Health and Wellness For Your Family

Healthy Recipe of the Month - Grilled Eggplant and Mozzarella Rolls

2006-12-08T13:04:00.000-05:00

Each month going forward Health and Wellness for Family will have a health recipe of the month. For December, we have a recipe for Grilled Eggplant and Mozzarella Rolls. Grilled Eggplant and Mozzarella Rolls 1 large eggplant 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 mozzarella cheese ball, cut into 8 slices 2 plum tomatoes, each cut into 4 slices 8 large basil leaves Salt and black pepper Balsamic vinegar for drizzling (optional) Cut the eggplant lengthways to make 10 thin slices, discard the two outermost slices. Sprinkle the slices with salt and leave for 20 minutes. Rise and pat dry with paper towels. This process helps get rid of the bitter taste. Place the eggplant slices on a non stick baking try and brush with olive oil. Place under a hot grill for approximately 10 minutes or until golden and tender. Turn once halfway through grilling. Remove the eggplant slices from grill but leave in baking tray. Place one slice of mozzarella, tomato and basil leaf in the center of each eggplant slice. Fold each end of the eggplant slice over towards the middle. Grill the slices seam side down for approximately 2 minutes or until heated through and mozzarella begins to melt. Drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar if using and serve. Enjoy! * Low GI, Sommersize Plan, Atkins

Technorati Tags:Health Recipes, Diet, Nutrition, Recipes, Eggplant, Mozzarella

Great Foods For Your Skin

2006-12-07T21:40:00.000-05:00

Great Skin Foods – Stay Younger and Feel Good Everything you put into your body will be reflected in your skin. If you have a diet high in fat, processed foods and little fruit and vegetables your skin will surely reflect that. In our teens, and 20s we’re able to get away with a lot but once we hit 30 and beyond our skin isn’t so forgiving any longer. Here are a few must have foods to incorporate into your daily diet: Green tea – Not only is this drink loaded with health benefits, it will also help the look of your skin by reducing inflammation and fighting free radicals that cause skin damage. So drink up. Water – You probably already know this one but we need approximately 8 glasses of clear water a day (no sodas, soups or other drinks are included in this quota). For maximum benefits clear water is best. It helps purify your body and eliminates toxins. Selenium – This powerhouse nutrient is found in foods such as turkey, brazil nuts, tuna and whole grain breads. Include at least one of these foods in your daily diet. Fatty Acids – These are found in oils such as walnut and flaxseed. Oily fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel are also rich in essential fatty acids. Dairy – Low fat dairy products are high in Vitamin A which is beneficial to the skin. Low fat yogurt is also good for the digestive system which in turn helps skin health. Fruits and Vegetables – A variety of fruits and vegetables are good for overall healthy skin but there are some foods in particular which are very high in powerful antioxidants and promote good skin health. Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries and blackberries are great for fighting against free radicals which can cause skin cell damage. Vegetables that are brightly colored such as red peppers, yellow peppers and sweet potatoes are also great skin foods. Now that you know what to eat there are some things that should be left out altogether if you want to look young longer: White Flour Foods – White bread, rice, pasta and sugar are less nutritious than the whole grain types and will cause inflammation in the skin which can lead to aging. Try cutting these items from your diet for two weeks and look in the mirror. Your skin should look less inflamed and fine lines will be less apparent. Alcohol – dehydrates the skin and speeds the aging process, try to only have it in moderation. A little red wine may have some health benefits whereas beer does not. Smoking – This will age you, cutback or better yet cut it out altogether. Your skin and lungs will thank you for it. Processed Foods – Processed foods are loaded with sugar and additives, these wreck havoc on the skin and are best left out of your diet altogether. Sodas and other sugary drinks are not only bad for your health but can also rob your skin of essential nutrients. They’re also not good for your waistline and have been known to cause cellulite (even the diet variety). For truly glowing, young skin a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and essential oils is best. Next time you sit down for a meal remember when what good you could be doing for your skin and the bad as well.

Technorati Tags:Keep Skin Healthy, Foods, Healthy

Preventing Childhood Obesity

2006-11-05T17:01:00.000-05:00

Even in our health savvy society, the number of children today who are obese is on the rise. Too many children are dining on fast food and sitting in front of the television for hours watching their favorite shows or playing video games. This opens the door to a lot of problems, including the risk of becoming obese. Obesity can be prevented. Here are a few ways to lower your child’s risk of becoming overweight:

Start early - It’s important that you begin some form of physical activity with your child as early on as possible. It may be going for a walk after dinner or playing on the playground, but the earlier you begin to establish an active lifestyle with your child, the more likely they are to stick with it.
Set a good example - You’ve probably heard the saying, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” The same is true in regards to physical fitness. If you show that you value being healthy and active, chances are that your child will too.
Involve - Get you child involved in regular, physical activity that she enjoys. There is so much variety in the types of physical activities that are available. From organized sports to play groups, there are several options to choose from. Provide your child with plenty of opportunities to find what interests her.
Limit - Put a limit on the number of hours being spent in front of the television. The biggest reason children become inactive is because they spend too many hours watching TV. By setting appropriate limits, your child can cultivate interests in other activities, many of which involve getting off of the couch.
Remember - it’s about nutrition, too! Not only should you provide opportunities for physical activity, but healthy food choices are also important. Again, starting early and setting a good example are critical in developing good eating habits. It’s important to teach your child about the food groups. Also, encourage him to help plan and prepare meals. It can be a great way to get your child involved in learning about having a balanced diet.

Childhood obesity can have far reaching consequences. Fortunately, it’s never too late to help your child establish new habits. With exercise and a balanced diet, children can grow into healthy, productive adults.

Additional Articles on Childhood Obesity:

Childhood Obesity Reducing Children's TV Time

AHA - Overweight in Children

A New Use For Viagra?

2006-11-04T10:10:00.000-05:00

According to an article in the "Healthy Day News" from November 2, 2006 the medication Viagara may have found a new purpose. Viagara may shield at risk newborns with heart defects of a serious lung complication. The researchers found that a dose of Viagra prevented a common life-threatening complication called rebound pulmonary hypertension. As well as significantly reduce the amount of time the babies spent on mechanical ventilation and in the ICU unit. See complete article: Viagra Helps Protect At Risk Newborns Additional Articles regarding the study of Viagra use for Babies with Heart Defects: Viagra Used As Treatments For Babies Lung Disease Viagra For Kids - CBS News

Formaldehyde - Highly Toxic

2006-09-30T12:52:00.000-04:00

The following information was obtained from a Message Board I frequent. Definetly information worth sharing. Formaldehyde is a highly toxic substance. It is a known cancer-causing agent. It damages the neurological connectors in the body. It is an irritant to the eyes, nose, throat and lungs and may cause: Skin reactions, Ear infections, Headaches, Depression, Asthma, Joint pain, Dizziness, Mental confusion, Nausea, Disorientation, Phlebitis, Fatigue, Vomiting, Sleep disturbances, Laryngitis. One in five people are sensitive to formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is commonly found in:

Drugs
Mouthwash
Hairspray
Cosmetics
Cleaning products
Perfumes Waxes
Hair setting lotions
Shampoo
Air fresheners
Fungicides
Fingernail polish
Floor polishes
Dry cleaning solvents
Toothpaste
Laundry spray starch
Antiperspirants
Just to name a few

DO YOU STILL WANT TO USE PRODUCTS IN YOUR HOME THAT CONTAIN FORMALDEHYDE? Due to the increase in toxic buildup in our bodies, including the toxic buildup of formaldehyde, dead bodies are not decomposing as fast as they used to. Bodies now start to decompose within 7 to 10 days after death. During the Vietnam War, Vietnamese bodies started to decompose within 24 to 48 hours. However, Americans didn't start to decompose for 4 to 5 days. Twice as much formaldehyde was needed to embalm a person 20 years ago as compared to now. How many of these names would you have recognized as formaldehyde?

Formalin
Methanal
Methyl Aldehyde
Methylene Oxide
Oxymethylene
Bfv*
Fannoform*
Formol*
Fyde*
Karsan*
Methaldehyde
Formalith*
Methylene Glycol Ivalon*
Oxomethane Formalin 40
Formalin
Formic Aldehyde
Hoch
Paraform
Lysoform*
Morbocid
Trioxane
Polyoxmethylene

*denotes trade name

The following products are just a few that are so toxic that they should be disposed of in a toxic waste dump [Source: Water Pollution Control Federation]:

Floor care products
Furniture polish
Window cleaners
Bug spray
Nail polish remover

Warning labels on containers refer only to toxic hazards from ingestion. However, only 10% of health problems from chemicals are caused by ingestion; 90% are caused by the inhalation of vapors and absorption of particles.

Government regulations require that only the most EXTREMELY toxic substances must contain a warning label. Labels that say the following should be removed from your house immediately:

"Do not induce vomiting"
"Corrosive - rinse from skin immediately"
"Harmful or fatal if swallowed"
"Call physician immediately"
"Warning!" (may mean that as little as 1 teaspoon of product can harm or kill adult) "Danger!" (means that as little as 5 drops can harm or kill an adult)

E. Coli Breakout From Spinach

2006-09-23T19:25:00.000-04:00

Hot in the Health news has been the break out of E. Coli, being caused from Fresh Spinach. As of September 22, 2006 the deaths as a result of this has risen to 171, 42 cases confirmed just in the state of Wisconsin. E Coli is one of hundreds of strains of the bacterium Escherichia coli. Although most strains are harmless and live in the intestines of healthy humans and animals, this strain produces a powerful toxin and can cause severe illness. Escherichia coli O157:H7 is an emerging cause of foodborne illness. An estimated 73,000 cases of infection and 61 deaths occur in the United States each year. Infection often leads to bloody diarrhea, and occasionally to kidney failure. Most illness has been associated with eating undercooked, contaminated ground beef. Person-to-person contact in families and child care centers is also an important mode of transmission. Infection can also occur after drinking raw milk and after swimming in or drinking sewage-contaminated waters. Recent Articles on the Outbreak of E. Coli Due to Spinach: E Coli Investigation Continues, Market Watch - September 22, 2006 Center For Disease Control and Prevention, E Coli Spinach Update - September 23, 2006 US Food & Drug Administration, Spinach E Coli Press Releases Other Bloggers writing on the Spinach E Coli Outbreak: FDA Update of Spinach-Linked E. coli Outbreak Spinach: where's the beef? I think I'll be sticking to frozen spinach for my family!

Dangers Associated With Household Cleaning Products

2006-09-19T22:15:00.000-04:00

Below is a short list of some of the dangers associated with household cleaning products that are found in most homes:

Air Freshener - toxic; may cause cancer; irritates nose, throat, and lungs
All-Purpose Cleaner - causes eye damage; irritates nose, throat, and lungs
Bleach - toxic by swallowing; vapors are harmful; causes central nervous system disorders
Carpet Shampoo - toxic; may cause cancer; causes central nervous system and liver damage
Dishwasher Detergent - toxic; causes eye injuries; damage to mucus membranes and throat
Dishwashing Liquid - harmful of swallowed; irritates the skin
Disinfectant - very toxic; causes skin, throat, and lung burns; causes coma
Drain Cleaner - toxic; causes skin burns, causes liver and kidney damage
Fabric Softener - toxic; may cause cancer; causes central nervous system disorders; causes liver damage
Floor/Furniture Polish - toxic; causes central nervous system disorders; may cause lung cancer
Laundry Detergent - toxic; irritates the skin and lungs
Oven Cleaner - toxic; causes skin, throat and lung burns
Scouring Powder (chlorinated) - toxic; highly irritating to nose, throat and lungs
Spot Remover - toxic; may cause cancer; causes liver damage
Stain Remover - toxic; may cause cancer; vapors can be fatal
Toilet Bowl Cleaner - very toxic, causes skin, nose, throat, and lung burns
Window Cleaner - toxic; causes central nervous system disorders; causes liver and kidney disorders

Scary stuff! Cleaning Products are so toxic that they are only household products regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. It's scary to know that there is no federal law requiring premarket safety testing, making a lot of hazards not revealed until after injury has occurred.

Shocking! Manufacturers of these hazardous products are not required to list exact ingredients on the label.

Remember there is a safer alternative to every product listed...Interested, let me know.

Some information has been quoted from "Let's Stop poisoning Our Children" by Debra Lynn Dadd - a RM Barry Publication...Visit http://www.rmbarry.com for other related articles.

Healthy School Lunches

2006-09-19T21:36:00.000-04:00

The kids are back to school and with that, a thing to think about is sending our children to school with healthy lunches that they will enjoy. I spent some time surfing the internet for healthy lunch ideas for my 1st grader, who is a semi picky eater. This is her first year in school for a full day and I didn't want to have times when she would not eat, to avoid that I needed some fresh ideas on healthy, fun foods I was sure she would eat. Below are two articles that I found helpful and wanted to share them with you. http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/nutrition/lunch.html - Great information on how to talk to your child about chosing wisely when eating at the school cafeteria. http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/family/specialfeature/backtoschool_food_sf/ - First of all I have to say, I love Family Fun Magazine, if you don't have a subscription to this magazine I highly recommend getting one...Back to the article, in this article you will find a lot of great suggestions on items that can make your youngster's lunch fun and healthy! Enjoy reading these articles and have fun being creative with providing your children with healthy meals that they will enjoy.

Tree Tree Oil - A Medicine Cabinet Must Have

2006-08-17T20:54:00.000-04:00

While putting together my order of consumable products we need this month I noticed how quickly we have been going through our Tea Tree Oil over the past few months. I realized how much this little bottle is so valuable to my family. A few things that have made Tea Tree Oil a most to have in our medicine cabinet...

Toothaches - My husband used the Oil on his toothache and was pain free almost immediately!
Ticks - My son was out with his friends and they were taking a short cut home through the woods and guess what....He was full of ticks on his clothing and one had attached to his skin. A few drops of the Tea Tree Oil and the Tick backed right off.
Poison Ivy - My 6 year-old daughter has had several outbreaks of Poison Ivy this summer. The first few times I used other over the counter stuff and she was miserable. Her latest outbreak my husband reminded me to try the Tea Tree Oil and she dried up in a day!
Sinus Headaches - I use to suffer for days with sinus headaches. Not anymore! As soon as I feel one coming on I use the oil under my nostrils and it clears me right up.

I can't remember having one product in our medicine cabinet that relied upon as often as the Tea Tree Oil.

Green Tea - A Miracle In A Cup?

2006-08-11T10:52:00.000-04:00

For 4,000 years, the Chinese have been using green tea as treatment for everything from headaches to depression. Numerous studies have also shown the following:

Green Tea can reduce the risk of esophageal cancer in men and women by 60%.
The presence of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant can not only inhibit the growth of cancer cells but can also destroy them without harming healthy cells
Ability to lower cholesterol levels and improve the ratio between good (HDL) cholesterol and bad (LDL) cholesterol.
Helps to stop blood from forming abnormal clots (thrombosis), a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.
Drinking Green Tea can cause a person to burn more calories while exercising.
Can help prevent food poisoning and tooth decay.

Green tea has more health benefits compared to other teas like oolong and black tea, all of which come from the plant Camellia sinensis. What makes green tea so different? It is the process by which it is made. Green tea owes much of its health benefits to how the Camellia sinensis leaves are steamed. The steam process keeps the EGCG health benefit of green tea from oxidizing. With oolong and black teas, however, the leaves are fermented instead of being steamed, thus causing the EGCG health benefit to transform into another less medicinally potent form. Well known for its countless health benefits, green tea is nothing short of a miracle. Next time when your at the grocery store pick yourself up a package of green tea, it doesn't hurt to give it a try. Personally I feel more energetic in the morning after a mug of it. Prefer cold drinks, plenty of cold teas are offered with green tea in along as several other energy lifting ingredients.

Acupuncture - Medical Alternative To Many Ailments

2006-07-30T15:55:00.000-04:00

The use of acupuncture dates back more than 2,000 years. This is a traditional medicine of Japan, China, and other Eastern countries. The use of acupuncture is beneficial in that it stimulates areas of the body that have a direct correlation to internal organs. By placing fine needles into specific points, the body is encouraged to promote natural healing, improve function, and provide an overall boost to your system. When these needles are inserted, they go into Meridians, which are channels somewhat like streams within the body. Just as there might be a boulder sitting in a stream blocking the flow of water, it can be the same for the channels of blood in your system. Acupuncture helps to remove these obstacles by providing stimulation, thus improving health. If you have any of the following conditions you may want to consider Acupuncture:

Fibromyalgia
Sinuses
Common cold
Acute tonsillitis
Acute bronchitis
Bronchial asthma
Eye Disorders
Toothache
Gingivitis
Tennis elbow
Sciatica
Low back pain
Rheumatoid arthritis
Hiccups
Acute and chronic gastritis
Heartburn
Ulcer
Acute and chronic colitis
Constipation
Diarrhea
Headache/Migraine
Facial paralysis
Bladder dysfunction

Pretty long list and so many more ailments that acupuncture could help. I have heard some positive feedback from those who have recently tried acupuncture. Have any of the above ailments, may be worth giving it a try.

Common Eye Injury From Mascara Wand

2006-07-22T13:16:00.000-04:00

Mascara Users Beware! Browsing the net this morning I found an interesting article that may be of interest to make-up wearers. The most common inury invovling cosmetics are jabs to the eye with a mascara wand. Scratches to the cornea not only hurt; they can also provide an entryway for bacteria, especially if you are using an old mascara. Article on "Injuries Give the Mascara Wand a Black Eye": http://www.nytimes.com/2006/07/20/fashion/20skinside.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

More Testimonies on Healthier, Safer Products For Your Home

2006-07-17T17:40:00.000-04:00

Allergies and Eczema My 2 1/2 year old, twin boys have had allergies and eczema since birth, which required prescription medication and a steroid cream for their skin. First of all, I now know that it was partially caused by all the products I used in our home. By using only three things: MelaPower laundry detergent, Renew lotion, and Provex Plus (since they were 25 lbs), we have seen such a dramatic change in their lives. They have not been back to the dermatologist since we switched products. No more prescription medications for allergies, and no more steroid cream for the skin! Asthma My son is nine months old today. I just got back from his pediatrician's appointment. The last time I was at the doctor's office was for his six months appointment. They sent me home with a nebulizer machine and asthma prescriptions ($38 a week with insurance). This was enough to last me until today's appointment. Today she was sure she was going to up his dosage, because he was diagnosed as severely asthmatic (as is his mommy). She was in for a surprise. Two months ago, I had joined the Stayin Home and Lovin It! Team and became a preferred customer, and had received my Value Pack. I threw out ALL my cleaning products and totally switched to Melaleuca products. I also read about how I could put Sol-u-Mel and Melaleuca Oil in his humidifier when he sleeps and decided to give it a try. Today, after not using the nebulizer machine for almost two full months, I returned it. I saved eight weeks worth of $38 for my son's medication (you do the math.) Also my son's doctor said she needed to decrease his medication dosage since his chest was totally clear.

Low Carb Diets - Review of South Beach Diet

2006-07-12T20:04:00.000-04:00

Summer is a great time to get in shape. Low carb diets seem to be what many dieters are following. For weight lose low carbohydrate dieters restrict their carbohydrate consumption. Carbohydrate consumption has been linked to increased blood insulin levels, and increased insulin is associated with obesity. Food with carbohydrates (sugar, starch and grains) are being replaced with foods that have more protein and fat. I have tried numerous diets myself, I have never been a huge fan of low carb diets until I was introduced to the South Beach Diet. South Beach Diet introduces good carbs and good fat. This diet varies very much from The Atkins Diet, which eliminates all carbs. The diet has three phases. In all phases of the diet, South Beach Diet recommends minimizing consumption of bad fats. In Phase I (which last 2 weeks)dieters attempt to eliminate insulin resistance by avoiding high or moderately high-glycemic carbs, such as sugar, candy, bread, potatoes, fruit, cereals, and grains. During this phase, the body will lose its insulin resistance, and begin to use excess body fat, causing the dieter to lose between 8 and 13 pounds. After two weeks, Phase II begins. Whole grain foods and fruits are gradually returned to the diet, although in smaller amounts than were likely eaten before beginning the diet, and with a continued emphasis on foods with a low glycemic index. When the dieter reaches the desired weight, Phase III begins. In Phase III the diet expands to include three servings of whole grains and three servings of fruit a day. The diet distinguishes between good and bad carbohydrates, and good and bad fats.

Good carbs are high in fiber or high in good fats, and have a low glycemic index, that is, they are digested and absorbed slowly. Other preferred carbohydrates are those with more nutritional value than the alternatives. For instance, brown rice is allowed in moderation, but white rice is discouraged. When eating any carbohydrates, South Beach Diet recommends also eating fiber or fat to slow digestion of the carbohydrates.
Good fats are polyunsaturated and monounsaturated, especially those with omega 3 fatty acids. Saturated and trans fats are bad fats.

My experience with the South Beach Diet was the most successful (I lost 30 lbs. ) and believe me I have tried almost every diet plan and over the count weight lose supplement out there. I think South Beach Diet is the best, because it teaches you how to eat right for the rest of your life, not just a short term diet plan.

South Beach Diet

Health and Wellness Opportunity Half Price

2006-07-05T19:30:00.000-04:00

An update to all those that have been interested in learning how to provide a chemical, toxin free home. During the month of July, all new customers will be able to enroll for half price! I know I have kept this blog mostly informational, however I was so excited about this month's promotion I had to share it for those who may be interested in having a healthier home, starting a Home Business or both...Visit my website and request more information! http://dawnq.stayinhomeandlovinit.com Hope everyone had a happy, healthy 4th of July!!

The Danger of Sun Tanning - Skin Cancer (Melanoma)

2006-06-26T21:24:00.000-04:00

As per Wikipedia definition of Sun Tanning: Sun tanning describes a darkening of the skin (especially of fair-skinned individuals) in a natural physiological response stimulated by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunshine (or a sunbed). See Wikipedia's full description and information on Sun Tanning : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_tanning Many people still are out there, perferring the healthy glow of suntan skin. However, by far is it a healthy thing to do. The number of skin cancer cases has been rising over the years, and experts say this is due to increasing exposure to UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds. More than 1 million new skin cancer cases are likely to be diagnosed in the U.S. this year. Malignant melanoma, now with a suspected link to UVA exposure, is often fatal, if not detected early. The number of cases of melanoma is rising in the U.S., with an estimated 38,300 cases and 7,300 deaths anticipated this year. WOW! Scary facts folks. I am guilty of worshipping the sun and using tanning beds way to often. Being shaken into reality with these statics I recently visited my doctor to review my skin for any signs of skin cancer (melanoma). Here are some signs to watch for: The ABCD&Es of Moles and Melanoma

A= Asymmetry: If you draw a line through this mole, the two halves will not match, meaning it is asymmetrical, a warning sign for melanoma
B= Border: The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven. The edges may be scalloped or notched.
C= Color: Having a variety of colors is another warning signal. A number of different shades of brown, tan or black could appear. A melanoma may also become red, white or blue.
D= Diameter: Melanomas usually are larger in diameter than the size of the eraser on your pencil (1/4 inch or 6 mm), but they may sometimes be smaller when first detected.
E= Evolving: When a mole is evolving, see a doctor. Any change — in size, shape, color, elevation, or another trait, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching or crusting — points to danger

If you spot any of these warning signs, please see a doctor immediately. Even if you don't it doesn't hurt to have a doctor take a check to be sure you have cancer free skin!

Colon Cleansing - Good For You or Not?

2006-06-12T15:06:00.000-04:00

Recently I have began a Colon Cleansing regimen, due to so much recent information on the health benefits of it. A topic I am sure not to many would of wrote on a few years back, however now I have found the internet plastered with articles, blogs, websites, etc. on the topic. Do you suffer from bad breath, bloating, belching, constipation, diarrhea, digestive problems, allergies, fatigue, hair loss, decreased energy, headache, heartburn, gas, indigestion, insomnia, low energy, low sex drive, poor sexual performance, poor memory, protruding gut, reduced resistance to infections, skin problems, weight gain, difficulty losing weight or trimming down your waistline? Well if so, some say that colon cleansing could be needed to help with these ailments. During my research I have found conflicting information. Some truly believe of the benefits from colon cleansing, while others do not. I have decided to go ahead and begin a 30 day cleansing product to see if I truly see any differences. The product I am using has an all-natural formulation of Psyllium Husk, Oat Flower, Rhubarb Root and eleven other herbs. I will keep everyone posted after my 30 days is up and let you know my opinion on if it is a waste a time or not and if I would recommend the product I am using. Have you tried colon cleansing? Do you believe it works? Tried a product that works good? Let's hear about it! Feel free to leave a comment Want to learn more about detoxing with natural products, this book may be of interest to you!

Testimonials on Chemical and Toxin Free Products

2006-06-09T12:34:00.000-04:00

Over the last few months so many of my family and friend's health concerns have alleviated or improved entirely due to Melaleuca's products. Besides having a healthier family, I have found ways to treat stubborn stains, rid of bugs and keep them away, etc. I really do believe in and love these products. The below testimonies can give a little insite why. I enjoy helping others and wanted to share a few stories to show some reasons why I have chose to write on some of the health issues involving Chemical/Toxin free products on my Blog. My own Family's Testimonies:

I have had psoriasis since the birth of my first child (almost 13 years ago). I was able to keep it under control, especially during the summer months. However, I had a patch on my left lower leg that never went away all those years. After 13 years my leg is now completely clear.
Allergies and sinus infections seem to plague my household. This year our stuffed noses and sinus headaches are no longer a problem!
Everyone knows how bad acne can be for teenagers! Well my son was hit with a bad case of it a few months back. It was horrible, I felt so bad for him. He had a lighter attitude about it and said "don't worry it's not just me, almost my whole class has a problem with it"....Well, he is know in with the percentage of kids who are lucky enough to be a teenager with a clear face.

I could really go on an on how our family has benefited, however this post would be incredibly to long. Here are a few more from other folks...

One little baby boy had a horrible case of eczema, all his mom did was change laundry products and use a highly effective lotion to clear it up!
One husband removed tar from his leather automobile seats without leaving behind any toxins in the air or breathing in chemicals!
A little tot was busy at play decorating a coffeetable with his mom's lipstick one afternoon. All mom did was use a little cleaner and a towel and it was gone. Again no chemicals or toxins to breathe in!
On a busy afternoon a rushing mom burnt herself on a hot cooking pan. Thanks again to Mela products, she had instant relief and no mark was left behind!
Very touching...One evening a very concerned mom and dad were running out the door with their 6 year old who was having a very difficult time breathing. The mom took a second to think what she has used to help her breathe at times and decided to try it...Guess what....The child was breathing normally in seconds!

Do you have a Melaleuca Product testimony? Leave a comment, I would love to hear from you!

May is Asthma Awareness Month

2006-05-26T11:30:00.000-04:00

EPA’s Communities in Action for Asthma-Friendly Environments National Forum was held from May 22-23, 2006, in Washington, DC. Check out the EPA Press Release Asthma Awareness Day was May 2, 2006. The following link has some great information of activities that can be done to help assist in asthma awareness. Even though May 2nd has come and gone, it is always something that everyone should be aware of everyday! Asthma Awareness Day

My Lumbar (L5-S1 & L4-L5) Back Problems

2006-05-23T16:19:00.000-04:00

Things have been quiet on my blog the last 2 weeks, due to the pain I have been in from my back. Since I have been writing on health issues thought I would touch base on a health issue I am going through right now. A little over 2 years ago I started having lower back pain that would shoot down my left leg. All attempts to go through physical therapy, seeing a chiropractor, accupuncture, epidural injections, etc. failed. Since nothing was helping I was referred to a Neurosurgeon, we found out that I had a bulging disc at L5-S1. Since the pain was not getting under control with anything that I tried, it was decided that I would have a Laminectomy done. The surgery went well and after recovery I was pain free for 3 short months. One morning I woke with pain worse then before my surgery. Again, I was back at the orthopaedic, physical therapist, chiropractor with no relief and barely able to walk. I was referred to a pain management doctor and underwent several epidural injections, which also bought no relief. The only thing that bought me some what of any relief was very strong pain medication. All hope of getting better was slowly dying. Every visit to the doctor was the same, nothing new but a refill on my prescriptions. This past January I decided to a switch to a pain management doctor who was highly referred, best choice I made during this whole ordeal. I recently underwent my second Discogram (A discogram is a diagnostic procedure to determine if your disc(s) is/are your source of back pain and what discs are causing your pain). The results showed that my L5-S1 and L4-L5 discs are cracked and leaking fluid on my spine. There is a procedure that fixes this problem called Intradiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET). IDET is a minimally invasive treatment for chronic low back pain that results from certain types of painful degenerative disc disease or contained disc herniation. Successful IDET treatment may allow some patients to experience good or excellent pain relief without having to undergo major spinal surgery for disc removal and spinal fusion, or disc replacement. The procedure to me seems similar to having something quaterized. They insert a needle with a small rod that is heated to around 100 degrees and that is suppose to fix the cracks and tears in the disc. Here is my dilemnia, I can only have this procedure done on the L4-L5 disc, because my L5-S1 is sacralized. This means that the disc is somehow fused and there is no room or space between the disc to do the procedure. So that leaves just doing the one disc and praying that will at least relief the pain enough to get off some of the meds and get back to normal. It has also been suggested that I visit a neurosurgeon again and discuss a fusion, however I have already decided this is not an option for me. I have already discussed this and my odds of having a successful fusion are not great. In this procedure, the surgeon works on the spine from the back the posterior) and removes a spinal disc in the lower (lumbar) spine. The surgeon inserts bone graft material into the space between the two vertebrae where the disc as removed (the interbody space). The graft may be held in place with a special fusion cage. The goal of the procedure is to stimulate the vertebrae to grow together into one solid bone (known as a fusion). There has been way to many horror stories told to me about how some people can actually be even worse after the fusion. Doesn't make to much sense to do something that has a recovery period of 6 months and I may have little or no improvement. So for now things are a bit managable with the pain meds, constant ice treatments, a wonderful pain cream that I have found through my Work at Home Business (Paintrate), taking very brief walks and avoiding anything that requires lifting and bending. I need to contact my current doctor to schedule the IDET, once I do I will write an update on how things go. Wish me luck!!

Asthma Rise Linked to Household Chemicals

2006-05-10T21:22:00.000-04:00

When growing up, how many children did you see carrying an inhaler? Probaly not all that many. However, the number of children children with Asthma has tripled since the 1970s. I found some pieces from the below article very interseting: Household Chemicals in Direct Link to Asthma Rise by Nigel Hawkes: Household chemicals, including bleach, disifectant and cleaning fluid have been blamed for the huge surge in childhood asthma in Britain. A study of more than 7,000 children shows that children born into households which use them most are twice as likely to suffer persistent wheezing, often a precursor to asthma. Incidence of the disease has tripled since the 1970s and the total number in the country who suffer is estimated to have reached 1.4 million. The study shows a clear connection between persistent wheezing and use of a range of domestic chemicals, such as bleach, paint stripper, carpet cleaner and air freshener. The use of household cleaning products has soared in the past two decades. The researchers are not claiming that these chemicals cause asthma, but that there is a strong link. The data comes from Bristol University's Children of the 90s project. Major Culprits:

Disinfectant
Bleach
Aerosols
Air Freshener
Window Cleaner
Carpet Cleaner
Paint or Varnish
Pesticide
Paint Stripper
Dry-Cleaning Fluid

Link to the entire article http://www.bris.ac.uk/news/2004/594.

Great information sheet on how to provide a Asthma Friendly Household http://www.asthma.org.au/Portals/0/IS05_Asthma%20Friendly%20Household.pdf#search=

Web MD Article "Household Chemicals Can Cause Asthma": http://www.webmd.com/content/article/93/102213.htm

Grape Seed Extract Health and Preventative Benefits

2006-05-06T22:01:00.000-04:00

Grape seed extract is a naturally occurring plant substance that contains a concentrated source of antioxidant nutrients known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins. These antioxidants can help protect against the effects of internal and external stresses. Scientists have demonstrated that oligomeric proanthocyanidins, more commonly known as OPCs, are more powerful antioxidants than vitamins C, E and beta-carotene. Benefits Of Grape Seed Oil:

Improves Vision Problems
Improves Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
Provides Protection Against Free Radicals
It's Antioxidant Properties are believed to slow the Aging Process
Lessens Risk of Heart Disease and Cancer
Prevent Cataract Formation
May also help to Prevent and Relieve Hemmorhoids
Helps with Severe Blood Clotting
Can Reduce the Toxic Effects associated with Chemotherapeutic Agents

Check out this article by RM Barry with a lot of great links on the subject http://www.rmbarry.com/research/grape_seed_extract.html. These subjects have bought such great knowledge and has helped me in assisting my family in what they need to help in certain health ailments as well as preventive care.

You NEED To Have Your Cholesterol Checked

2006-05-03T13:29:00.000-04:00

Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the body and taken in with food. The body needs cholesterol for functions such as making hormones. When too much cholesterol circulates in the blood, it leads to atherosclerosis and an increased risk of heart disease. Blood cholesterol refers to the cholesterol circulating in the bloodstream; dietary cholesterol is the cholesterol consumed in food. What is LDL cholesterol? Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the major cholesterol carrier in the blood. If too much LDL cholesterol circulates in the blood, it can slowly build up in the walls of the arteries feeding the heart and brain. Together with other substances it can form plaque, a thick, hard deposit that can clog those arteries. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. A clot (thrombus) that forms near this plaque can block the blood flow to part of the heart muscle and cause a heart attack. If a clot blocks the blood flow to part of the brain, a stroke results. A high level of LDL cholesterol (160 and above) reflects an increased risk of heart disease. If you have heart disease, your LDL cholesterol should be less than 100. That's why LDL cholesterol is called "bad" cholesterol. Lower levels of LDL cholesterol reflect a lower risk of heart disease. What is HDL cholesterol? About one-third to one-fourth of blood cholesterol is carried by HDL. Medical experts think HDL tends to carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it's passed from the body. Some experts believe HDL removes excess cholesterol from plaques and thus slows their growth. HDL cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol because a high HDL level seems to protect against heart attack. The opposite is also true: a low HDL level (less than 40 mg/dL in men; less than 50 mg/dL in women) indicates a greater risk. A low HDL cholesterol level also may raise stroke risk. A checklist of questions to ask your doctor about cholesterol as provided by WebMD:

Do I already have atherosclerosis? Am I at risk for a heart attack?
Do I have any other risk factors for heart disease?
Should I see a nutritionist to help me change my diet?
Can I control my cholesterol through lifestyle changes alone?
In my case, which lifestyle changes will be particularly helpful?
Do I need cholesterol-lowering drugs?
What side effects can I expect from such medication?
How low can I realistically expect my cholesterol to go? What should I aim for?
Will it ever be safe for me to stop taking the medication?
How often should I have my cholesterol checked? Should members of my family be tested?

Checklist for Reducing Risk These simple steps can help in reducing bad cholesterol...

Healthy Diet: It is recommended to have at least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables, 6 servings of whole grain products each day. Some foods assist in lowering cholesterol level (nuts, whole grain cereals and oatmeal). It is also recommended to add fat free milk, low fat milk products, fish, beans, skinless poultry and lean meats.
Moderate Exercise: 30 minutes of physical activity (i.e. brisk walk)
Limit alcohol consumption
Do not smoke
Supplement containing Omega-3 fatty acids, Phytosterols, and Bromelain. See research on these ingredients from RM Barry http://www.rmbarry.com/research/heart_health.html

These simple steps, if strictly followed can reduce your LDL cholesterol level, as well as make you just feel all together better! If these steps do not work in lowering your cholesterol, as a last resort you may need to discuss medication options with your doctor.

Our Toxic Homes

2006-04-23T20:45:00.001-04:00

Let's take a look at some very alarming facts:

At the beginning of the twentieth century the cancer incidence rate was about one in fifty. Today in the US, one in three women and one in two men will suffer with cancer sometime during their lives. Cancer is the number 2 killer of adults and the leading cause of death from disease in children. Approx. 8,000 American children will be diagnosed with cancer per year. (American Cancer Society, Cancer Facts & Figures 2004
Central Nervous System disorders like Alzheimer's and Multiple Sclerosis rises annually.
Birth defects are on the rise as well. Over 150,000 babies are born with defects each year for unknown reasons. Another 600,00 babies are miscarried late in pregnancy or stillborn (H. Needleman & P. Landrigan, Raising Children Toxic-Free (Farrar, Strauss, Giroux, 1994)
Asthma was once a very rare disease. Now the condition is extemely common. The asthma rate has tripled in the last twenty years with over 30 million Americans currently afflicted. (American Lung Association, Trends in Astham Morbidity and Moralitiy (April 2004)
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) in adults and children is also rising. In 1993, 4.5 million children took the drug Ritalin so they could sit still long enough to learn. By 1998, 11.4 million children were being drugged with this powerful narcotic. ("Your Children and Ritalin", The Detroit News March 1998)

These statistics show that the overall health of our children is declining. Could these illnesses be related to toxic chemical exposure? More and more scientists are linking these ailments to long-term chemical exposure.

Read the Children's Environmental Health Fact Sheet for some alarming facts/statistics http://www.iceh.org/pdfs/HFP/CEHFactSheet.pdf

Begin by thinking of your home as a toxic waste dump. The average home today contains 62 toxic chemicals - more than a chemistry lab at the turn of the century. More than 72,000 synthetic chemicals have been produced since WW II. Less than 2% of synthetic chemicals have been tested for toxicity, mutagenic and carcinogenic effects, or birth defects. The majority of chemicals have never been tested for long-term effects.

An EPA survey concluded that indoor air was 3 to 70 times more polluted than outdoor air.
Another EPA study stated that the toxic chemicals in household cleaners are 3 times more likely to cause cancer than outdoor air.
CMHC reports that houses today are so energy efficient that "out-gassing" of chemicals has no where to go, so it builds up inside the home.
We spend 90% of our time indoors, and 65% of that time at home. Moms, infants and the elderly spend 90% of their time in the home.
National Cancer Association released results of a 15-year study concluding that women who work in the home are at a 54% higher risk of developing cancer than women who work outside the home.
Cancer rates have almost doubled since 1960.
Cancer is the Number ONE cause of death for children.
There has been a 26% increase in breast cancer since 1982. Breast cancer is the Number ONE killer of women between the ages of 35 and 54. Primary suspects are laundry detergents, household cleaners and pesticides.
There has been a call from the U.S./Canadian Commission to ban bleach in North America. Bleach is being linked to the rising rates of breast cancer in women, reproductive problems in men and learning and behavioral problems in children.
Chemicals get into our body through inhalation, ingestion and absorption. We breathe 10 to 20 thousand liters of air per day. There are more than 3 million poisonings every year. Household cleaners are the Number ONE cause of poisoning of children.
Since 1980, asthma has increased by 600%. The Canadian Lung Association and the Asthma Society of Canada identify common household cleaners and cosmetics as triggers. ADD/ADHD are epidemic in schools today. Behavioral problems have long been linked to exposure to toxic chemicals and molds.
Chemical and environmental sensitivities are known to cause all types of headaches. Labeling laws do not protect the consumer - they protect big business. The New York Poison Control Center reports that 85% of product warning labels were either inadequate or incorrect for identifying a poison, and for first aid instructions. Formaldehyde, phenol, benzene, toluene, xylene are found in common household cleaners, cosmetics, beverages, fabrics and cigarette smoke. These chemicals are cancer causing and toxic to the immune system.
Chemicals are attracted to, and stored in fatty tissue. The brain is a prime target for these destructive organics because of its high fat content and very rich blood supply. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has found more than 2500 chemicals in cosmetics that are toxic, cause tumors, reproductive complications, biological mutations and skin and eye irritations.
Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, circulatory disorders, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, and hormonal problems are diseases commonly related to chemical exposure.
Pesticides only have to include active ingredients on the labels, even though the inert (inactive) ingredients may account for 99%, many of which are toxic and poisons.

Follow the link for an interactive education tour to learn about the dangerous chemicals around your house http://www.epa.gov/kidshometour/.

These facts were definetly eye openers to me. Education on the toxins and chemicals found in everyone's home is so important. Of course we aren't told these alarming facts by manufactures, without taking the initiative on our own to learn the facts, we are blind to the dangers that are in our houselholds. Another great site to continue your education on Household Toxins and the affect on our Children http://www.rmbarry.com/research/toxics_children.html.

Rest assured there is a healthier, safer alternative to each and every dangerous household product!

ADHD: Medication or Not?

2006-04-23T19:15:00.000-04:00

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a topic that hits close to home for our family. My 12 year-old son was diagnosed with ADHD when he was 6 years old and in the first grade. During his elementary school years it was a big struggle dealing with his ADHD symptoms for him and the entire family. Over the years we have tried many approaches to assist in alleviating his symptoms. Whereas this is a topic that may produce many post from me and the different aspects of dealing with an ADHD child. This entry focuses more on the the methods used to treat ADHD symptoms. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric diagnosis that has such symptoms as hyperactivity, forgetfulness, mood shifts, poor impulse control and having the tendency to be easily distracted. ADHD affects 3 to 5 percent of all school-age children or at least one student in every classroom in the United States. ADHD symptoms continue into adulthood for more than 60 percent of children with the condition. I have spent countless hours researching, talking to other parents of ADHD Children, attending Support Group Meetings to help us better understand the condition and how to help my son in dealing with his condition. Some Alarming Facts/Side Affects on Medication Subscribed For ADHD:

Lose of Appetite
Difficult Time Sleeping
The National Institutes of Health most recent report, Early Ritalin Exposure May Cause Long-Term Effects on the Brain (December 2004), suggests that a misdiagnosis of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) combined with prescription drug use in children may lead to a higher risk of developing depressive symptoms in adulthood.
Warning Urged for ADHD Drugs (Feb. 10, 2006)An FDA panel cites heart risks in its advisory on Ritalin and similar medications."This is out-of-control use of drugs that have profound cardiovascular consequences," said Dr. Steven Nissen, a cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic and member of the panel. "We have got a potential public health crisis. I think patients and families need to be made aware of these concerns." (L.A. Times)
According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, on Ritalin, Pharmacologically, it works on the neurotransmitter dopamine, and in that respect resembles the stimulant characteristics of cocaine. Ritalin, like cocaine and the street drug, crystal meth (methamphetamine), are classified as Schedule II substances by the federal government, Controlled Substances Act, which defines the second most highly controlled chemicals.
Strattera, a popular ADD / ADHD medication (non stimulant medication, will carry a "black box" warning for two problems: 1. the drug might increase suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents 2. the drug could cause liver problems in a small percentage of patients

Non Medication Approaches

Behavior Modification (award systems, charts of progress/set backs)
Individual Therapy & Family Therapy
Changes to Diet: Several Diets have been established such as Feingold's Diet, which focuses on eliminating artificial sweetener, artificial coloring and artificial preservatives (http://www.feingold.org/ for further information). Diets such as Feingold's are controversial and not all feel they make a difference in ADHD symptoms.
Vitamins are essential for every child, however they are especially important for ADHD children. A well-balanced diet rich in micronutrients is essential for normal brain development, particular in young children. In fact, many children with nutrient deficiencies have significant cognitive and behavioral problems. These conditions, however, are extremely rare in children living in countries like the United States. Nevertheless, children with ADHD tend to have irregular eating habits and are therefore at slightly increased risk for becoming mildly deficient in certain nutrients
Relaxation and massage techniques have been shown to reduce anxiety and activity levels in children and adolescents with a variety of psychiatric illnesses. In one study of 28 teenage boys with ADHD, those who received 15 minutes of massage for 10 consecutive school days demonstrated significant improvement in behavior and concentration compared to those who were guided in progressive muscle relaxation for the same duration of time.
Decrease Stimulation and Increase Structure: Very Important!!
Limiting the exposure to environmentalmental chemicals in the home. Accoring Dr. Rhonda Rapp's book titled "Is This Your Child", she believes that many children are being misdiagnosed and are actually suffering from acute allergic reactions to environmental chemicals found in the home.

There are so many items that can be added to both list I could go on for another few pages, however these are the ones that stuck out to me as I was doing research.

With the number of various suggestions on treating ADHD and how the affects vary from to child, it makes me wonder how many children are misdiagnosed (diffiently another entry coming soon on ADHD and The Number of Children Misdiagnosed). How could one method of treatment work so well for some and not for others? Unless, perhaps we are treating a variety of different ailments? Thought to ponder! Below are a few things we tried to help in treating our son's ADHD (keep in mind these are our individual results and what may have worked for us may not work for everyone and perhaps a negative result we received could be positive for another individual).

Medication: Adderall - This drug was initially prescribed once we found out the diagnosis, did some research and discussed our options with the doctor. School days and homework increasingly improved. I do suggest to any parent to do tons of research and get second opinions prior to starting your child on any medications. Our doctor recommended Adderall due to its mildness compared to Ritalin and the side effects were minimal. The two biggest things I noticed was his lose of appetite and he was unable to sleep if second dose was taken to late in the day. Since we have started him on this medicine it seems like the risks increased and the long term effects are unknown. We are currently working on different non-drug approaches that makes sense to us, in hopes that we can have him off the meds before next school year. Concerta: This medication was started to only have to take one dosage a day since it was extended release. After one full day of taking this medicine my son was very paranoid and scared very easy. Of course we immediately stopped this medication and went back to the Adderall. Adderall came out with their own extended release capsule.
Individual/Family Therapy - The key is to finding someone who is a good fit for your child and sometimes this may take a few therapists before that person is found.
Dietary Changes - We had experimented with changing his diet, this did not seem to have much impact. We do generally as a rule stay away from foods with artificial preservatives.
MultiVitamin - I mention this one, because we had a period of time where it was difficult to find a Vitamin he would be willing to take. Once we did I noticed a huge difference.
Eliminating Environmental Chemicals from our household - This bought many other health benefits in addition. Since my son is now almost a teenager and his personal care items have increased. It was very important to me that he was using chemical free products (i.e. deodorant, styling gel, etc.). Since our household has been rid of harmful chemicals I noticed his concentration levels in the evening have increased, they were always poor from coming down off the medicine. Recently we had weekends were medicine wasn't taken at all.

Hopefully with the combination of everything we have been doing and the fact that he is getting older and able to coop a little better, he will have a medicine free summer. We have tried brief trails off the medicine and unfortunately they did not go well. Those days were complete disasters for him, his concentration levels were extremely low and impulsive behaviour severly increased. Now that it has been a while since we tried an extended period without the meds and we continue to do non-drug approaches to reduce his symptoms, I think this time will be more successful. I will keep everyone posted on how it goes.

Links I have found helpful:

Tips on Improving Your Child's Behaviour http://www.addsolutions.com/improve_behavior.html

Stress and ADHD http://www.addsolutions.com/stress.html

Lot of Great Info here, tons of links at the bottom of the page http://www.helpguide.org/mental/adhd_add_parenting_strategies.htm

CHADD, Find a local chapter. CHADD provides for support groups for families with ADHD children http://www.chadd.org/findchap.cfm?cat_id=7&subcat_id=36

National Institute of Mental Health - ADHD http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/adhd.cfm

Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Oil) Health Benefits

2006-04-22T22:00:00.000-04:00

Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Oil) is often referred to as the "wonder from down under" . The oil comes from the Melaleuca Tree which is native to Australia. The oil is extracted from the tree’s leaves by a special distillation process. With increasing world demand, tea trees are now also grown on plantations. Much research has gone into the many benefits of this wonder oil. One patricular group has done various research studies on Tea Tree Oil http://www.meddent.uwa.edu.au/teatree/ . Also, another company with great information on Tea Tree Oil and related articles http://ww.rmbarry.com/research/tea_tree_oil.html. Below listed are some of the many known benefits for certain conditions/ailments.

Acne
Athlete's foot
Minor injuries
Vaginitis
Thrush
As an antiseptic
Boils
Lice
Psoriasis
Yeast infection
Cold/Congestion Relieve
Sore Throat Relief
Alleviate Flu Symptoms
Dental Care/Gingivitis

My family has benefited from Melalueca Oil in so many ways (i.e. cleaned up teenage son's acne condition, reliefed sinus congestion/headaches, aided in healing cuts/infections). It is great to know to successfully treating skin infections, whether they are bacterial, fungal, or viral, and other conditions mentioned doesn't necessarily mean you have to take strong pharmaceutical medication with potentially dangerous side effects.

Tea Tree Oil isn't just for human use. Pets have know to benefit from it as well. If you own a dog, cat or horse, Tea Tree Oil has also been shown to be effective in healing rashes, cuts and itches and repelling insects such as horse flies and fleas. Regularly bathing your animal with the oil may be a preventative measure in avoiding insect infestation.

Want to learn more about products which contain Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Oil) visit my Stayin Home and Lovin It! Website http://dawnq.stayinhomeandlovinit.com/ or e-mail me mailto:dmquagliato@hotmail.com for more specific product information.