Information
Gifts From the Earth offer suggested uses for our products, based on traditional uses and properties of the herbs, oils and other ingredients; we do not in any way purport to be a medical or prescriptive guide.
The descriptions given for the herbs, oils and other ingredients are a selective listing of healing properties as they pertain to our product line. The listed properties are meant to be used as a reference guide only. Any reference to medicinal or health benefits is not meant to treat or diagnose any problem and is not meant to replace professional medical advise and should not take the place of any medication that has been prescribed by a physician.
We suggest you always use caution when taking any herb and if pregnant or nursing, please consult your physician before using the products. All herbs, lotions and other herbal products should be kept out of the reach of children.
FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA) DISCLOSURE
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Herbs
Alfalfa Medicago sativa High in chlorophyll and nutrients, detoxifies the body, promotes pituitary gland function. Also contains antifungal agents.
Anise Pempinella anisurn Eases indigestion, flatulence and colic. Because of its relaxing and expectorant properties it is useful in treating tight coughs.
Arnica Arnica montana Used for bruises and sprains. Never apply to broken skin.
Borage Borago officinalis Sweat inducing in tea—good remedy for colds and flu, especially when it affects the lungs. Makes a good cough remedy.
Calendula Calendula officinalis Antiseptic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial that promotes healing. Excellent first aid as a compress or cream for burns, scalds and stings. Infusing an oil with calendula is known traditionally to heal wounds, sooth skin eruptions, eczema and damaged skin.
Catnip Nepeta cataria Soothes the nervous system and will help a restless child fall asleep. As a tea, Catnip will promote sweating and is excellent for colds, flu and other infectious childhood diseases.
Cayenne Capsicum annum Used externally in creams and ointments as a counter irritant to treat muscle pains, arthritis and neuralgia. Internally it causes sweating and supports the body’s immune system. Cayenne is rich in Vitamin C and is antibacterial.
Chamomile Matricaria recutita Used for insomnia, anxiety and digestive problems. Encourages wound healing and is anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and mIcrobial and antifungal. When used externally it promotes the healing of burns and will soothe eczema.
Cinnamon Bark Cinnamomum cassia As a medicine it has traditionally been used to treat colds and gum disease, warms digestion and eases flatulence.
Comfrey Symphytum officinale Promotes the growth of connective tissue, bone and cartilage. It is easily absorbed through the skin. Assists in healing minor burns and bruises.
Damiana Turnera diffusa Opens our senses for an enhanced dream state. A stimulating nerve tonic used for depression and lethargy. Too much Damiana can cause insomnia and headaches.
Dandelion Leaf Toraxicurn officinale One of nature’s greatest medicines. The leaves are a powerful diuretic. As a diuretic it will not leach precious potassium from the body since itself is rich in potassium, it replaces what the body looses. Also used as a digestive tonic for constipation, liver and gallbladder disease. Cleanses the blood and tissues and is helpful in treating skin conditions.
Echinacea Echinacea purpurea Used medicinally as an immune enhancer and for skin diseases and infections by stimulating the production of white blood cells. Used as a blood purifier and is very effective on boils and abscesses. Antiviral and antibiotic.
Elder Flower Sambucus nigra As an ointment it is very effective on skin irritations. As a tea, the flowers induce sweating, reducing bronchial and upper respiratory ailments.
Fennel Foeniculum vulgare Used to soothe digestion and Is a good tea for colic in babies. Used externally as an eye wash for tired and sore eyes.
Ginger Zingiber officinalis Warming and stimulating great at easing digestion. Stimulating effect is good to warm up cold hands and feet Ginger tea is good for colds and flu.
Goldenseal Hydrostis canadensis Traditionally used in Native American Indian medicine as a strong antibacterial and antiviral. May also be used in soothing and healing eye lotions.
Hops Humulus lupulus Mainly used to treat insomnia, nervous tension and gastrointestinal spasms. The flowers are known for inducing sleep.
Horsetail Equisetum hyemale Rich in minerals, it is good for broken nails and lifeless hair. Its astringent action stops bleeding—useful in treating stomach ulcers.
Kava Kava Piper methysticum Used as a diuretic, urinary antiseptic and an anti-inflammatory. Useful for cystitis. Externally used as an analgesic in skin salves.
Kelp Ascophyllum nodosum High in minerals and rich in iodine. Used externally as a compress to reduce inflammation and pain of arthritis.
Lavender Lavendula officinalis A favorite herb of our company. Good for calming, anxiety and tensions. Excellent herb for healing cuts also used to treat burns and stings and has strong antibacterial properties. Used traditionally to treat headaches, coughs, colds and chest infections.
Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis Used for colds, flu, depression, headaches, and indigestion. Taken as a tea after meals, it eases digestion. Due to its antihistaminic properties it may help those with eczema.
Licorice Glycyrrhiza glabra Used to treat sore throats, coughs, heartburn and ulcers. Due to its sweet flavor Licorice is used in herbal blends to mask the taste of bitter remedies. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis effects are similar to cortisone. A gentle laxative, lowering stomach acid levels. Avoid licorice if you have high blood pressure, kidney disease or are pregnant.
Linden Flower Tilia europea Strengthens the nervous system, improves digestion, induces sweating and reduces a fever.
Marshmallow Root Althea officinalis Useful in treating Inflammation and ulceration of the stomach and small intestine and to soothe urinary and respiratory tracts. Also used as a poultice for healing and drawing out.
Milk Thistle Silybum marianum Strengthens and cleanses liver and gall bladder.
Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca Used to regulate menstruation. Valuable in treating anxiety after childbirth or at menopause. Do not take during pregnancy.
Mugwort Artemisia vulgaris Used to regulate menstruation. Activates the digestive process and stimulates the liver. Do not take during pregnancy.
Nettles Urtica dioica Rich in vitamins and minerals, which makes for a great tonic in the spring. Very useful in treating eczema. Used in shampoos and hair rinses to make hair soft and shiny.
Orange Peel Citrus sinensis High in Vitamin C.
Parsley Petroselinum crispum A strong diuretic used for treating urinary infections, stones and water retention. Rich in Vitamin C and iron. Strengthens digestion. Avoid medicinal use during pregnancy.
Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata Used to relax the nervous system, it has non-addictive sedative properties.
Peppermint Mentha piperita Antispasmodic and antibacterial. Good for digestive system and for colic in babies. Peppermint also stimulates the liver and gallbladder. Used externally to cool the skin, increasing blood flow to the area. Also used In pain-relieving balms.
Raspberry Leaf Rubus ideaus Traditionally, known to prepare mothers-to-be for childbirth, toning the uterine and pelvic muscles. Taken during the last 3 months of pregnancy. Rich in nutrients.
Red Clover Triflium pratense Used in treating coughs and bronchitis it is a relaxant and expectorant. Useful for treating eczema and psoriasis.
Rose Hips Rosa canina High in Vitamin C. A mild laxative, mild diuretic and mild astringent.
Roses Rosa centifoila Useful for healing wounds and a mild laxative.
Sage SaIvia officinalis Used to treat sore throats, colds, indigestion, hot flashes and painful periods. Contains antibacterial phenolic acids and is a strong antiseptic.
Skullcap Scutellaria lateriflora A great tonic for the nervous system. Excellent treatment for anxiety, depression, insomnia and nervous headaches.
Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra Made as a poultice is one of the most effective healing agents for ulcers, wounds and boils. One of the best soothing remedies for inflammation, lubricating gastro-intestinal irritation.
Spearmint Menta spicata Has similar properties as peppermint
St. Johns Wort Hypericum perforatum Effective as a compress on wounds. During the Middle Ages it was used to heal deep sword cuts— antibacterial. Soothing to burns because it lowers the temperature of the skin. A diuretic and expectorant for treating bronchitis. Most commonly used to treat depression and calm the nervous system.
Uva Ursi Arctostaphylos uva ursi Used generally to soothe, tone and strengthen the urinary system.
Valerian Varleriana officinalis Used for nervous tension, insomnia and headaches.
Yarrow Achillea mullefolium Medicinally used to treat colds and flu, and wound heating. Best known herbal remedy for fevers, a hot tea induces a therapeutic sweat, which cools fever. Taken orally may cause sensitivity to sunlight in some people.
Essential oils
Aniseseed Pimpinella anisum Used in babies to relieve colic, flatulence or indigestion. Also effective in treating muscle aches and pains.
Basil Ocimum baslicum Used to treat bronchitis, headaches, mouth ulcers and gum infections, also a digestive aid. Used to encourage positivism, clarity, cheerfulness and integrity.
Benzoin Styrax Resinoid Used externally to treat cuts and irritable skin conditions.
Bergamot Citrus bergamia Antiseptic—good for acne, boils, oily skin, eczema, psoriasis, cuts and insect bites. This oil inhibits viral activity. It is also a powerful antidepressant for balancing moods. Bergamot brings us freshness and illumination, eternal youth and happiness. Assisting us in opening our heart to cosmic joy.
Black Pepper Piper nigrum In skin care it is used to treat chilblains, muscle pain, arthritis and stiff joints. Black Pepper also assists us in listening to our inspiring inner voice.
Cardamom Elettaria cardamom Traditionally used for digestive disorders, It is also a stimulating and refreshing tonic, which can relieve fatigue and soothe stressed nerves. Helps to clear the mind. Assisting us in stimulating our spiritual senses by helping us to see with our hearts the virtues of man and nature.
Chamomile Anthemis nobilis Contains anti-inflammatory substances, good for treatment of eczema and skin rashes. Chamomile also allows us to connect with our inner child—for us to feel comfort.
Cinnamon Cinnamomum zeylanicum Anti-infectious and antiseptic. In skin care it is used to treat teeth and gums, warts and lice. Also used to treat poor circulation. Cinnamon helps us to transform sadness into happiness—letting us know that love is always there for us.
Clove Bud Eugenia caryophylatta Antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-Infectious. Clove bud oil can be used to treat acne, athlete’s foot. bruises, burns, cuts and wounds, toothaches and ulcers. Assists us in reaching completion and oneness—awakening our senses.
Elemi Canarium Iuzonicum Used in skin care for aged skin, Infected cuts and wounds, inflammations, rejuvenation and wrinkles. Antiseptic. Elemi allows one to become quiet so that we can hear our soul speak to us.
Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus In skin care used to treat burns, blisters, cuts, insect bites, skin Infections and wounds. Antiseptic and anti-Infectious. Used to assist us in awakening our own inner healer. Encourages emotional balance, concentratIon and centering
Fennel Foeniculum vulgare Traditionally believed to convey longevity, courage and strength. It is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic. Used for mature skin, bruises, dull and oily skin. Fennel assists with clearing the auric field of outside energies.
Geranium Pelargonium graveolens This oil is astringent, antiseptic, and regenerative. Used for acne, bruises, burns, congested skin, cuts, dermatis, eczema. mature skin, ringworm and wounds. Works on the same vibration as Mother Earth and assists with transformation of energy.
Ginger Zingiber officinale Antiseptic, fortifying and carminative. In skin care used to treat arthritis, fatigue, muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, sprains and strains. Assists us in breaking out of our shell to be free.
Grapefruit Citrus paradisi In skin care it is used to treat acne, congested and oily skin, tones skin and tissues, also promotes hair growth. Grapefruit can assist us in reconnecting the mind, body and soul.
Lavender Lavandula offlcinalis or Lavandula augustifolia This is the most versatile essential oil. Known for its soothing and healing properties in skincare. A powerful relaxant used for calming and relieving headaches, antimicrobial antiseptic—great for treating cuts, wounds and burns. Lavender embodies the warm protective love of Mother Earth and works within our auric field—it is caring and nurturing assisting in letting us know that we all have a destiny of goodness to fulfill.
Lemon Citrus limonum Stimulates the immune system to fight infections. Antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, bactericidal. In skin care it is used to remove warts and can clear up herpes blisters. The oil also has a tonic effect on circulation. Enables us to have deeper meditations—encouraging clarity, awareness and concentration.
Lemongrass Cymbopogon citratus Antiseptic, antimicrobial, bactericidal, fungicidal and a deodorant. This oil is used to treat acne, athlete’s foot, excessive perspiration, and used as a skin toner. May also be used for muscular pain, poor circulation and muscle tone. Lemongrass assists us in clearing regrets or shame, encouraging forgiveness, upliftment and balance.
Lime Citrus aurantifolia This antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal oil works to stimulate the immune system to fight infections. In skin care ithelps treat oily skin, acne, boils, and wart. Also increases clarity, concentration and mental alertness.
Myrrh Commiphora myrrha Ancient Egyptians burned Myrrh midday—in praise of the sun god Ra. In skin care is It used to treat athlete’s foot, chapped and cracked skin, eczema, mature skin, wounds and wrinkles. Also has a healing effect on sore guns and mouth ulcers. Myrrh assists us in letting go of our old wounds—to forgive and move forward.
Nutmeg Myristica fragrans Nutmeg is one of the oldest cultivated plants. It is anti-oxidant. antiseptic, antispasmodic. In skin care, used for arthritis, muscular aches and pains and poor circulation. It assists us in reconnecting with our spirit. Used to encourage peace, visions, dreams and comfort.
Orange—Sweet and Bitter Citrus aurantium and Citrus bigaradia Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, bactericidal, carminative, fungicidal. In skin care, used for dull and oily skin and mouth ulcers. This oil brings happiness to those who need it. It also brings newness and regeneration. Used to encourage joy, lightheartedness, creativity, and self-confidence.
Peppermint Mentha piperita Cooling and anesthetic when applied to skin, great for pain relieving balms—increases blood flow to the area applied. Also used to treat acne, dermatitis and toothaches. It is also analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial antiseptic, astringent and a nervine. Raises our spirit to greater understanding and appreciation of our mysterious future. Brings alertness toour dream state so that we can remember our journeys to other worlds,
Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis Used in skin care for acne, dandruff, dermatitis, eczema, and varicose veins. Promotes hair growth. It is analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiseptic, astringent, fungicidal, Rosemary helps us to remember who we are and what our place is in our life plan.
Sandalwood Santalum album Traditionally one of the most important fragrances used in Indian religious practices. Sandalwood is traditionally used to assist meditative states—it brings our wisdom into this meditative state. In skin care, used to treat acne, dry, cracked and chapped skin. Helps in regenerating tissues. Great for an aftershave and as a moisturizer. It is astringent, bactericidal and insecticidal.
Vetiver Vetiveria zizanoides Antiseptic and a stimulant, used in skin care for acne, cuts, oily skin and wounds. Also used for arthritis, muscular aches and pains, sprains and stiffness. This oil calms any inner disquiet and in the calm state may come the answers we are looking for.
Ylang Ylang Canangium odoratum A sedative and antidepressant and a tonic for the nervous system. This oil helps to rebalance sebum production in oily skin and acne. Can calm irritated skin. Traditionally known as an aphrodisiac. It assists us in opening our hearts so that we may enjoy the passions of our spiritual beingness.
Oils, Butters and Other Liquids
Acai Berry Oil Euterpe oleracea Highly moisturizing, restores elasticity to skin, powerful anti-oxidants, strong anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, protects skin from free radicals and may help destroy and prevent cancer cell formation.
Avocado Oil Persica americana gratissima Very high content of Vitamin A and Vitamin E, potassium, rich In proteins and fatty acids. Great nourishing properties needed to treat dry, dehydrated or damaged skin, This oil is known to regenerate cells and soften body tissue.
Beeswax Apis millefera A natural emulsifier that will not become rancid and In addition it has germ killing properties. It forms a protective barrier on the skin to lock in moisture and guard against environmental irritants.
Camellia Oil Camellia oleifera Exhibits exceptional antioxidant activity, penetrates quickly, highly moisturizing, improves complexion, softens wrinkles and fine lines, blocks harmful UV rays.
Cocoa Butter Theobroma cacao Provides a protective layer that holds moisture to the skin, making It a soothing emollient to soften skin.
Coconut Oil Cocos nusifera A mild and gentle oil that is good for sensitive and baby skin. It preserves the skin by providing a protective layer that locks in natural moisture.
Evening Primrose Oil Oenothera biennis A rich source of GLA, discourages dry skin and ensures that skin cell membranes are strong and stable. Since are body does not produce the essential fatty acid GLA we need to include them in our skin care products. Easily absorbed into the skin this oil encourages the transport of these essential fatty acids. May retard the aging process and encourages skin healing with those who have eczema.
Full Moon De-ionized Water Setting the water outside during the full moon to infuse lunar properties creates this water. Lunar properties include reflection, introspection and search, assisting us to see and experience our own beauty within. Using distilled water discourages premature mold growth.
Grapeseed Oil Vitus viniferi Fine textured oil used for all skin types. Aborbs quickly.
Green Coffee Oil Coffee Arabica Highly moisturizing, quick absorbing, promotes excellent moisture retention, exceptionally high composition of essential fatty acids.
Jojoba Oil Simmondsia chinensis Jojoba Oil is actually a liquid plant wax. It last longer than other carrier oils without becoming rancid. It closely resembles human sebum and is good for inflamed skin, eczema, dry skin and acne.
Macadamia Nut Oil Macadamia tetraphylla Easily absorbed into the skin. A luxurious oil that may have anti-oxidant properties, protecting cell membranes from deterioration.
Maracuja Oil Passiflora incanata Most widely known for its sedative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-spasmodic properties. It is super emollient rich in vitamin C, calcium and phosphorus.
Meadowfoam Oil Limnathes alba Moisturizes the skin, provides UV protection, absorbed into skin easily, reduces wrinkles and signs of aging, very stable and adheres well to skin.
Moringa Oil Moringa oleifera Possesses exceptional oxidative stability and is the most stable oil, it is high in oleic acid and similar in composition to olive oil. It is chock full of radiance-boosting fatty acids and vitamins A and C. It has smoothing and de-puffing properties.
Olive Oil Olea europea Attracts external moisture while holding the moisture close to the skin to prevent loss of internal moisture. Olive oil does not block the natural functions of the skin.
Pomegranate Seed Oil Punica granatum Stimulates keratinocyte proliferation, promoting regeneration and strengthening the epidermis. Revitalize dull or mature skin, assist with wrinkles, and to soothe minor skin irritations. Adds moisture, has natural extrogenic properties, anti-oxidants, is anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, improves skin elasticity and protects skin.
Pumpkin Seed Oil Cucurbita Pepo Contains high levels of natural anit-oxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids. one of the most nutritional oils available, and is an excellent source of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and sterols
Rose Hip Seed Oil Rosa canina Natural anti-oxidant properties and is slightly astringent. Helps improve skin elasticity, regenerate skin cells, slow down premature aging, reduce formation of wrinkles and reduce scarring.
Shea Butter Butyrospermum parkii High in anti-oxidants and skin nourishing properties, this butter also provides natural protection from harmful UV rays.
Tamanu Oil Calophyllum inophyllum Hydrating and regenerating, a strong anti-inflammatory and treats eczema.
Vegetable Glycerin Absorbs readily while holding moisture to the skin leaving skin feeling velvety smooth.
Vitamin A Protects the body against harmful pollution. Important vitamin for healthy eyesight and mucous membranes. Ability to build resistance to infections.
Vitamin E Mixed tocopherols An oil soluble and deep moisturizing vitamin with excellent anti-oxidant properties, it acts as a natural preservative and helps prevent rancidity.
Nuts, mineral clays and salts
Almonds Prunus amygdalmus Ground almonds rich in vitamins, minerals and beneficial oils, which are used to cleanse skin.
Baking Soda Sodium bicarbonate Neutralizes acids and exfoliates.
Epsom Salts Magnesium sulfate Used to alleviate muscular aches and is mildly astringent.
Flaxseed Linum usitatissimum High in Omega 3 fatty acids flaxseeds create an emollient gel when water is added used to soothe, nourish and heal the skin. Flaxseed also balances sebum production.
Oats Avena sativum Contains amino acids and trace elements that are highly soothing to Inflamed and Irritated skin. Oats are very gentle as a facial scrub for sensitive skin.
Sea Salt Rich in minerals and aids in healing the skin. Overuse of salt can be very drying, always follow up with an emollient lotion.
Clay Rich in trace elements, this clay draws Impurities from the skin, exfoliates and remineralizes.
Vibrational Essences
By definition vibrational essences work on a mental and emotional level, to encourage the healing process, balance the energy in the body and help strengthen our connection to the energy of the planet and the universe.
Flower essences and usually gem elixirs are prepared in water and preserved with alcohol. Historically, flower water and the morning dew collected from flower petals were thought to be imbued with magical properties. That flower essences and gem elixirs work is indisputable; they do not work in any biochemical way, and because no physical part of the plant or gem remains in the remedy, its properties and actions cannot be detected or analyzed as if it were a drug or herbal preparation. These essences contain an energy or imprint of the plant or gem from which it was made.
When a flower essence or gem elixir is ingested or used as a salve they follow a specific path through the physical and subtle bodies. They initially are assimilated into the circulatory system and the nervous system. Then it enters the cellular level and imbalanced areas of the physical body. This entire process takes place instantaneously but usually takes awhile to experience the results.
Other Skin Friendly Nutrients
Fiber Promotes healthy hormone balance—fruit, veggies, whole grains and brown rice.
Fats 1. Boosts immunity; 2. Helps prevents dry skin, rashes and skin cancer; 3. Promotes skin elasticity and strength by helping build collagen and elastin; 4. Fosters production of specialized fats in muscles and arteries
Monounsaturated fats – olives, avocados, nuts, sesame seeds; Polyunsaturated fats—veggies, seeds, nuts, whole grains, poultry, oily fish
Essential Polyunsaturated fats: Linoleic acid—avocados, beans, corn, seeds, safflower, whole grains; Alpha-linoleic acid—green leafy veggies, broccoli, beans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, whole grains, sweet potatoes
Calcium/Magnesium Together with magnesium nourishes nerves, muscles, blood vessels, promoting healthy skin and strong muscles—salmon, shellfish, dairy, eggs, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, seeds, whole grains, green leafy veggies. (Magnesium—also meat, fish, mushrooms)
Selenium Helps prevent free radicals causing skin to age prematurely—meat, fish, dairy, egg yolk, green leafy veggies, mushrooms, garlic, beans, peas, whole grains
Silicon Aids collagen formation, lessening chance of having sagging and wrinkled skin—whole grains, beans
Sulphur Promotes production of keratin and collagen—meat, fish, dairy, garlic, onions, beans, peas, whole grains
Zinc Reduces free-radical formation, helps prevent damage to circulation and skin cells—red meat, shellfish, liver, dairy, root veggies, small amount in beans, peas, nuts, seeds, whole grains, veggies and fruit
Vitamin A and Beta Carotene Promotes supple, firm unlined skin by retaining moisture and promoting collagen and elastin production—fish, dairy, eggs, many fruits and veggies, especially orange and red ones
Vitamin B and Folic Acid Vital for healthy nerves, blood vessels and muscles 52 and B6 help skin retain moisture, B 12 encourages skin cell renewal—meat, fish, dairy, eggs, beans, peas, nuts, seed, whole grains, fruit and veggies especially green leafy and mushrooms
Vitamin C Renewing protecting and healing effects on skin, helps counteract free-radical damage, improves skin resilience and strength, helps with scar repair by stimulating collagen formation and reduces inflammation—fruit, especially citrus, kiwi and veggies
Vitamin D Helps absorb and use calcium and magnesium—sunlight on the skin, butter, cheese, dairy, eggs, oily fish
Vitamin E Prolongs cell life and improves skin quality by destroying free radicals, helps protect against sun damage, encourages skin to retain moisture, reduces scar formation—meat, fish, dairy, eggs, green leafy veggies, beans, peas, nuts seeds, whole grains
Flavanoids Helps foster a healthy blood supply to the skin, strengthens tiny blood vessels and works with vitamin C—all colored fruits and veggies
Other Plant Pigments Can act as powerful anti-oxidants against free radicals—brightly colored plants, blue, purple, red, black berries, cherries, black grape skins
Plant Hormones Helps prevent premature lines and wrinkles—bean sprouts, fennel celery, parsley, beans, peas, lentils, chick peas, whole grains, seeds, potatoes, carrots, beet root, cabbage, garlic, sage, beer, cherries, plums, rhubarb, chives and many other fruits and veggies
Sprouting Rich in plant hormones, beta carotene, vitamin’s B, C and E, enzymes, minerals—calcium, iron, silicon, zinc—Soak a tablespoon of seeds In water overnight, drain, rinse and drain twice daily until they form sprouts the size you want.
Boosting your inner beauty
Reducing stress
- Get moving and get outdoors
- Take a break to get a change of scenery
- Take a breath—slow deep breathes for 2 minutes every hour
- Restore your inner person—a cup of coffee or tea ca be comforting and a carbo based snack to boost serotonin
- Prioritize and delegate
- Laugh
- Stretch
- Take a scented bath
- If you are an adult—have sex
- Think or do something that makes you happy
Reducing stress for a lifetime
- Create a balanced life
- Exercise
- Eat foods high in nutrients
- Breath deeply
- Listen and be listened to
- Put your own feelings temporarily aside
- Identify others’ main emotions
- Let them know you have attempted to do this by giving feedback
- Listen to yourself
- Let your mind clear and take note of emotions you are having
- Give a name to your main emotions
- Now feel what your emotions want you to know
- This technique helps unorganized emotions form overwhelming you and prevents them from taking over consciousness, therefore giving you more control over your life
Play the stranger in the mirror
- Close eyes and take a deep breath
- Open eyes quickly and pretend to look at a stranger
- Give your image a compliment—be quick and instinctual
Begin and end your day with quiet time
- Upon waking, write down your dreams
- Step out of bed an stretch, standing tall opening the back and chest
- While showering or dressing, set your intention for the day and as you apply your skin care products imagine you are caressing this intention directly into your body.
- When ending your day, take time to reflect on all that was good
- Take a cleansing shower or relaxing bath to wash away the energy of the day—to begin anew
Do what makes you happy
- List 10 things you love doing, these might include: taking a relaxing bath, reading, dancing listening to music, spending time with family, seeing a friend, painting, walking or anything else your heart desires.
- Now create 4 columns and label them: every day, once a week, once a month, once a year
- Check off how often you do each of the things on your list
- Review your list—does the structure of your life need changing to incorporate what makes you happy?
Utilizing your life story
- Life has it’s ups and downs and sometimes life can seem to be more down than up. If this is the case you may have difficult feelings welled up inside. If this is so, making a graph of your life story could help bring things out in the open.
- First, make a horizontal axis to represent your age starting with birth or before
- Second, record along the horizontal axis major life events
- Third, make the vertical axis to represent your emotional well being, mark somewhere on the axis a value for each life event
- Fourth, join the marks to make a lifeline that represents the ebb and flow of your emotional health
- Finally, share this with your partner, close friend or counselor
- This process can be an eye opener—it always helps to see something as intangible as emotions in a tangible format
Note: The above ideas are not intended to replace or substitute the proper treatment of clinical depression. Pleas consult your physician for treatment.