herbal tonics

Renew yourself inside and out with teas and tonics that tantalize and invigorate.

Friday, June 28, 2013

T's Tonics at Northwest Crossing Market - Bend

Take advantage of everything the Northwest Crossing Market has to offer this Saturday and stop by to see us and get all your Outdoor Skin Protection & Repair Products!

Sat, June 29
10:00 - 2:00pm
NW Crossing Drive
Bend, OR

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Feature of the Week at Sisters Farmers Market



Come see us at Barclay Park in downtown Sisters! Say Hi and tell us the code OUTDOOR20 to receive a 20% discount on our Sun & Skin Soother. This Friday Only!

Sisters Farmers Market

Sisters, Oregon - Barclay Park
Friday, June 28
3:00 - 6:00pm

Friday, March 22, 2013

6 Facts For the Natural Outdoor Product Industry


6 Current Industry Facts supporting Local Natural Outdoor Products
1.     The natural health food and alternative product industry has grown over 22% each year nationally even during the economic downturn, making it one of the fastest growing industries.
2.     In Oregon, the small business botanical product manufacturing industry captures $33 in sales per personal income compared with US national average of  $9 per personal income and the industry captures 34.3% of total local market which is 25.8% above national average as reported this year by the Bizminer Competitive Market Analysis.
3.     Bend tourism is back to prerecession levels as of December 2012 according to room-tax collections.
4.     The central Oregon outdoor recreation industry has seen growth in 2012 (as of December) and is above the national average. In retail sales, the sports footwear sector has seen the biggest growth of the industry, followed by equipment purchases. The fitness sector has also seen good growth.
5.     There is an increase in the popularity of running and bicycling and their supportive races in recent years. 
6.     There is a strong local movement for local products in Bend as in many other areas of the country. People want to support their local economy and local artisans.
Just a few supportive reasons for retailing natural alternatives for the discerning outdoor adventurers. Find some at tstonics.com

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Pain and Joint Support Herbs


 Joint and Pain Support Tea & Tonic 
12 herbs chosen for their inflammation reducing properties blended and infused with pain reducing oils.  These are herbs rich in minerals and healing properties; specifically for their ability to help support and strengthen joints and connective tissues. May help support the system for arthritic and osteoporosis pain relief & internal & external inflammation.* 100% Organic herbal tea:
Peppermint is especially good for the nervous system and used for digestive disorders.  It is helpful for insomnia when taken before bed.  It is also calming to muscle spasms, cramps and headaches.  The oil is a fast pain and inflammation reducer.
White Willow Bark is known for relieving pain and has long been used for rheumatism, inflammation and more.  It is what early aspirin was derived from, but unlike aspirin, it does not thin the blood or irritate the stomach.
Burdock Root is one of the best blood cleansers as well as a kidney, liver and gland cleanser.  It helps to reduce swelling and deposits in the joints.  It is helpful for most skin conditions and is also used for fatigue and nervous disorders.
Helichrysm has antispasmotic properties and helps with circulatory disorders, hypertension, skin conditions, and the liver.  It’s a cleanser and detoxifier as well as chelates chemicals and toxins in the body.
Nettle and Oatstraw are both rich in the major minerals including calcium and magnesium which help strengthen bones and connective tissues.
Horsetail contains the highest amount of silicon among herbs. This is the key element which enables the body to make collagen, giving elasticity and strength to skin, bones and hair.
Mullein Helps dispel mucus in the system.  It is considered the herb of choice for respiratory problems, also is a natural painkiller, helps calm spasms, and helps reduce swelling in the glandular system.  Used as a poultice on external wounds to reduce swelling.
St. John’s Wort is known for lifting depression but it also has sedative and pain-reducing properties. Helpful for nerve injuries.
Yucca is effective in reducing inflammation in the joints.  It is helpful for Arthritis, Rheumatism, Bursitis, Gout, Ulcers and wounds.  It is also a blood purifier.
Ginger has been used for digestive disorders, rheumatism, motion sickness, fever and coughing and helps lower cholesterol.
*Not evaluated by the Food & Drug Admin. Not intended to diagnose, treat or cure disease.
T's Tonics has combined these herbs into an effective and surprisingly pleasant tasting tea and has gone even further, infusing it with inflammation reducing therapeutic essential oils for added benefit. It has given some good results to those enjoying it. Some reports say it helps  with sleep also:
Testimonials:   “I have bone rubbing on bone in my shoulder from a life-time of framing carpentry.  One cup of the Pain Relief tea at night helps me sleep very peacefully without waking up every time I move.  It greatly relieves the pain.” –Bob
This combination has also been infused for over 6 months into a potent tincture form for those needing the speed and ease of an eyedropper full under the tongue.
“The Pain Support Tonic has replaced the nasty pain prescription I was on and I am feeling much better.” –Marjorie O.
Available at tstonics.com and tstonics.com/etsy

Friday, January 4, 2013

7 Naturals for Clear Skin


7 Naturals for Clear Skin
Aloe Vera Gel– We recognize this for the quick healer of burns for which it has been used for centuries. This is now the base for many skin care products because modern research finds that it is very effective helping heal skin problems and in treating acne along with decreasing and preventing scars and scar tissue. Effective internally and externally.
Lemongrass essential oil- The #1 essential choice for help with oily skin, this powerful yet wonderful smelling oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties. It dilates blood vessels, regenerates connective tissues and improves circulation.
Tea Tree essential oil (melaleuca)- powerful antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral properties which promote cleansing and purifying of skin acne and sores.
Lavender essential oil- used for burns and wounds because it heals and speeds tissue regeneration, this oil is also anti-inflammatory and combats excess sebum on skin among many other uses.
Palmarosa essential oil- Found to stimulate new skin cell growth and regulates sebum production in skin.  Used for skin and fungal infections. Side benefit: helps reduce stress, tension and nervous exhaustion!
Grapeseed oil- With 3 times the Vitamin E content as Olive oil, this oil has great skin healing ability.  Because it has small molecules, it soaks in quickly without being greasy or heavy on the skin.
Juniper essential oil- Good for purifying, detoxifying and nerve regeneration as well as fluid retention. It has antiseptic and cleansing properies; used for skin and liver problems.

Written for tstonics.com. Referenced: Essential Oil Desk Reference. For educational purposes only. Not evaluated by the food and drug administration. Not intended to cure, prevent or diagnose any disease.http://tstonics.com/products/travel-products/

Monday, October 15, 2012

Burdock root uses for pain and skin


Burdock is quickly becoming one of my favorite herbs.  We took it initially for skin problems and I saw it working equally well helping clear up our older teenagers’ pimples as it did on helping my younger daughter’s extremely dry skin (to the point of eczema and dry scalp problems.) I then was requested to put it in a kidney tonic for some therapists and noticed how good it seemed to work for pain.  That led to more research on it’s inflammation reducing properies.  The more I find out about it and use it, the more I like this root.  Here are over 7 areas this amazing herb can be a help in:

Burdock Root is claimed to be one of (1) nature’s best blood cleansers and is helpful in not only ridding the body of dangerous toxins, but is a binder and expeller of heavy metals in the body. The root contains trace amounts of natural mercury, which makes it useful in mercury detoxification programs.
 It is an excellent (2) liver and kidney cleanser as well as helpful for the whole glandular system. Because it increases the flow of urine and promotes sweating, it is used today as a (3) diuretic.  It will help rid the body of excess water weight.
Burdock is also helpful in (4) reducing swelling and deposits in the joints. Therefore, it is commonly used to ease arthritis, rheumatism, sciatica, and lumbago (backaches).
It is helpful for most (5) skin conditions and is a major treatment for eczema, psoriasis, and even canker sores.  It is used externally and internally for skin solutions.  Because of its (6) high mineral and calcium content, people have also found it helpful for hair and nail growth.
Some people have also found it helpful for (7+) fatigue, nervous disorders and soothing hemorrhoids.

How to take:  Although it can be found in some external skin ointments the most common way to take this herb is internally in capsule form, available at your health food store (or buy bulk burdock powder and make your own).  You can also find this root fresh in some stores, generally in the fall, to prepare and add it to your own recipes.  Here are a few ideas:

To Process:  Chop the root fine in a food processor and add it into soups and stews.  It has a strong, not very pleasant taste, but can be disguised in good sauces or vinegars.  Any left over can be dried or placed chopped in a jar and covered with vinegar to keep for months in the refrigerator.  It can also be added to tea or made into it’s own decoction.  I generally like it better in combination with other herbs.
Recipe for Internal cleansing and Skin:  (Made into capsules)
1 part Burdock root powder
1 part Pau D’ Arco powder
1 part Black Walnut powder
1 part Slippery Elm Bark
1 part Chaparral powder

Found in:  At T’s Tonics, this herb can be found in our Pain Relief Tea, Pain Support Tonic, Strong Bone Tea and Kidney Tincture.

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Skeeter Beater Time!


Skeeter Beater
beats mo-skeeters and more  This All Natural formula repels mosquitoes and other bugs, relieves bee and spider bites too!  
We were camping up in the Idaho mountains this last weekend and thoroughly tested and proved the Skeeter Beater again! The bugs up there are BIG and Tough but I came home without a bite. Yey! 
 Tested and proven effective at the high lakes of Central Oregon for the last 4 summers and proven on vicious bugs in the far off countries of Brazil, Belize, Tennessee, North Carolina and Uganda, Africa!  
Here's what some people are saying about T's Tonics Skeeter Beater:
 “The Skeeter Beater worked great in Africa!  I need two more bottles to share with friends.” -Lashae B.
 “I had a large spider bite and after I sprayed it the swelling and discomfort went right down.” –Tena F.
“The deet sprays others in our group brought weren’t working.  By the end of the trip everyone was using my Skeeter Beater.  I didn’t get one bite and I smelled great!”  -Jenay B.

"My teenage son, Conner, has been using this when his face breaks out and loves it.  It really helps his skin." -Teresa S.
Your skin will love it, the bugs won’t.  Use on bites, rashes, sunburns, and other skin conditions too!  Reapply every 2 hours. 
All organic ingredients:  Organic aloe vera, extra virgin olive oil, pure water, rosemary extract, organic witch hazel, vit. E oil, therapeutic grade essential oils of lemongrass, tea tree, geranium, eucalyptus, citronella, cedarwood, juniper, lavender, rosemary, eucalyptus blue and more. Guaranteed.  
 Hand blended in Powell Butte, OR by T’s Tonics. 
Soon to be available on-line but available now at local markets and stores: At the Beach store, downtown Bend, OR, Newport Market, Bend, OR, For all Seasons, Bend, OR, Central Oregon Locavore, Bend, OR, Schoolhouse Produce, Redmond, OR, Melvins, Sisters, OR, Book & Bean, Prineville, OR. Eagle Crest Tuesday Market, Sisters Friday Market, and Northwest Crossing Saturday Market.


Tuesday, April 17, 2012

5 Reasons to always travel with T’s Tonics Sun & Skin Soother


5 Reasons to always travel with T’s Tonics Sun & Skin Soother
1.     Uniquely protects your skin and system on multiple levels:  Has sun protection with Myrrh resin and natural zinc oxide.  These are the skin friendly sun protectors that allow Vitamin D in but keep the harmful UVB rays out.  It is Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants that protect against free radicals (skin agers) in the environment, (has 3x the vitamin E content as olive oil).  Hydrates the skin with aloe and oils that keep it soft, elastic and looking young.
2.     Repairs damaged skin due to sunburns, burns, rashes, or other skin irritations.  Small molecules go right into the cellular level pushing oxygen and nutrients in and toxins out to renew cells.  Aloe and repairing oils of myrrh, elemi, lavender and more, soothe and heal damaged skin.  Lemongrass repairs connective tissues.  Rich in minerals that help build new skin.
3.     Easy to use and travel with T’s Tonics Sun & Skin Soother.  With it’s quick spray on applicator, no painful rubbing is required.  It is non-greasy and quickly absorbed on the skin.  Naturally preserved with vitamin E oil and non-sensitive to heat or cold conditions, it is long lasting and carefree for traveling in different climates.  It comes in a 2 oz. travel size bottle easy to put in your bag and take everywhere.  We keep one in the car and nearly every room for quick moisturizing.  I never travel without it.
4.     Organic and ultra friendly to you, the environment, animals and kids.  Don’t worry about damaging pool or spa water, yourself or anything else. T’s Tonics Sun & Skin Soother is only beneficial.  Our skin, being the largest organ of the body, absorbs what’s on it even quicker that our stomachs!  Young kids are especially sensitive to chemicals and toxins with their small, active systems.  T’s Tonics Sun & Skin Soother is a natural, easy, healthy and effective alternative for their tender skin. 
5.     Multi-purpose.  You can use T’s Tonics Sun & Skin Soother as a moisturizer, sun protector, bug repellent, and skin repairer of burns, rashes, skin issues and other problems.  It is my favorite face and body moisturizer.  It’s multi-purpose usefulness makes it ideal as a #1 travel choice.

Saturday, February 25, 2012

mellow yellow a sleep happy herbal tea

Need to get some good sleep?  Feel calm, less stressed? There are herbs that, combined together, can synergistically help make this a healthy reality.  We have blended them into a tea we call Mellow Yellow.  We have found it very effective.  It's great to have on hand if you have kids, elders, spouses, co-workers, friends, enemies, fellow travelers, yourself.                                                      "I slept so good for the first time in a long time.  That tea works!" -Cat K. 
Mellow Yellow Described
Mellow Yellow is an organic herbal tea blend which is Uplifting to the spirit while calming to the body*  This is a mellow tea that promotes sleep, well being in mind and body, and tension relief.  Ours tastes mainly of lemongrass and chamomile.  It's Delicious!  100% organic herbs of: 
Peppermint and Chamomile are both good for the digestive and nervous systems.  They are also used for headaches, upset stomachs, colds and general system cleansers.
lemon balm, Excellent for soothing the nerves and “lifting the spirits”, strengthens the digestive system and helpful to stress related digestive problems.
lemongrass, rich in minerals, good for respiratory and skin, promotes sleep
lemon peel, helps build immune system, good for circulation, digestion and lifting depression.
linden flowers, popular in Europe as a calming tea for stomach and mind, promotes sleep.
oatstraw, rich in minerals, magnesium and calcium, helps strengthen nervous system.
passionflower, one of the best herbs for chronic insomnia, mild sedative, used to treat pain and imbalances in nervous system
lemon verbena, used to help ease muscle and stomach spasms, mild sedative and stress reducer.
lavender, has relaxing effect on mind and body. Good for anxiety, nervousness and stress related symptoms, sleep.
St. John’s wort flowers. Used to lift depression as well as menopausal triggered anxiety, has a sedative and pain-reducing effect, helpful for calming muscle spasms and nerve injuries.
 Blend your own or find ours on our website tstonics.com  Our blend makes about 60 cups of organic, locally sourced and blended (Oregon), guaranteed, herbal tea.  We uniquely super infuse our teas with therapeutic essential oils for oxygen, energy, and health.  Enjoy!
                                                                                                                                                                                  
Produced by T’s Tonics.  For educational purposes only.  *Not evaluated by the Drug administration.  Not intented to diagnose, or treat diseases. Tstonics.com 

Thursday, February 9, 2012

what is red rooibos

it even tastes good sideways!
Red Rooibos tea explained
What is it? Why drink it? What benefits? 

The needle like leaves of this fair trade organic certified rooibos are only grown in the high mountains of South Africa’s Cape region.  Used in Africa for centuries, it is becoming popular in western countries for it’s amazing health benefits and flavor.
Showing some of the highest antioxidant levels found in herbs with 3 times as much as green tea, this bush tea has no caffeine or the tannins found in black teas that create the bitter after taste.  It is also rich in minerals.
With sweet, slightly nutty and woodsy tones this tea has a depth of flavor that allows it to be steeped again and again if desired.
It acts as an antispasmodic agent to relief stomach cramps and colic in babies. It is also used to help nervous tension, allergies, digestive problems, asthma and skin clearing.
Also has components known to fight cancer.
It combines well with many flavors and has been blended with flowers, chai spices, fruits and citrus, vanilla, chocolate and more.
At T's Tonics it is the base for our Walk in the Jungle Tea, combined with cinnamon chips, cloves, herbs and spices.  And it is blended in our latest beautiful Bark and Blooms valentine tea with hibiscus, rose petals, rosehips and jasmine buds. That can be found at Tres Jolie de Bend, Newport Market in Bend and CE Lovejoys in Bend.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Love that Hibiscus Rooibos

Love at first sip!
Our latest tea favorite. You've got to try it! An amazing Red Rooibos and hibiscus blend.  We're calling it Bark & Blooms, you'll see why. 

How do you fill your cup up with deep red goodness?
You take some organic dried hibiscus flowers, (tart burst of flavor, high vit. C, lovely color)

Add some Jasmine flower buds (the love flower)

then some Pau'D Arco 
(a whole system supporter, blood and skin purifier, I add this to most of my teas)

Throw in some red rose petals, 
(not only a symbol of love, it's soothing to throat and stomach and mildly delicious)


Add all of this together with some fair trade organic red rooibos and sweet rosehips. 
Steep a teaspoon full for 4 minutes in hot water, add 1/2 teaspoon honey or agave, and you have yourself one flavorful cup of tea! 


Here at T's Tonics we've bagged it up pretty and added a heart shaped tea infuser.  Bribery gift for your loved one.  They have to share!
  Not available on our website.  Request at info@tstonics.com if you are interested. Retail price is $10.  Makes 40-50 cups of tea.

“Love is the most universal, formidable and mysterious of cosmic energies.” –Chardin

Monday, January 9, 2012

tea and love

Love and tea.  What's not to love?
“Love and scandal are the best sweeteners of tea.”  - Henry Fielding (1707-1754)

Ari thought compressed tea leaf hearts were so cool!
It's a new year and I am already thinking ahead to my one of my favorite holidays, Valentine's Day, and all of the mushy love quotes, recipes and herbs that symbolize love that I want to share with you.

So I'm getting started early. I plan on posting them periodically throughout the month of January up until Valentine's so beware!  We are talking good clean love and fun quotes here. This is a PG rated family site!

But speaking of love and herbs:  Did you know that some chai spices are good for the libido?  Cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, cardomon, and ginger all increase circulation and can help elevate energy and passion!  

Ylang Ylang, Jasmine and Rose also help balance emotions and enhance relationships.  These in essential oil form are powerful and lovely fragrances that naturally make me think of love and warmth.  (Not the cheap old lady rose smell, the really expensive real rose smell)

I am going to have fun with teas and yummy smells this week.  Hope yours is good too!

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Bath and Shower Salts-Magnesium help

Case for using bath salts (even in the shower)
open sinuses with infuser in shower
We may think of soaking in a bath of salts only as a last resort when we have sore, over worked muscles or are sick and desperate for relief.  But consider some of the other benefits of bath salts:
Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt) is the #1 ingredient in most bath salts.  Magnesium, which doctors now say many people are lacking in, is usually obtained through natural water sources (hard water), green vegetables and whole grains.  It is needed for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body:  Normal muscle and nerve function, heart, immune system, strong bones, it also helps maintain blood sugar levels, normal blood pressure and is involved in energy metabolism to name a few.  Epsom salt in the bath helps relieve muscle and joint aches and is also used to relieve constipation and aid digestion.  It is the quickest way (and least expensive) to obtain magnesium into your system because your skin, being your largest organ, is much quicker than your stomach to absorb minerals, etc.  (That’s why we are very careful what we put on our body!)  A great side effect of magnesium is to help balance emotions.  That’s why Epsom salt is a great de-stresser!
Sea Salts contain many trace minerals needed in the body.  Benefits of sea salts are almost the same as magnesium and include: strengthening the immune system, alkalizing the body, helping weight loss, skin problems, asthma, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, muscle spasms, and depression. 
Oils and essential oils – therapeutic aromatics help open breathing, heart, senses and relax muscles, emotions, etc.
In the Shower - If you are like me you find yourself in the shower far more than in the bath. So use your bath salts in the shower! Put a tablespoon in cheesecloth, sachet or tea strainer/infuser and hang in the shower under your water.  Your will receive therapeutic benefits as the water activates the salts and oils.  Enjoy!
Easy Bath Salt Recipe
1 cup Epsom Salt
1 cup Mediterranean, Celtic or Dead Sea Salt
½ cup Soda Salt
¼ cup Baking Soda
1 tsp. jojoba, grapeseed, or Vit. E oil
¼ cup dried herbs of choice (optional)
15-20 drops essential oil of choice: depending on needs – eucalyptus, lavender, lemongrass, wintergreen, peppermint with orange, etc.
Mix together thoroughly and secure in labeled glass jar.  Use 2-3 Tbsp per bath.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

lemongrass explained

Lemongrass - herb and oil uses

Since I put lemongrass in so many of my products, it’s about time this amazing plant was explained a little. 


First, My Story:  Lemongrass is the oil that got me interested in essential oils in the first place.  Maybe that explains my love for it.  Over 5 years ago, I had a kinked neck from doing too many sommersaults while teaching gymnastics (a clue to my craziness) that had been hanging on for a week despite my best efforts of stretching, massage and adjustments.  A friend rubbed some lemongrass on my neck and shoulder muscles and about 15 minutes later, I was nearly pain free and could move my neck freely again!  I was so amazed that I began my study and schooling of essential oils.  I since have learned that lemongrass is your number one choice for repairing torn ligaments!

Historically: lemongrass has been used for purification and digestion

Medicinally:  The essential oil has been shown to have strong antifungal and antibacterial action as well as be antiparasitic.  It is anti-inflammatory, dilates blood vessels, improves circulation, promotes lymph flow, and regenerates connective tissues and ligaments.  It is great for the skin.

Used For:  The herb and oil have also been used for bladder, respiratory and sinus infections, digestive problems, parasites, fluid retention, varicose veins, bug repellent and Salmonella.

T’s Tonics products Lemongrass is found in:  Sun and Skin Soother, Skeeter Beater, Lip Infusion, Sore Muscle Salve, Teen Skin Tonic, Hair Tease conditioner, Mellow Yellow Tea, Citrus Hibiscus Tea.
And now you know the rest of the story.  I hope you enjoy some lemongrass today.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Arnica montana flower and tincture


Arnica flower and tincture

What is arnica?  Arnica Montana is a high mountain meadow plant well known and documented in Germany and many parts of the world for its quick healing abilities.  (the German nickname for it means “stand up and walk home.”) It’s bright yellow flowers are used in external applications for pain and inflammation. This herb is the most powerful, quick working medicine I know for inflammations, bumps, bruises, and injury pain.  
We have used it for years in my family as the kids have grown and been active in sports.  It is also good for sprains and sore muscles, and reported to help with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.  It helps relieve the pressure, pain and swelling of injuries on location.*  The earlier after injury that it can be applied the better.  Think of it as your ice pack.  It is recommended that it not be used internally, or on open wounds or broken skin.  

It is available in the form of ointment, tincture, or homeopathically in your local grocery health section.  Here at T’s Tonics, we offer fresh wild-harvested arnica in a spray form making it easy to apply without touching sensitive areas as well as quick to soak in. A few drops of therapeutic peppermint oil acts as a “driver oil” and works synergistically with the arnica to go in deep to stop swelling at the cellular level.  Whatever form you choose, this is a good tool to have on hand for those unexpected bumps, bruises and pains that come along.
*This information is for educational purposes only and not to diagnose, treat or cure any diseases. 

Arnica testamonials
“My wife sprayed it on my back which has been in pain and almost instantly it gave relief.  2 hours of no pain.  It was like a miracle.” –Antonio T.
“My arms and hands were going to sleep on me at night.  After I sprayed it on the back of my neck, I slept through the night without any numbness.” – Charity H.
“My fingers give me fits sometimes because of overworking and arthritis.  The arnica spray is very helpful at reducing swelling and discomfort.” If I use it after working hard, I will not wake up the next day as sore as I am without using it.” – Dennis H.
“It gave relief soon after spraying it on my knee injury.” –Steve
“I use the arnica spray on my inflamed skin dermatitis.  T’s Tonics is more potent and works better than other arnicas I have used.” –Marjorie O

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

making sun infused oils

infusing calandula flowers
Infusing oils with herbs is easy.

Choose herbs:  I always use dried herbs although I know fresh are often used.  Just be sure they are washed and dried thoroughly to avoid bacteria growth and that there is no moisture or air trapped in stems.  (think of the old addage, "oil and water do not mix")

Choose oil/s:  This will depend on what you are wanting to do with the infusion.
Olive oil goes rancid quickly so only choose if you are using the oil up within a couple of months.
For skin care products there are many choices and it is fun to experiment and find ones you like.  My absolute favorite is grapeseed oil because it has 3 times the vitamin E content as olive oil yet has small molecules so it soaks in deep and quick without the greasy feel of many heavier oils.  This is not the best choice for an oil you want to stay on the surface long.  Other oils I often use are coconut oil (liquid at 78 degrees F), sweet almond oil, jojoba, or wheat germ.  Shea butter and cocoa butter get added later to balms and salves.

Stuff a quart jar 2/3 full of herbs and pour your oils over mixture to 1/2 inch from top.  Put on lid and shake gently to mix.  Sit on a window ledge in the sun for 2 to 3 weeks or longer.  Shake to mix a couple times a week or when you think of it.  Strain off the herbs with a fine coffee strainer or cheesecloth.  Make sure to label and date your blend.  Pour into bottles and enjoy.

Thursday, March 17, 2011

green food natural and easy

Green your food for St. Patrick's day fun.

The easiest most natural way I know how to green food is simply add a teaspoon of liquid chlorophyll to whatever it is you are making.  I put a half spoonful into my husband's drink, added a spoonful into the bread ingredients in the breadmaker, it's also great for green eggs and ham scramble.  If you dare, you could turn chicken meat, cauliflower and/or potatoes green this way, although I don't know if they will get eaten.  It also works great in cakes and muffins, whip cream, sour cream, etc.  Have fun!

What is chlorophyll?
Liquid Clorophyll can be found inexpensively in your local grocery store health section.
Chlorophyll is the part of living plants that make them green.  The liquid chlorophylls I am familiar with are derived from alfalfa and mint.  They have little taste but deep green color.  Beware, they can stain.

Used for?
Chlorophyll is used as a natural internal deodorant.  It is also good for allergies, skin problems, digestion, and many other things.

Happy St. Patty's Day.  Go Green!

green renewal

Go Green this spring!

Here's some herbs that will help you cleanse and lighten up for spring:


Recharge your energy & rejuvenate your system naturally with this pleasing All Organic green tea and herbal blend:
Jasmine Green tea has powerful anti-oxidants and tannins shown to strengthen our immune systems, increase metabolism and energy and help fight bacteria.
Siberian ginseng can help the body respond better to stress.  Good for both male and female hormones and is used to treat many conditions including fatigue, insomnia, lethargy, memory, endurance, and immune system.
Pau D’ Arco is high in calcium, a blood purifier and antifungal, helpful in fighting yeast infections and skin problems.
Red clover is high in minerals and is an excellent blood purifier.
Ginger has been used for digestive disorders, motion sickness, fever and coughing and helps lower cholesterol.
Nettle is a blood purifier high in vitamin C and minerals, strengthens liver and kidney function.  Helpful for allergies.
Olive Leaf is a natural antibiotic, antioxidant, anti-parasitic and anti-fungal shown to lower blood pressure, cholesterol, help respiratory response and heart and skin health.
Chickweed is high in vitamin C and helps dissolve fat and mucous in the body.  Good for skin problems.
Juniper berries act as a diuretic and disinfectant, strengthen the adrenal glands, blood and kidneys.  Good for diabetes.
Stevia leaf is used to treat digestion, liver and intestines as well as being a natural sweetener.

Statements are for educational purpose only.  Not intended to diagnose, treat or cure and diseases.  

You can combine your own herbs or e-mail me for our Renewal Tea which has all of these herbs in it and has a pleasing balanced flavor of green tea.  A pleasant was to renew yourself!  bags are stuffed with 3 ounces of bulk tea which will get you about 60 cups worth for only $7.95 plus shipping.