When I was pregnant, just the thought of food was enough to make me sick. I knew that I needed to eat healthy foods for the baby, but some days healthy went out the window and the baby was just lucky that I ate anything at all. Then I discovered Luna Bars. Luna Bars can only be described as little pieces of heaven. They are decadent and they are good for you. How many things can you say that about?

Amazingly, they make Luna Bars in about every flavor imaginable. Perhaps I should rephrase that. They make Luna Bars in every flavor that a normal non pregnant person could imagine. Even though I ate a lot of Luna Bars when I was expecting, they didn't make the flavors I was really craving. Sure they make flavors like caramel nut brownie, lemon zest, and my personal favorite chocolate peppermint stick, but they don't make flavors like chocolate pork rinds or strawberry tomato.

If I had been in the test chef department of the Luna Bars company when I was pregnant, you would see grocery store shelves lined with the oddest assortment of Luna Bars that you can imagine. Blueberry jalapeño, bologna banana, and vanilla tuna are the first flavors I would want to market. After that I might concentrate on things like pepperoni, pickles, and even ice cream. I think that most of the people in America are glad that I didn't work for Luna Bars during my pregnancy?

Since I had no power to market my personal flavor preferences, I did a little snack doctoring in my own kitchen. Some days I spread a key lime pie flavored bar with peanut butter. Other days I dipped my cookies and cream delight bar in salsa. My favorite concoction was slathering miracle whip on an iced oatmeal raison Luna Bar.

I know it sounds weird, but compared to what some of my pregnant friends have eaten, it wasn't really that bad a craving. I had one friend that ate dirt while she was pregnant. She would go out into the garden and chew a handful of potting soil while she weeded her flowers. I wouldn't ever do that. I wouldn't even dip one of my Luna Bars in dirt. But I would definitely dip a Luna Bar in a chocolate shake. That actually sounds pretty good to me. I wonder if that means I am pregnant.

Tags: herbal, herbal treatment, health, natural treatment, alternative treatment

What is your current skin care regime? Epicuren skin care is a gental on the skin and one you should consider.
Most of us just simply grab a bar of deodorant soap, lather up your face and suddenly feel Zest fully clean? I
know because that is what I use to do. I'll bet your pores feel Zest fully tight and dry as well. There is a
reason for this.

Deodorant bar soaps of any kind are meant for your body, and not your face. Your face is much different. In
fact, it's an organ made up of 10,000 pores. It requires treatment or it may lash out with wrinkles and
breakouts. What you should be using is a gentle skin care system such as Epicuren skin care. With all of the
great products out there these days, no one should be lathering up their mug with a bar of Irish Spring.

Some of the finest skin care systems now days are found in salons. I am talking about beauty spas, folks.
Surely you like to treat yourself to a nice facial or full body massage sometimes. These are those ever-so-kind
and serene moments we work our butts off for. Anyway, these wonderful establishments also carry amazing
products such as Pevonia and Epicuren skin care. These are the cosmetics you need to treat your skin right.

A close friend of mine suffered badly from acne and dry skin at the same time. As it turned out, he wasn't
properly taking care of his face. Often this is the typical story. As opposed to using something gentle like
Epicuren skin care, he was scrubbing his face with bars of Caress. This cracked me up for many reasons. He had
apparently thought that this bar soap was extra gentle from watching the advertisements on television. Go
figure. It was time for me to educate this fool on taking decent care of his face. I purchased him a quality
epicuren skin care system online and took it to his house. I proceeded in telling him how to use it and why it
was better than a bar of soap.

These days the Epicuren skin care regime is all he uses and his complexion is clearer than ever before. He
claims that the moisturizer does wonders for his face. If you are in need of an excellent skin care system that
won't irritate your delicate face, then I suggest you get on the web. There truly are infinite skin care
routines to choose from these days. You can easily pull up the website for Epicuren skin care and check out
what all they have to offer. Hop online and check it out. Your face deserves it.

[tag]epicuren skin care, skin care regime, acne, wrinkles, zits[/tags]

While natural ingredients include an entire range of produces derived from plant leaves, roots, bark, fruits, and even extracted oils, herbal skin care products derive their beneficial effects from herbs. Herbs are low-growing aromatic plants that can be used either fresh or dried; these include annuals (which must be seeded each year) as well as perennial herbs (which survive the winter to grow again in the spring). Usually, it's herbs' leaves that are used to enhance skin care products' benefits.

The Herb Research Foundation classifies herbal & organic skin care products into one of four groups, depending on the herbs that the products include, and the scale of sale. The four groups are Ayurvedic, Chinese, General, and Commercial.

Ayurvedic herbs are the herbs used in India, including ginger, turmeric, and frankincense as well as pants that are less well known in English such as ashwagandha. These four, in combination, have been shown in texts to decrease rheumatoid factor and interleukins, which are the biological markers of rheumatoid arthritis activity.

It's a little-known fact that Chinese herbs are seldom used alone, but are more often used in formulas of four. In Chinese herbal medicine, the formula is assembled just like the individuals in a royal court. There's a King Herb that has the strongest effect, a Minister Herb that addresses the min pathology as well as a secondary pathology, and assistant herbs. Assistant Herbs can be helpful and strengthen the King's effect, corrective and eliminate the King or Minister herb's toxic effect, or opposing in order to decrease the King's effect.

General herbs are those with entries in reference publications such as the Encyclopedia of Popular Herbs that describe their medicinal properties. The names of many of these will be familiar to you; you may have seen seeds to grow them in the grocery store, or you may actually have some of them growing inside or near by your house. And commercial herbs are those wholesalers sell in bulk.

For more on homemade organic soap making as well as candle making and other do-it-yourself crafts visit the soap making resources center at Pure and Natural Soaps where you'll find articles, recipes, instructions, ideas and tips.
To discuss these and other craft projects visit the Soap Making Message Board - a community forum for soap and candle making as well as other crafts and do-it-yourself projects. Discuss techniques, share ideas, learn new methods, post your favorite recipes and meet new friends.

Zandra Jones, RN BBA is an alternative health advisor and owner of Alternative Herbal Treatment

Tags: health, alternative treatment, natural treatment, herbal treatment, herbal

One of the things that almost every woman on earth will attest to is unwanted body hair and when the hair is shaved off, trying to cure razor bumps is hard. Granted many women in live in other parts of the world embrace their underarm and leg hair, but for most of us, getting rid of it is high on the priority list.

Women spend a great deal of time and money trying to find something that will help them to get smooth, hair-free skin without any unwanted side-effects such as razor bumps. Shaving is an inexpensive and effective method but it can lead to some irritating results.

If you are a woman and have ever shaved you may have noticed some uncomfortable and unsightly small bumps after the job is done. Finding a way to cure razor bumps can be a bit tricky. There are several approaches though and they are worth trying until you find one that works for you.

The type of shaving lotion you are using is very important. Many women decide to forego the few dollars they would spend on good quality shaving cream and opt for bar soap instead. This can lead to all kinds of problems. If you want to cure razor bumps buy a moisturizing shaving cream. You certainly don't need to purchase the most expensive brand out there but in order to cure razor bumps you do need to use a product specifically formulated for shaving, and bar soap isn't.

There are countless types of razors being advertised for women. Some have very feminine names and come in lovely shades of pink. These might look great but they might not be helping to cure razor bumps. A razor with more than one head is the best type. This helps to cut the hair very close to the root without irritating the skin.

It's also really important for you to change the razor head often. As soon as you notice that it isn't gliding across the skin as smoothly or it isn't cutting the hair as closely, it's time for a replacement. Making certain that your razor is in tip-top shape will help cure razor bumps as well.

Shaving isn't over once you've rinsed off your leg and ran your hand across to feel the smoothness. Using a moisturizer afterwards can help cure razor bumps. The skin will be dry from shaving so it's important to apply a cream or lotion as soon as possible. Try to use something unscented as this can also help cure razor bumps.

Since it's a given that women are going to shave from time-to-time. Do your skin a favor and purchase products that are designed to help cure razor bumps.

Have you been taking proper care of your skin? You know, I really think that this is something that parents should teach their children as they grow into teenagers. It would probably prevent a great deal of acne. Far too many individuals lack the basic grooming knowledge when it comes to their complexion. Sure, they've always been told to brush and floss, comb their hair, bathe and use deodorant. Well, there is a tad more to grooming than that. All of you mothers who inform your daughters on how to apply make-up, and all you fathers who teach your sons how to shave properly, don't forget the rest. I'm talking about properly cleansing and preserving your delicate mug. These days you can even purchase natural skin care products to get the job done.

Going natural is a big thing right now. It's all about resorting back to the basics. That is why natural skin care products are becoming more popular. Too many people are realizing the chemicals and bizarre ingredients in cosmetics. With all of the health afflictions out there such as cancer, no one wants to pollute their body or face. This is quite reasonable if you ask me. Fortunately more and more companies are releasing natural skin care products. This way you can have you cake and eat it too. As you may already know, taking care of your skin is essential. Well, that is unless you want to be a victim of large pores and premature aging. However, I seriously doubt you want that. It all comes down to proper and prudent grooming habits. Whether it be with natural skin care products or some others you prefer, typically less is more. For example, our faces do produce oils for a good reason. Therefore it doesn't make sense to cleanse your face three times a day with some harsh soap. Try doing it once each night or at most, once in the morning and once at night. This will prevent unnecessary dryness.

Are you on top of the whole natural skin care products rage? Well, if you still haven't come across any quality natural skin care products, then it's best to try the World-Wide-Web. Only here will you find helpful reviews and the best prices anywhere. Get your face looking great with natural skin care products.

Tags: herbal, health, alternative treatment, natural treatment, herbal treatment

Making herbal remedies isn't difficult or complicated, its just made to seem that way. If you can boil water, you can make your own tinctures, infusions or decoctions. In this article we will discuss decoctions, what are they, how are they prepared, and examples of common decoctions.

Simply put, a decoction is your basic infusion juiced up to induce stubborn roots, barks and resins to release their medicinal properties. While most plants will yield their properties to cold or boiling hot water in a matter of minutes, some require a much longer period of time, say 30 minutes or more.

While occasionally a whole plant with stem, twig, flower, leaf and bud is used for special preventive effects, usually only one part of a plant is used at one time. Examples of herbs that work best in a decoction would include:

Elm Bark, used for herpes, scurf, itch and other skin problems

Comfrey Root, the decoction makes for a good gargle and mouthwash for throat inflammations, hoarseness and bleeding gums*

Flaxseed, this decoction can be used for cough, chest and lung problems. Remember to use only ripe seeds as the immature seedpods can cause poisoning.

English Oak Bark, a decoction of the bark can be used internally or externally for hemorrhoids and other rectal problems, menstrual problems and blood in the urine.

Preparing A Decoction:

Fresh herbs should be sliced; dry herbs should be powered or well bruised. A decoction should always be strained when it is hot so that the matter, which separates upon cooling, can be mixed again with the fluid by shaking when the remedy is used.

When preparing your decoction use glass, ceramic or earthenware pots. Do not use plain cast iron with astringent plants. Use 1 ounce (30 g) of dried root or bark to just over a pint of water. Allow this to boil for at least ten minutes or longer. The mixture then steeps with a cover on the pot for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Strain out the plant parts before drinking.

Warning: The FDA has determined that Comfrey can lead to Pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning which causes a liver disorder in humans called hepatic veno-occlusive disease. The small and medium veins in the liver become obstructed, eventually leading to liver disfunction, cirrhosis and death. While only 2 deaths attributed to Comfrey have been documented, due caution is indicated.

The information provided by UsingHerbs.Com is intended to heighten awareness of potential health care alternatives and should not be considered medical advice. Always check with your qualified health-care professional for medical attention, advice, diagnosis, and treatment.

MK Welty hosts an informational site for herb enthusiasts at http://UsingHerbs.com Join us for regular discussions of herbs, their history, properties and uses.

Zandra Jones, RN BBA is an alternative health advisor and owner of Alternative Herbal Treatment

Tags: herbal, natural treatment, alternative treatment, health, herbal treatment

Alternative herbal medicine is one of the best ways to cure chronic or other disease, in many cases. The major benefit of herbal medicines is that it is 100% natural and does not have any side effects, if taken according to the advice of a competent doctor. Look for and use organic herbs when ever possible.

Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA) is the wonder medicine made from primrose, borage or currant seed oil that is extremely effective for treatment of alcohol addicts. Alcohol intake in huge amounts has the chances of slowing down your brain cells. This particular effect of alcohol can be checked by Valerian herb. Another effectual herbal medicine for people suffering from emotional or physical stress is Skullcap.

The alternative herbal remedies for stress, anxiety or depression are St. John's wort, ashwagandha, valerian and hops ginseng, and Motherwort.

If one is suffering from any degree of sleeplessness, the most helpful herbal medicines are lemon balm, linden, chamomile and ginger tea. For quick relief from common ailments like the odd headache, you can go for eucalyptus or peppermint oil and lavender while for rapid pain relief or inflammation, one can take meadowsweet or willow bark instead of chemical painkillers.

Salicylic acid, the chief component of the pain - killer aspirin, is found in its salicin form in willow bark and meadowsweet. The salicin is reacted upon in the stomach and transformed to salicylic acid, which grants you instant relief from pain. Ginger, which reduces the prostaglandin levels in the body, is another useful pain reliever.

Thanks to the hectic modern style of present day living, most of us suffer from stress in different forms. Herbal medicine is a great way to counter this. Ginseng and Siberian ginseng are two of the most potent stress relievers. Herbal medicines like gingko biloba, ginseng, Siberian ginseng and gotu kola are also successful in curing partial memory loss. Hawthorn, ginseng, motherwort, valerian and pineapple are the wonder herbs that help in curing angina or irregular heartbeat.

Most herbal medicines are prepared from the major herbal ingredient along with other contents. At present, almost 80% of all the medicines have some herbal ingredients.

Although herbal medicines have been extremely successful in treating many diseases, prescription drugs still hold the fort when it comes to treating critical diseases. Thus, one should not consider alternative herbal medicine to be a competitor of prescription drugs, but as a new and effective form of medicine that works in tandem with prescription drugs to treat certain illnesses.

Another benefit of herbal medicines is that it is accessible to most everyone. Herbal treatment is not at all expensive and the herbs can even be grown in your backyard! In fact, prescription drugs are much more expensive and associated with a greater amount of risk.

Alternative medicine is cheap, effective and most importantly, natural and free from any side effects.

Samuel Oliver has a site HerbsTips.com where your can discover info and tips all about herbs and herbal use for health and wellness Herbal Remedies

Zandra Jones, RN BBA is an alternative health advisor and owner of Alternative Herbal Treatment

Tags: alternative treatment, herbal treatment, natural treatment, herbal, health