Spring

Hello everyone we wish you health, happiness and ideal abundance for your families and friends.On week 215 we are sharing facts, history, recipes and much more. All about SPRING!!!  Beautiful season, time for nature to come alive again, birds mate , people start new relations and so much that this season inspires. I personally love it, and a great time for an  inside and outside cleanse. Soon is the time to show our body more, so chop chop, lets get going.

This post is addressing facts like the Jet streams which are a crucial part of seasons and their atmospheric moods, an important fact aside, we share recipes ,videos and the relationship in spring according to Chinese medicine. A very well researched post, enjoy and don’t forget to share and like, if you do it helps us to keep going.The social media and web traffic is crucial for our blog.

Thank you for all your support we are very grateful form all us at isabel’s Beauty Blog.

 

According to wikipedia:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spring_(season)

Spring is one of the four conventional temperate seasons, it follows winter and precedes summer. In the many technical definitions of spring the term varies according to local climate,due to cultures and customs. When it is spring in the Northern Hemisphere, it will be autumn in the Southern Hemisphere and so on. At the spring equinox, days are approximately 12 hours long with day length increasing as the season progresses. Spring for most part refers to the season, and to ideas of rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal, regrowth, internal and external cleansing.

During spring, the axis of the Earth is increasing its tilt relative to the Sun, and the length of daylight rapidly increases for the relevant hemisphere. The hemisphere begins significantly to warm causing new plant growth to “spring forth,” giving the season its name Springtime. Snow, a normal part of winter, begins to melt, and streams and rivers swell and start to flow. In climates that have no snow and rare frosts, the air and ground temperatures increase more rapidly. Many flowering plants bloom this time of year, in a long succession sometimes beginning when snow is still on the ground, continuing into early summer.In normally snowless areas, “spring” may begin as early as February (Northern Hemisphere) or August (Southern Hemisphere) in the same way.Many temperate areas have a dry spring, and wet autumn (fall), which brings about flowering in this season more consistent with the need for water as well as warmth. Subarctic areas may not experience “spring” at all until May or even June is a big difference there.

The rainfall in spring or any season for that mater follows trends more related to longer cycles or events created by ocean currents and ocean temperatures. Good and well-researched examples are the El Niño effect and the Southern Oscillation Index.

Unstable weather may more likely to occur more often during spring, when warm air begins on occasions to penetrate from lower latitudes, while cold air is still pushing from the Polar regions. Even more so than in winter, the jet streams play an important role in unstable and severe weather in the springtime in the Northern Hemisphere.

Jet streams are fast flowing, narrow air currents found in the upper atmosphere or in troposphere of some planets, including Earth. The main jet streams are located near the altitude of the tropopause. The major jet streams on Earth are westerly winds (flowing west to east). Their paths typically have a meandering shape; jet streams may start, stop, split into two or more parts, combine into one stream, or flow in various directions including the opposite direction of most of the jet. These straps are crucial to weather and important to learn about them so here we go with a breve description.

Spring is seen as a time of growth, renewal, of new life (both plant and animal) being born many lovers relationships start in spring. The term is also used more generally as a metaphor for the start of better times, as in the Prague Spring.

Let learn how deferent parts of the planet celebrates spring, how fun!

Albania

 

Spring Day

Albania celebrates the lunar Spring Day (Albanian: Dita e Verës or Dita e Luleve) on March 14, and from 2004 it has been a national holiday. It is an old pagan practice, particularly popular in the city of Elbasan, in central Albania.

According to some sources, Dita e Verës derives from the Arbëreshë, an Albanian community that has lived in Italy since the 15th century. On 14 March, the Arbëreshë of the Italian coast collect a tuft of grass roots and soil, bringing it home to commemorate the anniversary of their emigration from Albania. In fact, some sources date back this celebration to ancient Illyria. At that time, the feast was celebrated on 1 March, which in the Julian calendar, corresponded to the first day of the year.

Australia

 

Main article: Spring Carnival

The annual Spring Racing Carnival of thoroughbred horse racing events is held in Melbourne in October and November, with large crowds attending. The Melbourne Cup, held on the first Tuesday of November, is Australia’s premier horse race and is recognised as a public holiday in the host city of Melbourne. It is also referred to as the race that stops a nation.

Bangladesh

Celebration stage of 1st day of Falgun, beginning of spring season in Bangladesh, 2014

Spring is a festive time in Bangladesh. People celebrate this season with newly reaped paddies. Villagers make various types of pitha cakes to entertain guests.

Canada

 

Main article: Victoria Day

Victoria Day in Canada is celebrated on the Monday on or before 24 May. The holiday is celebrated in honour of Queen Victoria‘s birthday, but is often informally considered as marking the beginning of the summer season in Canada.

Carnival

 

In some regions, the first spring festival of the new year is carnival, 40 days before Easter.Like in the Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, carnival is considered the world’s largest, hosting approximately two million participants per day. In 2004, Rio’s carnival attracted a record 400,000 foreign visitors.

The term Carnival is traditionally used in areas with a large Catholic presence. However, the Philippines, a predominantly Roman Catholic country, does not celebrate Carnival anymore since the dissolution of the Manila Carnival after 1939, the last carnival in the country.^[6] In historically Lutheran countries, the celebration is known as Fastelavn,^[7][8] and in areas with a high concentration of Anglicans and Methodists, pre-Lenten celebrations, along with penitential observances, occur on Shrove Tuesday.^[9] In Eastern Orthodox nations, Maslenitsa is celebrated during the last week before Great Lent. In German-speaking Europe and the Netherlands, the Carnival season traditionally opens on 11/11 (often at 11:11 a.m.). This dates back to celebrations before the Advent season or with harvest celebrations of St. Martin’s Day.

Easter

 

 

 Easter

Easter eggs, such as this Ukrainian one, signify the Resurrection of Jesus.

Easter is the most important religious feast in the Christian liturgical year. Christians believe that Jesus was resurrected from the dead on the “third day” two days after his crucifixion, and they celebrate this resurrection on Easter Day, two days after Good Friday. The date of Easter varies between 22 March and 25 April in most traditions, and between 4 April and 8 May in some Eastern Christianity.

Egypt

 

 Sham el-Nessim

Sham ennisim is an Egyptian national holiday marking the beginning of spring. Ancient Egyptians (from the pharaonic period) used to celebrate the Harvest of the Wheat and modern Egyptians have continued celebrating this holiday until now. It always falls on the day after the Eastern Christian Easter (following the custom of the largest Christian denomination in the country, the Coptic Orthodox Church). Despite the Christian-related date, the holiday is celebrated by Egyptians regardless of religion.

Iran

 

 Nowruz

Nowruz (also Nevrooz, Naw-Rúz, Norooz, Newroz, Navroj, and many other variants) which means “New Day” in Persian language,  it marks an important traditional holiday festival celebrated in Iran as it signifies the start of their new year. It is a very important traditional holiday as well as in many other countries with a significant population of Persian people, such as Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and by Kurdish communities in Turkey and Iraq and elsewhere.

Israel

 

In the ancient Jewish calendar, the month of Nisan was the original first month of the year. The Jewish holiday of Passover (פסח) is celebrated in the 15th of Nisan, and is also known as “The Spring Holiday” (חג האביב).The State of Israel holds three national holidays during the spring: Yom HaZikaron LaShoah VeLaGevurah (Holocaust Memorial Day), Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day for Israel’s Fallen Soldiers) and Yom Ha-Atzmaut (Independence Day).

India

 

 Holi

Holi, the festival of colours, celebrated at the end of the winter season and beginning of spring, is the most vibrant festival of colours celebrated by Hindus in India. People throw water and apply coloured powders on each other, beautiful to see.

 vasant panchami

Vasant Panchami is celebrated in North India on the fifth day of the Indian month Magh (January–February), the first day of spring. Sankranti in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and Thai Pongal in Tamil Nadu are celebrated in mid-January to mark the beginning of the spring season.

 Bihu

In Assam Valley, Rongali Bihu is celebrated for seven days from 13 to 19 April. This is a harvesting festival celebrated in spring by all sections of the community, which distinguishes it from other Indian festivals that are more religious in nature.

 Nowrouz

In India, Nowrouz is called Navreh or Navrojh. Many people celebrate Nowrouz, mainly in the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat and in Uttar Pradesh.

May Day

 

 May Day

Beltane

 May is the date of many public holidays. In so many countries, May Day is synonymous with International Workers’ Day, or Labour Day, which celebrates the social and economic achievements of the labour movement. As a day of celebration, the holiday has ancient origins, and it can relate to many customs that have survived into modern times. Many of these customs are due to May Day being a cross-quarter day, meaning that (in the Northern Hemisphere where it is almost exclusively celebrated) it falls approximately halfway between the spring equinox and summer solstice. In the Celtic tradition, this particular date marked the end of spring and the beginning of summer. In line with this, Ireland celebrates St. Brigid’s Day (1 February) as the first day of spring.

Mesopotamia

 

 Akitu and Tammuz (deity)

Akitu (Sumerian Akiti-šekinku “cutting of barley”, Akiti-šununum “sowing of barley”, Babylonian rêš-šattim “head of the year”) was a spring festival in ancient Mesopotamia.

The name is from the Sumerian for “barley“, originally marking two festivals celebrating the beginning of each of the two half-years of the Sumerian calendar, marking the sowing of barley in autumn and the cutting of barley in spring, in the month of Nisannu (Aries). In Babylonian religion it came to be dedicated to Marduk‘s victory over Tiamat.

Nepal

 

 Holi

In Nepal, people celebrate Holi, the Hindu festival of colors. amazingly beautiful 

Romania

 

Mărțișor (Romanian pronunciation: [mərtsiʃor]) is an old Romanian celebration at the beginning of spring, on March 1. Mărțișor, marț and mărțiguș are names given to all  the red and white string from which a small decorations are tied, and which is offered by people on the 1st day of March. Symbolically, it is correlated to women and to fertility as a means of life and continuity. This tradition is authentic in Romania, Moldova and all territories inhabited by Romanians and Aromanians.

Sri Lanka

 

 Sinhala & Tamil New Year

Cultural anthropological history of the ‘Traditional New Year’, which is celebrated in the month of April, goes back to an ancient period in Sri Lankan history. Various beliefs, perhaps those associated with fertility of the harvest, gave birth to many rituals, customs, and ceremonies connected with the New Year. The advent of Buddhism in the 3rd century BC led to a re-interpretation of the existing the new year activities in a Buddhist light. The majority of the people in the country are Buddhists and Hindus, and as such, it is the Buddhist outlook that was predominant in transforming the New Year rites to what they are now.

Turkey

 

Nowruz and Hıdırellez

Nowruz (Turkish: Nevruz) is mostly celebrated by Kurds in Turkey. It is actually Persian the spring festival and the beginning of the year.  However, it has a national side for Kurds (Kaveh the blacksmith), so they usually try to wear something yellow-red-and-green which come from representing the Kurdish Flag. This day is also important for Turks. It is related with legend of Ergenekon.

Hıdırellez is a kind of Islamic spring festival which is in early May. It is the meeting day of Khidr and Elijah and going on a picnic is popular activity in this particular festival.

Vietnam

 

 Tết

Vietnamese use the traditional lunar as well as the modern solar calendar. They celebrate Tết (Vietnamese New Year) in late January or early February is also known as the beginning of spring. The lunar calendar is used mainly to divide the year into seasons for agriculture purposes. In the old days, the celebration used to last the entire month of January of the lunar calendar. Traditionally, firecrackers are used on New Year’s Eve, or đêm giao thừa in Vietnamese, to scare away bad spirits and souls.

 

 

 

Spring According TC

Traditional Chinese medicine

 

 

According to: https://www.acufinder.com/Acupuncture+Information/Detail/The+Spirit+of+Renewal+Spring+and+Traditional+Chinese+Medicine

It is the long-awaited change of winter to spring. Seeds sprout, flowers bloom, and the sun warms the earth. There is a sense of renewal and new life all around.

While winter was a time to conserve energy and reduce activity, spring is a time of regeneration, new beginnings, and a renewal of spirit.

The Principle of the Five Elements

The five elements refer to wood, fire, earth, metal, and water in Eastern philosophy. The Principle of the Five Elements (known as the Wu Hsing in Chinese) describes the flow of Qi and the balance of yin and yang.

According to the principle, all change – in the universe and in your body – occurs in five distinct stages. Each of these stages is associated with a particular time of year, a specific element in nature, and a pair of organs in the body. Change links together the seasons of the year, aspects of nature, and your body’s organs and bodily processes. A practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine uses this principle to diagnose and treat health problems, linking specific foods, herbs, and acupuncture points to the restoration of yin-yang and Qi.

SPRING:

Spring is the ideal time for cleansing and rejuvenation for overall health and well-being. As spring is represented by the wood element and includes the liver and its complementary organ, the gallbladder, these two organs are usually the primary targets for springtime cleansing and health regimens.

• Element: Wood
• Color: Green
• Nature: Yang
• Organs: Liver, Gallbladder
• Emotion: Anger

Learn more about the Liver and Liver Qi Stagnation

Put Some Spring into Your Step

Spring corresponds to the “Wood” element, which in turn is conceptually related to the liver and gallbladder organs. According to the philosophy of Chinese medicine, the liver is responsible for the smooth flowing of Qi (energy) throughout the body. When the liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly.So, for optimum health this spring, move your Qi!

 

According to: http://www.itmonline.org

The liver is associated with wood. Wood qi is characterized by its upward momentum and its innate desire to be straight. As long as the flow of liver qi is not impeded, the blood vessels will remain open and unobstructed.
The liver is the organ that is in charge of storing blood. It also commands the ministerial fire (xiang huo). If there is sufficient blood, this fire will be warm but not fierce. As a result, the blood can circulate smoothly through the body’s three burning spaces; it will reach the pores, and every single place in the body will benefit from its warming and nourishing function.
Liver and spleen function together by assisting each other. However, people are always quick to point out that an excess of liver wood can injure the spleen earth, and thus have a detrimental affect on the proper digestion of food. But nobody seems to pay attention to the fact that a weak liver cannot circulate the spleen qi and thereby also cause maldigestion. Below, the liver connects to the Sea of Qi [lower dantian, associated with the kidney], which means that the liver is closely associated with the body’s ministerial fire. It can utilize the power of this fire to produce earth. The food which enters the spleen and stomach relies on this power to be ‘cooked.’ This is what is meant by saying that the liver and the spleen function by assisting each other.
The liver relies entirely on kidney water to sustain it, on blood to moisten it, on lung metal’s clear nature and descending function to keep it in check, and on the generosity of the middle palace’s earth qi to nourish it.

 

 

The eyes represent the orifices of the liver.

 

When a person closes his/her eyes and falls asleep, the blood returns to the liver. From there it is transmitted to the eyes, and the ability to see results from this. When a person sleeps, now, the nameless fire within grows dim in order to revitalize. Although it may be impossible to refrain from sleeping altogether, it is advisable not to just let this energy dissipate for the mere sake of falling into a slumber.
Insomnia caused by a cold deficiency pattern of the gallbladder is accompanied by symptoms of restless thought and a sensation of extreme mental weariness. Excess heat in the liver will typically cause a person to sleep too much, resulting in the mirror of intelligence gathering dust and a deterioration of the root of good health. None of these conditions, obviously, are the result of proper nourishing of the liver and gallbladder nor an appropriate way of subduing the sleep issues.
The essence of sleep, after all, is the soul of the body. If you can manage to sleep without over doing it , then the master mind will be bright and alert. Not only will your shen qi be flowing freely and purely, but you will also not be disturbed by dreams. Every time you are overcome by a craving for sleep, blood rushes to the heart and the original shen is forced to leave its abode.

 

Spring is the liver time. 

 

The three months of spring are the period of commencement; heaven and earth are born, and all living things are flourishing. Get up early in the morning, walk around in the courtyard, loosen your hair and relax your body. By doing so you will generate mental strength and act in harmony with the qi of spring, thus following the way of nourishing life. If you live contrary to this principle, you will harm your liver.’ Everybody should be aware of this basic principle.
Emotions such as anger, embarrassment, or unexpected joy can also increase blood flow, causing the ears and face to turn red. In situations when less blood is needed, it is “stored in the liver,” which thus assumes a warehouse-like function. The actual storage of blood is done in the penetrating vessel, one of the eight extraordinary vessels that extends from the lower dantian to the head; this vessel is often considered to be part of the liver network. The liver is best compared to a managing clerk, who moves goods in and out of the warehouse as they are needed.
Just as important is the liver’s function of maintaining a smooth and uninterrupted flow of virtually all body substances (including qi, blood, jing, and liquids and humors). Proper coursing and draining, or lack thereof, is mostly reflected in the relation of emotions to qi and blood circulation and to the influence of the liver on digestive system functions:
Emotional aspect: the ancient Chinese observed that human emotions are largely governed by the heart network. However, they also concluded that mental well-being or various shades of depression have an association with the coursing and draining function of the liver. Only if the liver carries this task out properly can the body’s qi and blood flow unobstructed, and thus facilitate a feeling of ease, harmony, and peace. If for some reason the liver fails to maintain this state, depression (of liver qi) or pathological rising (of liver yang) may result. As the Qing Dynasty classic, A Treatise on Blood Disorders (Xue Zheng Lun), states: “The liver is classified as wood; wood qi is characterized by its determination to go straight to where it wants to go to; if it is not blocked or suppressed, the movement in the vessels will be smooth.”
Digestive aspect: since this moving function of the liver regulates the qi flow in the entire body, it influences the dynamics of the other organ networks, particularly the neighboring digestive systems. It assists the upward and downward flows of the spleen/stomach system (the stomach is to move the food mass downward, the spleen is to move the extracted qi upward), passes bile into the intestines, helps to transport food essence, and aids the unobstructed movement and metabolism of water. The Treatise on Blood Disorders says “Coursing and draining is an integral part of liver nature. Once food qi enters the stomach, it is entirely up to the liver wood to course and drain it. Only if this process is intact will grain and water transform properly.”

According to traditional concepts, male physiology is mostly based on qi (yang), while female physiology is primarily based on blood (yin). Males tend to have an abundance of qi that they can afford to spend freely, while females have an abundance of blood that they can give away freely (as becomes evident from the menstrual bleeding). Liver function, therefore, has great influence over an important part of female physiology-menstruation.
The penetrating vessel and the conception vessel, are two pathways linked to the liver that are intimately involved with the transportation of blood. The penetrating vessel, above compared to a warehouse, is also called the Sea of Blood; and the conception vessel, as the name indicates, is credited with the function of nourishing the uterus and the fetus. Both the conception vessel and the penetrating vessel belong to the category of the eight extraordinary vessels. Both these vessels are involved in the liver’s ability to store blood; they set out from the uterus, and are also closely linked with the kidney channel.

The When one’s circadian rhythm is disrupted, sleeping and eating patterns can run amok connect the muscles to the bones. In accordance with the characteristics of the liver, they facilitate smooth and continuous movement. Because of this basic concept, some scholars have recently included the nerves. The proper functioning of the tendons relies entirely on their nourishment by liver blood.
The nails are considered the surplus of the tendons: as such, they are an exterior manifestation of the general quality of the tendons, and thus, liver blood within. Dry and brittle or extremely pale nail beds always indicate a poor quality of liver blood, while pink nailbeds and firm nails indicate a healthy state of liver blood.
Hair is also associated with the liver blood: it is called the “surplus of the blood” (xue yu). The rich liver blood of females is expressed in lush, long, and fast growing hair on the head; males have more facial and body hair, which is governed by the qi organ, lung. Dry and brittle hair can be an indication of liver blood deficiency, while hair that suddenly falls out (alopecia) is usually because of both deficiency of blood and impeded flow of liver blood to the head, usually due to sudden emotional trauma.
The eyes are nourished by the essence of all five organ networks, and thus differentiated into five organ specific zones which may reveal important diagnostic information. The eyes as a whole, however, represent the opening of the liver, and are thus considered to be more closely linked to the liver than to any of the other organ networks. “Liver qi communicates with the eyes,” states the Neijing, “and if the liver functions harmoniously, the eyes can differentiate the five essential colors….If the liver receives blood, we can see. The liver channel branches out to the eyes. Both liver qi and liver blood flood the eyes to maintain proper eyesight. A person’s eyesight may therefore also serve as an indicator for liver function.

Just as trees (wood) tend to unrelentingly pursue their upward quest for the light, the liver represents the innate will of the body/mind to spread outward. Just like qi and blood have to spread within the body to ensure physical survival, human shen needs to spread freely through the social environment to guarantee an uninhibited passage through life. Individuals with strong liver qi and blood are usually excellent strategic planners and decision makers: they know how to spread themselves into the world. Due to these qualities, they often make outstanding business managers. If, however, this tough and determined spreading nature of the liver is not in a state of harmonious balance with the softer side of liver wood-ease, smoothness, flexibility-the wood-endangering state of rigidity arises.

The Liver Loses Its Ability to Course and Drain: if qi gets stuck, the inhibited coursing action of liver qi immediately manifests in the form of mental and emotional symptoms; depression, sensation of emotional pain, or crying are typical examples. If liver qi flares up and upsets the harmonious interplay between body and mind, outbursts of anger, or pain and distention in the sides of the chest may result.Typical signs of a liver qi disorder implicating the neighboring spleen/stomach system are belching, regurgitation of stomach acid, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Liver Disharmony Reflecting on the Emotions and Mental Activities: a deficiency of liver qi typically causes a person to be indecisive and adrift, with a marked inability to plan ahead effectively. If gallbladder qi is deficient, the person will be fearful, have a panicky disposition, and have difficulty making decisions.primary symptoms are tendency to get depressed; frequent sighing; impatient disposition and temper outbreaks; sensations of stuffiness; fullness or congestion in the chest, intercostal, or subcostal regions. Secondary symptoms include obstructed bowel movements; dry and distended eyes; feeling of something being stuck in the throat; self-doubts and crying; pain (especially intercostal and abdominal) that is characterized by moving, pulling, or penetrating sensations; in females; premenstrual breast distention; menstrual cramping and irregular menstruation. The tongue typically presents with a reddish body (especially at the sides) and a thin coating; the pulse tends to be wiry.
LIVER YIN DEFICIENCY herbs:peony (baishao), lycium fruit (gouqizi), ligustrum (nuzhenzi), gelatin (ejiao), tang-kuei (danggui), rehmannia (dihuang), cornus (shanzhuyu), ho-shou-wu (heshouwu), turtle shell (biejia), zizyphus (suanzaoren), biota (baiziren).
LIVER BLOOD DEFICIENCY Representative Herbs: tang-kuei (danggui), peony (baishao), gelatin (ejiao), ligustrum (nuzhenzi), cornus (shanzhuyu), cnidium (chuanxiong), zizyphus (suanzaoren), millettia (jixueteng).
Representative Formulas: Tang-kuei Four Combination (Siwu Tang); Tonify the Liver Decoction (Bugan Tang); Linking Decoction (Yiguan Jian) minus melia (chuanlianzi) plus peony (baishao).
Before making any decisions in supplements please consult your Health provider and a Certified Acupuncture practitioner.

Time for the organs and meridians

 

from: http://www.drterrywillard.com

According Circadian rhythms (Often referred to as the “body clock”, the circadian rhythm is a 24-hour cycle that tells our bodies when to sleep and regulates many other physiological processes. This internal body clock is affected by environmental cues, like sunlight and temperature. When one’s circadian rhythm is disrupted, sleeping and eating patterns can run amok) and the TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) meridian clock can greatly influence our body and our mind. These rhythms tell a practitioner a lot about a person’s general health and challenges .One of the easiest places to see this is with sleep patterns. Many people complain about always waking at the same time through the night.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) meridian clock could give us great clues. If a person always wakes at 2:00 am, this is in the time of the Liver.

Not to be concerned, this doesn’t mean you have a serious liver problem; the word Liver is partly a translation issue.

The acupuncture meridians are an energetic system, or a kind of ‘electrical system,’ of our energy patterns. These meridians have often been said to be rivers of energy called Qi (pronounced Chee). The meridians might be in our body, but there is no specific anatomical part that makes them up. They are more like radio waves. The organ associated with a meridian, in this case the liver, is not the cause of the meridian; the organ is more or less a physical artifact, of the Qi of the meridian. Simply, the Liver meridian’s energy pattern deals with much more than the physical organ of the liver. In Chinese Medicine  there are 14 major meridians that conduct the flow of Qi throughout the body. Twelve of these meridians make up the 24-hour clock, with 2 hours each. The energy is constantly flowing through all of these meridians throughout the 24 hours, with each meridian having a 2-hour period of time as the primary meridian.s resistance or blockages (like stress) that reduce the flow of energy. This resistance also causes imbalance in the flow between meridians.

By looking back at the meridian clock, you may find some clues as to what is going on. Remember, the body never lies.

Each one of the meridians also has certain responsibilities. Following is a basic list of these attributes:

• Stomach – Nourishment of others; nourishment from outside
• Spleen – Nourishment of self in every way
• Heart – Connection to your spirit; circulation of Qi (energy); heart and mind working as one
• Small Intestine – Communication (speaking, listening); perception; truth
• Bladder – When to use our resources; being controlling
• Kidney – Reproduction and creating things in life; our resources
• Pericardium (aka Sex/Circulation) – Intimate relationships; protecting your heart; healthy boundaries
• Triple Heater – Non-intimate relationships; social aspects
• Gall Bladder – Determination and decision making; action
• Liver – Internal plans; the vision for life
• Lung – Barrier (skin) to the outside world; understanding what is of true value
• Large Intestine – Letting go of impurities (of emotions and beliefs, past experiences) ; holding on to what is of value

Recipes for the liver

 

 

 

 

 

IRMA’S DANDELION DELIGHT

from: http://www.tcmworld.org/

 

 

Dandelion greens are ideal for supporting Liver health and for clearing toxic heat out of body and blood. Scallions and garlic also help to support Liver health. Try adding pine nuts or black sesame seeds to give support to the Liver’s mother, the Kidney. Adding spicy chili black bean sauce and sugar will help cut some of the natural bitterness of the dandelion greens.

Ingredients
• 2 cups of washed and chopped (2 inch pieces) dandelion greens
• 1 scallion
• 1 clove of garlic, diced (optional)
• Grapeseed oil for cooking
• Salt (to taste)
• Cooking wine (Chinese rice cooking wine or sherry is nice)
• Mushroom powder (optional)
• Chili black bean sauce (optional, also can use oyster, teriyaki, garlic, etc.)
• Honey (to taste)
• Toasted pine nuts (optional)
• Toasted black sesame seeds (optional)
Preparation
Cut one scallion into 2-inch pieces. Heat a wok with grapeseed oil until very hot. Add a small pinch of salt. Add the scallion and garlic and cook, stirring, for about 10 seconds. Add greens. Sauté lightly, adding a splash of water if too dry. Add more salt, mushroom powder, and Honey (to balance the bitterness), to taste. Add a splash of cooking wine or stir-fry sauce to taste. Toss with sesame seeds or pine nuts before serving.

 

TEN MINUTE TARO AND LEEK SOUP

 

Taro root is harvested in the fall and is great to promote a healthy digestive system.The leeks will support your Liver while seaweed will help the Kidney.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of diced taro root
• 3/4 cup of leek, sliced thin
• Handful of dried seaweed
• 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon of sesame seed oil (optional)
Preparation
Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Add taro root, leek, seaweed and salt. Allow mixture to boil for ten minutes. Add olive oil and let boil one additional minute. If you like the flavor of sesame oil, add a dash just before serving. Tip: make sure you have enough water boiling to allow the taro root space to move while cooking. Do not let the taro root get mushy.

 

 

CRUNCHY LOTUS ROOT

 

This delicious and crunchy food has been used for thousands of years to support Lung function as well as Liver function. Sautéed, juiced, or ground for tea, the lotus root is a great addition to your diet, especially in autumn.
Ingredients

• 1 lotus root
• 1 scallion
• Oil
• Salt
• Honey
• Fish sauce
• Chinese rice wine
• Water as needed
Preparation
Peel the lotus root, cut in half lengthwise, and then slice thinly. Chop the scallion in 1-inch pieces, separating the green from the white portions. Heat the wok well, then add the oil and continue to heat. Add a pinch of salt and the white portion of the scallion. Stir in the lotus root and continue to cook for about 1 minute. Add the ½ teaspoon of Honey (or to taste), a splash of fish sauce, and toss well for 1 minute. Finish off by adding a splash of rice wine, toss and serve warm.

 

 

 

 

from: http://ilovenamaste.com/ayurvedic-tips-vibrant-spring/

1. CLEAR OUT YOUR CLOSET – CLEAN YOUR HOUSE.

It sounds basic but de-cluttering your space will help you de-clutter your mind. They say the body is the temple of the mind, and it’s much easier to clean the temple of the body and mind when the literal temple of the home is clear. Get new plants and increase the amount of fresh green things in your living space.

2. CLEAN OUT YOUR BODY.

Spring is the perfect time for a mild Ayurvedic cleanse to reduce toxins (ama) from winter. Since spring is ruled by the organs liver and gallbladder, it the perfect time to give those organs a break. It’s like an oil change for your body.

Try cutting out sugar, alcohol, dairy, caffeine, cooked oils and red meat for 2 weeks just to give your body a break. The first 3 days are the hardest – it gets easier after that! Getting a friend or partner to join helps a lot too. Increase your intake of water, yoga, rest and alkaline foods (green veggies, fruits, whole grains, raw olive oil, avocados). If you have allergies, increase your intake of bitters, sours and astringent. Bitter veggies (arugula, mustard greens, dandelion greens) support the liver and gallbladder, helping to cleanse the system.  The excess of winter is all about sweet, heavy comfort foods. Now is the time to cleanse those out of the system.

3. SIMPLY BREATHE!

The simplest is often the hardest. When we simplify our days, our desks, our dreams, we have more space just to be. Too breathe, to rest, to delight in the moment. Find 10 minutes in your day to do pranayama (breathing practices) and then just sit (or put your legs up the wall if you feet feel tired, hot or swollen). If you find pranayama challenging from sinus congestion or allergies you need a neti pot and a steam inhalation (more in class about that).

The simplest pranayama practice is samma vrtti – count to 5 as you inhale and 5 as you exhale. Take a short pause after the inhale and after the exhale, as a reminder to pause and take space! If you feel especially hot, stressed or need to relax, lengthen the exhale (5 in, 8 out). 12 rounds of breath is perfect. Then sit or put your legs up for the remainder of the 10 minutes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Some great products for spring. Just click on the image to purchase.

 

 

 

 

 

Green Tea Sampler

A chance to broaden your discovery with the very best of green teas. Each sample makes about 8-10 cups of tea. This set includes:

 

 

Eminence Must Have Minis Gift Set

This limited edition gift set includes a travel size cleanser, exfoliant, moisturizer, facial concentrate and eye serum along with a convenient zippered pouch that’s perfect for traveling. It’s a complete skin care routine that’s suitable for all skin types and makes collecting our most popular products a one-stop shop.

Gift Set Features:

• Stone Crop Gel Wash
• Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant
• Stone Crop Whip Moisturizer
• Bamboo Firming Fluid 
• Neroli Age Corrective Eye Serum

 

Eminence Organics Rose Collection Tube

The Rose Collection Tube from Eminence Organics includes five travel-size products and one full-size serum that synergistically cooperate to rejuvenate and revitalize the skin for a youthful appearance and luminescent glow.  With everything you need in a conveniently packaged wooden tube, your skin will look better, feel amazing, and improve its health from the inside out.

The key ingredient in all of the products in the Rose Collection Tube is sweet red rose petals, which shower the skin with antioxidant protection, moisturize the skin with deep hydration, and soothe the skin for a silky-smooth feel and radiant glow.

Each Eminence Rose Collection Tube Includes

• Rosehip Whip Moisturizer (0.5oz) – rose petal extracts infuse the skin with moisture and protective antioxidants
• Rosehip and Maize Masque (0.5oz) – infuses the skin with deep moisture and resurfaces the skin for a smooth complexion and youthful radiance
• Sweet Red Rose Cleanser (0.5oz) – purifies the skin while infusing it with valuable nourishment
• Sweet Red Rose Whip Moisturizer (0.5oz) – rains on the skin with moisture, penetrating all layers of the skin for long-lasting hydration
• Sweet Red Rose Treatment (0.5oz) – soothes irritated skin and calms inflamed skin; on contact, cools and refreshes your complexion
• Couperose-C (1oz) – Vitamin C serum that corrects problematic skin, infuses antioxidant protection, and revives tired skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

 

TRIA Age-Defying Laser

There was a time when people could only enjoy the benefits of the age-defying laser by setting up a series of appointments with their dermatologists. But not anymore. Thanks to the Tria Age-Defying Laser, anyone can restore the youthfulness of their entire faces in the comfort and privacy of their homes.

 

June Jacobs Cellular Collagen Eye Serum

June Jacobs Cellular Collagen Eye Serum fills fine lines and wrinkles while enhancing cellular function for truly younger looking skin.  Watch fine lines disappear, crow’s feet fade away, and dark circles fade away.  Gentle enough for the sensitive skin around the eyes, June Jacobs Cellular Collagen Eye Serum will give you lively, vibrant eyes that look as beautiful as you are. 

 

 

Camellia Oil

Hello here we are once again  on week 214 and we are bringing you information for an amazing oil, CAMELLIA OIL. This oil has been used for thousands of years in Japan. The Geishas used it on their hair and all over their skin, now a days it is used in the cosmetic industry like a new discovery the same way many other products that have resurfaced, once again.

I always keep Camellia oil around  for my skin, and as a matter of fact we also use it for frying in my husbands catering  business due to the fact that it has a very high burning point and it does an incredible job in the kitchen, as well. So here we go, enjoy and give Julie Hewett Camellia oils a try, her products are of excellence. She is a very talented and well accomplished make up artist in the film industry with remarkable credits. I met her many years ago and always hold her in a very high place, she has many artistic attributes but what impresses me the most about her is her integrity and drive. We are very proud to introduce her.

http://www.juliehewett.net/product/100-organic-camellia-oil/

http://www.juliehewett.net/product/organic-camellia-balm-natural-in-pot/

http://www.juliehewett.net/product/camellia-balm-stick/

 

About Camellia Seed Oil

from: http://www.eco-beauty.com/camellia-seed-oil-info.html

For thousands of years Camellia oil has being assigned as the beauty secret of the Geishas. This very precious oil has been recognized for centuries in Eastern Asia for its highly restorative, revitalizing and reviving effect on skin.  Today, this oil is used in some of the most reliable high  end beauty formulas.

Camellia seed oil comes from the plant Camellia oleifera that grows in the mountains of South Eastern Asia. Camellia Sinensis, another well-known variety, is a tea plant and the source of Black and Green Teas. The seeds of the Camellia plant are harvested and the oil is extracted with an oil press. The best kind is the cold virgin pressed oil.The extracted oil has a light, yet very lively aroma.

The Camellia oil has an outstanding moisture retaining ability and is one of the most rapidly skin absorbed plant oils in the market. The unique molecule make-up of the oil allows it to penetrate into the deepest layers of the skin; much like water, What a great attribute, leaving the skin smooth and supple. The non-drying and non-clogging oil is very rich in mono-saturated essential fatty acids. It is particularly high in oleic acid that exceeds the level of mono-saturated essential fatty acids of olive oil. Camellia oil also contains vitamins, A, B, and E and various minerals, P, Zn, Ca, Fe, Mn, and Mg. Furthermore, camellia oil possesses a unique active constituent known as Squalene which is also an important component of the skin’s natural emollient system. A deficiency of squalene may result in dry skin and premature aging, resulting in lost of elasticity and sagging skin.

Camellia oil contains an excellent emollient and wonderful moisturizer properties. With that being said, camellia oil helps to restore proper pH balance and has a buffering quality that acts as an effective shield to protect skin from penetration of environmental pollutants. Camellia Oil protects skin from drying out while replenishing vital nutrients. It smoothes rough and flaky skin, soothes and calms easily irritated skin, and blocks out ultra violet rays great for Sunscreen time!. Used regularly, pure unrefined camellia oil will help to maintain and restore harmony, protect from spots and decreased hyper pigmentation. Used around the eyes and mouth, it softens creases and tiny maturity lines. For men, Camellia Oil makes a wonderful skin soother and after shaving.Applied regularly it will keep the skin conditioned and aids in preventing shaving burns.

 

Camellia Plant Seeds

 

Skin Care Benefits

• Also Camellia oil can be used as an emollient for dry skin and even help with acne, rashes and other inflammatory skin conditions. It is a light, easily absorbed oil that can be used as a moisturizer for dry, rough spots. The oil is said to help prevent and smooth skin creases and stretch marks and aid with scars. It is also used to strengthen and promote healthy growth of fingernails by massaging the oil into the nail and to deep condition cuticles.

Hair Care Benefits

• History research says that geishas soaked their wooden combs in the oil overnight to help nourish the scalp and hair. You can buy camellia oil hair products with the oil as the main ingredient or you can use the pure oil as a hot oil treatment or a pomade. You can purchase organic camellia oil at many health food stores or order it on line is an extensive supply of it.

 

Geishas Wooden comb

 

 

Misconceptions

 

Camellia oleifera may be confused with Camellia sinensis, from which green tea is derived. They are similar but from different families of camellia. Camellia oleifer is the seed used for camellia oil. A combination of sinensis and oleifer is used at times in different products. Camellia oil is referred to as tea seed oil as well, which causes confusion with tea tree oil, which is from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a plant native to Australia that is not edible like camellia oil.

 

Properties

Camellia oil exerts many therapeutic properties. They have healing and nutritional power, making them fit for use even in medicinal formulations.

Emollient – Tea seed oil is a brilliant moisturizer.

Antioxidant – Camellia oil, like green tea is a superb antioxidant. It resists rancidity strongly.

Hair conditioner – used as a traditional hair treatment in the ancient times in China.

Cicatrizant – promotes recovery of wounds and scrapes.

Anti-Aging – protects the skin from free radical damage due to its antioxidant. Reduces ageing due to the skin and other environmental free radicals.

Anti-microbial – It stops the proliferation of microbes. It is especially notable for its anti-fungal properties.

Lipid Lowering Effects – reduces LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

Emulsifying Agent – This means that tea seed oil quickly emulsifies other fats. This makes it a nice additive to cosmetic products whether they are commercial or home-made.

Insecticide – useful as a pesticide for certain agricultural crops.

Immune booster.

Anti-mutation – This means that it can prevent certain cancers from even occurring.

Astringent – It has a mild astringent effect which makes it good for treating injuries and scars.

Anti-inflammatory – reduces inflammation on the skin.

Neuroprotective – reduces damage to the nervous system.

Anti-diabetic – has blood glucose lowering ability.

Analgesic – natural pain reliever.

Anti-Allergic – can help in suppressing an allergy.

 

 

 

Japanese Camellia oil

from: https://wawaza.com/pages/How-to-Use-Japanese-Camellia-(Tsubaki)-Oil.html

Japanese Camellia oil is best when obtained by cold pressing wild-harvested seeds of the Camellia japonica flower (called Tsubaki in Japanese) without any harsh chemical or high heat refining.

Benefits

Japanese Camellia oil is a rich source of Palmistic and Omega-6 Linoleic fatty acids, as well as numerous anti-aging polyphenol antioxidants.

It is an emollient ( soften skin and hair), and approximately 82% of its fatty acids are composed of Oleic fatty acid (Omega-9).

Omega-9, a remarkable transdermal carrier, is very effective in enhancing skin’s moisture retention ability.

It is quickly absorbed and permeates deep into lower layers of skin, promoting cell growth and giving skin support and flexibility.

• Hair Care
  • How to Use as Daily Conditioner
  • Deep Treatment Pack
  • Use With Seaweed Hair Cleanser
  • Applying With Tsuge Wood Comb
• Skincare and Facial Use
  • Vitamin E and Sunblock Claims
  • Use in Combination with Rice Bran Oil
• Body Care
  • Nails and Cuticle Care
• Camellia Japonica and Other Varieties
  • Camellia Japonica, Sinensis and Oleifer Differences
  • Collection of Matured Seeds
  • Cold Pressing
  • Heat Extraction
  • Solvent (Chemical) Extraction
  • Why Are Unrefined Oils Better?

 

Hair Care

With its golden color and creamy texture, Japanese Camellia oil has been responsible for the classic, legendary beauty of Japanese hair for centuries.

In Japan, Camellia oil is commonly used as a leave-in, best when applied to damp hair such as after showering. How much to apply is a matter of personal preference. A little goes a long way, though you can apply as much as you like. Geishas and maikos apply a lot, for the distinct Japanese traditional glossy hair look they prefer.

For difficult hair, it can also be applied to hair before washing to untangle hair and make it more manageable.

The benefit list of Camellia oil for hair care is long:

• Softens hair and makes it more manageable
• Restores hair’s natural sheen
• Helps hair retain moisture
• Forms a barrier against environmental pollutants
• Repairs breakage and split ends
• Treats dry scalp and itchiness
• Help prevents dandruff
• Treats damage from perms and coloring

 

How to Use for Hair Care

For Japanese, the most common use of Camellia oil is to apply it to hair after washing.

• Towel dry hair after washing.
• Put a few drops of Camellia oil into your palms and spread well.
• Starting from the top, apply into hair and scalp using fingertips.

Pay special attention to hair ends, They tend to be drier and more subject to breakage and damage.

OK to apply to dry hair on days you do not wash hair.

 

Use As Deep Treatment Pack

As a deep hair treatment pack, Camellia oil helps restore brilliance to dull hair and treat damage from heat, perms and coloring.

• apply a few drops into hair before shampooing hair.
• Cover with shower cap, and wrap with towel (to keep it warm) for 20-30 minutes, you can sit in the sun and let it soak. You can extend this time to up to one hour.
• Shampoo and rinse and use a conditioner in the ends of hair as usual.

 

Use With Seaweed Hair Cleanser

Japanese Camellia oil can be used as moisturizer and conditioner after washing hair with seaweed.

Seaweed hair cleanser comes in form of powdered seaweed. It is mixed with water to produce a gel-like mixture. The mixture is applied in a variety of ways. The traditional Japanese method is to use it by itself. However, it can also be used as a deep treatment pack with camellia oil, or mixed with shampoo.

How to use

Washing Hair – Mix a little less than 1/2 teaspoon of seaweed powder with 3 tablespoons of hot water. Let mixture cool down before use. Apply mixture slowly into hair and onto scalp. Rinse well. Towel dry hair. Apply Camellia oil.

Deep Treatment Pack – Mix 1 teaspoon of seaweed powder with 3 tablespoons of hot water. Wash hair as normal (without using the mixture.) Towel dry hair. Apply mixture to hair. Cover hair with cap for 15-20 minutes. Rinse well. Towel dry hair. Apply Camellia oil.

 

Applying With Tsuge Wood Comb

Applying Camellia oil to hair by hand is OK. Going over it with a wood comb results in a much better and more even coverage make sure to be gentle with the combing wet hair is very fragile. It is a good idea to let hair dry before combing, as you should never comb your hair when it is wet.So we prefer doing the application on dry hair

Japanese traditional combs are made from Tsuge (Boxwood — one of the densest, hardest types of wood. They are polished, one tooth at at time, to a very smooth finish.

The wood teeth have microscopic pores which pick up and re-distribute Camellia oil in a thin, even layer throughout hair. This promotes natural shine and gloss and even coverage while using less oil.

Tsuge combs do not snag, since their teeth are seamless. They are also anti-static as not to cause frizz when combing.

 

 

Skincare and Facial Use

Skin Rescue Kit: Rosewater Toner, Camellia Balm Stick, 1oz. Camellia Oil

 

Absorbs Quickly Deep into Skin Restoring Bounce and Elasticity

 

Camellia oil is a fast-absorbing moisturizer. It has a silky, creamy texture and is non-comedogenic (does not block skin pores, and does not contribute to acne breakouts.)  Among other benefits, it is a transdermal carrier of cell rebuilding nutrients and bioactive compounds (collagen and elastin) into skin, which repair damage caused by dryness, sun exposure and aging and general oxidation.

How to Use

• Pump a small amount into the palm of your hand.
• Rub your palms together to spread the oil into a thin layer, more is not better.
• Pat the oil over your face and neck. Do not rub hard just have a little ceremony for your self.
• Spread the oil in small circular motion till its absorbed, with clean hands.

For small wrinkles and blemishes, add a small drop to your fingertips and apply directly on the areas you need, patting it softly.

Vitamin E and Sunblock Claims

Vitamin E

Although there are numerous claims that Camellia oil is rich in vitamin E, such claims are simplistic at best, and can be misleading.

Vitamin E comes in many forms. Notable ones are Tocotrienols, the so-called “super vitamin E”, and the more common (and much less effective of the skin) Tocopherols.

While Camellia oil contains only moderate levels of the Tocopherol variety vitamin E (about 60 mg/1000 g), it is not a noteworthy source of Tocotrienols for most part.

For high Tocotrienol content rice bran oil at 600-800 mg/ 1000 g is by far a better choice, if that is what your looking for.

Sunblock Properties

Common claims of Camellia oil having significant sunblock properties are a bit exaggerated, I would still use your preferred sunblock after the oil sinks in.

In fact, all vegetable-based oils, including Camellia oil, have a low SPF (about 3-5) and should not be used as a primary sunblock regimen.

Use in Combination with Rice Bran Oil

Some prefer to apply Camellia oil in combination with rice bran oil to take advantage of their different benefits. Among other things, rice bran oil is a significant source of Tocotrienol, as well as an anti-aging antioxidant called Gamma-oryzanol.

Mixing the two oils together is not the best way to go, since it cuts the effectiveness of each oil in half. Instead, they are best applied separately. Both get absorbed into skin rapidly, and one can be applied in about 15 minutes after applying the other.

 

Body Care

For Bouncy Skin and Softer Elbows, Knees and Heels

Camellia oil is a nutrient and antioxidant-rich skin moisturizer and softener (emollient), and its fatty acids contain powerful agents for retention and enhancement of skin moisture.

The oil is fast absorbing and penetrates deep into the lower layers of skin, enhancing natural cell growth and bounce.

• Moisturizes, nourishes and softens skin
• Restores bounce and elasticity
• Diminishes fine lines and wrinkles
• Repairs stretch marks such as in after pregnancy
• Heals minor acne scars

Japanese Camellia oil also does an excellent job to soften rough skin in areas such as elbows, legs, knees and heels.

How to Use

Apply a small amount to damp skin (best after showering or taking a bath.) Apply gently and thoroughly till completely absorbed.

Use morning and night, or as often as needed.

 

Nails and Cuticle Care

• Softens dry or brittle nails and rough cuticles
• Helps alleviate discomfort from dry skin under
• Keeps nails nourished, smooth and shiny

How to Use

Add one or two drops to a cotton pad and wipe nails and cuticles. Best after showering. After a few days, you will notice that your nails and cuticles are softer and smoother and look healthier.

 

 

The Camellia family of plant includes a very large number of species. Besides the all important Camellia japonica (Tsubaki), the Camellia family includes many other plants such plants are Camellia sinensis (the common tea plant) and Camellia oleifera (notable for its edible properties).

Though they all are commonly referred to as “Camellia”, they have important differences and should not be confused.

 

Camellias Japonica, Sinensis and Oleifera Differences

Camellia japonica 

The true Japanese Camellia. Also called Rose of winter, and Tsubaki in Japanese. The oil from its seeds is known in Japan as Tsubaki-abura.

The Japanese Camellia tree (Camellia Japonica) is native to southern Japan. The most common variety is the classic red Camellia known as Yabu-Tsubaki (wild Camellia.) Yabu-Tsubakis are easy to recognize. They are dark pink to red, with 5-7 petals which connected at the bottom in a cup shape. The upper-sides of the leaves have a distinct waxy coating which sparkles in the light. The Japanese name Tsubaki is believed to have been shortened from “tsuya-ba-ki” or “shiny leaf tree”.

The Tsubaki tree blooms in winter and early spring, when the much-admitted beauty of its flower is a common sight in cities and in countryside. Its all-important seeds are harvested in fall.

Camellia sinensis

The plant which all teas come from. Two major varieties of Camellia sinensis are: var. sinensis (small-leaved teas), and var. assamica (large-leaved teas). Leaves of various species produce all teas including green (Sencha, Matcha,..), black (Darjeeling, Ceylon,..), Pu-erh (Qing Cha, Shu Cha,..) and Oolong (Jade, Wu Yi,..). The oil from its seeds is known as Tea Oil Camellia.

Camellia oleifera

Notable source of edible oil. Very similar to olive oil in composition, with its fatty acids containing about 72% Oleic acid. The oil from its seeds is commonly known as Oil-seed Camellia as well as Tea-seed Oil.

 

Collection of Matured Seeds

 

The traditional Japanese method for collecting Camellia seeds is to gather the seed pods by hand after they have fully matured.

This is a time consuming, manual process which ensures that the seeds are at their peak maturity and have reached their maximum potential. The oil pressed from such seeds has an exceptionally deep golden color and a rich, velvety texture.

The collected seed pods are then sun-dried. The process results is the woody shell of the pod to naturally crack open, exposing the seeds inside.

 

Oil Extraction

Camellia oil retains its maximum benefit when it is extracted by Cold Pressing, without undergoing any refining process.

Lesser quality Camellia oils are extracted by either Heat Extraction or Solvent (Chemical) Extraction. Such oils also undergo various levels of heat or chemical refinement to make color and texture uniform.

 

Cold Pressing

Camellia oil for beauty application must be free of chemicals and must contain the fullest possible amount of its natural anti-oxidants and nutrients.

Cold pressing, a labor-intensive mechanical process, ensures that the maximum possible amount of oil’s character and nutritional content are preserved.

Cold pressing yields only about 20-30% of the seeds available oil. This is the reason for the relatively higher cost (and lower availability) of cold pressed high quality Camellia oil.

 

Heat Extraction

Heat pressing is the application of high heat in conjunction with mechanical pressure to extract more oil from seeds.

Heat extraction increases the yield to 60-70% of oil available in the seed, and lowers production costs. However, the introduction of heat changes the composition of the oil and significantly lowers its anti-oxidant and nutritional properties.

 

Solvent (Chemical) Extraction

Large manufacturers, to fully extract the seed’s oil, use high heat along with powerful carcinogenic solvents such as ethanol or Hexane, a petroleum byproduct. Adding solvents to the heat extraction process increases the yield to up to 98% of the available oil contained in the seed.

Solvent extraction lowers production costs – and oil’s health benefits – even more than heat extraction, as the oil undergoes temperatures of up to 150° C (about 300° F) under extremely high pressure to keep it from boiling.

The process is followed by distillation to remove the solvents (ethanol or Hexane) from the extracted oil to the extent practical. However, residual solvents remain in the finished oil, although these may only be in trace amounts.

 

Cold Pressed vs. Cold Filtered

While Europe has rigorous standards in place for the terminology of cold pressing, similar phrases such as “cold filtered” have been used erroneously, especially in the U.S. and Australia, often employed as a marketing technique.

“Cold filtered” oils are not necessarily cold pressed. They could very well have been processed at high heat and using chemicals, and then filtered after being cooled.

Why Unrefined Oils are Better

Unrefined oils are ones that have not been subjected to high heat or chemicals for controlling color and scent. They maintain the maximum amount of oil’s original character, and are untainted by chemicals.

Large manufacturers need to control the batch-to-batch differences in their supply chain to make the final product uniform. They employ various “refining” techniques for this purpose.

Refining allows control of color and scent of oil by using combination of chemical, filtration or heat processing.

Refined oils are less expensive to produce, since the process makes it possible to make the final product always uniform and look and feel the same, regardless of using different grade oils.

Refined oils lose important nutrients and antioxidants in the process. Depending on the type of the refining process, there is also the possibility that trace amount of chemicals remain in the finished oil.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elemis Japanese Camellia Oil Blend

Easily absorbed and rich in plant collagen, it is ideal for helping to prevent stretch marks whilst pregnant and improving skin elasticity and condition over the whole body.

Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Infused Comb

 

Camellia Oil 100% – Pure Cold Pressed, Organic

• 100% Pure, Cold Pressed, Organic, processed without heat or chemicals
• Rich in polyphenols, high in vitamins A, B, D and E, various minerals, Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids
• Has protective and antiseptic properties, wonderful for all skin types including ultra sensitive, oily, combination, and acne prone. Promotes skin rejuvenation. For best result use after Fleur De Lis Natural Cosmetics Rice and Papaya Enzyme Powder Cleanser.
• Virtually odorless and possesses only a very slight herbal aroma
• Prevents free radical damage, provides moisture and velvety softness to the skin and hair

 

TATCHA Camellia Cleansing Oil Face Wash

• A beautiful blend of camellia and rice bran oils.
• Melts away even waterproof makeup leaving skin fresh and pure.
• 1-Step, no double cleansing required.
• Safe and effective for all skin types.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The science of Oil Pulling

 

On this week 323, we are sharing a post on Oil Pulling. I personally have used Oil Pulling for about forty  years with great results, I learned from one of my mentors Dr. Bernard Jensen he was into detoxing and maintaining a self routine of  cleansing from inside out, and he knew that Oil pulling is a great way to accomplish both, I have experienced outstanding results not only for mouth health, in addition for lymphatic drainage and I can tell the difference right away. Our intention is for everyone that reads the post to benefit from this amazing procedure.

Oil pulling originated in India appearing in the early Ayurvedic medicine texts ( better known as traditional Indian Medicine ), and is highly considered these days as alternative medicine concepts known as Charaka Samhita. This ancient Ayurvedic remedy is designed for overall wellbeing and is such a simple practice that gives remarkable results, I have used it for many years with outstanding health improvements not to mention my teeth love it, from Oral successes to lymphatic clearing and many health over comings, I wish you health, happiness and Ideal abundance finds you and yours, please share with others and don’t forget to like if you do.

 

Oil Pulling

According to Dr. Joseph Mercola:

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/05/05/oil-pulling-coconut-oil.aspx

According to Ancient Ayurveda, texts tell us that oil pulling may solve about 30 systemic health challenges and today, it’s discussed widely as a tool for detoxification of your whole body. In your mouth, oil pulling does have significant cleansing and healing effects, which now are backed up by science.

Personally, this technique has significantly reduced plaque buildup, overall dental wellness and a sense of wellbeing on my self. As reported by the Indian Journal of Dental Research:

“If you take a look at the research, it’s easy to understand why:

• Oil pulling reduced counts of Streptococcus mutans bacteria – a significant contributor to tooth decay – in the plaque and saliva of children. Researchers concluded, “Oil pulling can be used as an effective preventive adjunct in maintaining and improving oral health.”

• Oil pulling significantly reduced plaque, improved gum health and reduced aerobic microorganisms in plaque among adults and teenagers tested with plaque-induced gingivitis
• Oil pulling is as effective as mouthwash at improving bad breath and reducing the microorganisms that may cause it

• Oil pulling benefits your mouth, in part, via its mechanical cleaning action. Researchers noted, “The myth that the effect of oil-pulling therapy on oral health was just a placebo effect has been broken and there are clear indications of possible saponification and emulsification process, which enhances its mechanical cleaning action.”

 

Oil pulling-science

According to: http://www.oilpulling.com/oilpullingscience.htm

Most people believe that the therapeutic effects and the science of oil pulling is the effects caused by the absorption of toxins and chemicals through blood vessels in the mouth and tongue, as well as sublingual/transmucosal absorption of the fatty acids in the oils used for pulling.

The one theory on oil pulling science is

Oil is nonpolar and attracts nonpolar molecules. The arrangement or geometry of the atoms in some molecules is such that one end of the molecule has a positive electrical charge and the other side has a negative charge.When this is the case, the molecule is called a polar molecule, That means that it has electrical poles. Otherwise, it is called a non-polar molecule. Whether molecules are polar or non-polar will determine if they will mix to form a solution or that they don’t mix well together.

Saliva which is secreted into the mouth when the oil is repeatedly swished and pulled is mainly water, electrolytes, digestive enzymes, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral agents, and is mainly polar and therefore attracts polar molecules.

It is this heterogeneous mixture that works together to rid the mouth and body of unwanted toxins and chemicals.

The most common way for substances to migrate from blood to saliva is believed to be by the unaided, or passive, diffusion. The capillaries surrounding the salivary glands are quite porous for many substances. Materials can pass from the blood system into the space surrounding the glands, and then make their way directly through the membranes of acinus or duct cells. The ability of a molecule to diffuse passively through cell membranes depends partly on its size, and partly on how much electrical charge it carries. If a molecule is of polar nature, or if it separates into charged ions while in solution, it will have a hard time passing through the membranes, which are made out of neutral fatty compounds called phospholipids. Steroid hormones are relatively small in size, and most of them are fatty, non-polar compounds, so consequently they tend to pass relatively easily by diffusion. On the other hand molecules such as the large protein hormones, or hormones or drugs that are bound to large carrier proteins while in the bloodstream, are too big to enter by this route.
A second pathway used by molecules to enter saliva is by filtering through the tight spaces between acinus or duct cells. In order to do this, they must be relatively small. Sulfated steroids such as dehydro-epiandrosterone sulfate and estriol sulfate, are not able to pass through the fatty cell walls because of their electrical charges, are believed to enter principally by the filtration route. Compounds such as DHEA-S are slower to migrate into saliva than the neutral steroid hormones, and when saliva output is stimulated they may move too slowly to keep up with the accelerated flow rates, causing concentrations in saliva to drop.

Blood components can also gain entry into saliva from the outflow of the serum-like gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from the gums, or from small injuries or burns in the mouth. GCF is believed to be a major route by which certain molecules,  would ordinarily be too large to pass by either diffusion or filtration, can find their way from serum into saliva.

It is the fourth pathway for the entry of a substance into saliva and that is by the active transport through the secretory cells of the glands, which is the route used by secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA). Polymeric IgA is secreted by B-lymphocyte cells close to the salivary cells, then bound and transported across the cells by a Polymeric Immunoglobulin Receptor, and finally released into salivary secretions. It has been shown that secretion of SIgA is increased by nervous stimulation of the saliva glands, but the exact manner in which the transport is accelerated is not yet understood. There must be an upper limit to the speed of transport since SIgA concentrations in saliva are known to decrease as saliva flow is stimulated.

Also, these pathways can give entry to various bacteria and viruses that have the appropriate electrical charges.

The other theory that for understanding oil pulling is not quite as scientific, but more eastern in thinking.

As described above. The polar and nonpolar molecules of the heterogeneous mixture(saliva and oil) are removing the toxins and various chemicals with the corresponding electrical charges when they’re being pulled.

Acupuncture makes you aware of the many points on acupuncture meridians that become congested and blocked from food, bacteria and environmental toxins which our bodies absorb. The tongue is very important to the function of most of the organs and biochemical reactions taking place in the body.

It is the theory that by removing the toxins and various microbes from the tongue we free the congestion and blockages from the important meridian pathways that interconnect our many organs.

 

Scientific Studies on Oil Pulling

The Indian Journal of Dental Research found that when compared with mouthwash, swishing with sesame oil or coconut oil reduced plaque, modified gingival scores, and lowered microorganisms in the plaque of adolescents with plaque-induced gingivitis. In 2014 a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that oil pulling with sesame oil helped in reducing oral malodor and the microbes causing it just as much as using a chlorhexidine treatment. A 2011 study published in the Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry found oil pulling to be as effective as chlorhexidine in the treatment of bad breath and gum deterioration.

A 2007 study looking into the effect of oil pulling (with coconut oil) on plaque and gingivitis on oral soft and hard tissues. Results found that after 45 days of oil pulling, subjects showed a statistically significant reduction in gingivitis.

Another study, conducted in 2008 found a “remarkable reduction in the total count of harmful bacteria” in the mouth and an overall marked reduction in susceptibility in dental cavities. The antibacterial activity of sesame oil was also studied and found to have an effect on the Streptococcus mutans in the mouth.

In fact, these studies showed an overall reduction of harmful bacteria from 10 to 33.4% in participants, and after 40 days of oil-pulling, participants were found to show 20% in an average reduction in harmful oral bacteria. Moreover, half of all participants in this case study showed a drastic reduction in susceptibility to dental caries.

 

How To Oil Pull

 

 

from: http://oilpulling.com/oilpullingandoralhealth.htm

Step1:

Is best done first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and before drinking any liquids,including water, place a teaspoon of  sesame oil or coconut oil into your mouth keep it in mind to leave room for the saliva that will mix with the oil when switching it will add to the amount of oil you place in your mouth, you need room to switch without gagging , I place half of the teaspoon my self,  Children can also do this with less quantity of oil provided they have control and practice not to swallow the oil.

Step 2:

Swish the oil around in your mouth without swallowing it. Move it around in your mouth and through your teeth, as if it was mouthwash make sure not to tilt your head back or forward so the mixture doesn’t go to the wrong place, like through your nose or swallow the oil. You’ll find that the oil will start to get watery as your saliva mixes with it. Keep swishing. If your jaw muscles get sore while swishing, you’re putting too much into it, I divide the switching in sections like the front, sides, and back of the mouth that way I make sure I cover all the areas. Relax your jaw muscles and use your tongue to help move the liquid around the inside of your mouth if you prefer. When you do this with ease, you’ll feel very comfortable with the process and it will get easier and easier with practice.

Don’t focus on doing it right. Do it with very natural movement. Do this gently, not vigorously, in a relaxed way for about 20 minutes. You can start with 5 to 10 minutes and increase the time as you go along, I myself determine the amount of time with the particular challenge that I wish to address, if I have pain anywhere in my body I do short times throughout the day  (away from the times of eating) so I don’t give my body more to do when is in a challenge state, and then I start increasing the time, Oil Pulling works with the Lymphatic system so I don’t want to over load it if I am not feeling well, for daily maintenance I switch for about 10 to 15 minutes soon as I get up when I am doing chores around the house, I learned early on not to bend forward or backwards when switching oil, so you don’t swallow the oil or gets in your nose, is not much fun when that happens.
If you have the unbearable urge to swallow and If it becomes too unpleasant, spit outcome of the oil or all of it and try again, and do so in the toilet don’t spit it out in your sinks it can cause problems with your pipes!. It can be a bit unpleasant at first when you’re not used to it, but soon won’t be bothersome at all, just like brushing your teeth but with a full-body benefit!.
When the oil has become saturated with the toxins it has pulled out, it will become a whitish, thinner, milky consistency, depending on the type of oil used it will be more or less. Each time you oil pull, it can take a different amount of time to get to that point, so 20 minutes is a general rule of thumb, but you can experiment with this.

 For longer and deeper switching If you spit out before 20 minutes. start again, the process is to make the oil swish enough time in your mouth so that it becomes a white milky substance which is an indication of process completion, like I said before is up to your discretion of what results in you wish to accomplish .

Step3:

As the end of the oil pulling session , rinse the mouth with warm salt water .  Salt water rinsing isn’t absolutely necessary, but is very helpful as an antimicrobial and to soothe any inflammation and proven to be effective in rinsing out any toxins which may be left out in the mouth.

You can do the oil pulling every morning if you like, or several times a week. Because oilpulling method can be detoxifying, you might want to take a break sometimes. One immediate benefit everyone gets is, whiter teeth, clean mouth, and overall great feeling . There’s no rule about frequency – judge according to your own experience, the recommendation is to do it away from meal times at least an hour before and after do to the fact that you don’t want to inter fear with digestion by pulling the blood away from any of the digestive organs

 

What Does Oil Pulling Do?

 

 

Multiple scientific studies show the efficacy of oil pulling therapy. One study shows that oil pulling with sesame oil can boost overall oral health. Specifically, using sesame oil as an oral health agent helps to reduce the amount of S. mutans (germ) count in both teeth plaque and mouth saliva. Scientists believe that the lipids in the oil both pull out bacteria, as well as stop bacterial from sticking to the walls of the oral cavity

Bacteria and these toxins have a lipid membrane, and they are ATTRACTED to other oils. (They are repelled by water.)

Oil pulling may also increase saponification in the mouth, creating a soapy environment that cleanses the mouth as vegetable fat is an emulsifier by nature. Most interesting is perhaps the ability of an oil to cleanse out harmful bacteria, as well as reduce fungal overgrowth. These oils also possibly help in cellular restructuring, and are related to the proper functioning of the lymph nodes and other internal organs, as you see is a very powerful system.

Other benefits of oil pulling for oral health include:
Overall strengthening of the teeth and gums and jaws
Prevention of diseases of the gums and mouth, such as cavities and gingivitis
Prevention for bad breath
Potential holistic solution for bleeding gums
Prevention of dryness of the lips, mouth and throat
Holistic help for TMJ and general soreness in the jaw area

The connection between oral health and overall health

 

According to: http://www.oilpulling.com/oilpullingandoralhealth.htm

Scientists at the 87th General Session of the International Association for Dental Research reported new studies connecting oral diseases with systemic diseases. A recurring theme is a relationship between periodontal (gum) disease and infant prematurity, diabetes, or stroke.  Over the years oil pulling users all over the world are giving enough evidence that by oil pulling they were getting benefit in their overall wellbeing.

Your mouth is normally teeming with bacteria. Usually, you can keep these bacteria under control with good oral health care, such as daily brushing, flossing and dental cleaning by a professional. Saliva also is a key defense against bacteria and viruses. It contains enzymes that destroy bacteria in many different ways. But harmful bacteria can sometimes grow out of control and lead to periodontitis, a serious gum deterioration.

When your gums are healthy, bacteria in your mouth usually don’t enter your bloodstream. However, gum disease may provide bacteria a port of entry into your bloodstream. Sometimes invasive dental treatments also can allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream. And medications or treatments that reduce saliva flow or disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in your mouth also may lead to oral changes, making it easier for bacteria to enter your bloodstream. Some researchers believe that these bacteria and inflammation from your mouth are linked to many health problems in the rest of your body.

If you look at the above teeth chart you can see how teeth are connected to every organ.

 

Benefits of Oil Pulling Beyond the Mouth

 

From: http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/benefits-of-oil-pulling/  and  http://www.foodmatters.tv/articles-1/oil-pulling-the-habit-that-can-transform-your-health

Ancient Ayurvedic health practitioners believed that oil pulling could reduce more than just health challenges of the mouth and throat. Today, many holistic practitioners recommend the use of a variety of overall concerns.

It is believed that these oils help the lymphatic system of the body as harmful bacteria are removed and beneficial microflora are given the ground for a healthy environment to flourish. Because of this holistic perspective, oil pulling has been used as a preventative health measure for many other conditions.

Many holistic practitioners tribute other benefits of oil pulling. It is believed that oil pulling stimulates the lymphatic system and aids in the transport of toxins away from vital organs. The reported benefits of oil pulling include:

Teeth whitening
Clear skin
Improves digestion
Weight loss
Promotes normal sleep patterns
Helps kidney and liver function
Migraine headache relief
Correcting hormone imbalances
Reducing inflammation
Aids in the reduction of eczema
May reduce symptoms of bronchitis
Helps support normal kidney function
May help reduce sinus congestion
Some people report improved vision
Reduced hangover after alcohol consumption
Aids in reducing pain
Reduces the symptoms of allergies
Helps detoxify the body of harmful metals and organisms among other benefits

 

 

Sesame Seed Oil

 

 

From: http://youthingstrategies.com/sesame-oil/

Sesame oil has been used as a healing oil for thousands of years. Sesame oil is mentioned in the Vedas, (the Vedas is a large body of texts originating in ancient India) as excellent for humans. It is naturally antibacterial for common skin pathogens, such as staphylococcus and streptococcus as well as common skin fungi, such as athlete’s foot fungus. It is naturally antiviral. It is a natural anti-inflammatory agent.

Research shows that sesame seed oil is a potent antioxidant. In the tissues beneath the skin, this oil will neutralize oxygen radicals. It penetrates into the skin quickly and enters the bloodstream through the capillaries. Molecules of sesame seed oil maintain good cholesterol (HDL) and lower not so good cholesterol (LDL).

In an experiment at the Maharishi International College in Fairfield, Iowa, students rinsed their mouths with sesame oil, resulting in an 85% reduction in the bacteria which causes gingivitis.

Internally, the oil molecules attract oil soluble toxins and carry them into the bloodstream and then out of the body as waste.

Sesame seed oil absorbs quickly and penetrates through the tissues to the very marrow of the bone. It enters into the bloodstream through the capillaries and circulates. The liver does not sweep sesame seed oil molecules from the blood, accepting those molecules as friendly.

Sesame seed oil helps joints keep their flexibility. It keeps the skin supple and soft. It heals and protects areas of mild scrapes, cuts, and abrasions. It helps tighten facial skin, particularly around the nose, controlling the usual enlargement of pores as skin ages chronologically.

 

Coconut oil

 

 

From: http://oilpulling.com/oilforoilpulling.htm

 

Coconut oil is a familiar taste for many people. It has a cooler energy than sesame oil, so it’s good for people who tend to have a warmer constitution or condition of heat. Some people have reported that coconut oil is more strongly detoxifying, which isn’t always a good thing for some people, so it’s best to be cautious and go slowly when having a high toxic or infectious condition.

from: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/05/05/oil-pulling-coconut-oil.aspx

Coconut oil has antibacterial and anti-viral activity that makes it especially well suited for oral health. In fact, coconut oil mixed with baking soda makes for a very simple and inexpensive, yet effective, toothpaste and research suggests it may be a valuable tool for fighting tooth decay.

Researchers at the Athlone Institute of Technology’s Bioscience Research Institute in Ireland tested the antibacterial action of coconut oil in its natural state and coconut oil that had been treated with enzymes, in a process similar to digestion.

The oils were tested against strains of Streptococcus bacteria, which are common inhabitants of your mouth. They found that enzyme-modified coconut oil strongly inhibits the growth of most strains of Streptococcus bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans, an acid-producing bacterium that is a major cause of tooth decay.

It is thought that the breaking down of the fatty coconut oil by the enzymes turns it into acids, which are toxic to certain bacteria.7 Enzyme-modified coconut oil was also harmful to the yeast Candida albicans, which can cause thrush. So when oil pulling is combined with the antimicrobial power of coconut oil, I believe it can be a very powerful health tool.

 

Oil pulling common questions:

 

 

 

Q: Is it necessary to use cold-pressed, unrefined oil? I am seeing only refined oil in the stores Can I buy refined oil for oil pulling?
It is recommended that organic, unrefined, cold pressed oils with the life force of the core substances in that oil are intact. Use the best quality you can get —unrefined, cold-pressed, which will not contain harmful ingredients residues.
If you have access to only refined oil, start with  sesame oil.

Q: Which oils shall be avoided for oilpulling method?
Avoid all poor quality oils that you wouldn’t want to eat. Those include corn oil, canola oil, cottonseed oil and soy oil, and those that go rancid very quickly such as flax oil.

Q: In most stores I am only seeing expeller pressed oils, but not cold pressed. What is your recommendation?
Cold-pressed, or expeller-pressed oil is just a better quality oil that doesn’t contain harmful chemical residues, and is better nutritionally. Refined oils are high heated which damages the quality to some degree,you can always order a good oil on line Amazon carries a great selection of them.
The expulsion process used for expeller pressed oils does generate a certain amount of heat, depending on the type of seed or nut and how much pressure it takes to get the oil out of it. But this is very low compared to the high heat method used for refined oils. Look for a brand of oil with unrefined,Coconut or sesame oil.

Q: Can we use toasted oils for oil pulling?
Try to avoid toasted oils, as the high heat damages them.

Q: Should I brush before Oilpulling?
No, there’s no need to. It’s important to brush after oilpulling and clean the mouth thoroughly after toxins are drawn out with salt and water or warm water with baking soda as explained before.

Q: When oil becomes white after 5 min? 10 min? 15 min?
There’s no rule of thumb different oils will behave differently, so don’t pay to much attention to when the oil becomes white relax and switch.

Q: I was only able to do it for about few minutes, Is it normal?
It is very common for many. Because we are not tuned to have oil in our mouth and for the first few times there would be some different feeling that is all the importance is in the consistency of doing your switching. But please note you would be amazed by how quickly you can get used to it! It helps if you think about keeping the oil around your teeth and not toward the back of your mouth. Keeping the head tilted down a bit can help with that. Five minutes may be all you need, but you may also be able to increase the time because it will become more comfortable. Experiment and you’ll find out what works best for you.

Q: I can’t help swallowing a little during OP. Is that harmful?
If you need to swallow a bit during oilpulling, the toxins being drawn out can usually be handled by the digestive system and eliminated properly try not to make it a habit, you have plenty control of your swallowing ability or you would have drawn    or choke many times already. When you feel the urge to swallow, just spit the whole thing and restart.Practice makes perfect.

Q: I could only do OP for a few minutes, as my mouth was getting tired?
You’re probably doing it too vigorously. Just Relax and do the swishing in a more relaxed way.You can make the process fun just think on how much you are helping your system to a star of supreme wellbeing!!

Q: Reasons for doing oilpulling on empty stomach.
First, it helps not to have a full stomach if you get a little queasy from the oil pulling experience before you get used to it. Second, the detoxifying effect is a bit stimulating, whereas digestion involves the parasympathetic nervous system, so those are opposite functions. Eating something light may not be a problem, and you can judge by how you feel. If you can oil pull first thing in the morning, that takes care of that problem. We can all go without eating for at least 20 minutes a day don’t you think?

Q: After oil pulling it never turns in to white.
The idea is , The viscosity and color should change significantly, but the color depends on so many factors, and can even be slightly different each time. A milky or creamy color is fine. It works regardless just don’t switch for less than 5 minutes witch is a small time to start anyway.

From The Chopra Center 

The ancient Ayurvedic recommendation of tongue scraping is one that is often overlooked. There are many benefits to this daily practice as far as oral health, and overall physical, mental, and spiritual health. Since the oral cavity is one of the main gateways between your mind/body and the environment, maintaining the health of this connection is critical to general well-being.

In the Charaka Samhita, an early Ayurvedic text, it says that by cleaning the tongue, “(this) removes foul smell, tastelessness … and by taking out dirt coated on the tongue, teeth and mouth brings relish immediately.” No doubt, people who clean their tongue on a daily basis can validate the invigorating effects this practice has. In fact, by removing the coating and stimulating the tongue this helps to balance the heavy and dulling qualities of Kapha dosha in your physiology.

Scraping the tongue daily removes any build-up on the tongue, which, if left untreated, can lead to bad breath and may house a significant number of bacteria. This simple practice is a direct way of removing Ama from your physiology. In Ayurveda, Ama refers to any accumulation of toxic residue in the mind-body. This can result from improper eating, poor digestion, or a reflection of an imbalance somewhere in the gastrointestinal system.

In addition, from an Ayurvedic perspective, by removing this coating you improve your ability to taste your food, which makes it more satisfying. By increasing your taste reception, not only do you eat less, you also eliminate the need to add more sugar, salt, or excessive spice to the food to make it more flavorful. Many of the beneficial phytonutrients and “body signals” that your food contains are first interpreted by the mind-body upon contact with receptors on the tongue. You want to improve this communication between your food and your body by removing any coating that is interfering with that connection. Also, many herbs have their beneficial effects from the initial contact with receptors on the tongue. Hence, you need a clear tongue to receive this healthy information.

Keratin Balance

Western medicine is also beginning to acknowledge coating on the tongue as a sign of poor health. According to the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology (AAOMP), a coated or hairy tongue is a sign of imbalance of keratin on the tongue. Under normal circumstances, the amount of keratin produced, and the amount that is “knocked off” by eating, is balanced. When the diet is too soft or the oral cavity is irritated in some way keratin can accumulate. When bacteria grow on this layer of keratin, it can lead to discoloration of the coating, which many people notice.

It’s easy to see how a healthy diet that consists of plant roughage and fiber, and where food is not overcooked or too soft, will help maintain this balance. It’s therefore important to get healthy “textured” food in your diet, such as fiber from fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, as well as nuts and seeds. While the AAOMP does recommend tongue scraping to address this issue, they also regard the coating as “harmless.” However, when you incorporate an Ayurvedic view of health into this picture, you have an increased awareness of how this coating can ultimately affect many aspects of your physical and emotional well-being.

What Kind of Tongue Scraper to Use

The Charaka Samhita states that “tongue scrapers should be made of gold, silver, copper, tin and brass and should be non-sharp and curved, so as not to injure the tongue”. Stainless steel scrapers, which are now widely available and resist corrosion, are effective as well.

How to Scrape Your Tongue

The tongue should be gently scraped from back to front for 7 to 14 strokes. The scraper may be rinsed off between strokes if there is a lot of accumulation. Some people report stimulation of the gag reflex during scraping, which may indicate that the scraping is too aggressive. If this occurs with gentle scraping, begin slightly more forward on the tongue to avoid the gagging reflex.

A Daily Practice

From an Ayurvedic perspective, tongue scraping should be performed on a daily basis. This ancient practice helps to stimulate the internal organs through energetic connections with the rest of the body, improve digestion by increasing your sense of taste, and cleanse the body by removing Ama and bacteria from your oral cavity. In addition, it increases clarity of the mind by reducing heaviness and Ama from the head. When your physical and emotional bodies are balanced, it allows you to expand your spiritual awakening as well.

The tongue is the mirror to all the organs of the body, and thus, a daily look at the tongue prior to scraping gives you a clue to your general health. In Ayurveda, a good tongue examination is a useful way of evaluating the health of the entire body. When you examine your tongue, it’s an opportunity for self-awareness, where you can reflect on the choices of the last several days, months, or years and see how those choices have affected your health. If a thick coating is noted, you are accumulating toxicity. By noting this, it gives you the opportunity to become more self-aware and make new, healthier choices.

 

Coconut Oil Pulling Chews

from: http://wellnessmama.com/25057/coconut-oil-pulling-chews/

An easier way:

The other day when making coconut oil chocolates in little heart molds, I realized that I could simplify the oil pulling process by making pre-made, bit-size oil pulling chews, and that worked out great.

The result was simple-to-use pre-mixed oil pulling chews. I keep these in the fridge so they maintain their shape and also so that they are cool when I use them since it helps with the texture at the beginning, with the oils the texture becomes secondary.

Ingredients

1/2 cup coconut oil

20-30 drops of essential oil (peppermint, cinnamon, clove, etc- check with a doc or midwife if you are pregnant)

Instructions

Melt the coconut oil until just barely liquid in a double boiler at low flame, it melts very quickly make sure not to boil it.

Remove from heat and add essential oils if you choose to use any, when cooling down.

Pour into silicon candy molds and put in the fridge or freezer to harden.

When done, remove from molds and store in a jar.

Use one per day as needed for oil pulling

And Happy oil pulling !!.

 

 

 

Words From The Experts

 

Dr. Mercola Discusses a Simple Oral Health Technique

 

 

The Truth About Oil Pulling By Dr. John Douillard

 

 

Coconut Oil Pulling Benefits and How to do Oil Pulling By Dr. Josh Axe

 

 

HOW TO OIL PULL: for naturally white teeth & a healthy body from holistichabits

 

 

 

Oil Pulling Therapy: Detoxifying and Healing the Body Through Oral Cleansing

 

If you have bad breath, bleeding gums, cavities, or tooth pain—you need this book! If you suffer from asthma, diabetes, arthritis, migraine headaches, or any chronic illness, and have not found relief, this book could have the solution you need. All disease starts in the mouth! As incredible as it may seem, most of the chronic and infectious illnesses that trouble our society today are influenced by the healthy of our mouths. Our mouths are a reflection of the health inside our bodies. If you have poor dental health, you are bound to have other health problems. Despite regular brushing and flossing, over 90 percent of the population has some degree of gum disease or tooth decay. Most people aren’t even aware they have existing dental problems. Recent research has demonstrated a direct link between oral health and chronic illness. Simply improving the health of your teeth and gums can cure many chronic problems. More brushing, flossing, and mouthwash isn’t the solution. What will work is Oil Pulling Therapy. Oil pulling is an age-old method of oral cleansing originating from Ayurvedic medicine. It is one of the most powerful, most effective methods of detoxification and healing in natural medicine. In this book, Dr. Fife combines the wisdom of Ayurvedic medicine with modern science. The science behind oil pulling is fully documented with references to medical studies and case histories. Although incredibly powerful, Oil Pulling Therapy is completely safe and simple enough for even a child.

 

 

 

Oil Pulling Revolution: The Natural Approach to Dental Care, Whole-Body Detoxification and Disease Prevention

Holding and swishing organic oil in your mouth is an amazingly simple yet powerful technique for cleaning your teeth and detoxing the entire body. The Oil-Pulling Revolution combines ancient teachings and modern techniques to incorporate this healthy habit into your daily routine. Using the tips and instructions provided here you can: 

•Remove harmful bacteria
•Eliminate cavities
•Reduce plaque
•Whiten teeth
•Freshen breath

Beyond dental care, this book details how oil pulling benefits your entire body for glowing skin, more energy, improved heart health, fewer migraines and a healthier overall lifestyle.

 

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Brigitte Bailey Prudence Lace Detail Woven Dress

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Coconut Oil

Hello everyone, we wish to thank you for all the likes, shares and the amazing support we get from thousands of you. On week 212 we are sharing a post about coconut oil, where does it comes from, the different kinds of coconut oil, their qualities and how to choose the one that is right for you. Coconut oil is pretty much the one I use the most for cooking and in our porridge, for salad dressing and in so much of our cooking. This is the oil that I use for moisturizing my body after showering. I put some of my favorite essential oils in it like Lavender, Sandalwood and Jasmine. Some times it all depends on my mood. Anyway, in this post there is lots of information we share, recipes for hair, skin , foods etc. Enjoy! Please share and like if you do, it makes a huge difference in social media and the web engines, with love, gratitude and respect from all of us at Isabel’s Beauty Blog we invite you to this journey.

 

 

So, What Is Coconut Oil?

According to:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coconut_oil

Coconut oil, or copra oil, is an edible oil extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera). It has various applications. Because of its high saturated fat content, it is slow to oxidize and, thus, resistant to rancidification, lasting up to six months at 24 °C (75 °F) without spoiling.

 

According to: http://eatdrinkpaleo.com.au/your-ultimate-guide-to-coconut-oil-benefits-types-uses/

The oil is made up of around 90% saturated fat, 6% monounsaturated fat, and 3% polyunsaturated fat. Unlike other highly saturated and unsaturated fats, coconut oil is mostly made up of medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs). The saturated fat content makes coconut oil very heat-stable and enables a long shelf life.  It is well-known for its healing, anti-inflammatory properties and its metabolism-boosting medium chain tryglycerides. It has many uses from dietary, medical and industrial applications.

 

Medium Chain Fatty Acids (MCFAs)

According to: http://wellnessmama.com/2072/benefits-of-coconut-oil/

Most of the fats we consume have a  long chain fatty acids that must be broken down before they can be absorbed. Coconut oil is high in short and medium chain fatty acids, which are easily digested and sent right to the liver for energy production.

Because MCFAs are sent right to the liver for digestion, no bile or pancreatic enzymes are needed for digestion, making coconut oil a healthy food even for those with diabetes or those who have liver gallbladder issues and have challenges breaking down oils.

MCFAs can help increase metabolism since they are sent directly to the liver and give the body an instant source of energy. Most of the MCFAs  in coconut oil are the highly beneficial Lauric Acid.

Lauric Acid

Lauric acid is found in abundance in the human breast milk and converts to a substance called monolaurin in the body. Monolaurin has been shown to be useful in increasing immunity.

Lauric acid in coconut oil in combination with oregano oil,  has even been found more effective in fighting the staph bacteria than antibiotics.

Coconut Oil is over 40% lauric acid, the richest source naturally available.

What About The Saturated Fat?

If you are still concerned about saturated fat, consider taking a second look,  you most likely will change your opinion after reading this research. Even if you still avoid and limit saturated fats, it is important to note that not all saturated fats behave the same way in the body. Coconut oil, due to its high lauric acid content, is actually beneficial to the body.

It is also fascinating to note that countries like Thailand eat very high amounts of saturated fats like coconut oil and lard, and have very low levels of health problems related to these kinds of fats on average.

In fact, people consuming a traditional diet in Thailand have less instances of heart disease and the lowest rates of cancer for all 50 countries studied by the World Health Organization. Diabetes is TEN times more frequent in the United States then in Thailand, despite (or perhaps because of) their high fat consumption, pretty astonishing isn’t.

What do the Thai people eat? A large part of their diet consists of coconut, fermented foods, meat, a variety of vegetables, and rice. If you’ve ever tasted Thai food, you know that they also have a bold taste in seasonings and make use of potent herbs and spices like curry, lemongrass, basil, and chilis. Their major draw back is that they tend to use sugar in most of their cooking.

Overall, the Thai people consume very little soy, except for fermented condiments.

Their living conditions are considered to be less sanitary and more difficult, so these factors cannot account for the lower instances of disease.

Other countries, including some in the Mediterranean, show similar trends, even with a high consumption of saturated fat. Even here, saturated fat is getting a second look from the medical community.

 

Can saturated fat causes heart disease?

 

This has been the refrain for the last several decades, but history doesn’t back it up. As I have discussed before, there really is no scientific backing to the idea, and in fact, the lipid hypothesis has been largely discredited.

Think about it: Currently, coronary heart disease and related problems are the number one cause of death in the United States. The field of cardiology didn’t even exist prior to 1940, and there has been a 60% increase in cardiologists since that time.

Also, coconut oil and other saturated fats were not taken in consideration since that time, and has been replaced with healthy vegetable and seed oils.

In fact, rates of heart disease have risen despite doctors best attempts to get us to eat low-fat whole grain diets low in saturated fats, stress has its toll on the hear land is one of the biggest challanges in the overall health.

Saturated fats are necessary for cell function and growth, and have been linked to increased health and even weight loss. Coconut oil is an all-star among saturated fats with many benefits beyond its strict nutritional content.

Over 1/3 of the world’s population depends on coconut for food, and if you haven’t already, you may want to give it a try and  consider incorporating coconut oil into your diet!

 

 

Dry process

 

Traditional way for making coconut oil using an ox-powered mill in Seychelles

Coconut oil extraction can be done through “dry” or “wet” processing. Dry processing requires that the meat be extracted from the shell and dried using, sunlight,fire or kilns to create copra. Preceding this step copra is pressed or dissolved with solvents, producing the coconut oil and a high-protein, high-fiber mash. The mash is poor food quality for human consumption and is instead fed to animals like ruminants; there is no process to extract protein from the mash. A portion of the oil extracted from copra is lost to the process of extraction.

 

Wet process

 

The wet process uses raw coconut instead of the dried copra so as you see there is a difference here, the protein in the coconut creates an emulsion of oil and water.The more challenging step is breaking up the emulsion to recover the oil. This used to be done by prolonged boiling, but this produces a discolored oil and is not economical. The modern techniques use centrifuges and pre-treatments including cold, heat, acids, salts, enzymes, electrolysis, shock waves, and different combinations. Despite numerous variations and technologies, wet processing is less viable than dry processing due to a 10–15% lower yield, even with the losses due to spoilage and pests. Wet processes also require investment of equipment and energy, incurring high capital and operating costs making it no so desirable for business.

Proper harvesting of the coconut on average the age of a coconut can be 2 to 20 months when picked makes a significant difference in the efficancy of the oil-making process. Copra made from immature nuts is more difficult to work with and produces an inferior product with lower yields.

Conventional coconut oil processors use hexane (this is a significant constituent of Gasoline Hmmmm, not so fancy when you think about it) as a solvent to extract up to 10% more oil than produced with just rotary mills and expellers. They then refine the oil to remove certain free fatty acids to reduce susceptibility to rancidification and mold. Other processes to increase shelf life include using copra with a moisture content below 6%, keeping the moisture content of the oil below 0.2%, heating the oil to 130–150 °C (266–302 °F) and adding salt or citric acid.

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) can be produced from fresh coconut milk, meat, or residue. Producing it from the fresh meat involves removing the shell and washing, then either wet-milling or drying the residue, and using a screw press to extract the oil. VCO can also be extracted from fresh meat by grating and drying it to a moisture content of 10–12%, then using a manual press to extract the oil. Producing it from coconut milk involves grating the coconut and mixing it with water, then squeezing out the oil. The milk can also be fermented for 36–48 hours,and then the oil removed, and the cream heated to remove any remaining oil. A third option involves using a centrifuge to separate the oil from the other liquids. Coconut oil is also extracted from the dry residue left over from the production of coconut milk.

A thousand mature coconuts weighing approximately 1,440 kilograms (3,170 lb) yield around 170 kilograms (370 lb) of copra from which around 70 litres (15 imp gal) of coconut oil can be extracted.

 

Refined oil

Coconuts drying outdoors in Kozhikode, Kerala for making copra, which is used for making coconut oil

The refined, bleached, and deodorized oil (RBD) is most likely made from copra, dried coconut kernel, then proceed to be placed in a hydraulic press with added heat and the oil is extracted. This process  yields practically all the oil present, and usually this amounts to more than 60% of the dry weight of the coconut. This “crude” coconut oil is not suitable for consumption because it contains contaminants and must be refined with further heating and filtering before it can be sold in the market.

Another method for extraction of coconut oil involves the enzymatic action of alpha-amylase, polygalacturonases, and proteases on diluted coconut paste.( Enzymes are used here)

Unlike virgin coconut oil, refined coconut oil has no coconut taste or aroma. RBD oil is used for home cooking, commercial food processing, and cosmetic, industrial, and pharmaceutical purposes for most part.

 

 

 

Benefits Of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has so many benefits, from being directly associated with specific positive health effects to acting as an aid in certain body functions. I’ve read through dozens of papers, articles and blog posts and gather the following list of known claimed benefits of coconut oil. It is said to help relieve symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. I’ve have also seen a lot of reports of coconut oil health benefits from those suffering from hypothryroidism, as coconut oil helps boost metabolism and raise body temperatures to promote thyroid health. It is atributed to restricting carbohydrates and increasing coconut oil in the diet has also led many to report losing weight with coconut oil. Candida sufferers also report benefits with coconut oil as research now confirms, and those suffering from various skin diseases are also seeing tremendous health benefits by applying coconut oil directly on the skin. The benefits of coconut oil for healthy hair are also well known, and other benefits of coconut oil included fighting off bacterial infections and viruses. Coconut oil is also increasingly being seen to benefit athletes and fitness trainers giving them an advantage in sustaining energy levels longer without drugs or stimulants.In any case always consult your health practitioners when in doubt, here we are sharing information not prescribing or going over any qualified health practitioner!!

 

 

 

 

Buying Coconut Oil

 

 

There are so many brands and types of coconut oil and they all vary in price depending on the source, production method, packaging and the marketing team. Super expensive doesn’t always mean the best, although it does often indicate the quality of ingredients and the purity. I always recommend to try a few brands and to find out as much as you can about the manufacturing process. Personally I really like Niulife coconut oil because the guy who started the company actually invented a natural expelling method they still use today and they are a fair trade, family owned business who make good products and at the same time I can contribute to their growth and support their business, a win win situation, my favorite kind . However there are many great brands out there and regardless of where you are, here are a few things to look out for:

 

Color – white color when it’s solid and colorless when liquid, any discoloration might mean contamination and inferior quality.

 

Aroma and flavor – virgin, unrefined coconut oil should smell and taste like coconut but should not be overpowering and strong, if it smells roasted or smokey it means it’s been exposed to a lot of heat and it might not retain as many nutrients; and if it’s odorless and neutral tasting then it’s most likely refined and treated.

 

Price – the coconut oil in most stores can get quite pricey and doesn’t always mean superior product. It’s always a good idea to buy in bulk as the oil is stable and will last for at least 12 months in a cool dark storage. You can try a few different brands and make sure you like the smell and taste before you commit to buying a big batch. You can also share the shipping costs with friends and family and save even more money.

Storing Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can be stored out of the fridge, away from direct sunlight, for up to two years. It will stay liquid in temperatures above 25C (75F) and will turn into butter and solid texture in lower temperatures or if refrigerated. If the oil is solid and you need to use it in a liquid form, apply low level heat ( like a double boiler in very low heat) and it will transform very quickly into a liquid.

 

 

Some Uses of Coconut Oil

 

There are hundreds of ways you can use coconut oil, it can be used in cooking, as part of your skincare routine, as part of flu and cold aid, or to rub on cuts and bruises, skin care , hair care, on stretch-marks just to mention a few. I’ve put together a few examples of how you can use it.
As far as how much coconut oil you should consume,  most experts recommend 3-4 tablespoons of coconut oil for adults per day to achieve optimal results, lets always keep in mind the weight of the individual, any health challenges one may have, so use common sense here and when in doubt consult your health provider. We are sharing information not prescribing or taking the place of your health provider. It would be less for kids and those of you starting out with coconut oil or saturated fats in general. If you’ve been following a low fat diet and only now decided to transition to a higher fat intake, I would suggest to gradually build up the consumption of fat to avoid the initial impact you might experience along the way.

Coconut oil as food

 

• I use coconut oil in cooking due to the fact that it’s very heat-stable. You can fry and deep-fry in it, rub it on my roasts, stir-fries and sauces. It’s really good for cooking as its flavor is very complimentary, we use it in teas , soups, stews and on our dogs food. There are so many uses for it.
• It is a solid most of the time at room temperature or when refrigerated and is therefore a great substitute for butter and can be used for dips, spreads, in baking and desserts. Use 1 to 1 ratio when substituting other oils or butter for coconut oilIt can even be used to make mayonnaise, I would used a good Organic cold press kind coconut oil for that.
• Add a couple of teaspoons to smoothies, juices, tea or coffee.
• Refrigerate it and eat as is by scrapping some with a teaspoon, we never refrigerate ours it doesn’t go bad. Make sure it is stored in a cool spot in your cabinet. The taste is slightly sweet, subtle, and really is quite nice and doesn’t have that oily texture you might expect, more like white chocolate you can mix it with jams etc, Just play and get creative.
• Mix some coconut oil with cacao & honey for a quick energy boost before a workout.

 

 

You can get both edible and inedible coconut oils in stores.The edible form of coconut oil is usually refined, bleached and deodorized. Virgin coconut oil is considered the best as it is low in carbs and forms a great source of nutrition.Coconut oil that has been derived from copra as the starting is usually unsuitable for consumption and can be applied externally only. So,if you are purchasing coconut oil, make sure you confirm that is suitable for consumption to prevent to unwanted issues, the price is so low that I prefer to get the Organic cold pressed virgin kind period.
For external uses, expeller pressed or other types of refined coconut oil will work, but for internal use, an unrefined virgin coconut oil is best.

 

 

Hydrogenated Coconut Oil

In most cases, the coconut oil that is refined, bleached and deodorized is hydrogenated fully or completely. This practice is common in tropical areas as the melting point of coconut oil is about 76 degrees F. The coconut oil retains its natural solid state in colder conditions. One common issue with coconut oil is the hydrogenation process itself.
Coconut oil contains very little unsaturated oil which makes it hard to hydrogenate. Once it is hydrogenated, however, it contains traces of transfatty acids no big dealt all.

 

 

 

Coconut Oil Pulling Chews

from: http://wellnessmama.com/25057/coconut-oil-pulling-chews/

What is oil pulling?

If you aren’t familiar with oil pulling, it is simply swishing oil, usually sesame or coconut oil in the mouth for a period of time (5-20 minutes) and then spitting it out in the trash or toilet. It has been used for thousands of years to help reduce plaque,  gum decease and dental, mouth issues. Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial and even said to rid the specific bacteria that causes cavities.

Lately, I’ve been experimenting with adding essential oils to the coconut  for oil pulling to improve the taste and to get the added benefits of the essential oil. My favorites so far have been essential oils that are naturally found in toothpaste, like Peppermint, Cinnamon  Clove, or Thieves from Young Living essential oils.

An easier way:

The other day when making coconut oil chocolates in little heart molds, I realized that I could simplify the oil pulling process by making pre-made, bit-size oil pulling chews, and that worked out great.

The result was simple-to-use pre-mixed oil pulling chews. I keep these in the fridge so they maintain their shape and also so that they are cool when I use them since it helps with the texture at the beginning, with the oils the texture becomes secondary.

Ingredients

1/2 cup coconut oil

20-30 drops of essential oil (peppermint, cinnamon, clove, etc- check with a doc or midwife if you are pregnant)

Instructions

Melt the coconut oil until just barely liquid in a double boiler at low flame, it melts very quickly make sure not to boil it.

Remove from heat and add essential oils if you choose to use any, when cooling down.

Pour into silicon candy molds and put in the fridge or freezer to harden.

When done, remove from molds and store in a jar.

Use one per day as needed for oil pulling

And Happy oil pulling !!.

 

Coconut Oil Pulling

 

Benefits of Coconut Oil Pulling?

Coconut oil pulling, the oils (especially oils with naturally antibacterial properties like coconut oil) bind to the biofilm, or plaque, on the teeth and reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth. Streptococcus Mutans is one of the bacteria that is prominent in the mouth interesting don’t you think?and it has been studied for its role in tooth decay and gum disease with great results. Oil pulling has been shown to reduce the number of Streptococcus Mutans bacteria in the mouth, especially when done with coconut oil.

Some sources share that coconut oil pulling can help everything from acne to sore throats and even heart disease. It is well known that good oral health practices can benefit the body in other ways, so it certainly may be beneficial as part of a good oral health routine. I certainly wouldn’t rely on oil pulling alone as a method to address any internal or serious medical problem, but I do find it helpful for keeping my mouth healthy and increasing the enzyme action aside from detoxing.

How to Use  Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling

• Put 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil into the mouth, if the consistency feels weird to you just warms it up over a bit of hot water in a container and when is liquid place it in your mouth.
• Swish for 20 minutes ideally no less than 10 minutes I do it when I am doing shores in the house. Apparently the timing is key, according to Dr. Bruce Fife, author of Oil Pulling Therapy, as this is long enough to break through plaque and bacteria but not long enough that the body starts re-absorbing the toxins and bacteria. The oil will get thicker and milky as it mixed with saliva during this time and it should be creamy-white when spit out,is bet to spit it out in the toilet so you don’t have issues with your drains, do not swallow it remember you pulled a lot of bacteria with it.
• Rinse well with warm water. Warm water seems to clean the mouth better (my opinion). Occasionally, I swish with salt water which seems more effective in it kinds of feels cleaner.
• Brush well. I prefer to brush with Brushing Blend or homemade toothpaste to make sure any remaining bacteria is removed.
• Enjoy the rest of your day knowing that you just clean your system and your body is very thankful!!

 

Thai Coconut Soup with Bok Choy & Mushrooms 
by Season with Spice

http://blog.seasonwithspice.com/2015/04/thai-coconut-soup-recipe.html#ixzz41J4UouFa

Serves 3-4

Ingredients: 
1 tbsp coconut oil (or your choice of oil)
1 tbsp freshly minced ginger
10 oz  cremimi mushrooms – thinly sliced
1 tbsp Season with Spice’s Thai BBQ Seasoning 
1/2 tsp Season with Spice’s Turmeric Powder, or more to taste
2 1/2 cups vegetable broth, or water
12 oz package of firm silken tofu – cut into small cubes
1/3 cup to 1/2 cup coconut milk
Sea salt to season you used our Ginger Sea Salt
4-5 bunches of baby bok choy – thinly sliced

Method:
1. Heat coconut oil in a pot or large skillet, over medium fire. Add half of the minced ginger and cook until aromatic, about 30 seconds. Add in sliced mushrooms and cook for about 4 minutes. When the liquid begin to evaporate, add in our Thai BBQ Seasoning and turmeric powder. Stir to mix in.
2. Add in broth/water and tofu cubes, and bring it to a boil. Add in the remaining minced ginger. Lower heat to medium, and add in coconut milk. Stir gently to combine. Let cook for another minute. Season with our  Ginger Sea Salt. Taste, and adjust any seasonings   to your taste. If you like the soup to be a richer consistency, just add in a bit more of the coconut milk.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in the bok choy to lightly wilt. Serve hot or warm.

Notes: 
– The soup keeps well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, feel free to add in more liquid or coconut milk if the soup gets too thick or a new vegetable for a slight change.
– For an even fresher tasting boo chop or thai Basil in the soup, add them in right at the table before you dig in.

 

http://www.seedsofrealhealth.com/coconut-oil-chocolate-fudge-recipe 

 

Coconut Oil Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Ingredients:
1 cup coconut oil, melted
1/3 cup coconut milk
1/3 cup cacao or cocoa powder
1/3 cup honey
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
pinch of sea salt

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth and well mixed.
Pour into a parchment lined loaf 8×4 pan.
Refrigerate or freeze until hardened.
Cut into squares.
Keep leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer.

 

 

Coconut Lotion Bars

Due to the fact that coconut oil naturally is solid at below 76 degrees, it lends itself perfectly to making great lotion bars. Lotion bars used on any skin are a way to combine the most nourishing benefits of lotion without the need for a liquid (which can be drying for skin) to create an incredibly moisturizing bar.

These bars are meant to be used on dry skin but for me I like to suggest anyone to use it,  not as soap lets make that clear, and are best used after showering on damp warm skin, my opinion is that Coconut oil can be used on any skin really.

Lotion Bars Ingredients

•1 cup coconut oil

•1 cup shea butter, cocoa butter or mango butter (or a mix of all three)

•1 cup beeswax

•Optional: 1 teaspoon Vitamin E  and oil

 

Lotion Bars Instructions

 

Combine all ingredients except  for essential oils if using in a double boiler, or a glass bowl over a smaller saucepan with 1 inch of water in it.

Option: Combine in a quart size glass mason jar with a lid instead and place this in a small saucepan of water until melted. This will save your bowl and you can just designate this jar for these type of projects if you like just make sure that any container that you use is well sanitized prior to the use,you can do this process by boring the container and placing it over a clean cloth to dry.

Turn the burner on  low and bring water to a boil. Stir ingredients constantly until they are melted and smooth with a spatula.

Remove from heat and  then you can add the essential oils, do not heat essential oils.

Gently mix by until essential oils are incorporated.

Carefully pour into molds or whatever you will be allowing the lotion bars to harden in, I love the Silicone for making chocolates or pastries they are very easy to pull your bars and super easy to clean. I used these silicone baking cups, though any mold would work.

Allow the lotion bars to cool completely before attempting to pop out of molds. These could be made in different shaped molds for different holiday gifts (hearts for valentines, flowers for Mother’s day, etc.) or made in a square baking pan and then cut into actual bars.

Note: This recipe can be adjusted to make any quantity that you’d like. I made with equal 1 cup measurements. The recipe I used made exactly 12 lotion bars with my molds. For a small batch, this recipe could be cut in half.

 

 

Homemade Coconut Oil and Honey Hair Mask

What you’ll need:
1 tbsp. Organic Coconut Oil
1 tbsp. Organic Raw Honey
Sauce Pan
Mixing Bowl
Spoon
Towel
Shower Cap (optional)

The mask can be applied to dry or wet hair, although we’ve found that it’s easier to apply to wet hair. Have a towel around your neck to protect your clothes while applying the mask. Section your hair off and apply generously from top to bottom, focusing on my ends where most damage occurs. Wrap your hair in a bun and let the mask soak in for 30-40 minutes.

 

 

 

53 Uses for Coconut Oil

 

1. Taken supplementally for daily energy
2. On the skin as a basic lotion
3. In homemade lotion bars for soft, smooth skin
4. In homemade deodorant or deodorant bars
5. In cooking as a great oil with a high smoke point. Great for baking, stir-frys or as a dairy free replacement to butter.
6. As an eye-makeup remover
7. As a cloth diaper safe diaper cream (just rub on baby’s bottom)
8. In making your own Remineralizing Toothpaste
9. To prevent stretch marks during pregnancy
10. To support healthy thyroid function
11. In homemade Mayo without the high PUFA vegetable oils
12. To help increase sun tolerance and avoid burning
13. As a naturally SPF 4 sunscreen
14. In homemade lotion recipes
15. To get rid of cradle cap on baby- just massage in to head, leave on for a few minutes and gently rinse with a warm wash cloth
16. Topically to kill yeast or yeast infections
17. As a delicious tropical massage oil
18. It’s high Lauric acid and MCFA content helps boost metabolism
19. A tiny dab rubbed on your hands and then through hair will help get rid of friz
20. As an intensive nighttime facial moisturizer
21. Mixed with equal parts sugar for a smoothing body scrub (use in the shower)
22. Rubbed on lips as a natural chap stick
23. Topically, can help skin heal faster after injury or infection
24. As an incredibly intensive natural conditioner- Rub into dry hair, put a shower cap on and leave for several hours
25. On feet to fight athlete’s foot or toe fungus
26. In place of Lanolin cream on nursing nipples to sooth irritation (also great for baby!)
27. Can help sooth psoriasis or eczema
28. With apple cider vinegar as a natural treatment for lice that actually works
29. In natural Homemade Sunscreen
30. In a filling and energy boosting Brain Powder Smoothie
31. Rub coconut oil on the inside of your nose to help alleviate allergy symptoms
32. There is some evidence that coconut oil helps digestion and may even kill intestinal parasites or yeast
33. Mix a tablespoon with a tablespoon of chia seeds for an all-day energy boost (do NOT take this at night!)
34. Can help improve insulin levels
35. Oil pulling with coconut oil and a drop of oregano oil helps improve gum health
36. Can help improve cholesterol ratios
37. Blend a tablespoon into hot tea to help speed recovery from cold or flu
38. In Homemade Natural Bug-Off Lotion Bars
39. As a replacement for vegetable oils in any recipe
40. After initial heat is gone, can help speed healing of sunburn
41. Is an immediate source of energy when eaten and isn’t stored as fat
42. As a natural personal lubricant that won’t disturb vaginal flora
43. As a naturally antibacterial skin cream
44. As a natural shave cream and after shave lotion
45. When used consistently on skin it can help get rid of cellulite
46. To season cast iron skillets
47. It’s anti-inflammatory properties can help lessen arthritis
48. Can reduce the itch of mosquito bites
49. Can help resolve acne when used regularly
50. Can be rubbed into scalp daily to stimulate hair growth
51. I’ve used in kids ears to help speed ear infection healing
52. A small amount can be rubbed into real leather to soften and condition (shiny leather only… test a small area first)
53. By itself as a great tanning oil

 

Here is another great site with more about Coconut Oil

from Cooking Detective

23 Health, Fitness And Weight Loss Benefits Of Coconut Oil

(With Bonus Recipes)

 

 

 

 

Is Coconut Oil REALLY Healthy?

How to Use Coconut oil:

There are hundreds of uses for coconut oil!

 

 

Dr. Bruce Fife – Benefits of Coconut Oil

 

4 Doctors on Coconut Oil & Dementia

 

 

How to take your daily dose of coconut oil

 

 

Eminence Coconut Milk Cleanser

 

 

Eminence Coconut Cream Masque (Normal to Dry Skin)

 

 

Eminence Coconut Sugar Scrub

Free People Hello Gorgeous Dress

Take maxi style to the maxi with this intergalactic Free People™ Hello Gorgeous Dress. Soft velvet dress with a bright, interesting design. Empire waist adds a great versatile styling. Colorful embroidered embellishments at square neckline and V-cut back. Fully lined. Straight hem at long skirt bottom.

 

 

Free People Diamonds & Snakes Dress

You’re the star of the show and need the wardrobe to prove it! Take center stage in this ovation-worthy Free People™ dress. Sleeveless shift dress silhouette. Deep V-neckline with hater straps that fasten at nape. Relaxed fabrication with graphic print throughout. V-back. Slight pleating at hem.

 

Teva Flatform Sandal

Flash some fashion-forward style this summer with the Teva® Flatform Sandal. Polyester webbing upper. Adjustable ankle strap for a preferred fit.  Polyester webbing toe post.  EVA footbed and platform for cushioned underfoot comfort.  Durabrasion rubber outsole provides excellent traction.