Go Natural for Stonger Nails

Avoid products that can damage or dry out your fingernails, such as formaldehyde-containing polishes and acetone-filled removers. We carry water-based nail polish in many beautiful colors and other great natural nail products to protect your nails.

Thin Hair or Hair Loss? Try GLA...

If you've ruled out other causes of hair loss, such as stress, overuse of hair-care products, and certain medications and diseases such as hypothyroidism, consider supplementing with evening primrose oil. It's a good source of gamma-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid that's needed for hair growth and is hard to get from your diet. Experts recommend taking 500 milligrams twice a day; expect to wait eight weeks to see results. We have Buy One, Gent One Free on American Health Evening Primrose

Arm Yourself with Arnica

Homeopathic creams, gels, and ointments that contain arnica, a flower similar to the daisy, have long been used to relieve swelling and bruising. Rub into the affected area, but stop using if you develop skin irritation. Arnica has been proven to help for the temporary relief of minor musle or joint ache and pain; strains, sprains, bruises, backache or over-exertion.

Try Triphala

Avoid constipation and stay regular with Triphala, an Ayurvedic blend of three fruits that is believed to help tone the gastrointestinal tract. Look for capsules of Triphala and follow package directions.

Invest in a Neti Pot

Plagued with sinus problems and/or allergies? Rinse your nasal passages twice a day to flush out pollen and other irritants. Put saline solution (a 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1 cup warm water) in a plastic squirt bottle or a nasal irrigator, a spouted container that allows you to pour water directly into your nose. The solution should fill your nasal cavity and spill out the other nostril. Gently blow your nose afterward. Many customers report clear sinuses for the first time in their lives after using the Neti Pot... great for children too since it is all natural!

Echinacea for Colds

If you feel a cold coming on, consider reaching for this age-old remedy. A 2007 meta-analysis showed that the herb can reduce cold symptoms. Aim for three grams daily of Echinacea in tincture or capsule form, starting at the first sign of symptoms.

Try Tea Tree Oil

For athlete's foot and other skin ailments that occur during dry, winter weather, reach for tea tree oil, an extract of the leaves of an Australian tree. Tea tree oil has been used to treat mouth ulcers and abscesses, conjunctivitis, acne, psoriasis, dandruff, thrush, cuts and abrasions. It is also said to ease the pain of burns and hemorrhoids and help rid the hair and body of lice and ticks.

It appears to have antiseptic properties and may work as well as or better than over-the-counter antifungal products. Apply a light coating of the oil to affected areas two to three times a day; continue for a week or two after symptoms disappear.

Ease Holiday Stress With Lavender

To ease stress and prepare for bed, soak in a hot bath spiked with a few drops of lavender essential oil. Play soothing music while you bathe to unwind further.

Benefit From Bilberry

Studies have found that bilberry, a relative of the blueberry, may improve night vision. During World War II, fighter pilots reported better night vision after eating bilberry jam. Take 25 to 50 milligrams of bilberry extract; expect best results within the first few hours.

Probiotics Are Your Friends

To keep yeast infections at bay, head for the vitamin aisle. Supplementing with "friendly" bacteria (for example, Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium) may help restore the balance the of bacteria living in the female genital tract and inhibit the growth of yeast in women with recurrent infections. Foods such as naturally fermented sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir, as well as yogurt with active cultures, also contain these bacteria. Can't swallow pills? Don't worry, we have you covered with a whole line of chewables including chewable probiotics

Natural Allertness & Memory Help

According to some research, catching a whiff of this aromatic herb may increase alertness and improve memory. To stay sharp, try smelling fresh rosemary or inhaling the scent of rosemary essential oil before a test or meeting.

Make a Difference This Holiday Season

Did you Know?
When women and girls earn income, they reinvest 90 percent of it into their families.Women are the primary decision-makers on matters of their children. If a woman is educated to the fifth-grade level, she will have more income to bring her children to doctors and will teach them basic health skills and disease prevention, and she is considerably more likely to insist her own children receive education, too.

Watch the video and then take action - you can't help but be moved:

http://www.girleffect.org/

Herbal Remedies for Better Health

For varicose veins, try horse chestnut, an herbal extract that's been shown in studies to strengthen veins and reduce swelling.

Tame tension headaches by rubbing peppermint oil, Tiger Balm, or white flower oil into your temples. All three remedies contain menthol, which has analgesic properties.

The volatile oils in ginger have long made it a useful herbal remedy for nasal and chest congestion. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over a 1-inch piece of peeled, grated ginger; steep for 10 minutes; and strain. Add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper to the water and drink as needed.

Natural Cough Relief

When you find yourself hacking, try natural remedies first, says Dr. Andrew Weil. Loosen phlegm and make coughs more productive by adding crushed eucalyptus or sage leaves to a pot of boiling water, carefully tenting a towel over your head, and breathing in deeply. Certain herbs may also help calm a cough; other favorites include mullein leaf, licorice root, and marshmallow root. Look for teas containing one or more of these herbs, and sip a few cups throughout the day.

Even Martha Stewart Loves Simply Organic!

Martha Stewart uses Simply Organic Peppermint Extract for her holiday recipes and so should you! A powerhouse in the world of herbal teas, peppermint partners well with a wide variety of other herbs (raspberry, rosehips, lemongrass, ginger—you name it) for tea blends. Delicious hot or iced, it has an uncanny ability to both refresh and calm.

Watch the Martha Stewart video here

Stress Free Thanksgiving

Life this time of year can feel like a marathon of family gatherings, shopping, and general overdoing. Instead of relying on vast amounts of caffeine to keep up the pace, try a homemade herbal chai to build your body's reserves.

This energy-enhancing blend stars eleuthero (also known as Siberian ginseng), which helps the body adapt to stress; burdock to gently detox the liver; and licorice to balance the adrenal system (omit if you have high blood pressure). Ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom warm your body and add a spicy-sweet flavor. Drink three to four cups daily for best effects.

Stamina Tea - Makes 1 quart

• 3 teaspoons dried eleuthero
• 2 teaspoons dried burdock root
• 2 teaspoons dried licorice root
• 1 teaspoon dried (or 2 teaspoons fresh chopped) ginger
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon chips (or 1 cinnamon stick)
• 1 teaspoon cardamom pods

Simmer herbs in 1 quart of water for 20 minutes. Strain and discard herbs. Pour a cup, adding milk and honey to taste if desired. Keep remaining tea in a jar or thermos. Tea will keep for two days in refrigerator.

Natural Relief From Pain

For mild headaches, consider Tiger Balm, says Andrew Weil, M.D., author of the upcoming "Why Our Health Matters." This Chinese ointment contains menthol, which creates a warm, tingling feeling that eases pain when rubbed into your neck or temples.

Massaging a few drops of lavender essential oil onto your temples may also help for headaches triggered by stress, says herbalist Deb Soule, author of "A Woman's Book of Herbs." Indeed, past research has shown that lavender can promote relaxation. Or try plant remedies with a long history of traditional use and supporting scientific evidence: "Willow bark and meadowsweet both have anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve headaches," Soule explains.

Take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of tincture as needed at the first sign of symptoms. For arthritis pain, turn to turmeric, boswellia, or fish oil, which all show promise in recent research; talk to a health-care practitioner about the best form and dosage.

Cold Cures - Natural Relief

Take a dropperful of echinacea tincture in water four times a day at the first sign of symptoms, until they subside. Some studies have shown it can shorten colds; everyone is different though so try it for yourself to see if it works for you. Additionally elderberry syrup, which research suggests can fight flu, may also ease symptoms of a common cold. Take according to directions until a few days after symptoms have disappeared.

You also might try a neti pot, an Aladdin's lamp-shaped vessel that you fill with warm salt water and use to irrigate congested nasal passages. A small study showed that this practice can help decrease the symptoms associated with chronic sinus infections. Many customers have had great relief from chronic sinus infections AND their allergies from using their Neti Pot with regular use.

Ditch the White Foods to Keep Your Mind Sharp

White sugar, flour, and other refined carbohydrates are absorbed quickly as sugar into the bloodstream and can cause a spike in insulin levels. This promotes inflammation, which in turn has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. Keep blood sugar stable by choosing slower-burning carbohydrates like whole grains. If whole grains are hard to swallow, then start with good for you energy bars loaded with whole grain goodness.

Hit the Sack to Keep Your Mind Sharp

Getting enough shut-eye doesn't just boost your energy -- it may increase brainpower as well. Research shows that a good night's sleep helps improve memory. In one recent study published in Nature Neuroscience, researchers found that sufficient sleep is also necessary to help retain episodic memory -- your ability to remember times, places, and events. Although sleep needs vary, most of us require about eight hours a night.

Immunity Boost With Yoga

With the chilly weather invariably comes cold and flu season. But before you stock up on Kleenex and cough drops, consider a preventive approach that strengthens your defenses with yoga.

Its twists, backbends, and inversions stimulate your main immunity components -- the adrenal glands and lymphatic system -- helping them perform better, says Jeff Migdow, M.D., a holistic physician and yoga expert. Yoga's deep breathing also helps calm the nervous system, which "tells the immune system when to fight off a threat and when it can rest," he says. "When you're tense, those signals become garbled."

Spice Things Up to Keep Your Mind Sharp

Turmeric does more than add flavor to curry dishes. Curcumin, one of the compounds in this spice, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some early research has linked it to a lower risk of cognitive decline. Preliminary animal studies suggest it may help prevent Alzheimer's disease, a condition that's rarer in India, where curry is a staple. Add turmeric to food regularly or mix 1/2 teaspoon with hot water and sip as a tea.

Sip Smarter To Keep Your Mind Sharp

Slurping down too many sugary drinks could raise your risk for Alzheimer's disease, according to recent research. After 25 weeks with free access to sugar water, mice displayed memory-retention problems and an increase in brain plaques associated with Alzheimer's development. Researchers aren't sure if the bump in sugar intake caused the increased mental impairment. But past research has indicated that inflammation and insulin resistance (both linked to excess sugar intake) could lead to Alzheimer's. Limit soda and other sugary treats, advises Morris, and feed your brain omega-3-rich fish and antioxidant-packed fruits and vegetables, which show promise in protecting the brain from age-related damage.

Save Money & Preserve Quality by Making Your Own Supplements

Soon Cap-M-Quik supplement supplies will require two forms of identification, registration with the DEA, and a signature- Order NOW while legacy inventory is still available! Do it yourself! Save money! Make 50 capsules in just minutes!!! With Cap-M-Quik it's easy to turn powders into easy to swallow capsules. Fill your capsules with any powdered herbs, food supplements, vitamins, oils, or your own custom formulas. This is an economical and convenient way to take strong tasting herbs and avoid table binders and fillers which are commonly added to store-bought herbs. HURRY while supplies last...

Check Your Iron: Keep Your Mind Sharp

Taking iron supplements could increase brain power for iron-deficient women, according to a 2007 study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Results showed that after 16 weeks of treatment for iron deficiency, participants performed five to seven times better on cognitive tasks.
Low iron -- the most common nutritional deficiency in the United States -- typically triggers symptoms such as fatigue and a decrease in work performance. But overloading on iron can lead to organ damage, cautions Martha Clare Morris, director of the Rush Center on Nutrition and Aging, so it's crucial to supplement only under the supervision of a doctor.

Stock Up On Your Holiday Spices Today!

Since the holidays are coming up, here are a few ideas that might help your spice sales—and help you keep up on your stock of popular spices. Don't forget these popular spices and food items to make your holidays deliciously-festive:

• Pie Crusts: Apple Pie Spice, Pumpkin Pie
• Spice, Cinnamon, Vanilla Extract
• Turkey: Poultry Seasoning, Sage,
• Simply Organic Gravy Mixes
• Ham: Whole Cloves
• Egg Nog: Nutmeg
• Apple Cider: Cinnamon Sticks, Star Anise
• Flour: Ginger, Cinnamon, Vanilla
• Sugar: Vanilla Extract
• Squash: Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ground Cloves
• Cider/Wine: Simply Organic Mulling Spice

Banish Bad Vibes

People prone to negative emotions and stress may be 40 percent more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment, according to a study in Neurology. Study authors hypothesize that a lifetime of stress could adversely affect an area of the brain responsible for regulating memory.

To stop stress from wreaking havoc on your brain, Nussbaum recommends devoting 30 minutes a day to calming activities, such as reading. Or, at a minimum, aim for 10 to 15 minutes of meditation. Aromatherapy, in addition to meditation, can result in increased calming and relaxation. Try both for maximum results and increased energy.

Be a Social Butterfly - it's Good For You!

Staying social could shield your brain from the effects of aging, shows a study from the Harvard School of Public Health. Among a group of 16,638 older adults, the least socially active participants showed twice the rate of memory decline compared with the most gregarious folks. So if you're already social - good job; if not, take dance lessons are start traveling to new places and you will meet new friends.

Traveling this Winter?

Germs can spread rapidly in the recycled air of airplanes, so protect yourself accordingly and take precautions to beef up your immune system starting about 3 days prior to any air travel. I am a BIG fan of Emergen-C since Vitamin C is a great immune booster. Emergen-C also comes in easy to carry packets that you can also take with you on the plane and in your luggage to guard yourself while you are away and for the return flight home as well. In addition to taking your vitamins (Zinc and Echinacea are good immune boosters as well), drink lots of water and do all the right things in terms of nutrition and exercise before taking a trip, to maximize your immune functions.

Aura Cacia Wins Natural Health Beauty Award!

Just in time for Fair Trade month, Aura Cacia® received some great news from Natural Health Magazine. This year over 2,000 readers participated in the voting process!

The winner for the “Body Scrub” category is Aura Cacia® Fair Trade Certified™ Nourishing Body Polish. Available in Ginger/ Mint (item #188101), Lavender (item #188102) and
Patchouli/Sweet Orange (item #188103). The winners were honored at an award ceremony on September 15th in New York City and will be featured in the October 2009 issue of Natural
Health Magazine.

Soothers for Post Summer Relief (cont.)

Itch-Relief Bath
Take this soothing bath when bug bites, heat rash, or other itch instigators are getting the best of you.
1/4 cup lavender flowers
1/2 cup oatmeal
1/2 cup cornstarch

Combine all ingredients and tie into a muslin bag. Place in the tub while filling with warm water. ( e cornstarch will dissolve into the water.) Use the bag to wash with; don’t use soap, and don’t rinse off . Other itch-soothing herbs (especially good for a poultice for skin that’s been irritated by poison oak or ivy or other plants) include: catnip, chickweed, comfrey, goldenseal, lemon balm, marshmallow root, mugwort

Summer Skin and Hair Soothers

Summer’s fun in the sun—and wind and water—can take a toll on your skin and hair. If you’re feeling parched, itchy, or just plain droopy after summer fun, herbs can help nourish, relieve, soothe and refresh!

Hair-Raising Oil Pack
It takes a week to steep the herbs for this renewing treatment, so you may want to start a new batch as soon as you use up the old. Feel free to substitute other hair-nourishing oils for the olive oil. Coconut, almond, sesame, and jojoba are also good choices.
1 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon rosemary leaf (for dark hair) or chamomile fowers (for light hair)
1 tablespoon nettle leaf
1 tablespoon sage leaf
1 egg yolk, beaten

Place the oil and the herbs in a glass jar and cover. Let the jar stand, preferably in the sun, for about a week. Strain. When ready to use, mix in the beaten egg yolk. Apply the oil to dry hair, massaging into the scalp and along all of the hair strands. Wrap your head in a warm, wet towel. Leave on for an hour or more. Shampoo well and rinse with half cider vinegar/half water rinse solution.

Stay tuned for more great Soothers for Post Summer Relief....

Celiac Disease & Fair Trade Month

October is both Fair Trade and Celiac Disease (the chronic inflammatory disorder of the small intestine caused by gluten intolerance) Awareness Month and we have a product that meets
customer needs on both accounts. Simply Organic® Fair Trade Certified™ Baking Mixes are gluten free,as well as organic.

Our line-up of mixes includes Banana Bread (item #18933), Carrot Cake (item #18934), Chai Spice Scones (item #18935), Cocoa Biscotti (item #18936), Cocoa Cayenne Cupcakes (item
#18938) and Honeypot Ginger Cookies (item #18939). These irresistible mixes are easy to make requiring 2 to 3 common ingredients and require 5 minutes of prep time or less.

Herbs for Pets

Animals have a long-standing affinity for herbs. In fact, some speculate that humans first learned about herbalism from watching animals. (Ever see a cat eat grass in order to vomit up a hairball? It’s not a pretty sight, but it’s smart -- the feline is self-medicating on plant life.) Treating an animal with herbs isn’t exactly straightforward—you have to take the size of your pet into account, decide what ails her, be patient while the herbs take effect, and be careful to avoid allergic reactions and toxicity(to test for an allergy beforehand, you can gently rub a small amount of the herb on your pet’s skin, and then watch for any signs of irritation). Still, with just a little know how, herbs can help you strengthen your pet’s immune system and treat specific problems.

Herbal Remedies for Kids!

Make it fun. Give your child "facials" (facial steams using healing herbs), herbal baths and footbaths (make a girls spa day!), massage her sore muscles, pat her aching head with a cool compress and wrap her sore throat with a warm fomentation.

Make an herbal tea or infusion into ice cubes and let her suck on them. (Tell her not to chew them, though; chewing ice cubes isn't great for her teeth.) You can also mix them with fruit juice and make them into popsicles. When used appropriately, herbs are effective and gentle enough for kids and a healthy alternative to many over the counter remedies.

Tootsie Soak

Tired Tootsies? Relish the scent of relaxing herbs and the warmth of the water as you soak your feet, and you’ll feel calm from the tip of your soaking toes to the top of your once-frantic head. Make an infusion of soothing herbs (about one cup of herbs per quart of water) and pour it into a shallow pan. Add enough warm water to make the soak comfortably hot, then immerse your feet and drape the pan with a towel (to hold in the steam). Lean back and breathe deeply. Before the water gets too cool, remove and dry your feet. This is a good time to moisturize them too!

**Herbs for a relaxing foot soak include: marshmallow, pennyroyal, sage, rosemary, juniper, angelica, chamomile, rose petal, lavender, yarrow, elderberries, and clover blossoms.

Stress-Busting Bath

Near the top of every list of stress-reducers is a good long soak in the tub. Enhance your stress-busting bath with relaxing herbs. There are a couple of easy ways to draw one:

• Simply make an infusion (a strong tea), using about one cup of herbs per quart of water. You can use one favorite herb, or a combination. Let the infusion steep for half an hour or more, then strain and pour it into your bathwater.
• Or wrap the herbs in cheesecloth, tie shut, and hang it from your tub faucet. The hot water will run through the herbs while you draw your bath.
  

Best bath herbs: chamomile, lavender, linden flowers, rose petals, lemon balm, passionflower, mugwort, marshmallow root, sassafras, vervain, burdock root, meadowsweet, comfrey root, agrimony, pennyroyal, and orange peel. A little mint will revitalize you, too.

Massage is a great relaxer. How can I incorporate herbs into my massages?

Good point! Adding soothing herbs to your massage oil is a great way to multiply the benefits
of hands-on de-stressing. To transform your plain massage oil into an herbal treat:
Place about 1/4 cup of herbs in a jar.

• Pour your favorite massage oil (apricot kernel, sweet almond or grapeseed for example) over the herbs; add enough so that a couple of inches of oil remain after the herbs are soaked.
• Cover the jar and let it stand in a warm place for a couple of weeks. Shake the jar daily.
• Strain the oil and gently warm it before using.

These herbal massage oils also make great gifts for the holidays... share the gift of relaxation.

Best Herbal Tea Combinations

Many of you asked for specific herbal tea combinations....Best anti-stress bets include (try one or a blend of any of these great herbal teas):
Nerve tonics
valerian, hops, chamomile, scullcap, oats, damiana

Nerve relaxants
St. John’s wort, passion flower, valerian, lemon balm, lobelia, scullcap, hops, chamomile, lavender

Nerve soother
oats, barley, slippery elm bark, marshmallow root

Nerve stimulants
kola nut, peppermint, ginkgo, gota kola, wintergreen, spearmint, cayenne, ginger, rosemary, ginseng

Tea Time!

Whether you need to relax before climbing into bed, de-stress after a busy day at work, or even get your day off on the right (calm) foot, a cup of herbal tea can help. Try different herbs that are known for their soothing properties, then pick your favorites and enjoy them solo or in combinations. As a general guideline, use about a teaspoon of herb per cup of water, and steep for about 15 to 20 minutes. Remember, the best tasting teas are brewed loose!

Another Super Company - Burts Bees!

As a vocal proponent for transparency in the cosmetics world, Burt’s Bees has played a central role in developing labeling standards for natural products and ingredients. On average, the line contains 99 percent natural ingredients, and the company aims to achieve 100 percent by 2011, with absolutely no parabens or petroleum-based compounds. Already using recycled material in its packaging, Burt’s Bees has set a goal of making 100 percent biodegradable or postconsumer recycled packaging by 2020. The company’s latest initiative, the Greater Good Foundation, delivered its first grants of more than $150,000 to education and environmental stewardship programs throughout the country.

Yeah for 7th Gen!

Competing in an industry of big polluters, Seventh Generation annually saves some 171,000 trees, 62 million gallons of water, and 103 billion BTUs of energy thanks to its green-products line (chlorine-free recycled bathroom tissue, recycled plastic trash bags, and natural dishwasher detergents, to name a few). Since 2005, the company has cut its own greenhouse-gas emissions by 34 percent, and by funding home-energy audits and offering forgivable loans for fuel-efficient car purchases and solar-panel installation, Seventh Generation also helps employees reduce their own carbon footprints. Be sure to support eco-friendly companies - buy their products and spread the word!

New! Free app for iPhone® & iPod® Touch from Simply Organic

Anytime I get to combine technology with responsibly grown products, I thrive.

Simply Organic has launched a new recipe app for the iPhone and it is now available FREE from the iTunes® store. This new app lets you search for recipes by categories, ingredients, and other criteria. It can generate shopping lists from selected recipes, and you can even get directions to the nearest store where Simply Organic products are sold - although never forget that EdibleNature ships the complete Simply Organic product line straight to your door and at discount prices!

The app has more than 1,000 professionally created recipes with easy-to-follow instructions, nutrition facts and, chef suggestions.

You can browse popular collections, from Healthy Kids to Vegetarian Main Dishes, then flip from recipe to recipe. Searches can be filtered by what is already stocked in the fridge, by what ingredients are in season, or by keyword. Recipes can be sorted by ease of preparation, cooking time or by favorites.

A special shopping feature of the application is the ability to send coupons for any Simply Organic product to an email address where you can then print them before heading to the store. This is one cool app!

Watch the App demo video on YouTube or download directly from iTunes.

Good News for Fido!

Fido has it pretty good these days. If he's lucky, his Baby Boomer master gives him gourmet, preservative-free, organic dog food with a little natural glucosamine to keep his joints working; some probiotics for healthy digestion; omega-3s for his brain and coat; and maybe even a lutein supplement to keep his eyes healthy. As humans adopt healthier eating habits and use supplements to prevent disease and stay healthy longer, many want to offer the same health benefits to their pets. Pet owners are also becoming increasingly savvy about bioactive ingredients — especially those for specific conditions, such as joint health, obesity, digestion, inflammation and vision dysfunction — and their benefits for pets, causing a spike in demand for new animal products with these nutrients. Try Animals Apawthecary, Ark Naturals, Dancing Paws, Pet Naturals and Dr. Goodpet... because doesn't Fido deserve the best?

Simply Organic Brings Shopping Lists to Your iPhone

In a pinch for time, but still want to give your family a healthy homemade meal? Available free from the iTunes® store, Simply Organic has just launched a recipe application that allows users to search for recipes by categories, ingredients, and a host of other criteria. The application even generates shopping lists from selected recipes...now, if it only cooked the meal too!

Does Junk Food Make You Dumb?

Hmmm... We've always known that people who constantly eat fatty foods aren't making the smartest CHOICES ever, but is the food itself actually making them less intelligent? A new study out of Oxford University has found that a diet of burgers, fries, and other high-fat foods may cause you to become less mentally alert, damage your short-term memory, and weaken your physical endurance. This is exactly what happened to rats that were feasting on high-fat diets, and they exhibited these changes in as little as nine days. Whether or not it has the same effect on humans is TBD.

Want to Live a Long Life? The Key is Exercise

Staying physically fit is a year-round lifestyle choice. Regardless of the season, it takes commitment and resolve to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen. The payoff for such perseverance, however, is huge. Recent studies from the Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise journal indicate that exercise along with a diet that is low in sugar and high in nutrients including vitamin D3 and omega-3 EFAs may play a big role in one's longevity and quality of life.

You could start slowly by walking around the block with a friend – it's a great habit to get into. Don't put it off any longer. Likewise, all of you need to make a conscious effort to dramatically cut back on your sugar intake. Instead of reaching for a can of soda, have a glass of water or some unsweetened green tea. There are some very safe and natural sweeteners that use stevia, which I highly recommend for those requiring a sweet taste.

Aging products at deep discounts.

Are you turning 40 like our friend Marinela? Try our anti-aging products at the best pricing on the Internet!

Best Bug Relief

Thanks Natural Health magazine! Aura Cacia Peppermint essential oil is highlighted in the July/ August issue of Natural Health as part of the "Best Bug Relief" feature. Enjoy fall evenings pest-free with Aura Cacia!

The Next Food Network Star Uses Simply Organic and Frontier Spices

We’re thrilled to report that our spices and seasonings have made a guest appearance on the Food Network! The network has a reality show competition called “The Next Food Network Star” in which competing chefs try to wow the judges enough to earn their own show on the network. It’s one of the highest-rated shows on the network. To have our product recognized and used by this media outlet is one of the best product mentions we could ask for. Find Frontier Bulk Spices and Simply Organic Spices at Discount Prices at EdibleNature, of course!

Little Changes Make A Big Difference

Eco Friendly Reusable Bags have seen their popularity surge in the past few years. They have a dramatically reduced environmental impact. So far this year nearly 318 billion disposable paper and plastic bags have been wasted and are piling up in landfills. Many countries across the globe are passing laws to tax or ban plastic bag usage and thankfully people are starting to act on the Earth's behalf. Communities need to continue to strive towards a solution and be proactive about setting an example for others.If you're a small business (or large business) but you're not in the business of utilizing reusable bags, then consider getting some eco-friendly eco wear with your company logo and Go Green!

Additionally, with the world's awareness of global warming and mankind's ever-growing carbon footprint, it has become clear our negative impact on the earth isn't just going to go away unless we make a proactive change on a mass scale. Seed paper products are a perfect solution for any company to convey they are making strides for eco-friendly business practices. From business cards to invitations, handouts to holiday cards, from packaging to bookmarks, and hangtags to calendars, when you're done with it, plant it!

Great News for High Cholesterol Sufferers!

What if you recently were told you need to lower your cholesterol or face going on expensive medication? Many high cholesterol sufferers have tough decisions to make and if you already limit your meat consumption (and other high cholesterol foods), then how do you go about lowering it more? Red Yeast and COQ10! Can it really be as simple as supplementation of a inexpensive herbal combination-yes! We have heard time and again from people who have lowered their overall cholesterol more than 40 points in a 2 month period with Red Yeast and COQ10 (along with diet and exercise of course).... so if you're looking for an alternative to expensive prescriptions, give Red Yeast and COQ10 a try.

How to Make Herbal Tinctures

A customer recently asked how to prepare herbal tinctures using dried herbs so I thought I would share with you all about how to prepare quality herbal tinctures at home.

Herbal tinctures are potent, spirit based, liquid extracts. They are made using fresh plant material and liquid base such as vodka, brandy, vegetable glycerin, or even apple cider vinegar

Selecting Your Spirit
Most commercial preparations are made with 198 proof grain alcohol.A simple and very effective choice is 100 proof vodka. It's clear, affordable and easy to obtain. 100 proof means it is exactly half water and half alcohol.this makes figuring dosages easy as most dosages recommended by herbalists are based on the assumption that a tincture was made at 50% - 1/2 water, 1/2 alcohol. If you are concerned about ingesting the alcohol, place the bottle of tincture in boiling water for 1-2 minutes which will remove about 1/2 the alcohol.You may also use glycerin or cider vinegar. These won't be as strong as alcohol based ones, but they will still be effective and are often a good choice for children's remedies.*note: If using vinegar heat it slightly before pouring. It should be warm, not hot.
How To Make Herbal Tinctures

~ After getting your herbs, pick through them and remove any damaged parts but don't wash them.

~ Coarsely chop stems, leaves and roots. You can leave flowers whole.

~ Put your herbs in a clean & dry glass jar and fill with the liquid of your choice. The herbs need to be completely immersed in liquid.

~ Cap the jar tightly with an airtight lid.

~ Label your creation with the ingredients and date and store for 6-8 weeks, shaking occasionally.

~ Strain out the herbs and pour tincture into clean, dry bottles. Label with the date and ingredients used.


TIP:save the empty bottles to refill with your own tinctures!

Can a Cup of Tea Really Help Your Stress?

Regular tea drinking has been shown to benefit immune, cardio and cellular health, and more. This is because tea contains potent antioxidant compounds, the most notable being EGCG. But did you know that a cup of tea can also calm the mind and soothe the soul? New studies have found that this powerful brew may provide calming effects and promote a healthy mood. Welcome news, particularly during these stressful times.

Maegan S. Feels Great Since She Started Taking B Vitamins!

Maegan S. had low energy, mood swings, and some PMS related symptoms - she had read about taking B complex supplements and also a B-12 vitamin supplement to help alleviate symptoms. She thought that would be a very inexperience remedy that was well-worth trying so she went to EdibleNature.com to purchase her vitamins and now is a very happy camper! She told me yesterday that in addition to having more energy and alleviating her PMS symptoms, her skin has cleared up at well. Made me want to go home and take my B Complex right away...thanks for sharing Maegan!

Do you fancy yourself a tea connoisseur?

If you are a tea connoisseur, then you probably know that experts recommend using loose teas for the best flavor, since loose teas are consistently higher-grade than those used in prepackaged tea bags. Loose leaves unfurl in the cup and release the full flavor of the tea, so when filling your own tea bags or using tea balls, be careful to not overfill.

At EdibleNature we have a taste for tea. And nothing tastes better than teas that are sustainably farmed and socially beneficially. That's why we're committed to offering a large selection of organic Fair Trade Certified teas. Purchasing Fair Trade teas benefits farmers committed to sustainable practices and provides support to their communities.

Yeah Aura Cacia!

Is it wrong to get excited about something so simple and silly as the new Aura Cacia essential oils diffusers? I have to tell you, they are simply the best thing since sliced bread. And now Drugstore News just rated it Editors Top Pick for 2009!

Traditional plug in air fresheners purchased in the drug store are basically just infusing synthetic toxic poisons in to your air. Certainly not a good thing for those with asthma or respiratory problems. And wouldn’t you rather just use some pure essential oils to scent your home instead?

These aromatherapy diffusers by Aura Cacia are great for traveling (there's a diffuser for your car too-good bye road rage!), office, placing by your entry way so your guests feel properly welcomed, or you can place a little of your favorite blend on your nightstand to set a romantic mood. These are non-toxic scents at their finest!

Have Post WorkOut Muscle Soreness?

I know the burn is suppose to be good, but often times the post workout pain just doesn't feel good! And if you're like me, I don't like taking ibuprofen or traditional medications much at all... but I have a solution for you - it's called Arnica.

I first took Arnica after surgery because my doctor recommended it for decreased swelling and bruising - sure enough, worked great. Arnica montana is a homeopathic that works by simply letting small pustules dissolve under your tongue - no pills to swallow.

Recently I overheared a trainer at the gym recommending Arnica to their client for muscle soreness and low and behold, it works! I have the pustules but there is also topical cream formulations of Arnica as well (good for arthritis too from what I hear from other customers). So if you're on the search for relief from muscle soreness, Arnica to the rescue!

Are Your Skin Care Products Making You Sick?

If you don't know the answer, then maybe it's time you found out. The Skin Deep Report, a safety guide to cosmetics and personal care products from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), found that most common cosmetics -- including lotions, foundations and lip balms -- contained known or probable carcinogens.

Most people use these products without a second thought, and believe that the government must be policing the safety of the ingredients in these commonly used items. But this couldn’t be farther from the truth. The government does not require health studies or pre-market testing for these products before they are sold. According to the agency that regulates cosmetics, the FDA's Office of Cosmetics and Colors, "...a cosmetic manufacturer may use almost any raw material as a cosmetic ingredient and market the product without an approval from FDA" (FDA 1995). And as people apply an average of 126 unique ingredients on their skin daily, these chemicals, whether they seep through the skin, rinse down the drain, or flush down the toilet in human excretions, are causing concerns for human health, and for the impacts they may have to wildlife, rivers and streams.

Rather than blame the big names who refused to sign the Compact for Safe Cosmetics (you know who you are L'Oreal and Revlon), enjoy the quality products from these fine companies who have signed the Compact: Jason Natural Products, Reviva Skincare, Honeybee Gardens Skin Care, Burt's Bees Body Care, derma e Natural Bodycare, Ecco Bella Botanicals, Nature’s Gate, Bonnica Spa products, Weleda.

The Compact for Safe Cosmetics is a pledge to not use chemicals that are known or strongly suspected of causing cancer, mutation or birth defects in their products and to implement substitution plans that replace hazardous materials with safer alternatives in every market they serve.

Great cosmetics don’t have to come with a hefty price tag and loads of chemicals - try Reviva and Suncoat which users also give rave reviews. So do something good for your body and the environment, support these companies and buy safe, natural skincare and cosmetics.


Reference: Environmental Working Group & Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

Green Health News: Kid’s Safe Chemicals Act

The human race is now polluted with hundreds of industrial chemicals - with little or no understanding of the consequences. Babies are born pre-polluted, with as many as 300 industrial chemicals in their bodies when they enter the world.

We are at a tipping point, where the pollution in people is increasingly associated with a range of serious diseases and conditions from childhood cancer, to autism, ADHD, learning deficits, infertility, and birth defects. Yet even as our knowledge about the link between chemical exposure and human disease grows, the government has almost no authority to protect people from even the most hazardous chemicals on the market.

If you want to do something to protect our kids, go here for a letter to send your congressperson re: Kid’s Safe Chemical Act and a list of organizations that signed on. Also, convert all your own toxic cleaners to natural cleaners (they actually clean and work-really!) and don't use pesticides around your house - this includes ant spray!

(Reprinted from Green Profit Solutions)

Farmers Market is not just good food but family fun!

When we go to our local farmer's market, we not only expect to get good, locally grown organic food but good value too. We found even more at the Leucadia/Encinitas Farmers' Market - entertainment (local acoustical guitar artists) and people truly interested in putting out quality prepared products and foods as well. One such individual is Pete Katolick of Pete's Cakes and sauces. Pete has a passion about the fruit toppings he prepares with only the best quality berries and all natural ingredients - he'll happily give you samples of his toppings to prove they have superior flavor and taste - Pete sold me!

What else did I happen upon? Fabulous cheeses (I bought a goat jack cheese and a Greek sheep cheese), wonderful smoked albacore tuna, and freshly picked passion fruit to name a few of the local delicacies that made it home with me. Find the local Farmer's Market near you and enjoy the bounty your local community has to offer!

Hyaluronic Acid has been helping customer relieve his arthritis pain

Since Mike H. let us know the Hyaluronic Acid has been helping relieve his joint range of motion in his hands, I have been wondering if anyone else has been having great benefits to this often not heard about supplement?

Hyaluronic Acid maintains the lubrication of joints and allows them to preserve water for other tissues. By retaining an adequate amount of water, our joints are less likely to turn out to be fragile and weak. HA also aids in the restoration of skin by maintaining its elastin and collagen, encouraging a healthy appearance (look younger AND feel younger!).

Some of the best advice I get is from our customers,friends and family...and what better way to connect then through the EdibleNature Today Blog? So please let us know (customerservice@ediblenature.com) if Hyaluronic Acid (or any other supplements, vitamins, minerals, herbal remedies or homeopathic remedies) have helped you in your quest for optimum health.

Anti-Wrinkle Scams

Dozens of bogus blogs peddle "free" trials of "anti-wrinkle" dietary supplements that contain acai berry or resveratrol, even though there's no proof that either can banish wrinkles. Acai is a proven antioxidant which helps your overall health but doesn't necessarily target wrinkles.

Worse, the supplements are typically sold by companies that have received "F" grades for reliability from the better business Bureau. Thousands of consumers who signed up for "free" trials of products from these companies have found themselves trapped into recurrent, exorbitant credit card charges that are difficult to stop (as reported in Nutrition Action Newsletter-August 2009). Sounds like a familiar story you might have heard before with the acai berry scams.

If you want to buy quality wrinkle treatments (even Acai) from a reputable company and not be badgered after doing so, try EdibleNature.com (serving thousands of satisfied customers since 2001).

Marinate Grilled Fare—For Taste and Safety

The grilling season is at its peak now. Many of us who are fans of grilling are aware that cancer-causing substances -- heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs or HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) -- form when the proteins in red meat, pork, poultry and fish react to the high heat of grilling and when fat drips off the meat and produces smoke.

Chemists at Kansas State University found that marinating meat for an hour in spice blends can reduce the formation of HCAs by 80 percent or more. They credit the antioxidant properties of spices with this change. Other researchers suggest that marinades may buffer the heat that causes the problematic chemical reaction, or that a combination of sugar, oil, and acidic ingredients decrease the carcinogenic compounds. Simply Organic® offers a flavor-rich line of organic marinades that includes Zesty Herb Marinade Mix (item #18955), Lemon Pepper Marinade Mix (item #18967), Steak Marinade Mix (item #18953), and Garlic and Herb Marinade Mix (item #18968). Or add the smoky flavor of mesquite with Mesquite BBQ Marinade Mix (item #18954). Bonus: There’s a selection of convenient shake-on grilling seasonings for chicken, seafood, steak and vegetables, too, also made with only organic ingredients.

2009 Stellar Organic Awards Announced

The best of the best have been announced for the 2009 Stellar Organic Awards and as always, you can buy all of them below retail prices at EdibleNature.com

Top Organic Dental product:
Toothpastes from Kiss My Face

Top Organic Hair care:
Organic Hair Care from Desert Organics

Top Aromatherapy/Essential Oil:
Aura Cacia Lavender Essential Oil

Top Organic Lotion:
Honey Calendula Ultra Moisturizer from Kiss My Face

Top Paper Good:
Seventh Generation Bathroom Tissue

Top Cleaning Product - TIE:
Dr. Bonner's Baby-Mild Unscented Castile Soap and

Natural 2X Concentrated Laundry Liquid from Seventh Generation

Source: Organics Product Retailer

Funniest Organic Videos

There's s bunch of hilarious videos relating to organic farming, and sustainment generally.

This is still one of the best videos: The Store Wars.

When you're done enjoying that one, take a look at The Meatrix.

Summer Skin Care & Hair Care Tips

Summer living may be easy, but chances are your hair and skin will appreciate a little extra TLC during the sun-drenched months of outdoor sports, gardening, camping, or kick-back beach bumming.

Hair Restorative
A warm oil pack can impart moisture and life to a crowning glory that’s been exposed to too much sun and sea or chlorine. Add a tablespoon of honey or an egg yolk for added nourishment.

Choose an herb or two according to your needs: chamomile flowers to soften, spearmint leaf to condition, licorice root to slow oil production, rosemary leaf to revitalize and condition the scalp. Make an infusion of the herbs and combine with enough carrier oil to cover your hair and scalp. (Use about 1 tablespoon of infusion per cup of oil.) Good carrier oils include olive, sesame, almond, coconut and avocado. Cover dry hair and scalp with the oil combination, wrap your hair in a towel, and sit in a warm place for half an hour or longer. Shampoo as usual.

Blemish and Bla–Skin Steam
Blemish-prone skin can flare up in the summer. Use an herbal steam to calm inflammation and keep pores beautifully clean. Place a handful of skin-soothing herbs like linden, yarrow or chamomile flowers in a large bowl. Wash your face as you boil enough water to half fill the basin. Pour boiling water over the herbs. Draping a towel over your head to form a tent, lean over the steam for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse your face well and pat dry.

4 Health Factors that Significantly Impact the Look of Your Skin...

GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) (Primrose Oil, Borage Oil or Black Currant Oil)
Not all oils are created equal – we’ve heard that for years now. What are some of the good oils and what are the benefits of the good oils? GLA has many known good qualities. It aids in weight loss and helps maintain healthy hair, skin and nails.

According to Dr. Gittleman (a clinical nutrition specialist), flaxseed oil will help reduce cholesterol, normalize blood pressure, relieve depression and help heal skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne and dry skin. These are only a few of the many benefits of flaxseed oil.

Olive oil and avocados are also two oils known for their healing properties. Not only are these oils good for your heart, cholesterol, healthy brain functions and healthy cell production, they also have the added benefit of curbing your cravings for sugar.

Omega-3s also bring nourishing blood and oxygen to the skin, as well as encourage the production of new skin cells to replace the ones that slough off -- oils that nourish your body and beautify your skin, what could be better?

Organic Sales Growing

The total sales of organic products (both food and non-food) was $24.6 billion in 2008, up 17.1 percent over 2007 sales despite tough economic times, according to the Organic Trade Association’s 2009 Organic Industry Survey. The United Nations Trade and Development Agency projects the demand for organic food will grow 46% over the next five years. That's great news for those of us that enjoy organic food and organic products - more demand equates to more supply (and lower prices)!

Are you Thinking About Starting a "Cleanse" like the Hollywood Stars? Read my story before you do....

Cleansing diets are popular among the Hollywood-set, and wouldn't we all like to lose a little weight while we cleanse our bodies of toxins? Yes! BUT, be careful....not all companies you buy from have your health at heart. I know firsthand. You've seen them, pretty "pitch pages" of colorful and attractive advertising designed to suck you in and not let you go until you've bought their wares. I wanted to see what the hype was all about on some of those "pitch pages" that show before and after photos and sell Acai and Cleansing Detox herbs. So to see what our "competition" was selling I signed up for a "free trial" of their "fabulous" products and tried them myself.

I was most interested in how these "vendors" treated the customer; the person they spend so much time and so much money advertising to. So I signed up for the free trial and received the product. As suspected, the ingredients listed were no different from products from more reputable supplement sites, that can be found just by searching Google.

Now came the fun bit - canceling my "subscription." And I use the term "fun" loosely. First off, you will not be able to cancel online. They make you call an offshore operator who would be better labeled a "retention specialist." So I called, told them I wanted to cancel, and faced another 35 minutes of retention tactics designed to keep me paying $70 per MONTH for products that can be found for way less.

I got transferred to multiple departments, "sold" and resold the same story over and over about how great their product was and "for just 50% less than the monthly subscription, we can offer you..." blah blah blah... I finally DID get the subscription canceled - on my 3rd phone call attempt. What happened next angered me. Within a few days, they proceeded to hound me and called dozens of times over the next several weeks until I threatened to report them!

I feel sorry for anyone who gets coerced into this ridicule. It really doesn't have to be that difficult. If you want to buy quality cleansing formulas (even Acai) from a reputable company and not be badgered after doing so, try EdibleNature.com (online since 2001) We offer the best quality brands without all the hassle... it really can be that easy!

Supplements Prove Beneficial for Diabetics

Jon Benninger, president of the DSEA board, said, "We weren't surprised to find that people who have diabetes and use dietary supplements report they're in better health than those who don't use dietary supplements. We controlled for variables, so we're confident in this result." To read the complete article, click here.

Free Radicals: Antioxidants to the Rescue?

We all have heard of free radicals and know they are responsible for cancer and other bad things that happen to our bodies. But how do we avoid free radicals since they come from our environment and our bodies own metabolic processes? Luckily, many smart people have studied the use of antioxidants and the positive effects they have on minimizing (and in some cases eliminating) cancer-causing free radicals. Read Entire Article

EdibleNature July Specials

Save Everyday on These Quality Brands!

Simply Organic's New Fair Trade Certified™ Baking Mixes

Dessert lovers with gluten intolerance can enjoy these mixes without worry. Banana Bread and Carrot Cake Mix - Yum-O!

Save Up to 25% Off at EdibleNature.com

Just updated our lines of Organic Baby Clothes and Organic Cotton Clothing

Cotton Organic Baby Clothes

Making simple choices like choosing organic cotton baby clothing during your child's critical development period, you provide a safe, healthy environment for your baby so when born your baby can grow organic. Organic baby items like organic baby food, organic baby formula, organic baby lotion and even organic baby bedding. Seventh Generation diapers bulk, baby wipes, Weleda baby cream, Burts Bees shampoo, Hylands homeopathic remedies and much more for a happy, healthy baby! You might even find an organic gift basket for baby!

Organic Cotton Clothing & Natural Fiber Products

Clothing your family in clothing cotton, organic silk wool may be the best yet but there are plenty of great natural organic products and discount organic clothing for the entire family. Maggie's Organics was founded over ten years ago on the premise that clothing could be durable, attractive, and affordable, while made using environment-sustaining materials and methods, and while treating workers with dignity. Today Maggies Organics includes organic socks, organic camisoles and organic accessories speak for themselves in quality and durability.

Why go organic? Live an Organic Lifestyle

Organic products must be grown on land that has not had synthetic fertilizers, growth regulators, insecticides, or herbicides applied to it for a minimum of three years. Organics aren't necessarily more nutritious or better tasting that conventionally grown products, and there aren't any conclusive studies that prove they're safer to eat. So why buy them? Buying organics makes sense for the socially responsible shopper because when you do, you're using your purchasing power to vote for the health of the earth and the people on it. Organic agriculture is a method of growing and processing that protects rather than depletes natural resources. It also spares the growers from significant health risks.

Read more...

Dogs use Tiger Balm? You betcha!

Tiger Balm is a world famous topical pain relieving ointment. A versatile external medication, Tiger Balm provides effective relief for most symptoms of bodily aches and pains including headaches, rheumatism, arthritic pains, and muscle strains and sprains. But can Tiger Balm be used on dogs?

Read More...

Living Like Ed - Funny and insightful book recommendation

If you've never seen Ed Bagley Jr's "Living with Ed" TV show, set your TiVo to record at least one. You'll love it. Ahh the drama of being "Green"!

“Filled with sound advice and first-hand experience from someone who has been walking the walk for more than 38 years, Living Like Ed provides a wide array of practical options for anyone who wants to make his life a little-or a lot-greener. Ed Begley is more than a beloved Hollywood figure; he¹s an all-American hero, and Living Like Ed is a comprehensive yet accessible guide to becoming more environmentally savvy that light greens and bright greens alike will find themselves dog-earing for years to come.”
—Treehugger.com

Check out Ed's Guide to the Eco-Friendly Life on Amazon.