTAu01IYI/AAAAAAAADxw/02HG5Bh_dUQ/s1600/3c+final.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq042Azxkh8/UIBTAu01IYI/AAAAAAAADxw/02HG5Bh_dUQ/s320/3c+final.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hmmm...Yummy...I am tempted to eat what I have put on my face! As I write
this, my face is enjoying the luxury of my newly discovered skin food - cream
of coconut and coffee bean powder facial mask with a hint of pure Tasmanian
cinnamon honey. Seriously I am in a bliss world. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Coffee, coconut and cinnamon
are my favorites and I thought - "why not use these lovely 3Cs to make a
facial mask". And it works in both ways - Facial mask cum scrub! The aroma
of the 3Cs combined together with honey is so inviting that I almost took a
dollop on a spoon and tasted it and it was so bitterly good (coffee bean powder
has a bitter taste). Some of you who are not a coffee fan, a good substitute
for coffee is raw cacao powder (there will be a new DIY skin care recipe with
raw cacao powder once I settle back in Melbourne!)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Store your facial mask in the fridge and use it within a week since it does
not contain any preservative. It is quick and easy to make this facial mask in
small batches. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This facial mask is suitable for normal, oily and dry skin. If you have a sensitive skin, don’t add cinnamon powder and use finely powdered oats instead
of coffee powder as oats is less abrasive in nature.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;">Main Ingredients used in this recipe:</span></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NFqZDV2mlpE/UIBTLtlBoTI/AAAAAAAADx4/Or0xhip1_S8/s1600/3c+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NFqZDV2mlpE/UIBTLtlBoTI/AAAAAAAADx4/Or0xhip1_S8/s320/3c+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN" style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #783f04; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Coconut cream</b></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span lang="EN" style="background-color: #b45f06;"><span style="color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I
extracted the coconut cream from the scrapings of the fresh coconut meat.
Scrape the coconut with the help of a coconut scraper and blend the desiccated coconut in a blender with 2 tablespoons of warm water and blend it for
few seconds. Squeeze the milk by pressing the blended coconut mixture
in-between your hands.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I extracted
one small cup of coconut milk from it. Put the freshly extracted coconut
milk in your refrigerator’s freezer compartment for 15-25 minutes until
you see a thick layer on the top of the coconut milk. Skim off the top
thick layer which is the coconut cream. If fresh coconut is not available, you
can use frozen fresh desiccated coconut to extract the milk. Thaw the
frozen coconut before you blend it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>Benefits of coconut milk/coconut cream for your skin: </b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN">Coconut milk/ coconut
cream is rich in lauric acid (</span><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">exactly the same as that in
human breast milk, which helps us ward off intrusive viruses and bacteria)</span><span lang="EN"> and rich in medium chain fatty acids (</span><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Medium-chain breaks down easily and converts to energy (like
carbohydrate) instantly). </span>Coconut cream absorbs excess oil on the face,
and makes the skin more brilliant. Coconut cream can be used to moisturize the
skin. Natural moisturizer contained in it will make your skin soft. Besides it
helps your skin to attain its natural elasticity. Coconut milk/ cream when used
regularly on your skin will lighten your skin tone naturally.<span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #783f04; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Coffee bean powder</span></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Who </span>doesn't<span style="font-family: inherit;"> love the aroma of freshly grounded coffee? For my facial mask,
I used freshly ground coffee powder. There are numerous benefits of using
coffee bean powder for your skin. It fights cellulite, acts as a good
exfoliant, fights against signs of aging . </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Please read on the benefits of
coffee bean powder here - </span></span><a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/257722-what-are-the-benefits-of-coffee-scrub/" style="font-family: inherit;">http://www.livestrong.com/article/257722-what-are-the-benefits-of-coffee-scrub/</a>. <span style="font-family: inherit;">Coffee bean powder is abrasive so may not be suitable for
sensitive skin. Because of its abrasive nature, it can be used as a scrub too.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">Cinnamon powder</span></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love the aroma and the beneficial skin qualities of cinnamon powder. It is so
addictive and energizing. I used a good brand of Tasmanian cinnamon infused
honey. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon powder to plain honey and mix it
well with other ingredients.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #741b47;"><b>Benefits of cinnamon powder for your skin:</b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Cinnamon provides warmth to your skin. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">Cinnamon--in both grated and essential oil
forms--is beneficial to the skin because it brings blood and nutrients to the
skin surface. It's best to avoid the eye area as cinnamon can cause burning if
it gets in your eyes. After you have applied the facial mask, you will feel a
little tingle for few seconds. Don’t be alarmed. It is the cinnamon king that
is stimulating your facial skin and bringing more blood flow to your skin.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><b>Caution:</b> Use not more than ½
teaspoon of cinnamon powder to the recipe as cinnamon powder may irritate
sensitive skin.</span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; line-height: 115%; padding: 0cm;"><br /><br />
</span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN"><b>Recipe for Decadent
cream of coconut and coffee bean powder facial mask:</b></span></span></h3>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Coconut cream: 1 tablespoon<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Coffee powder: one to one and a half tablespoon<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Cinnamon powder: ½ teaspoon<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Honey: 2 teaspoon<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Zu1PpDObUk/UIBTWCaRyPI/AAAAAAAADyA/sZ2cO9aki9E/s1600/3c+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Zu1PpDObUk/UIBTWCaRyPI/AAAAAAAADyA/sZ2cO9aki9E/s320/3c+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Note:</b> If your recipe turns runny add a bit more coffee powder. If it runs
dry, add a bit more coconut cream.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>How to make it:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a dry bowl, mix all the above ingredients well. Cleanse your face and
apply this facial mask. Leave it on for 30 to 35 minutes and wash it off with
warm water. Is this not a delicious indulgence for your skin? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When you can make a facial mask that is easy, aromatic and effective, why
then visit a beauty parlor? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Did I miss – This facial mask is delicious too?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq042Azxkh8/UIBTAu01IYI/AAAAAAAADxw/02HG5Bh_dUQ/s1600/3c+final.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq042Azxkh8/UIBTAu01IYI/AAAAAAAADxw/02HG5Bh_dUQ/s320/3c+final.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bye for now. With love from <span style="color: purple;"><b><i>PD</i></b></span> – <span style="color: #073763;"><b>Nature’s nurture</b></span></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-14207163951570102722012-10-12T15:20:00.000+11:002012-11-15T23:03:15.919+11:00Emergency continuity planning for your home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_q_mQkZy168/UHeWm1HPA2I/AAAAAAAADxA/mKj5RNEH5w0/s1600/emergency+kit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_q_mQkZy168/UHeWm1HPA2I/AAAAAAAADxA/mKj5RNEH5w0/s1600/emergency+kit.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The topic on "Emergency preparedness" may come outside the box of "Natural living". But this
topic has been in my mind for a long time and I want to share some important
points on "Emergency preparedness for your home" aka Emergency
Continuity planning for your home which I think will be useful to the readers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Many of you working in MNCs know the concept of BCP (Business continuity
planning) and Emergency preparedness. As a new employee, you would have done
web training course on BCP and emergency preparedness. By doing web learning
and occasional fire drills, you know what to do when your office building is
affected by Fire, natural calamities like earthquake, flood, other external
threats like civil disorder, terrorist attacks etc. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FDSnBgFnLtY/UHeZPuh3ZmI/AAAAAAAADxY/O9cKyX4xhbI/s1600/ep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FDSnBgFnLtY/UHeZPuh3ZmI/AAAAAAAADxY/O9cKyX4xhbI/s1600/ep.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What do you do and how do we prepare ourselves to face similar emergency at
home? In this ever changing world, nothing is stable. Nature unleashes her fury
in an unpredictable fashion (recent Tsunamis, forest fire, earthquakes are an
important example destroying millions of homes and taking people’s lives). Growing
civil unrest and terrorist attacks compels us to plan and get ready to face an
emergency! We cannot completely avert the destruction that is caused, but we
should be prepared and be equipped to face the emergency until we get necessary
help from fire fighters, health care and government agencies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am going to touch on basic and important things to do when faced with an
emergency at home:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What can happen to cause an emergency</b>: Fire, Earthquake, Flood caused by Tsunamis, civil unrest,
terrorist attacks etc.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>When can it happen:</b> Any time<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What are the things you can do at home before-hand:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Install a smoke alarm in your home</b></span> if you have not done it before. Most of the homes in Developed nations have
smoke alarms. Important rooms that need to have smoke alarms are kitchen,
family room and located outside separate sleeping area in the immediate
vicinity of the bedrooms. It will alert you when there is smoke beyond a
certain limit.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Install a Carbon monoxide detector: </b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A carbon monoxide detector is a device that detects the presence of the
carbon monoxide (CO) gas in order to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. CO is a colorless, tasteless and odorless
compound produced by incomplete combustion of carbon containing materials.
While CO detectors do not serve as smoke detectors and vice versa, dual
smoke/CO detectors are also sold. Smoke detectors detect the smoke generated by
flaming or smoldering fires, whereas CO detectors detect and warn people about
dangerous CO buildup caused, for example, by a malfunctioning fuel-burning
device. In the home, some common sources of CO include open flames, space
heaters, water heaters, blocked chimneys or running a car inside a garage.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Having a plan to protect yourself and your family:</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make an emergency plan and communicate your plan with the family members.
Things that you can plan and implement along with your family members are: (<b><span style="color: #0070c0;">Source:
ready.gov</span></b>)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="a">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Complete a contact card for each </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">adult family member. Have them keep these cards handy in a
wallet, purse or briefcase, etc. Additionally, complete contact cards for
each child in your family. Put the cards in their backpacks or book bags.</span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Identify a contact such as a friend or relative who lives
out-of-state for household members to notify they are safe. It may be
easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an
out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among
separated family members.</span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">If you have a cell phone, program that person(s) as
<b><span style="color: #990000;">"ICE"</span></b> (In Case of Emergency) in your phone. If you are in an
accident, emergency personnel will often check your ICE listings in order
to get a hold of someone you </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">know. Make sure to
tell your family and friends that </span></span><span style="line-height: 17.77777862548828px;">you've</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> listed them as emergency contacts.</span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Teach family members how to use text messaging. Text messages/SMS
can often get around network disruptions when a phone call might not be
able to get through.</span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Subscribe to alert services. Many communities now have
systems that will send instant text alerts or e-mails to let you know
about bad weather, road closings, local emergencies, etc. Check this with
your local council.</span><span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Plan escape routes: Discuss the escape route and emergency
location with your family members - where to meet in the event of an
emergency. Record the location in the emergency plan form</span><span style="line-height: 115%;">.</span><span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Utility shut off: In the event of an emergency, it is
important that </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">all household members
know how to shut off natural gas, shut off the water at the main house
valve and where and how to shut off the electricity.</span><span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;">Store
your vital records – financial records such as insurance policies, deeds,
property records and other important papers need to be stored in a safe
place and which can be easily accessed at the time of an emergency.</span><span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Cash
in hand: It is advisable to keep a small amount of cash or </span></span><span style="line-height: 17.77777862548828px;">traveler's</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> checks at home in a safe place where you can quickly access them in case
of evacuation. It is important to have small bills on hand because ATM’s
and credit cards may not work during a disaster when you need to purchase
necessary supplies, fuel or food.</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;">Learn
First Aid and CPR and learn to use fire extinguisher.</span><span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ol>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4. <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Emergency plan form:</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN">Print few numbers of emergency plan form </span><a href="http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/FamEmePlan_2012.pdf,">http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/FamEmePlan_2012.pdf,</a>
and each family member should fill the form and keep it in the emergency supply
kit/ basic disaster supply kit and also in some safe place at your home where
you can access in the event of disaster.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Build an emergency supply kit:</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We need to have an emergency supply kit ready and located
at a place in the home where it can be easily accessed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some important items to be placed in your emergency kit are:
(<b><span style="color: #0070c0;">ready.gov</span></b>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: purple;">Food and water:</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: purple;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="a">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Water, one gallon of mineral water
per person per day, for drinking and sanitation</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Three days’ supply of non-
perishable food available in cans </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Infant formula if you have an
infant</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: purple;">Instruments
and gadgets:</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: purple;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="a">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dynamo flash lights<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Extra batteries<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Battery powered radio<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Whistle to signal for help<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dust mask or cotton clothing to
act as a mask to protect us from harmful dust particles and fumes<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Can opener, wrencher<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lighter<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Compass<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Signal flare (adults need to handle this)<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Map book<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Plastic sheeting<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: purple;">Clothing and bedding:</span></b><span style="background-color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: purple;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">a.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Warm jacket for each
member of the family<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">b.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Thermal blankets - sold in
the shops in easy to carry small pouch form. See </span><a href="http://www.superiorhealthcare.com.au/BL430_or_1/Thermal-Blanket-_dash_-Silver/pd.php">http://www.superiorhealthcare.com.au/BL430_or_1/Thermal-Blanket-_dash_-Silver/pd.php</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">c.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sleeping bag<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">d.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sturdy shoes<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">e.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Warm clothing (as change
of cloth)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">f.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Rain gear<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: purple;">Medicinal supplies:</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: purple;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">a.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">First aid kit<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">b.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">First aid book for Adults
and Infants<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">c.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Hand sanitizer<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">d.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Personal hygiene items </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">including
feminine </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">supplies<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">e.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Medicine dropper<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">f.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">In case you have an
infant, pack - baby </span></span><span style="line-height: 17.77777862548828px;">paracetamol</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">, infant
electrolyte solution<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">g.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Paper towel<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: purple;">Important documents and
valuables:</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: purple;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">a.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Cash, traveller’s checks,
change<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">b.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Copies of important Family
Documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account
records in a waterproof, portable container<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">c.<span style="line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;">Emergency plan form and
contact cards.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hope the above points are useful to you. Please feel free to share your tips on ECP for your home in this post via comments. Bye for now. With
Love from<b> <span style="color: purple;">pD</span></b>.</span></div>
</div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-67947354172114038192012-10-05T14:24:00.000+10:002012-11-15T23:02:51.132+11:00Nature worship - Stalavriksham (temple tree)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d1fSfj3Puns/UG5d6Zbs98I/AAAAAAAADvY/k_QLYyMNExI/s1600/hindu+temple+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d1fSfj3Puns/UG5d6Zbs98I/AAAAAAAADvY/k_QLYyMNExI/s320/hindu+temple+tree.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Ancient education system 'Gurukul'. Students learnt under a tree from their Guru</span></b></span></div>
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Yesterday, I visited a very beautiful Hindu temple in a place called
Nemilichery, Chennai, India. I used to visit this temple in my childhood days
regularly. I remember walking on the ever-green beautiful paddy field to reach
the temple. Sadly, the scene is different now .There is no paddy field or
greenery left .Every inch of the land is eaten by the growth of sprawling urbanization. </div>
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<span lang="EN">The Nemilichery temple is nearly 1000-2000 years old. The presiding deity
of this ancient temple is Lord Shiva - one of the Hindu trinity gods. The
temple and its close surrounding have a Peepal tree and a pond. After
worshiping the deity, I usually sit under the peepal tree. I am sure that it is
the effect of sitting under the glorious and gigantic peepal tree that my mind
is completely transformed into a calm and serene one and the air I breathe in
is pure and fresh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">What we notice about many ancient Indian temples is that the temples would
have been built incorporating Mother Nature into its fold. You will find a pond/lake
and a tree with healing and medicinal properties. Trees such as Peepal, Neem,
Bilwam, and gooseberry can be found planted in the temple.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Indian civilization and its culture is unique on the earth planet.
Traditionally, the Indian population has been worshipping rivers, lakes,
mountains, trees and other natural resources. People of India have been living
very closely with the nature and thriving well on the natural resources. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN">Traditionally, every Hindu temple will have a stala vruksha (sacred tree)
in different kinds. The Five Natural Elements (Space, Air, Fire, Water and
Earth) are treated with veneration, as they are inevitable to the progress of
the humanity and very indispensable in day-to-day life of mankind. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Trees are well associated with human life. Even before some trees were
regarded as Sthala Vrikshas (Sacred Trees of the Temple), those were worshipped
by ancient people as they believed in Nature worship. Our ancestors who planted
the tree in the temple did with a good intention. The trees that were planted have
religious and medicinal importance. The worshipper who comes to the temple
attains a healthy spiritual enlightenment!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">We will see the benefits of some of the trees that can be found in ancient Hindu temples.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><b><u><span style="color: #990000;">Peepal Tree:</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Those days, our elderly ancestors advised married women who wished to have
a child to go around the peepal tree and carry out their prayers. Our ancestors
believed that Peepal (Sacred fig) has an effect on the chance of
conception. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NrAifS8OYrE/UG5ex2cUaaI/AAAAAAAADvg/xcK5PeGCyHk/s1600/ladies+around+peepal+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NrAifS8OYrE/UG5ex2cUaaI/AAAAAAAADvg/xcK5PeGCyHk/s1600/ladies+around+peepal+tree.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN">The origin of Peepal tree can be traced back to the times of Indus valley
civilization (3000 BC - 1700 BC) in the Mohenjadaro city. Scientific research
has revealed that among trees, Peepal is the only tree that produces oxygen in
abundant quantity day and night which is so essential for sustaining life.
Those days Peepal tree were planted along with the neem tree. When they are together,
the magnetic field created by both the trees along with pure oxygen generated
combined with a focused mind of the praying ladies influences the body organs
which could stimulate FSH/LH (Follicle stimulating and Luteinizing hormones)
which helps in the reproductive process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">In Ayurveda, leaves, fruits and bark of the Peepal tree were used to cure
diseases related to bacterial infection, cure speech irregularities, cure
wounds, bile, phlegm, inflammation etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><b><u><span style="color: #990000;">Gooseberry tree:</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">There is a mention of Gooseberry tree in Hindu Upanishads, puranas and many
other ancient medicinal works. 'Amla' fruit is believed to be very nutritious.
It is associated with the fertility cult. Women tie red and yellow threads
around the gooseberry tree branches to get their wishes fulfilled. Women, who
aspire for a son, tie a cradle to the tree and most of them beget children.
They untie the thread after the fulfillment of their wishes. Women decorate the
tree with sandal and turmeric paste, kumkum, flowers and offer camphor too. The
sthalapurana of the temple says that this tree is to be planted in the southern
side of the temple. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Apart from its religious value, the gooseberry tree has
medicinal values. Its bark, leaves, flowers, fruit and nut are useful to
prepare many medicines. It has been proved that one gooseberry fruit's
nutrition is equal to three apples. It is rich in vitamin C. Asthma,
tuberculosis, bronchitis, diabetes, bleeding of the gums, blood infection, cancer
etc could be prevented if its juice is taken with honey. It also relieves
stress and tension and proves to be a good liver tonic. If taken raw, it gives
a cooling effect to the eyes and body. For constipation it is a good remedy. It
is experimented successfully that fermented liquor obtained from its fruits
could be used for indigestion jaundice and nasal problems. (Dastur, J. F.
Medicinal plants of India and Pakistan, Bombay, 1962) Various parts of the tree
are used to prepare medicines for tooth ache, fever, anemia, nervous disorders,
sores, pimples etc. It is used by women to strengthen the uterus. For scorpion
sting the juice of onion and gooseberry bark works an antidote. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bxklr-p-Lko/UG5e8mOXpqI/AAAAAAAADvo/wReA-92zkas/s1600/temple+with+a+pond.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bxklr-p-Lko/UG5e8mOXpqI/AAAAAAAADvo/wReA-92zkas/s320/temple+with+a+pond.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN">More than these religious, mythological and medicinal aspects, to safe guard
the environment, trees play an important role. The ecological factors reflect
on the prosperity of a country for which nature is to be well taken care by the
people. The Sthala vrikshas reveal the socio-economic aspects of the region
concerned. People's knowledge of the trees and the veneration of the sthala
vrikshas inculcate in them a sense of responsibility to protect the
environment. In India it has been the tradition that anything would be
appealing to the people if it has some religious sanction. Sthala vrishas are
one of the best examples of the same. (Source: <a href="http://murugan.org/research/balambal-trees.htm#.UG22UZiP2So"><span style="color: blue;">http://murugan.org/research/balambal-trees.htm#.UG22UZiP2So</span></a>)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">If you would like to know more about sacred trees please see <a href="http://murugan.org/research/balambal-trees.htm#.UG22UZiP2So"><span style="color: blue;">http://murugan.org/research/balambal-trees.htm#.UG22UZiP2So</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Bye for now. With love from PetalDew<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-11749745157464174702012-09-29T01:20:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:57:44.643+11:00Summer come.. Mozzies go..<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt0CqxaH6rM/UGWStkgeBFI/AAAAAAAADuo/HQ_pIDY7Lg8/s1600/Natural+insect+repellent+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt0CqxaH6rM/UGWStkgeBFI/AAAAAAAADuo/HQ_pIDY7Lg8/s1600/Natural+insect+repellent+photo.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Summer is fast approaching in Australia and summer means engaging your kids in lot of outdoor activities like camping, bush-walking, visiting animal farms, gardening etc.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Apart from parents accompanying the kids everywhere, sadly "not-so invited mozzies, bugs and other bities" likes to join the kids to have fun as well!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Insect repellents sold in the shops may not be completely natural and safe for your children.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is easy to make your own natural insect repellents at home which can be used indoors and outdoors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">All you need is :</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. "Insects not-friendly" essential oils such as eucalyptus, lemon eucalyptus, citronella, tea tree, cajuput, rosemary, red thyme, lavender, eucalyptus, cedarwood, geranium, juniper , patchouli, pennyroyal, pine, and lemongrass.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You don't need to have each and every one of the above essential oils to ward off mozzies and bugs. Using combination of 3 or more types of essential oils can be effective.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">*NEVER apply any of these essential oils directly to the skin (with the exception of tea tree and lavender) they could cause burning or other adverse reactions. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Base -to which you can add your essential oils can be light carrier oils such as sweet almond oil, Jojoba oil, olive oil or witch hazel and aloe vera juice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When I am outdoors, I prefer using EOs mixed in aloe vera juice as aloe vera soothes the sun burnt skin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><u><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">Insect repellent spray recipe:</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You need:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> - Empty spray bottle - to hold 60 ml of insect repellent spray</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Aloe vera juice/witch hazel/carrier oil - 60 ml</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Essential oils (mentioned above) - 60 drops</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">How to make it:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Combine 1 and 2 in a spray bottle and shake before each use. Apply every 30 minutes as natural repellents wear off easily.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"><u>Other insect repellent ideas and tips:</u></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> - When staying indoors, rub the insides of orange peel on to your skin. Mozzies and bugs dislike citrus scents.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Another beautiful idea from the website "Beautiful Engineering" which makes use of orange peel cups and cloves to be used as a tea light candle.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please see - <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=503776276300564&set=a.485879308090261.114250.485878071423718&type=1&theater.">http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=503776276300564&set=a.485879308090261.114250.485878071423718&type=1&theater.</a> This is aromatic and serves the purpose of keeping bugs away.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Applying neem oil on to your skin will keep mozzies at bay as they dislike the strong smell.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Room spray made with distilled water/ plant based ethanol and essential oils (as per above mentioned recipe) will keep away unwanted visitors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- When at home,you can mix the "Insects not-friendly" essential oils with few drops of water on a ceramic oil burner with tea-light candle.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d6JdUJx3Zho/UGW-2YfwSeI/AAAAAAAADvA/G1VQlIue4ec/s1600/ceramic+diffuser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d6JdUJx3Zho/UGW-2YfwSeI/AAAAAAAADvA/G1VQlIue4ec/s1600/ceramic+diffuser.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- To ward off flies from sitting on your dining table, add 4-5 drops of clove oil on a damp clean cloth and wipe the dining table before sitting for your meal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- white vinegar can be used as an insect repellent spray. Just put white vineagar in a spray bottle and spray it on to your skin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Keep small pots of mosquito repellent plants indoors and outdoors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please see <a href="http://mosquitorepellentplants.net/">http://mosquitorepellentplants.net/</a> which is a natural and effective way to ward off mozzies.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Maroma from Auroville sells natural insect repellents in the form of incense sticks, coils, mosquito mats, cones etc. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please see</span><a href="http://www.maroma.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=258&Itemid=273">http://www.maroma.com/index.phpoption=com_content&view=article&id=258&Itemid=273</a><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- If you do get bit or stung this season-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Use a few drops of undiluted lavender directly to the bite/sting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Other ways to avoid the buggies of warmer weather-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Avoid soaps and shampoos with fragrance.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Avoid wearing dark clothing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please share your natural insect repellent ideas in this post.Until then, bye from <span style="color: #cc0000;">PetalDew</span>.</span></div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-66703193386181969002012-09-20T21:33:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:57:23.973+11:00You can do it - Home composting<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fgbIMcpkow/UFr9LKu9upI/AAAAAAAADuQ/naosgVdiCKQ/s1600/home+composting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fgbIMcpkow/UFr9LKu9upI/AAAAAAAADuQ/naosgVdiCKQ/s320/home+composting.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Is it so hard to manage waste at home?<br />
<br />
We are visitng our parents in India.Today morning, my daughter and I woke up with runny nose and cough. We felt very suffocated. We did not understand what was happening initially and thought the house was on fire and the suffocation was because of the smoke eveloping the house. After a few seconds, I realized that some things are yet to change - burning of garbage piles in the our neighborhood - Our neighbourhood where many school children, parents, office goers, elederly people walk on the roads inhaling toxic fumes from burning the garbage dumps.<br />
<br />
The garbage dump that is burnt - may consist of organic and bio-degradable wastes, recyclable, plastics, medical, rejects and sometimes e-waste such as batteries and parts of electronic gadgets. When burnt, it releases toxic fumes in the environment.<br />
<br />
I don't want to talk about whom to be blamed for dumping the garbage in the street without thinking about harmful effects it will have on fellow residents, environment and the locality and why the local municipal council fails to clear/ collect the garbage dump on a regular basis.<br />
<br />
We all know the answer to this probem - Lack of civic sense among some and lack of proper governance in waste management. Both plays an important role in solving this issue.<br />
<br />
We, at home can take one small important step to manage the home waste. The solution is home composting and knowing why we need to compost and how to compost.<br />
<br />
Composting is the decomposition of plant remains and other once-living materials to make an earthy, dark, crumbly substance that enriches soil. It is a process of recycling your kitchen and garden wastes, and is a critical step in reducing the volume of garbage needlessly sent to landfills for disposal.Composting is not a new idea. In the natural world, composting is what happens as leaves pile up on the forest floor and begin to decay. Eventually, nutrients from the rotting leaves are reclaimed by living roots. This completes nature’s recycling process. (source: dailydump.org)<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #274e13;">How many of us do home composting and are willing to compost biodegradable and organic waste which will reduce 50-60% of the waste littering the streets of India and reduce landfill?</span></b><br />
<br />
I came across this very good website <a href="http://www.dailydump.org/">www.dailydump.org</a> based in Bangalore. They sell home composting products and also conducts workshops on home composting. Composting system can be implemented in the apartment you live, houses and even in commercial buildings. To enable this, there is a need for shift in mindset of the people regarding waste management. A right attitude - a can attitude should be developed to home composting which will help your home, your neighbourhood, your society and your country. If people in developed countries can do it, why not us? Let us take one small step - A step towards home composting.<br />
<br />
Some useful inforgraphic from www. dailydump.org:<br />
<br />
why manage waste: <a href="http://www.dailydump.org/if_your_dont_manage_your_waste">http://www.dailydump.org/if_your_dont_manage_your_waste</a><br />
<br />
The first step to clean - How to seggregate your waste : <a href="http://www.dailydump.org/node/820.">http://www.dailydump.org/node/820.</a><br />
<br />
Everything you need to know about composting in general : <a href="http://www.dailydump.org/composting">http://www.dailydump.org/composting</a><br />
<br />
If you don't want to dig a pit in your garden and manage composting in a pit, dailydump.org sell composting products to suit your different requirements which can be used by people living in flats as well. Please see <a href="http://www.dailydump.org/all-products">http://www.dailydump.org/all-products</a><br />
<br />
Free information, infographics that can be downloaded, printed and stuck on fridge and wall as reminders to manage your waste wisely! <a href="http://www.dailydump.org/downloads">http://www.dailydump.org/downloads</a><br />
<br />
I know many of you reading this post will think: Why bother?/ I don't have time/ It is not easy as it sounds. So need convincing? Please read this <a href="http://www.dailydump.org/need2bconviced">http://www.dailydump.org/need2bconviced</a><br />
<br />
where to buy home composting products : <a href="http://www.dailydump.org/where_to_buy">http://www.dailydump.org/where_to_buy</a><br />
<br />
I know it sounds hard but once you start composting and realize its benefits and your contribution to your neighbourhood and the environment, you will happy. won't you?<br />
<br />
Please share your thoughts on how you manage your waste at home?<br />
<br />
Bye for now - Until then, with love from PetalDew.<br />
<br /></div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-73848264917148841592012-09-16T20:48:00.001+10:002012-11-15T22:56:58.374+11:00Good salt and bad salt<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DmAxfP-kIao/UFWqWK644MI/AAAAAAAADt4/bkTL3lZTH3k/s1600/salt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DmAxfP-kIao/UFWqWK644MI/AAAAAAAADt4/bkTL3lZTH3k/s1600/salt.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Is there anything called good salt and bad salt? Yes.
There is good and bad salt.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">There
was a time when salt was worth its weight in gold – literally. And quite right
too. Without salt, life would cease. Your muscles would not function, your ability
to think would be impaired, your memory would fail and your heart would stop
beating. And yet today salt is the demon of the diet world – because we end up
consuming bad salt and not in prescribed quantity!</span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Majority of us nowadays consume bad salt - Refined and
'chemically cleaned' salt ripped off its nearly 82 out of 84 natural minerals
and broad spectrum of trace elements which are vital for maintaining optimum
health. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Consuming too much of refined salt - plain sodium chloride with added
anti-caking agents is not beneficial to our health. Sodium chloride in
isolation without its natural counterpart like potassium, calcium, magnesium
and other minerals and trace elements cannot maintain a neutral pH level in our
body. Sodium chloride on its own makes your body hold on to water. The extra
water stored in your body raises your blood pressure. So, the more bad salt you
eat, the higher your blood pressure. The higher your blood pressure, the
greater the strain on your heart, arteries, kidneys and brain. This can lead to
heart attacks, strokes, and dementia and kidney disease.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #660000;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #660000;">What’s the fuss about Iodized salt?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The real sea salt is not rich in iodine.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some countertop table salts have added synthetic iodine as a
chemical component, which doesn't have anything in common with the natural
iodine that our body needs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The fact is that we do need iodine in our diet. This
element, in its natural form, is mandatory for the thyroid gland, which
controls many vital functions in our body - You should consult your doctor
about <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=MD0wOYW7YRM&offerid=211276.10000009&type=3&subid=0" target="new"><span style="text-decoration: none;">What Vitamins & Supplements Should You Be Taking?</span></a><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><i style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 13.5pt;">* Iodine can be be added to your diet from natural iodine
rich foods like <span style="text-decoration: none;">seafood</span>,
</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 13.5pt;">eggs,
cereal grains, legumes and dairy products from cows fed with iodised salt</span></span><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 13.5pt;"> or natural </span></span><span style="line-height: 17.981481552124023px;">supplements</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 13.5pt;"> such as kelp and seeweed and multi-vitamins.</span></span></i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">DID YOU KNOW?</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;">* 80% of
the salt you eat every day is "hidden" in the processed foods you
eat. Processed food such as packet chips, biscuits, and store bought savories
and snacks contain too much sodium chloride. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;">Before you buy any product, look
at the nutritional label on the package to see the salt/sodium content.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;">* When
buying a packet of salt and you see that the only ingredient listed is Sodium chloride
and anti-caking agent, you know what you are getting. Put it back in the shelf.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000;">So what kind of salt is good for our health?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Down the memory lane, I remember an old man - a salt
vendor moving a huge sack of natural rock salt (harvested from the sea) in his
cart down the streets shouting - "Amma, Aiyaa Kallu Uppu vangikanga "
("Ladies and Men of the house buy some rock salt"). My grandfather
was his regular customer and after he bought the salt, my grandmother/ my
mother stored the rock salt in a medium - sized ceramic jar (Uppu Jaadi).
During our grandparents’ time, we all used the good salt. But why there was a
shift in our mind-set to use packaged and refined sodium chloride instead of
natural sea salt? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Let us discuss on some of the good salts that have
naturally present minerals and trace elements. Moderate consumption of good
salt will not harm our body. The National Academy of Sciences advises that we
consume at least 500 mg of salt a day to maintain good health. How much a
person actually needs varies quite a bit, depending on their genetics and daily
routine.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;">Natural rock salt<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The so called "<b>rock salt</b>" is also a <b>sea
salt</b> that comes from underground mines, where salt deposits have been
formed after the evaporation of primordial seas or oceans. All natural salt
existing in the world is actually sea salt, whether or not it has been
harvested from sea water or from salt mines. There is plenty of it all over the
world but only the unprocessed version is healthy for us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b>Unrefined sea salt</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">S</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 12pt;">ea salt is a broad
term that generally refers to unrefined salt derived directly from a living
ocean or sea. It is harvested through channelling ocean water into large clay
trays and allowing the sun and wind to evaporate it naturally. Manufacturers of
sea salt typically do not refine sea salt as much as other kinds of processed
salt, so it still contains natural traces of other minerals, including iron,
magnesium, calcium, potassium, manganese, zinc and iodine. Proponents of sea
salt rave about its bright, pure, clean flavor, and about the subtleties lent
to it by these other trace minerals. Sea salt is thought to be healthier and
more </span><span style="line-height: 15.981481552124023px;">flavorful</span><span style="line-height: 12pt;"> than traditional table salt. Available in coarse, fine &
extra fine grain size, and many sizes in between!</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5189935417973964880" name="SeaSalt"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Celtic salt</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">Refers to naturally moist salt harvested from
the Atlantic seawater off the coast of Brittany, France. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"> This type of salt are
harvested using the Celtic method of wooden rakes allowing no metal to touch
the salt. It is naturally air and sun-dried in clay ponds and gathered with
wooden tools to preserve its living enzymes. Because it is unrefined, it
contains all of the 84 beneficial live elements found in sea water, with no
chemical and preservatives nor any other additives. Among the live minerals and
trace elements found in Celtic sea salt are iodine, iron, calcium, magnesium,
manganese, potassium and zinc. The 84 trace minerals provide the
necessary nutrients and protect the body from the harshness of sodium chloride
that we consume from commercial salt.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #660000;"> Himalayan pink
salt</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;">It is one of the purest salt on the earth. This salt is
over 250 million years old<span style="background: white; mso-shading-themecolor: background1;">. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;">Himalayan
Pink Salt was originally formed from marine fossil deposits over 250 million
years ago. Harvested from ancient seabeds, this rare and extraordinary salt
has been a valuable commodity for centuries. Historically, the Himalayan
people used this salt to preserve their fish and meat throughout the year, and
every spring they transported the salt to Nepalese valleys for trade. Heavily
burdened yaks would carry the salt along narrow sloping paths, mountains, and
cliffs in order to sell and exchange the salt for other commodities.</span> Himalayan
Pink Salt is still extracted from mines by hand, according to long-standing
tradition, and without the use of any mechanical devices or explosion
techniques. After being hand-selected, the salt is then hand-crushed,
hand-washed, and dried in the sun. However it should be noted that most of the
commercial supply of Himalayan Pink Salt on the market today is currently
coming from the mountainous regions of Pakistan.<span style="background-color: #e6d2aa; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Himalayan pink Salt contains many natural trace minerals
required by our body in minute quantities.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Benefits of Himalayan pink
salt:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The benefits:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Regulating the water content in your body.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Promoting a healthy pH balance in your cells,
particularly your brain cells.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Promoting blood sugar health and helping to reduce the
signs of aging.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Assisting in the generation of hydroelectric energy in
cells in your body.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Absorption of food particles through your intestinal
tract.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Supporting respiratory health.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Promoting sinus health.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Prevention of muscle cramps.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Promoting bone strength.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Regulating your sleep -- it naturally promotes sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Supporting your libido.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Promoting vascular health.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In conjunction with water it is actually essential for
the regulation of your blood pressure.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
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</ul>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Kala namak (black salt/ Sanchal)</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kala namak, or Indian black
salt, is an unrefined mineral salt. It is actually a pearly, pinkish-gray color
rather than black, and has a strong, sulfuric flavor and aroma. Vegan chefs
have made this salt popular for adding in egg-y flavor to dishes like tofu
scrambles. Kala Namak is used in authentic Indian cooking, and popular in mango
smoothies.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: inherit;"><b>Basic rules to follow when buying your salt:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;">* Look
for unrefined and natural salt like sea salt/rock salt and other natural exotic
salts like Celtic or Himalayan pink salt. The natural and un-refined salt will
not be pure white colour as it is not chemically treated.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;">* Natural
and unrefined salt do not consist anti-caking agent. The salt may clump as it
draws moisture from the air. Store your un-refined salt in an air-tight glass
or ceramic jar and grind your rock salt with mortar and pestle before adding it
to your foo</span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;">d. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -18pt;">Bye for now - Until then with Love from <b><span style="color: purple;">PetalDew</span></b>.</span></div>
</div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-85535356958005232312012-09-08T01:19:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:56:36.053+11:00Beneficial skin carrier oils<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yCqKd5h6lA0/UEnrUrjyTlI/AAAAAAAADrg/r98DphZ2FT0/s1600/skin+oil+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yCqKd5h6lA0/UEnrUrjyTlI/AAAAAAAADrg/r98DphZ2FT0/s1600/skin+oil+1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When it comes to looking after our skin using natural ingredients, the
first thing that comes to our mind is Oil. Yes! Oils like extra virgin coconut
oil, olive oil, sweet almond oils are wonderful to our skin.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You may think that oils are not suitable for oily complexion as it will
cause breakouts like pimples and acne. That is actually not the case. What
causes our breakouts is really a combination of hormones, poor lifestyle
choices, and dirt and bacteria that gets caught in our pores.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It turns out that using the right oils, like EVOO, almond oil, or even
jojoba oil will cleanse your skin more effectively than some of those
chemical-laden store-bought products.</span></span><br />
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ayurveda is a 5000 year-old holistic system of medicine and natural healing
originating in India. It is the oldest known form of healthcare in the world.
Central within this healing system is the use of therapeutic oils for self
massage (abhyanga).In India, self massage with Ayurveda oils (thailams) forms
an integral part of everyday life to maintain our natural state of optimum
health</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The below oils have different skin nourishing and healing properties that helps in cleansing, moisturizing
the skin and brings a natural glow to our skin. The essential fatty acids found
in some of these oils have anti-ageing properties as well.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We will discuss about some of the commonly used beneficial skin oils which also
includes exotic oils like Jojoba (my favourite!) and Argan oil.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"><b>Coconut oil</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tyJ9OFM5d3Q/UEnrj99D5uI/AAAAAAAADro/4v9P1CLf8u8/s1600/coconut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tyJ9OFM5d3Q/UEnrj99D5uI/AAAAAAAADro/4v9P1CLf8u8/s1600/coconut.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Coconut oil is highly emollient base oil derived from the
fruit of the coconut palm and is solid at room temperatures below 76 degrees F.
It is excellent oil for all-over use. It is the ultimate skin softener, hair
conditioner, and after-sun treatment. Use only unrefined Coconut oil. Its
sweet, exotic fragrance is reminiscent of a tropical paradise. Its shelf life
is indefinite. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Sesame seed oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-59XC1hSXEgE/UEnr8Fng7kI/AAAAAAAADrw/8KwBfLCAHss/s1600/sesame+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-59XC1hSXEgE/UEnr8Fng7kI/AAAAAAAADrw/8KwBfLCAHss/s1600/sesame+oil.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">Sesame oil contains
mono-unsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated, linoleic acid. Sesame seed oil
is comparatively stable and does not turn rancid on contact with the air. The
oil is also rich in vitamin E, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. It is a good
source of vegetable protein and rich in lecithin. Natural Sesame Oil, as is a
well known fact, has very high medicinal value. This oil is used for edible
purposes as well as physical purposes. The oil is heavily used in massages
throughout the world. The ancient Indian massage therapy as used in Ayurveda has
a very prominent role for sesame oil.</span><span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #ccffcc; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Castor oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QrbMy4y-9NA/UEnsS3DC1LI/AAAAAAAADr4/nResoPr8piA/s1600/castor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QrbMy4y-9NA/UEnsS3DC1LI/AAAAAAAADr4/nResoPr8piA/s1600/castor.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This clear to slightly yellow, shiny, viscous base oil is processed from
the seeds of an annual shrub. It’s highly emollient and provides staying power
and shine to the skin. It is particularly good for softening rough, dry heels,
knees, elbows and patches of eczema and psoriasis. When applied to nails, it
imparts a protective shield against exposure to drying detergents, hot water
and winter-dry air.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Sunflower seed oil</span></b></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is a light- to medium- textured base oil high in essential fatty
acids; antioxidant vitamin A, D and E; and lecithin derived from pressed seeds.
The vitamin- E content of sunflower oil helps to heal blemishes and improve scar
tissue. Deeply nourishing and moisturizing for all skin types. It is reasonably
priced and easy to find. Avoid processed, supermarket- grade oil and instead
choose unrefined oil.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Olive oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The olive is traditionally regarded as a symbol of peace. The best olive
oil comes from the fruit which is nearly fully ripe and handpicked. The oil
comes from the pulp and not the kernel. Olive oil is high in minerals, vitamins
and essential fatty acids, alpha linolenic acid. It is also used for cooking
and dressing in salads. It is good massage oil for babies. Do not expose the
oil to extended period of light.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Sweet Almond oil</span></b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i_O99llvMnk/UEntUJTeuJI/AAAAAAAADsQ/HboEHIWtCfc/s1600/swt+almond+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i_O99llvMnk/UEntUJTeuJI/AAAAAAAADsQ/HboEHIWtCfc/s1600/swt+almond+oil.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pressed from the edible nuts of the sweet almond tree, it is rich in minerals
and oleic acid, a skin-nourisher and hydrator. This oil has a slippery feel, so
you will need to massage it thoroughly into your skin. Once you have, the
surface of your skin will improve dramatically, feeling smooth and silky. Do
not use sweet Almond oil if you suffer from a nut allergy. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Grapeseed oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Grapeseed oil is pressed from the pips of grapes, as a by-product of
wine-making. The oil is pale green and extremely high in polyunsaturated fatty
acids, making it light textured and easy for the skin to absorb. It is a good
massage oil and suitable for people suffering from nut allergy. Massaging with a
very light grapeseed oil leaves no residue and creates a lovely smooth finish.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Avocado oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Avocado oil is extracted from the flesh which contains up to 30% pure oil.
The oil is rich in many nutrients including vitamin A and D, lecithin and
potassium. The oil is rich in chlorophyll, the reason for its dazzling green
colour. Avocado oil can be used to soothe the skin being useful for conditions
such as nappy rash and eczema. It is ideal for dry, mature skin and suitable
for undernourished or aged skin.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Apricot kernel oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMLS5Rmu_jY/UEnulX39O9I/AAAAAAAADso/VB-NZwxj4rs/s1600/apricot+kernel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMLS5Rmu_jY/UEnulX39O9I/AAAAAAAADso/VB-NZwxj4rs/s1600/apricot+kernel.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This oil comes from the kernels of the apricot fruit. It is rich in oleic
acid, a nourishing fatty-acid compound also found in olive oil. It is safe for
all skin types. Apricot kernel oil rehydrates dry skin, especially when it is
inflamed by the sun or wind. This carrier oil replenishes and rejuvenates
mature skin.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Rosehip oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d7zUFP4A3ic/UEnu6vW6tDI/AAAAAAAADsw/hkdOhtf8PMk/s1600/rosehip+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d7zUFP4A3ic/UEnu6vW6tDI/AAAAAAAADsw/hkdOhtf8PMk/s1600/rosehip+oil.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rosehip oil is produced in Chile and has recently become popular oil,
particularly in regenerative skin care. It is beneficial in tissue regeneration
for conditions such as burns, facial wrinkles and the treatment of scars. It is
a natural anti-oxidant and a slight astringent. It is expensive and goes rancid
quickly. Use the oil within 12 months of expiry.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Soyabean oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Soyabean oil comes from the soya plant. Cold pressed soyabean oil is the
second best source of vitamin E. It contains more lecithin than any other
vegetable oil. It is high in unsaturated fatty acids and suitable for all skin
types. It is regenerative, anti-oxidizing and anti-inflammatory. Its shelf life
is 6 to 9 months.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><u><b><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Other exotic oils (liquid gold)</i></span></b></u><span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Jojoba oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is my favorite all- purpose oil. I use it as a skin moisturiser, to
heal my dry lips and calm my child’s skin affected by rough weather. It is
pronounced as ho-ho-ba. This is a unique oil because the oil is not composed of
fat but of liquid wax. This carrier oil has been used by Native Americans for
centuries to protect their skin from dehydration. Jojoba is similar in
composition to sebum, the skin’s natural oil, so our skin is able to absorb it
easily. It is safe for all skin types. Jojoba strengthens sensitive skin,
balances oily skin and clears acne and even long-term scars (with regular use).
It helps to soothe and heal skin damaged by eczema or psoriasis. It is a great
cleanser. Its waxiness dissolves away dirt and excess oils.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Argan oil</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-khajgALLRbc/UEoPTiDxiQI/AAAAAAAADtg/jz4edPbJm7I/s1600/argan+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-khajgALLRbc/UEoPTiDxiQI/AAAAAAAADtg/jz4edPbJm7I/s1600/argan+oil.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re a fan of Dr Oz , then it’s quite possible you may have heard him
recently mention an oil extract from a special little tree found only in
Morocco. It’s called argan oil and it has a whole host of benefits including
its ability to nourish hair, treat acne and even helps to prevent obesity. It
is the future of anti-aging!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Argan oil has been used for centuries by the inhabitants of Morroco and is
still being used today, mainly as a natural form of moisturizer to replenish
dry, cracked skin – a common result seen after excess exposure to the dry
desert heat and sun.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Like almond oil, it’s derived directly from the nuts of the argan tree. The
Moroccans call it Moroccan Gold, mainly due to the fact that it’s just so hard
to get given that it only grows in a tiny 8000 km² reserve in a small North African
country.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The oil itself is made up of 80% unsaturated essential fatty acids, which
are used to form the makeup of the membrane (protective layer of the cell,
kinda like a force field) of a skin cell. A thicker membrane, reduces the
chances of the moisture inside the cell from leaking outwards, plus is better
able to remove unwanted waste formed from within the cell.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Argan oil contains around 80% of the good fatty acids, most people who
apply it actually see a decrease in oily skin and this is because it has an
uncanny ability to help regulate and maintain normal levels of oil production.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hope you enjoyed reading on some of the common beneficial oils used for our skin. Until then, bye from<span style="color: #741b47;"> PetalDew</span> - with love from Nature.</span></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-40223509842176835732012-08-26T21:32:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:55:59.333+11:00Natural shaving foam lotion – for men and women <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjUe3Ea8rZA/UDoHr_2hDaI/AAAAAAAADrI/L3Taci1KKMo/s1600/shaving+foam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjUe3Ea8rZA/UDoHr_2hDaI/AAAAAAAADrI/L3Taci1KKMo/s320/shaving+foam.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN">Shaving foam or shaving cream is used by men almost every day and I wanted to know
what ingredients a typical branded shaving foam has got and I was shocked
to find some harmful ingredients in them like -<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Synthetic fragrance , Parabens , Petroleum or mineral oil , Sodium lauryl
sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES) , Propolene glycol , Triethanolamine
(better known as TEA), Propane, Butane.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Look under <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/</span></a>
to know more about the above harmful ingredients.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">I got my husband to use a natural shaving cream made by LUSH (<a href="http://www.lushusa.com/Dirty-shaving-cream/03098,en_US,pd.html"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.lushusa.com/Dirty-shaving-cream/03098,en_US,pd.html</span></a>).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">In addition to natural ingredients like Oat milk, Shea butter, Safflower
oil, glycerin etc, Lush shaving cream has also got Methyl paraben as a preservative. I was not totally happy with it as Methyl Paraben is a possible
human carcinogen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">I wanted to make a natural shaving foaming lotion at home that has got safe and natural ingredients and serves the same purpose as a commercially available shaving
foam i.e. the razor should find easy to glide on the skin with the help of the foam/
cream, moisturize, soften and protect the skin from cuts and nicks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Homemade natural shaving foam lotion can be used both by men
and women:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Ingredients you need</span></b> - <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RMeslkr7EYQ/UDoGf0e23bI/AAAAAAAADqw/ICxuph-T-Qw/s1600/rm+sha+foam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RMeslkr7EYQ/UDoGf0e23bI/AAAAAAAADqw/ICxuph-T-Qw/s320/rm+sha+foam.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN">1. Calendula infused oil/ sweet almond oil - 5 tbsp (I used Calendula
infused oil as is known for soothing properties and it is suitable for sensitive
skin. You can use sweet almond oil as it is essential fatty acid-rich oil).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">2. Mango butter/ cocoa butter - 2 tbsp (I used mango butter as it is rich
in oleic and stearic acids and it has got wound healing property. Mango butter
and cocoa butter are rich emollient too).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">3. Distilled/filtered water - 1 and half cup.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">4. Castile soap made from olive oil/ coconut oil/ Jojoba oil - 2 tbsp.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">5. Kitchen grade Baking soda - 1 tsp (Optional).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">6. Honey/ aloe Vera gel - suitable for sensitive skin - 1/2 cup <o:p></o:p></span>(Optional).</div>
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<span lang="EN">7. Liquid Vitamin E (acts as natural preservative and good for the skin) - 4
drops.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">8. Essential oil for natural fragrance: Sandalwood oil or citrus EO for
Men/ Lavender or rose essential oil for women - 3 drops.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">9. Wide mouth glass jar with lid to store the foamy lotion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">10. Electric hand mixer/ blender.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN"><span style="color: #990000;">In India:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN">- You can buy mango butter from
arjunanatural.com.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">- If pure castile soap is not available, it is best to use shavings from pure
glycerin vegetable soap available from Khadi shops.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><b><span style="color: #990000;">How to make it:</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">1. First heat the oil and mango butter/cocoa butter over a double boiler at
a low heat. Stir until the mixture is clear, then pour into a large bowl and
let cool. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BNDW4mxXdeg/UDoHC4ZVSgI/AAAAAAAADq4/0s1XjaJ4CZs/s1600/oil+butter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BNDW4mxXdeg/UDoHC4ZVSgI/AAAAAAAADq4/0s1XjaJ4CZs/s320/oil+butter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">2. In another pan, heat the water, and then add the baking soda, and
castile soap/ shavings of glycerin soap, stirring until completely diluted. Add
honey/ aloe Vera gel to this solution and stir. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9IEOkQeTYfw/UDoHSnc9l8I/AAAAAAAADrA/jZBw8W8G074/s1600/liquid+soap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9IEOkQeTYfw/UDoHSnc9l8I/AAAAAAAADrA/jZBw8W8G074/s320/liquid+soap.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN">3. Pour the soap mixture into the bowl with the now room-temperature oil
and mango butter. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">4. Add liquid Vitamin E and essential oils if desired. Blend everything
very well with a hand mixer, or throw into the blender. For best results, blend
for two minutes, stop, and then blend again for another two minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Store the foam lotion in an airtight glass container in a dry, cool
location. This natural cream can be stored for about three months; none of the
ingredients are perishable but oils such as sweet almond have a limited shelf
life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjUe3Ea8rZA/UDoHr_2hDaI/AAAAAAAADrI/L3Taci1KKMo/s1600/shaving+foam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjUe3Ea8rZA/UDoHr_2hDaI/AAAAAAAADrI/L3Taci1KKMo/s320/shaving+foam.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN">This shaving foam lotion is completely natural and it is my husband’s and
my father’s favorite. I made this recipe around 7 pm in the night. My
husband and my father were the lab mice to try it once it was made. They just
loved it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Tips and Lessons:</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">You can make a shaving
cream by not adding distilled/filtered water to the existing recipe. Just
add liquid castile soap to the room temperature melted oil-butter mixture
and mix thoroughly to avoid the liquid separating from the oil-butter mixture and blend as per the recipe above. Allow it to set.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">The same foam lotion is
a good hair conditioner after shampooing. Apply this foam lotion after
shampoo and leave it on for 2 to 3 minutes and wash your hair. This is
good for dry hair.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">If you don’t have
liquid castile soap, you can melt the shavings from 100% pure glycerin
soap in a Pyrex bowl over a double boiler and add it to the oil-butter
mixture at room temperature.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">You will notice that
when blending, the quantity of the mixture will raise.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Store it in your
refrigerator for extended shelf life. After 3 days you will notice that your shaving lotion has set into a smooth and delicate shaving cream which will be easy to apply on the skin.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">If you use Calendula infused oil, the final product will have an yellow color. It wont stain your face.</span></li>
</ol>
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<span lang="EN">Other natural alternative for shaving cream, if you don't want to try the
above recipe is to use –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Herbal natural hair conditioner - Yes. Hair conditioner can be used as
shaving lotion. Make sure, it is completely natural or 100% herbal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">I can understand that it is a hard work and time consuming to make natural
products at home. You may question “Why bother, if I can buy it from the shop
as there are variety of choices in front of my eyes?” When buying something like body care/skin
care/other toiletries, think whether a particular commercial product/brand is
good for your health in the long run. Manufacturer making the products on a large
scale is more concerned about his profits or consumers’ health?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Your choice-Your decision-Your Health.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Until then, bye for now – Love from PetalDew.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-27401601337181431732012-08-17T19:11:00.001+10:002012-11-15T22:55:34.373+11:00Passion fruit cups<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zRt672HUlOk/UC301I9joxI/AAAAAAAADpw/VorPev4CCAg/s1600/passion+fruit+cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zRt672HUlOk/UC301I9joxI/AAAAAAAADpw/VorPev4CCAg/s320/passion+fruit+cups.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Passion fruit cups after 5 days of sun drying<br />
<br />
Who is not passionate about passion fruit? They are so yummy when added to yogurt, ice-creams and smoothies and it is equally delicious when eaten on its own.Passion fruit seeds are edible to eat and provides that added delicious crunch.It is not very sweet like other fruits but it is very aromatic and is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A and Carotene.<br />
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<br />
Passion fruits are in season now and my local vegetable grocer stocks it. My daughter loves to eat passion fruit everyday.<br />
<br />
Passion fruit is good for skin also. I thought "Why not use the outer skin of passion fruit for something good ?" After the inner content of the fruits were eaten with a spoon, I washed it thoroughly and removed the excess moisture with a paper towel and left it to dry on a plate near the windowsill. The natural sunlight will help in drying the skin. I did not want to keep the cups under direct sunlight outside as the skin will shrivel quickly. The skin will also lose its natural aroma quickly when left it to dry under direct sunlight.<br />
<br />
Look at the passion fruit cups in the photo. I want to share some ideas on how to use these lovely beauties apart from the skin care recipe I am about to share with you.<br />
<br />
The photo of the cups is taken after five days of drying near the window sill. I had a brainwave to use the cups in few different ways -<br />
<br />
1. I used the cups as mini disposable cups to serve dipping sauces to go well with the crackers/ fritters or any snacks you make. The skin is non-permeable and the sauce kept in them will look just pretty. When you serve the sauce in them to your guests, they will be amazed at how eco-friendly and creative you are!<br />
<br />
2. You can use the dry un-shriveled cups as a tea-light candle. It is wax-free and very environmental friendly. All you need is 1 to 2 tsp of gingely oil and 3 cm wick made with cotton. The "Diya"/ lamp will burn as long the oil remains in the cup.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNnVATBqwBw/UC3-vhViWdI/AAAAAAAADqY/KRsXrIhxvAc/s1600/passion+fruit+diya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNnVATBqwBw/UC3-vhViWdI/AAAAAAAADqY/KRsXrIhxvAc/s320/passion+fruit+diya.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Diya made from Passion fruit cup<br />
<br />
3. Skin care recipe using powdered passion fruit outer skin:<br />
<br />
I am waiting for my passion fruit outer skin to dry fully so that I can powder it to a very fine consistency and use it as an natural additive to my face scrub. I will update this post with a photo of the passion fruit powder I am planning to make in a few days time.<br />
<br />
Enjoy using your passion fruit cups at home and do share your tips and ideas on how to use passion fruit cups for different purposes in this posting.<br />
<br />
Until then, Bye from PetalDew - from Nature with love.<br />
<br /></div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-43916470115827175662012-08-14T18:34:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:55:05.332+11:00Rose and only Rose<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rf3-2pfXCqM/UCoL3yjFPSI/AAAAAAAADpM/BSnLZWwJqj8/s1600/rose+in+hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rf3-2pfXCqM/UCoL3yjFPSI/AAAAAAAADpM/BSnLZWwJqj8/s1600/rose+in+hand.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Imagine yourself in a garden full of roses (only roses) - Roses of different colours and
bloom. Don't you think it is a pure bliss to sink in the magic of aromatic and
beautiful roses? . Roses are not only aromatic and pretty to look at; it has got
many skin healing and rejuvenating properties.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My garden will be in </span>colorful<span style="font-family: inherit;"> bloom next month - Pink, yellow,
red, white and velvety dark pink roses dominating my garden with its radiance and sheer beauty. I can already spot rose buds covering
the shrubs and it is not long to go for my roses to be in full bloom. My rose
plants will eagerly stretch its arms and extend a warm welcome to use its rose
petals and when the bloom is over for this season, it will be happy to show off
its hips - I mean Rose hips. Rose hips can be used to make rose hip tea as it
has got lot of health benefits. Many skin care products contain oil made from
rose hip which has got anti-aging and skin reviving properties.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I will share with you some ideas and tips to make use of your rose plant.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The first and foremost important thing to remember when you are using
rose petals to make rose water, sun-infused rose oil and other skin care
recipes at home, make sure that you have not sprayed the plant with toxic
pesticide or chemicals. Same thing is applicable when using rose hips.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Beautiful things that you can prepare from Rose petals:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A. Sun-infused Rose oil: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUSbn2CFOjg/UCoKNJXnT9I/AAAAAAAADo0/Se4497212ZM/s1600/rose+infused+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUSbn2CFOjg/UCoKNJXnT9I/AAAAAAAADo0/Se4497212ZM/s1600/rose+infused+oil.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is my ultimate favorite because Rose infused oil has properties of
being a astringent, firming the skin, moisture retaining, stimulating,
anti-bacterial, healing and relaxing. Rose infused oil can be used for therapeutic
massage. Rose infused oil is used in skin products such as lotion, balms,
salves, scrubs, bath oils. It is better to use dried rose petals for making
sun-infused rose oil.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">How to make rose infused oil:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 part dried roses <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 parts oil (olive oil/sweet almond oil/grapeseed oil)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sterilize a glass jar. This is done by placing the jar in hot boiling water
for 4-5 minutes and drying it well. To make smaller batch, put your 1 part of
dries rose petals in the jar and pour your oil on top of it to cover the petals
well. Seal the jar with clean and dry tight lid. Place the jar on a windowsill with lots of
sun for 3 - 4 weeks. Give the jar a quick shake once daily. The object is to
keep the jar warm as the herbs steep in the oils, so if you live in a cold
climate, take that into consideration. After one month, filter the oil through
muslin/cheese cloth and make sure you squeeze the last drop from the petals as
the essence of the flower is concentrated in the petals.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">B. Rose water:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wjZ9hLV0wz0/UCoKcASGV_I/AAAAAAAADo8/5ctTGEcCS0g/s1600/rose+water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wjZ9hLV0wz0/UCoKcASGV_I/AAAAAAAADo8/5ctTGEcCS0g/s1600/rose+water.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> My favorite use of rose water is to
use it as a face spritz. All you need is a spray bottle. Fill your spray bottle
with rose water. Add a drop of Lavender essential oil and use it whenever you
need to cool and tone your skin. Rose water acts as a good toner. You can use
it as an aromatic mist for your room.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">How to make rose water:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I found this simple homemade recipe for rose water under Times of India
website. I tried it at home and wow!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-07-17/beauty/32174313_1_petals-water-pot">http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-07-17/beauty/32174313_1_petals-water-pot</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">C. Rose petals in scrubs and face mask:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NK1hEcMVonQ/UCoLdN5bcYI/AAAAAAAADpE/DxJ7gpoANGE/s1600/rose+face+mask.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NK1hEcMVonQ/UCoLdN5bcYI/AAAAAAAADpE/DxJ7gpoANGE/s1600/rose+face+mask.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dried rose petal combined with fine oats and honey makes an exotic face
mask and dried rose petal with fine oats and rose water acts as good face
scrub.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">How to make simple face mask using rose petals:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Put 1/3 cup of the rolled oats into a food processor. Using the
"pulse" feature, grind the oatmeal for a few seconds until it
resembles a coarse flour.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. 1/8 cup of freshly picked red/pink rose petals to the oatmeal in the
food processor. Pulse again for 10 seconds.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Add two teaspoons of rose water, and then 1/4 cup of honey to the rose
petals and oatmeal mixture. Pulse for 10 seconds. If you have a difficult time
getting the mixture to blend well in your food processor, you can mix it
vigorously by hand, or try it in a blender. Often larger food processors don't
work well for small mixing small amounts of ingredients.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Apply the rose petal mixture to your face and allow it to stay on for 30
minutes. Rinse off with warm water and gently towel your skin dry.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">D. Dried rose petals can be added to your pot pourri or to your linen
sachet (Look under linen sachet recipe in my blog) to scent your home and
cupboards naturally.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MGdJq8N9QFM/UCoMCQUe_QI/AAAAAAAADpU/LkbHva6asXM/s1600/rose+pot+pourri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MGdJq8N9QFM/UCoMCQUe_QI/AAAAAAAADpU/LkbHva6asXM/s1600/rose+pot+pourri.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">E. Rose hip tea and Rose hip oil:</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rose hips are the fruit of the rose tree, or what is left after the rose
petals fall off. They are an excellent source of vitamin C. Rose hip tea is
both delicious and good for you. Also known as rose mosqueta, rose hip oil is used
in facial products for aging skin. It contains essential fatty oils and can
help with scarring.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Rose hip tea:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eYg6M6rxPRk/UCoMKY8dZgI/AAAAAAAADpc/2H7CB1evhko/s1600/rose+hip+tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eYg6M6rxPRk/UCoMKY8dZgI/AAAAAAAADpc/2H7CB1evhko/s1600/rose+hip+tea.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rose hip tea is refreshing, pleasantly tart and contains vitamins A, B, C,
E and K, pectin and organic acids. Besides battling colds, the nutrient-rich
tea boosts your health in other ways as well. This popular medicinal tea
strengthens the body's resistance to infection, reinforces digestive function,
combats all kinds of illnesses with fever, flushes out the kidneys and urinary
tract and relieves mild rheumatic pain. The vitamin C content gives rose hip
tea its primary benefit, the ability to help prevent and treat colds and flu.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 heaping teaspoons of chopped rose hips.
You can use rose hips with or without their seeds. Steep the herbal tea,
covered, for 15 minutes and strain. Sweeten the refreshing, slightly sour tea
with honey, if desired. Drink the tea lukewarm at bedtime for maximum
effectiveness.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> - Rose hip oil:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Rose hip oil is naturally rich in
beta-carotene and lycopene, a power antioxidant found in tomatoes and
watermelon. Foods rich in lycopene have many health benefits. The lycopene in
rose hip oil helps to protect skin from premature ageing and is responsible for
the oil's rich amber colour. It is a natural source of Vitamin A known as
trans-retinoic acid. Research shows that topical trans-retinoic acid is
effective in helping to prevent premature ageing caused by sun exposure.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Do share your ideas and tips to make use of rose petals from the garden and write it under comments.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thanks and bye for now - with love from PetalDew.</span></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-18222050697315364182012-08-08T15:33:00.002+10:002012-11-15T22:54:38.493+11:00Aaahh My foot :)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MK6Fbv6FxCo/UCH5HnyrxeI/AAAAAAAADoY/Nh_iqdvcwxQ/s1600/beautiful+feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MK6Fbv6FxCo/UCH5HnyrxeI/AAAAAAAADoY/Nh_iqdvcwxQ/s1600/beautiful+feet.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN">On the request of a well-wisher, I am writing this post on foot care. </span><br />
<br />
Our whole body stands on our feet.
The average moderately active person takes about 7500 steps a day. Don't we
need to pay humble respect to our feet and pamper them with absolute care for the
hard work it does? There are few simple steps that we can follow to keep
our feet supple and healthy.<br />
<ol>
<li>Wear comfortable
footwear whenever you go out. My feet recently had a terrible experience facing
constant soreness because I did not wear comfortable footwear . Make sure
your feet and toes feel comfortable with the footwear you choose. Comfort
comes before style (strictly no wearing high heels sandals when you face constant feet soreness).</li>
</ol>
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2. EFM (Exfoliation – Foot soak
– Moisturization):<br />
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<span lang="EN">A.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span lang="EN">Exfoliate your feet to remove dead cells and dirt. You can use fine sugar
and fine salt with any carrier oil to exfoliate your feet gently. To the
exfoliation mixture I prefer to add 1 to 2 drops of peppermint essential oil to
relieve tension and soreness in the feet. Massage your feet gently with the
exfoliation mixture for 5 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">To make exfoliation mixture: 2 tbsp of fine sugar or fine sea salt, 1 tbsp
of warm olive oil/coconut oil, 1 drop of Peppermint essential oil (Peppermint
oil gives warmth to your feet) . Mix the given ingredients and scrub
away the flaky skin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">B.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span lang="EN">Foot soak:
Fill a small tub with warm water and soak your foot for 10-15 minutes after
exfoliation to provide warmth and suppleness to your feet. To the water, you
can add powdered oats with lavender essential oil to have that extra special SPA
experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">C.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span lang="EN">Moisturization:
After foot soak, take 2 pieces of a ripe banana or ripe papaya or cut potato and rub
the piece all over your feet, toes, heels and massage gently. Let your feet absorb
the essence of the fruits for 10 minutes and wipe off the fruit remains by putting
your feet back in the same water tub. Later pat your feet dry with a clean towel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Follow the above “E-F-M” once in every two weeks
or whenever you feel like doing. All it takes is 30 minutes to pamper your feet
to glory!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="text-indent: -18pt;"> 3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="text-indent: -18pt;">Follow a healthy diet rich in Magnesium, Omega 3. Eating fruits regularly in addition
to above will keep your skin and feet healthy.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> 4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span lang="EN">Cracks
in the heel is a common problem. The way to reduce cracks in the feet is to keep the feet dry and dirt free. Whenever possible, use comfortable sandals when
walking inside the home. Follow “E-F-M” method once a week and have magnesium
rich food like green leafy vegetables, bananas, nuts and omega-3 rich foods
like flax seed, fish oil tablets, walnuts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Ladies - Get ready to show off your feet! Bye for now. With love from PetalDew.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-89403181611997350542012-08-02T20:07:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:54:02.600+11:00Fifteen quick and effective natural beauty tips for your Skin, Hair and Body<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qbMmTdzgwBU/UBpOvHNbSrI/AAAAAAAADoE/cB1e3MqWCKw/s320/natural-beauty-tips.jpg" />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are the fifteen effective natural remedies/ beauty tips for your skin, hair and body. You have to follow the below remedies regularly to experience long term benefits. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><b>Face and Body:</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">To make your face glow : Mix 2 tsp of Besan powder/green gram powder, curd and rose water and apply the paste to your face and leave it on for 30 minutes .Wash it off with warm water.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">To reduce scars on your face caused by pimples or acne : Make paste from Nutmeg by grinding it on a stone slab with rose water and dab it on the scar affected area of your face.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">To bleach your face naturally: Mix 2 tsp of honey with 2 tsp of lemon juice and massage your face and hand with the mixture.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">To make your eyebrows and eyelashes thicker and black - Apply castor oil everyday </span>before<span style="font-family: inherit;"> going to bed and let it stay overnight.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">To remove the puffiness and redness from the eyes - Take 2 thin cucumber slices and leave it on your eyes for half and hour. If cucumber is not available, soak 2 cotton pads with rose water and leave it on your eyes.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">To make your lips stay pink, healthy and supple - Make juice from coriander leaves and mix it with almond paste and apply the paste on your lips and wash it off after half an hour.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">For quick body scrub : Fine salt or sugar mixed with olive oil and massage it to your skin - hands, feet , legs to remove dead skin.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Face scrub: Grind oats, mix it with fine rice flour, make it into a paste with rose water and use it as a face scrub.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">For oily skin : Juice of tomato and lemon applied on your face will remove the excess oil on your face</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can use milk as a natural cleanser to remove the dirt and grime off your face. Dab milk with a cotton wool and gently wipe your face in outward stroke.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rubbing red grapes juice </span>regularly<span style="font-family: inherit;"> on your forehead will remove fine wrinkles.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><b>Hair care:</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Do not shampoo your hair often as it removes natural oil from your hair. Use gentle and mild shampoo. Natural alternative to </span>commercially<span style="font-family: inherit;"> available shampoo is hair rinse made out of soapnut or "pungangal" (http://corporate.greenandnutty.com.au/?q=node/65)</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">To reduce the dandruff on your hair : soak 2 to 3 </span>tablespoon<span style="font-family: inherit;"> of "Khus-Khus" (white poppy seed) for one hour and grind the mixture. Extract the milk from Khus-Khus and apply it on your hair scalp and let your scalp absorb the milk for 10-15 mins before rinsing your hair with mild and gentle shampoo. Do this regularly to keep dandruff at bay. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">To cool the scalp and conditioner for the hair: Soak 1 tbsp fenugreek seeds overnight in water and grind it to make a paste. Apply the paste after shampooing and apply it on the scalp and your hair. Leave it on for two to three minutes and rinse your hair for that soft and shiny look.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you have split end problem: Regularly massage your scalp and hair ends with warm olive oil and let it stay overnight before shampooing your hair in the morning.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please share your natural quick and effective beauty tips in this post and I will be happy to include it with your name and publish it in this post.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Until then - Bye for now. With Love from PetalDew</span></div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-37059440279057249462012-07-29T15:55:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:53:30.739+11:00Exotic Aloe Vera and Saffron - Almond under Eye gel- cream<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YDMvHHIOmQ0/UBTNxRUrElI/AAAAAAAADno/XvgUR2UtOCk/s1600/eye+gel+cream+finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YDMvHHIOmQ0/UBTNxRUrElI/AAAAAAAADno/XvgUR2UtOCk/s320/eye+gel+cream+finish.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The skin around our eyes is very delicate and is prone to wrinkling and damage. It needs proper care to ward off signs of aging and also to keep it healthy and bright.<br />
<br />
We have to be careful as to what we apply under our eyes. The skin under our eyes is very thin that whatever is applied under the eye area (makeup or any eye care product) gets easily absorbed under the skin. So it is best to go for a natural eye make up, natural under-eye gel/cream free of petro-chemicals and harmful preservatives. <span style="background-color: white;">Eye gel or cream that contains soothing botanicals will moisturize your skin, replenish lost hydration and cut down on any puffiness or irritation.</span><br />
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I came across few branded eye creams/ gels that contains some natural botanicals. In addition to some natural ingredients, it had preservatives like Imidazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Denatonium Benzoate etc. I am not comfortable in using eye gels with harmful chemicals and preservatives as whatever goes under our eyes gets abosorbed quickly. Also we dont want to pay about $20.00 for 15ml eye gel only to contain harmful preservatives.<br />
<br />
So, I thought " Let me make an eye gel-cream at home that is natural yet effective as any other commercialy available eye gel in the market". The first ingredient that came to my mind was our garden grown aloe vera. Aloe vera gel that comes from the aloe plant soothes irritated and sensitive skin under our eyes. <span style="background-color: white;">To that I added almond paste made with rose water and few pinches of saffron. Almond paste moisturize the delicate skin and removes fine wrinkles under our eyes with regular use. Rose water cools the eyes naturally and saffron lightens the skin area under the eyes.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
Here is the recipe for the exotic eye gel-cream that can be used daily on the skin area under the eyes . Take a small amount of this Eye gel-cream with a clean spoon and dab the gel-cream under the eyes gently. Follow this routine before going to bed and wash the paste off with warm water after you wake up to give your eyes a naturally fresh and rejuvenated look.<br />
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Make it in small batches and store it in a refreigrator as it is made without preservatives. <span style="background-color: white;">I store my eye gel-cream in a 10 g glass jar.</span><br />
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Ingredients you need:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nkdXKkkiDsE/UBTLoRiGyEI/AAAAAAAADnQ/0zLiBA9K9ig/s1600/ingre+eye+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nkdXKkkiDsE/UBTLoRiGyEI/AAAAAAAADnQ/0zLiBA9K9ig/s320/ingre+eye+cream.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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* Pure Aloe vera gel - 2 tbsp (mash it well beforehand to have thinner and even consistency)<br />
* Almond paste from 4 raw almonds soaked in hot water for few hours (soaking it in hot water will help in removing the outer skin)<br />
* Rose water to grind the almonds to a paste<br />
* Few pinches of saffron strings<br />
* A cup and spoon to mix<br />
* A small glass jar with a lid<br />
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How to make it:<br />
1. In a small cup add Aloe vera gel (pre-mashed up with a clean and dry fork) and almond paste made with four raw almonds.<br />
2. To make almond paste - I made almond paste by grinding almond on a small stone slab with rose water.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvPgTNgtYhU/UBTMAsMcr2I/AAAAAAAADnY/0q_HG9n-KRQ/s1600/almond+paste+grind+eye+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvPgTNgtYhU/UBTMAsMcr2I/AAAAAAAADnY/0q_HG9n-KRQ/s320/almond+paste+grind+eye+cream.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. Mix the aloe vera gel and almond paste together until they blend well without coming apart.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3hMt7hjaFs/UBTMj_CBOLI/AAAAAAAADng/bg-QIh6JyTs/s1600/aloe+and+almond.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3hMt7hjaFs/UBTMj_CBOLI/AAAAAAAADng/bg-QIh6JyTs/s320/aloe+and+almond.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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4. To the blend, add pinces of saffron strings and mix it well till the saffron releases its beautiful colour and aroma.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TKyN9z2rHgs/UBTOXd-wMqI/AAAAAAAADnw/2pMQXRxZv7s/s1600/aloe+mix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TKyN9z2rHgs/UBTOXd-wMqI/AAAAAAAADnw/2pMQXRxZv7s/s320/aloe+mix.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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5. Store this exotic eye gel-cream in a glass jar, tightly closed wit lid. Put it in the fridge for regular use.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YDMvHHIOmQ0/UBTNxRUrElI/AAAAAAAADno/XvgUR2UtOCk/s1600/eye+gel+cream+finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YDMvHHIOmQ0/UBTNxRUrElI/AAAAAAAADno/XvgUR2UtOCk/s320/eye+gel+cream+finish.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
Hope you enjoy making this eye gel-cream at home as the ingredients to make this can be found in your kitchen pantry and in your garden (or your neighbour's garden).<br />
<br />
Also feel free to write your comments and feedback.<br />
<br />
Until then, bye from PetalDew - From Nature with Love.<br />
<br /></div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-19344018021837892972012-07-26T14:25:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:52:55.897+11:00Lavender Blue<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9KaS5565pY/UBC9jR-dCUI/AAAAAAAADmk/2Q5vLNUf6GI/s1600/lav+field+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9KaS5565pY/UBC9jR-dCUI/AAAAAAAADmk/2Q5vLNUf6GI/s320/lav+field+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Lavender field in Bridestowe, TAS<br />
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Lavender is a complete delight to our senses. The purplish lavender spread in gardens during summer can stop anyone in their tracks to admire its mesmerizing beauty and also to absorb the calming and rejuvenating aroma.<br />
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Me with the Lavender blues...</div>
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When I visited Tasmania last December in 2011, our Itenarary plan had " Must visit Bridestowe lavender farm" at Nabowla, which is considered one of the State's most spectacular vistas .The 265 acre site is noted for its manicured fields of lavender. Like a Child set loose in a candy shop, I jumped out of the car before my husband completely stopped in the parking lot and started running towards the lavender field oblivious to the fact that other tourists were watching my child like madness on spotting the lavender field and the shop selling exclusive lavender products.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MYIxJFUroxo/UBDANg8p_xI/AAAAAAAADmw/zuln1lwVfO8/s1600/lav+field+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MYIxJFUroxo/UBDANg8p_xI/AAAAAAAADmw/zuln1lwVfO8/s320/lav+field+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Shop selling Lavender products & the cafe where </span><span style="background-color: white;">we had Lavender ice-cream and lavender tea.Yum.</span></div>
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Lavender is capable of many important jobs. Every home should have a bottle of 100% pure unadulterated lavender essential oil. Lavender oil is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, antidepressant, sedative, and detoxifier which promotes healing and prevents scarring.<br />
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Botanical name for lavender oil is "Lavandula angustifolia". Lavender oil is non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitizing, so is safe for all skin types. Follow caution when using Essential oils during pregnancy (better to avoid using Essential oils when pregnant as most of the EOs are potent). Use lavender essential oil only from the second trimester . Please check with your doctor before usage.<br />
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Lavender oil can be used for the following purposes: ( some tips taken from essential oil book written by Worwood and from the author Jennie Harding)<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #4c1130;">Skin care:</span></u></b> Lavender EO is used in many skin care products as it is knowing for healing and reviving properties. It can be used in preparation of body lotions, face spritz, salves, bath salts, body oils etc.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #4c1130;">Baby's skin:</span></u></b> To calm dry/irritated baby skin, massage in a blend 1 drop of pure Lavender oil in 4 tsp of coconut oil/sweet almond oil/ olive oil.<br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b><u>Abrasions/ Grazes:</u></b></span> Clean the area well with 5 drops of lavender diluted in a bowl of warm water. Apply one neat drop of lavender and leave to heal.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #4c1130;">Burns:</span></u></b> Lavender oil is very effective in treating small burns. Apply ice-cold water for at least tem minutes. Then immediately put two drops of neat lavender oil directly onto the burn. Put 5 drops of lavender on a dry, cold compress and cover the area. Repeat as needed.<br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b><u>Earache:</u></b></span> My parents are visiting me here and because of severe winter this year, my father gets earache. As a first aid, I warmed a teaspoon of olive oil and to it added 1drop of lavender oil and 1 drop of eucalyptus oil and blended well. Soak a piece of cotton wool in this and use it to plug the ear.<br />
Use the same blend to massage around the ear area, up the neck and across the cheekbone. Apply a warm compress to the cheek and ear area after massaging also eases the pain.<br />
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<b><u style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Preventing bed mite/bed bugs :</span></u></b> When travelling and staying in hotels/motels, there can be microscopic bed mites/bugs on the mattress. To prevent bug bites, splatter few drops of lavender EO on the bed before sleeping. You can put few drops on a cotton ball and keep the cotton ball in linen cupboards to prevent dust mites and bugs.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #4c1130;">Sound sleep:</span></u></b> To promote sound sleep, put 2 drops of Lavender EO on your pillow and inhale the relaxing aroma. It will relax you and promotes sound sleep.<br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b><u>Culinary uses: </u></b></span> Lavender buds can be sprinkled on ice-creams and desserts as topping. Lavender can be boiled in hot water and filtered for Lavender tea. A dash of mint leaf or a squeeze of lemon juice will add pep to the tea. Lavender tea will have soothing and calming effect on mind and the body.<br />
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Availability of Lavender EO : In Australia, USA, Europe check with your health stores, shops selling organic products for pure Lavender EO. In India - Check with your organic health stores, or Kadhi shops for pure essential oils.<br />
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Bye for now. Until then - With love from PetalDew.<br />
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-68427727664006236912012-07-22T18:21:00.002+10:002012-11-15T22:52:01.317+11:00What is the hype about the super food – Raw Cacao?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-llUX_cdRIBs/UAu28lM0b9I/AAAAAAAADkk/Polr8DkIox0/s1600/Raw+cacao+powder+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-llUX_cdRIBs/UAu28lM0b9I/AAAAAAAADkk/Polr8DkIox0/s1600/Raw+cacao+powder+photo.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Raw cacao powder is considered as one of the new super food. Why? It is supposed
to contain antioxidants; magnesium and bliss nutrients that can help keep you
energized, healthy and happy. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">It contains up to twice the amount
of antioxidants of traditional Cocoa Powder made from roasted beans.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Why raw cacoa is good?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">The raw cacoa is cold pressed from the nibs without solvents, and then
fine-milled and sifted so the most bio-available cacao particles filter into
the final product. As the temperature is never allowed to exceed 40°C, the
powder is considered a ‘raw’ food with all heat-sensitive vitamins, minerals
and anti-oxidants remaining intact, thereby maximizing digestion and
absorption.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Health benefits of raw cacao powder:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Antioxidants:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Raw Cacao beans contain 10 grams of flavonol antioxidants per 100 grams,
which is an incredible 10%. Research has also demonstrated that the
antioxidants in cacao are highly stable and easily available to human metabolism.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Magnesium for the Heart and Brain<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Raw cacao is the primary dietary source of magnesium. Magnesium is the most
important mineral for a healthy functioning heart. It also plays a key role in
producing energy for the neurons in the brain from glucose. So when there is an
abundance of magnesium the brain works with clarity and focus.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Mood elevators and Anti-depressants<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Cacao is a great source of serotonin, dopamine, anandamide and
phenylethylamine (PEA), four well-studied neurotransmitters, which are associated
with feelings of well being and help alleviate depression. Both PEA and
Anandamide (the bliss chemical) are found in abundance in the brains of happy
people and are particularly released when we are feeling happy. Both of these
neurotransmitters are present in raw cacao in large enough quanitities to
affect the brain and lift our moods. Cacao also contains monoamine oxidase
inhibitors (MAO Inhibitors) that keep neurotransmitters in the bloodstream for
longer without being broken down.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Raw cacao is much more potent than the processed chocolate and doesn't have
any sugar or dairy products blocking the
positive effects of all the goodies in raw cacao.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I wanted to find out if cacao is really different to cocoa and the below
website <a href="http://www.allchocolate.com/understanding/cacao-vs-cocoa/"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.allchocolate.com/understanding/cacao-vs-cocoa/</span></a>
states the difference as - <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Cacao: pronounced Ka-Kow. Refers to the tree, its pods and the beans
inside.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Cocoa: pronounced Koh-Koh. Refers to two by-products of the cacao bean –
cocoa powder and cocoa butter. Both are extracted from the bean when it is
processed in the factory.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">According to FDA guidelines, cocoa powder and cacao powder are simply
different terms for the same powder, and are nearly interchangeable; however,
"cacao powder" specifically refers to raw, unsweetened powder.
"Cocoa powder," on the other hand, may still have a very small amount
of cocoa butter present to enhance the flavor subtly."<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">When looking for cacao powder, it's important to look at the nutritional
labels. There are two forms of cacao powder -- the post-fermented powder
obtained before the processor removes the cocoa butter and the powder obtained
after separation. The raw cacao butter that hasn't been further processed to
remove the butter still retains the natural fat from the cacao bean. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cocoa
butter obtained after the separation process does not retain the fat from the
cocoa butter. Refer to - (</span><a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/450243-what-is-raw-cacao-powder/" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.livestrong.com/article/450243-what-is-raw-cacao-powder/</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">
)</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Raw cacao powder can be added to milkshakes, smoothies and drizzled on ice
creams and on muffins.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I had a beautiful smoothie made with raw cacao powder, almond milk and
agave nectar in a vegetarian restaurant recently. If you are unable to get agave
nectar, substitute it with raw honey for sweetness. You will be taken to heavenly
bliss when tasting this smoothie.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Recipe for raw cacao powder almond smoothie:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">3 cups cold milk<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">1 cup raw almonds<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">1 tbsp - sweet almond oil</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">¼ cup honey or agave nectar<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">2 tablespoon raw cacao powder<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">1 pinch nutmeg powder<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">1 pinch cinnamon powder<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Soak raw almonds overnight in hot water. Next day morning, grind the almonds
in a blender until it becomes a smooth paste and to this add cold milk,sweet almond oil, honey/agave nectar, raw cacao powder and pinches of nutmeg and cinnamon powder
and blend it again. Have it chilled and Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-57760186851870184302012-07-16T22:36:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:51:35.235+11:00Milk Bath - Oatmeal milk bath for Babies<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ztriFXICG8c/UAQIeqpb4dI/AAAAAAAADkY/lHXALOfNOP4/s1600/oatmeal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ztriFXICG8c/UAQIeqpb4dI/AAAAAAAADkY/lHXALOfNOP4/s1600/oatmeal.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Cleopatra was famous for her beautiful skin. Her secret was that she soaked in baths of fresh milk.When we think of milk bath, we think of Cleopatra and imagine her beautiful skin soaking in gallons of milk everyday. It sounds expensive right to waste milk on milk bath? If we think that only Cleopatra can indulge in milk bath, it is wrong. Our skin deserves the best pampering treatment in a natural and not so expensive way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Milk bath helps to moisturize the skin particularly winter prone dry skin. The fats and proteins found in milk -- particularly whole milk -- may help to hydrate skin and retain moisture after you step out. Just be sure to rinse off in clean water after your soak so that you're left with a soft, milky glow instead of a sticky milk residue.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some health experts suggest milk baths may be used to help improve symptoms of some skin problems. Because of the moisturizing fats in milk, it may help to calm redness from a sunburn or to reduce some of the dryness and itching caused by skin conditions such as xerosis or eczema [source: WebMD]. However, if you are concerned about a skin condition that isn't clearing up, you should consult your dermatologist before trying to treat yourself with a milk bath.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We dont need to use litres of milk for milk bath. All we need is one to two cups of Whole fat milk powder /finely ground oatmeal (not the instant oats)/ buttermilk powder which can be mixed to the bathwater to experience the benefit (or) Add 2 to 3 cups of fresh milk or buttermilk to the bathwater as the tub is filling. Soak for a good 20 minutes. Gently rub your skin with a washcloth or loofa to slough off the dead skin. Rinse your body thoroughly after soaking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Another advice is, using cow's milk for milk bath may not be suitable for lactose intolerant. The alternative is to use finely ground Oatmeal (colloidal oatmeal).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Many baby moisturizing cream contains colloidal oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal is a product that consists of oats that have been ground very fine for use as a home remedy for itchy or dry skin. People with eczema, chicken pox, bug bites, or poison ivy may find some relief from the itching and dryness with colloidal oatmeal home remedies. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The ingredients in colloidal oatmeal may help in many ways. It contains avenacins compounds, which have </span>anti-fungal<span style="font-family: inherit;"> properties; saponins, which can help in cleansing; and flavanoids, which may help with UVA absorption. It also includes vitamin E, which is an anti-inflammatory, along with phenols and starches to help in moisturizing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Colloidal oatmeal is usually added to warm bath water. The oats do not sink due to the colloid action of the particles of grain dispersing through the water. This helps make it more effective against dry itchy skin and a good homemade remedy to any skin irritations or allergies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">To make colloidal oatmeal blend or process the oats on the highest setting until you have a very fine, consistent powder. To test the colloid property of the oatmeal, stir 1 tablespoon of the ground oats into a glass of warm water. If the oats readily absorb the water and give it a milky look and a silky feel, you've blended long enough.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Oatmeal milk bath for babies and children:</u> (can be indulged by grownups too :)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup of whole oats (not the instant ones!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Whirl oats in a blender or food processor until they are reduced to fine particles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sprinkle the powder into the bath and swirl. You will be amazed at the softness of the water and of your baby's skin.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Take care assisting your baby/ child into the tub as the oatmeal will make the tub even more slippery than usual. Allow your newborns to soak for 3 to 5 minutes and young children to soak in the tub for 10 to 15 minutes and pat dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing. Also make sure that that oatmeal milk bath do not get into the eyes of the newborns.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bye for now - Until then, with Love from PetalDew</span></div>
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PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-68510697841512570292012-07-12T18:02:00.002+10:002012-11-15T22:50:55.002+11:00Observe Nature<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-icGgR2O3I9g/T_6EcYMadqI/AAAAAAAADjY/Ij9MeaDksAE/s1600/nature.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-icGgR2O3I9g/T_6EcYMadqI/AAAAAAAADjY/Ij9MeaDksAE/s320/nature.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I read this quote in a book (sorry I forgot the title) and I liked it so much. After I read it, I wrote the words in my dairy and I wanted to share this with you all as it aptly describes Nature.<br />
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Nature is a wonderful teacher,<br />
Whether you live in the city or the wilderness,<br />
lessons abound.<br />
See how nature adapts to the changing world around it.<br />
Admire its persistence<br />
and marvel at its resilience.<br />
Appreciate.<br />
<br />
H.G Wells (1866-1946) quoted -<br />
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"Adapt or perish, now as ever, is nature's inexorable imperative".<br />
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Bye for now. with love from PetalDew.</div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5189935417973964880.post-45433656607277200262012-07-09T12:36:00.000+10:002012-11-15T22:50:25.232+11:00My Inspiration for PetalDew<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EL_F7Zb0bgs/T_o_EVKNh1I/AAAAAAAADjM/gJd0XoZVI6I/s1600/baby+holding+parent+hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EL_F7Zb0bgs/T_o_EVKNh1I/AAAAAAAADjM/gJd0XoZVI6I/s1600/baby+holding+parent+hand.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
PetalDew is a journey of inspiration. The inspiration sprouted with the birth of my first child Sahi. With her birth, I became aware of the differences between baby and adult skincare products and began researching the ingredients, becoming aware of the harm such ingredients cause.<br />
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Do we apply the same skin care products used by us on baby's skin? No. Then why cannot we use more safe and natural products on our skin and respect our skin like how we respect the baby's gentle skin? The inspiration blossomed when I carried my second child. My child inside me told me to have a go at my passion - PetalDew (blogging and creating a family-friendly natural skin care range) . Ram - my second child is not there anymore with me but the inspiration that my children have given me continues to grow. I feel I have to continue this journey.<br />
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My husband stands by me during tough and rough times I face and his continuous support to me to pursue my passion - PetalDew is never ending.
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I can't go without thanking my mother, my grandmas, my aunts for sharing their wide knowledge on natural ingredients used to make our skin and hair healthy and shiny. Their inputs are invaluable.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: purple;"><i>My poem for Ram</i></span> - </span><br />
When there is Sunshine, I think of you,<br />
When the soft breeze is kissing my cheeks, I think of you,<br />
Looking at the sparkling raindrops, I think of you,<br />
When there is laughter around me, I think of you,<br />
When I am happy, I think of you,<br />
There is no sadness , when I think of you,<br />
Your short life inspired me in many ways<br />
I will carry you in my heart and mind,<br />
so as not to lose you forever.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: purple;">We love you and miss you Ram</span>.</span><br />
- Mummy, Baabi and Sahi<br />
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I dedicate all the baby natural products I make at home to my sweet ones - Sahi and Ram.<br />
Bye for now from PetalDew -<span style="background-color: white;"> with love from nature.</span></div>
PetalDewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03567128530026411760noreply@blogger.com4