Hanna Kroeger Blog

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Home Remedy for Yeast Infections

January 27th, 2012 by Sara Beth · home remedy

No woman likes dealing with a yeast infection so here’s an easy and effective home remedy you can remember and share with your friends to help them find relief as well.

 Herbal Vinegar Bath

Home Remedy for Yeast Infections

Mint and other herbs combine in this home remedy for yeast infections

Mint and other herbs combine in this home remedy for yeast infections

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup water

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or one teaspoon dried)

1 tablespoon fresh tarragon (or one teaspoon dried)

1 tablespoon fresh mint (or one teaspoon dried)

1 ½ teaspoons fennel seeds

 Mix the ingredients together and heat in a small sauce pan or in a microwave safe dish to a gentle boil.

Allow the mixture to cool completely then strain off all solids.

To use: pour the entire mixture into a warm bath and soak for 15 to 20 minutes

This slightly acidic bath helps rinse away soap residue from your skin, reinstate your own natural acid balance, and an effective way to counteract yeast infections. The acidic environment within the bath kills the harmful bacteria and the scent from the herbs will reduce stress and lift your spirits!

To learn more about yeast infections, visit our website here.

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Releasing Anger

January 26th, 2012 by Sara Beth · home remedy

Hanna believed in the abilities of our bodies to naturally heal when given the right amount of time and the proper tools, whether they be herbal, homeopathic, or hands-on treatments. In her book New Dimensions in Healing Yourself, she outlined how you can release anger from your body and help to keep your system happy. Our emotional state can play a role in our overall health from headaches to gastro-intestinal upsets.

Hanna’s Steps to Release Anger

Find more information on releasing anger in Hanna's book.

Find more information on releasing anger in Hanna's book.

1. Firmly stroke both hands over your face and head. Start on your chin firmly and slowly move up to your forehead and over your hair to the back of your head and end in the neck. Start over again: chin–forehead–head–back of head. Do this several times to release resentments, hidden anger, even childhood resentments.

2. In the evening, write all your anger, resentments, and short-comings on a piece of paper. Hanna instructs us to use a nice piece of paper, one you would use to write a letter to a dear old friend. Do not read what you have written. Put it in a drawer and the next morning, read it and burn it. In the evening, do this again until all resentment is gone. It depends on the person and could take one week or one month. This exercise will release pain from within and the burdens of the mind.

3. Sit on a chair and press your fingers in the middle of your thigh. Say soothing words and breathe deeply to release anger and unpleasant memories from which resentment forms.

Hanna warned us that anger can become hate and that hate is extremely destructive to the liver. Our liver already works to detoxify chemicals and remove environmental poisons from our bodies and does not need to have the stress of hatred added to it. Because she believed that releasing anger was so important, she warned that not following these simple steps and allowing anger and hate to set up in your body could cause allergies, flu, hives, mood swings, and emotional upsets.

We all find days where stress and anger are inescapable for our lives but we can control how we let it set up in our bodies. Hanna believed we could use simple techniques to safe guard our bodies and defend against emotional upsets. Choosing to calm yourself and release the anger you hold in your body can lead to a happier, healthier system.

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6 Steps for Success with Weight Loss

January 25th, 2012 by Sara Beth · Resolution

Did you know that 1 out of every 3 adults in America are overweight or obese? Pretty scary, right? How about this statistic… 1 out of every 4 kids in America are as well. With an increase in eating processed foods, spending more time playing video games or cruising the internet, and guzzling soft drinks, it’s no wonder that Americans are expanding at the waist. The health concerns that stem from being overweight or obese are staggering. Sure we’ve all heard what we can do to make our bodies healthier but integrating that into our lives is sometimes difficult so we are laying out 6 easy steps for success with weight loss.

Get Prepared for Success with Weight Loss

Get ready! Stock your fridge with healthy foods for weight loss.

Get ready! Stock your fridge with healthy foods for weight loss.

Changes in eating habits are never easy at the start but once you have been following your new (self-regulated) rules for a couple of weeks, it becomes more like second nature. In order to get to that point, you’ll want to prepare yourself mentally by evaluating and identifying the reasons you are on the road to weight loss. Be honest with yourself and choose goals, both short and long term. The sooner you are realistic with your expectations and health, the sooner you’ll fully accept this new path you are on to a healthier you.

Write it Down for Success with Weight Loss

Yes, keeping a food diary is just another thing to add onto your list of things to do that day but it really is an effective tool. Writing down the foods you eat can help you stay focused and disciplined. No one is reading your entries except you so be honest with everything you consume in a day: drinks, meals, snacks, everything. If you’re monitoring what you eat, maybe you’ll be less likely to pick up that donut in the break room and instead choose to bring something delicious and healthy instead!

Choose Wisely for Success with Weight Loss

Choose wisely and drink enough water for success with weight loss!

Choose wisely and drink enough water for success with weight loss!

Start small and then build up! Choose to cut back portions of salt, sugar, and fat slowly so that you don’t feel deprived of things you love. Once you’ve cut those back try choosing healthier foods and smaller portions which lead to weight loss. The three meals you eat a day should include lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Calorie counts vary from men to women so check this tool to see what is right for you and aligns with your weight loss goals. When you set out to enjoy a meal, do so but make sure it’s fuel for your body and not something that will add to your weight. Want to learn more about healthy eating habits and how it can improve your health and shrink your waist line? Take a look at a recent blog here.

Be Realistic for Success with Weight Loss

You’re not going to start this journey and lose 15 pounds a week until you’re slim and trim. It took time to put the weight on, now it’s going to take some time to see if go away. One to two pounds of weight loss a week is a common goal and one that is realistic and healthy. Losing more than that each week means you may be burning muscle rather than fat! Weight loss can fluctuate week to week so try not to be discouraged and focus on the positive work you are doing for success!

Curb Cravings for Success with Weight Loss

Choose healthy meals for success with weight loss!

Choose healthy meals for success with weight loss!

Everyone likes a snack or dessert and we should all have them…in moderation! Try to cut down on snacking between meals and, if you must snack, choose low-calorie foods like fruit and veggies. This is an important part of weight loss since, more often than not, when we mindlessly munch at our desk or have a little nibble here and there throughout the day, we don’t think about those calories we are consuming.  Snacks are important to keep our metabolism running strong throughout the day but be careful what you choose. Keep the food journal will help you see where you have weak moments throughout the day (remember those donuts in the break room?) and will help you stay on track with this goal as well.

Move Your Body for Success with Weight Loss

Get moving for success with weight loss!

Get moving for success with weight loss!

Exercise burns calories, keeps you fit and toned, increases energy, and helps you sleep better. The health benefits of exercising are numerous and aside from keeping your heart fit it can also boost your mood, benefit your sex life, and reverse the signs of several types of diseases. What’s not to love there? Don’t rely solely on exercise for weight loss however; your diet is an integral part of the strategy to lose weight. Interested in how working out in the morning can help you stick to moving toward a healthier you? Read this recent post.

We get it—you might be saying: “I already screwed up on my resolution” or “It’s not even January 1st!” but the first few steps towards a healthier lifestyle don’t only have to happen at the start of each New Year. It’s never too late to get started with good health. Use these 6 steps for weight loss and enjoy results and success.

Find more information here about how to keep your resolution going and check our website for our newest section, the weight loss products we believe in!

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The Adulteration of Supplements

January 24th, 2012 by Sara Beth · Health

In the news recently there has been a variety of stories outlining the dangers of supplements that are adulterated and laced with powerful antibiotics, steroids, or illegal substances. While the majority of these center around weight loss supplements, we wanted to address these issues and offer some comfort.

The Adulteration of Supplements

Adderall

Adulteration of supplements is a fact of modern life. You can avoid it. Get informed!

Dr. Oz, the popular television doctor with a daytime showed named after him, brought this scandal to the attention of his viewers and made headlines with claims that products he recently sent for testing in laboratories contained substances they should not for a variety of reasons. What is not outlined clearly in his findings is that the supplements he chose to send to testing were from companies that were known to have unapproved ingredients. While the information he was supplying to his viewers was in part correct, it was only applicable to those specific weight loss supplements sent for testing and not for supplement manufacturers as a whole.  Dr. Oz brought an important point to light yet left out details of how not all companies are guilty of these sorts of practices. Perhaps, for the benefit of his show, he chose supplements already in violation yet made a wide claim that this is standard practice.  The weight loss supplement violations revealed on his show included ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic that had never been found in over-the-counter supplements as well as sibutramine, an ingredient in prescription obesity drugs that was banned because it caused heart attacks, strokes, and seizures.

It seems too easy to put all dietary supplements, whether they are for weight loss or not, under the same umbrella. While many companies do add illegal substances or excipients to their products, this isn’t true for all companies. We take pride in the products we provide to you and believe in them. While this “American Scandal”, as Dr. Oz has named it, is one that warrants some attention, it does not reach all corners of the supplement market and should not have an unfair ripple effect on all companies.

Avoid Adulteration

Adulteration with chemicals.

Adulteration with chemicals.

Adulteration is an easy out for many companies; using only a fraction of the active ingredient and filling the rest with fillers (like rice, soy, wheat) and harmful components is more common than you may think. While Dr. Oz outlined a specific set of weight loss products, the practice of adulteration is a cheap and tricky one. The consumer believes they are purchasing a product based on the description and doesn’t question the additional ingredients or do the research on what they could potentially do to their bodies.

The promise of losing weight, increasing energy, or curbing hunger trumps the ingredient list for many consumers. Be informed and choose products that are good for your body and provide long-term healing, not harm in the long-run.

Get Informed-Avoid Adulterated Products

We're proud to offer products from trusted companies. Avoid adulteration!

Find unadulterated products here!

To learn more about how herbal supplements can be manufactured without the use of harmful chemicals or the addition of unwanted ingredients, check out our learn link here or visit this recent blog about Herbal Purity here.

Our founder, Hanna Kroeger, followed strict rules for which products she would recommend to those who came to see her and we continue to follow these rules today. Don’t settle for anything but the best to put into your body; find good health without chemicals.

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Benefits of Cinnamon and Cinnamon Oil

January 23rd, 2012 by Sara Beth · herbs

As a continuation of our employee picks today we wanted to share why Louis uses Cinnamon in capsules and as an essential oil for better health!

Cinnamon Complete Concentrate is the first herbal supplement I take in the morning and the last I take in the evening and the health benefits are the reason! As the most common and well loved spice in the world, the use of cinnamon to address health dates back thousands of years! There’s something to be said for it being one of the oldest herbal remedies that is still popular worldwide today.

Get the Benefits of Cinnamon in a Capsule!

Get the health benefits of cinnamon with Kroeger's concentrate.

Get the health benefits of cinnamon with Kroeger's concentrate.

Kroeger Herb’s Cinnamon Complete Concentrate is, in my opinion, the best cinnamon supplement on the market. There are no excipients, flowing agents or fillers, just cinnamon! The fact that this cinnamon capsule is pure cinnamon with no additives is unique since most companies use chemical processes and harmful solvents to achieve extraction and Kroeger doesn’t. If it isn’t on the label, it’s not in the capsule! While the common uses of cinnamon include antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s also been useful in improving circulation, aiding in digestion and elimination, easing menstrual discomfort, improving kidney health, relieving pain and boosting mood! And, add this to the list of the many health benefits of cinnamon: recent research by the USDA has shown that it boosts insulin sensitivity, increases glucose metabolism, decreases LDL (bad) cholesterol and lowers triglycerides! Cinnamon supplements really are beneficial for men and women, young and old.

Benefits of Cinnamon Oil

Get the health benefits of cinnamon in an essential oil!

Get the health benefits of cinnamon in an essential oil!

Because of my enthusiasm for cinnamon supplements, I branched out to cinnamon oil to see the health benefits it could provide to my life as well. Did you know cinnamon oil can increase your appetite and stimulate saliva production to aid in digestion? I add 3 drops of Aura Cacia Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil to a pot of simmering water on the stove to add a pleasing aroma in my home and signal to my body that a meal is on the way.

Cinnamon oil has also been effective as a mosquito repellent and has been found to kill mosquito larvae! For those of you worried about chemicals in repellent products for yourself or your children, this is a great alternative. By using the cinnamon essential oil you can protect yourself from those flying pests and get back to enjoying your activities outdoors without the concerns of ingredients in repellents.

Whether it’s the scent of a candle burning or cookies being baked in the kitchen, the next time you smell cinnamon, think of all the ways it can serve your body’s health. For me personally it has helped with pain, digestion, appetite and I’ll bet if my insides could talk, they would thank me for much more! To learn more about the health benefits of cinnamon visit this blog that outlines why it’s important to take cinnamon in a capsule as well as its uses for obesity and diabetes!

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Health Benefits of Turmeric

January 20th, 2012 by Sara Beth · Antioxidant, herbs

What if one of the ingredients in the mustard you find in your fridge, or the curry from your favorite Indian restaurant, could possibly ease the aches of arthritis? If we told you that the main ingredient in dyes used in India was also used for Alzheimer’s and digestive issues, would that peak your interest?  Turmeric has been used for thousands of years for its health benefits, yet Americans aren’t using it to reach optimal health. Something is missing. While you may be aware of the health benefits Turmeric provides, something has caused us to not act and include it in our herbal regimen. We hope this will change your mind!

Benefits of Turmeric Supplements

A benefit of Turmeric is its usefulness for digestive issues.

A benefit of Turmeric is its usefulness for digestive issues.

Turmeric has been used in Asia for thousands of years for dying fabric or flavoring foods but is also popular for its many health benefits. As a digestive aid, turmeric has been instrumental in addressing disorders within the stomach and intestinal tract and offers relief from pains associated with an upset stomach or improper digestion. Recent research points to the benefits of curcumin, Turmeric’s active ingredient, in eye care, Alzheimer’s treatment, liver disorders, and artherosclerosis. Including a Turmeric supplement could assist your body in healing from the inside out, from stomach health to your teeth to cuts and bruises. Its powerful antiseptic qualities make Turmeric a natural alternative to over-the-counter medications for speeding healing of cuts and even the inflammation of joints or sinuses!

Benefits for Skin

Skin by Shom's Photography & Edits

Turmeric is beneficial for your skin!

Recently Turmeric has become a popular ingredient in cosmetic products for its benefits in slowing the signs of aging and wrinkle formation as well as its ability to prevent dry skin, treat eczema, and acne. While this addition to topical products is enjoying a surge in popularity, it’s following in the path of what has been standard in Asia for skin health for thousands of years. Adding Turmeric to bathwater is believed to slow the growth of body hair, add a glow to the skin, and reduce pigmentation or blotches associated with skin diseases and it’s believed to supply these same benefits when added to lotions, make-up, and other beauty items. Before you stock up your cosmetic bag with every product that includes Turmeric, consider what other ingredients may have been used in the manufacturing of it. (To learn more about cosmetics and the additives used in them, see a recent blog here). Often times the addition of a natural ingredient to modern cosmetic products doesn’t counter the negative effects the additional ingredients can have on your body so pay attention. What we put on our body is just as important as what we put in our body.

Benefits of Turmeric as an Antioxidant

The health benefits of Turmeric continue, it's a powerful antioxidant!

The health benefits of Turmeric continue, it's a powerful antioxidant!

Add this to the list of benefits of Turmeric, as a powerful antioxidant it attacks the daily toxins we are exposed to in our modern world and moves them from our bodies to allow proper function. These toxins, called free radicals, pose a threat to our bodies through the destruction of cells leading to cancer and a variety of other diseases. The addition of Turmeric or other antioxidants to your diet and herbal regimen can protect your body against the rapid development of these diseases and the harmful effects of free radicals. (To learn more about antioxidants, see a recent blog post here that shares the most popular and effective on the market today).

The benefits of Turmeric for the body, inside and out, can be achieved through a capsule. If you choose to purchase cosmetic products that contain Turmeric, be sure to pay attention to other ingredients and don’t discount the fact that applying topically doesn’t always achieve the best results. Want the benefits of better skin, antioxidant protection, improved digestion and movement? Find it in a Turmeric capsule!

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Herbs For Men

January 19th, 2012 by Chris · herbs

 
Why is it that women buy the majority of health supplements? Is it because men are inherently healthier or do most males just not care about their health?
I think we can throw out the second question since women generally outlive men. So why don’t men buy herbs and supplements for their health as much as women? I think it might just be stubbornness. I have noticed that there exists a pervasive (and arguably accurate) stereotype that men don’t like to ask for directions. What is that about? If we can’t ask for directions while driving then we surely aren’t going to ask how we can take charge of our own health. You may want to know which herbs for men are the most useful, but don’t want to ask for help. You may think, “what if people perceive of me as weak?” To that I say: Men, take charge of your health! Be strong by asking for help to find the products that will help you live longer, happier lives!
Herbs For Men

Ginseng root is an herb for men!

What Are Good Herbs for Men?

When we think of herbs for men we tend to think of supporting prostate health with herbs like Saw Palmetto or Ginseng root  for libido or sexual prowess. Our founder, Hanna Kroeger, took men’s health seriously and created a special herbal combination that tones the male reproductive system. This combination contains a blend of Black Walnut leaf, Saw Palmetto berry, and Cornsilk to preserve a healthy prostate. Kroeger Herb uses this special blend in Hanna’s Men’s Special formula and includes it in the Men’s Kit. The kit is designed to support male energy, the prostate, and urinary well-being using herbs that are effective in supporting the health of men. You may not think there are “male supplements” but it’s true! Saw Palmetto has been shown to improve prostate function and urinary tract health while Ginseng root is effective in supporting male energy.

Other Herbs for Men

According to the National Center of Health Statistics list of top killers, number one is diseases of the heart. While diet and exercise play a role in prevention of these diseases, it doesn’t hurt to pad the odds in your favor with herbal supplementation. Hanna’s Circu Flow  has long been a champion of healthy hearts and arteries and is beneficial for men and women alike. But, wait! I thought we were talking about herbs for men, not women? Let’s bring the focus back to a healthy heart and how it’s beneficial for men living happier and longer lives. Besides, a healthy heart leads to healthy circulation, and healthy circulation leads to healthy….
Do I really need to connect the dots?
Ok! Healthy circulation leads to better ability to get an erection which is what all of those expensive television ads during football games are alluding to. You know the ones I am talking about, the guy throwing a football through a small opening or another with the man doing some carpentry, pounding a nail into some wood, we’ve all seen them. I don’t really get the one where the couple is in separate bathtubs full of (presumably) cold water but they all hint at the fact that, as a part of men’s happiness, proper function of the reproductive organ is important. Keeping your heart happy can keep the rest of your body happy and the herbs in Circu Flow can play a role in that.
Is there any such thing as male supplements or herbs for men? We think so. If you choose products that specifically promote a healthy, happy male body we think you’ll agree. Consider these we have shared with you today and who knows, maybe you’ll even stop and ask for some directions.
Want to learn more about Herbs for Men? Visit our Men’s Health Section here for a full selection of male supplements to support men’s health!
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What are Antioxidants?

January 18th, 2012 by Sara Beth · Antioxidant

Don't stress out trying about free radicals and antioxidants. Get your info here!

Don't stress out about free radicals and antioxidants. Get your info here!

It’s funny how many of us have heard of antioxidants and free radicals but we don’t really understand what it all means. Maybe some of the terms used don’t always make sense when describing what happens or maybe we feel like free radicals don’t pose a threat to our bodies right now. The truth of the matter is that free radicals are everywhere and they pose a very REAL risk to our livelihood. If there was a stream of strangers coming into your home or office, wouldn’t you address it immediately? This is really no different. Free radicals are the strangers and antioxidants act as a polite chaperone, escorting them from your body.

Sometimes we hear “free radicals” and that sets off a myriad of possibilities, especially the radical part. Free radicals are simply oxygen molecules that have either one too many or one too few electrons, making them unstable. Unstable molecules can be seen as toxins in our bodies but where do we get these toxins? Everywhere! Daily exposure to common environmental items like air pollution, cigarette smoke, food additives, chemicals, pesticides and dozens of other sources are only an example of where these toxins come from. An antioxidant seeks out and neutralizes these toxins/free radicals in our bodies.

What are the Best Antioxidants?

Some of the best antioxidants have been discovered and developed in the last 5-10 years. 

The power of the best antioxidants are at your fingertips!

The power of the best antioxidants are at your fingertips!

Polular choices are Bilberry, Olive Leaf, Ginkgo biloba, Grape Seed, Rosemary, and Resveratrol. Read on to learn more about each of these individually and learn why these are the best antioxidants.

Bilberry is a powerful antioxidant that has become popular for its positive effects on the eyes. This relative of blueberries contains high amounts of flavonoids called proanthocyanidins and anthocyanin, powerful antioxidants that maintain strength and flexibility in capillary walls thus allowing efficient flow through the capillaries. This increased efficiency in microcirculation is very helpful for the eyes. Bilberry also aids in the regeneration of retinal purple, which is important for night vision.

Olive Leaf  has gained popularity due to its versatility, especially as an antiviral, antibacterial and anti-microbial herb. Hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, vanillic acid and verbascoside are four important antioxidants found in olive leaf. Olive leaf has been shown to deter oxidation of so-called “bad cholesterol” or low-density lipoprotein (LDL.) which may aid in cholesterol levels. Olive Leaf’s antioxidant properties have great potential to prevent free radical generation and stop damage to healthy cells of people involved in vigorous exercise programs, which produces oxidation in the body. Olives, olive oil and olive leaves have been important parts of the Mediterranean culture as food and medicine for thousands of years. This may be an important feature of the Mediterranean diet which boasts minimal heart disease and general good health.

Grape Seeds contains Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins, or OPC’s, which are bioflavonoids and very powerful antioxidants. OPC’s are many times more potent than vitamin C and vitamin E. Grape Seed’s antioxidant activity also donates electrons to vitamin C & E so they regenerate and have more longevity as antioxidants. All these antioxidants can work together to contribute to over-all health in many ways. Like Olive Leaf, Grape Seed’s antioxidant action inhibits the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which may help reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure. The antioxidants found in Grape Seed have been the explanation for the French paradox (a population that loves cheese, butter, rich sauces, fatty foods and cigarettes yet has a low rate of heart disease). Could it be the red wine?

Ginkgo biloba is a powerful antioxidant!

Ginkgo biloba is a powerful antioxidant!

 Ginkgo biloba  has been used for thousands of years in Asia to promote longevity. The ginkgo tree is hardy and can survive in adverse environments, like heavily traveled roadsides and can live a very long time (a reflection of its health properties). Like most herbs, ginkgo has many helpful properties, yet its antioxidant effects on circulation and brain function have given this herb its highest praise. Ginkgo’s ability to improve circulation through small blood vessels and capillaries help bring oxygen and nutrients to the brain, heart, and all parts of the body. Research on Ginkgo has shown favorable effects on Alzheimer’s disease and other memory challenging health issues.

Rosemary is a versatile herb rich in antioxidants. Rosmarinic acid is a powerful antioxidant found in rosemary along with about a dozen other free radical scavenging compounds. Rosemary has been used traditionally to enhance and improve memory capabilities, a very good brain tonic when used often, and is valuable when tending to tension headaches. Carnosol and ursolic acid, two chemicals found in rosemary are particularly rich in anti-tumor activities. One study found that rosemary may help impede carcinogens from binding to breast tissues.

Resveratrol is a bit of a new-comer; enjoying recent popularity worldwide for its benefits in reversing the signs of aging and improving the condition of the skin but it is a powerful antioxidant as well. Japanese knotweed extract contains the highest amount of trans-Resveratrol on the planet and offers the greatest protection to the body against free radicals.

Pomegranate is also an antioxidant powerhouse with polyphenols, tannis and anthocyanins that render damage causing free radicals harmless within your body. It’s been said that the hundreds of tiny red seeds within a pomegranate can serve as an appropriate metaphor for all its uses for our health. Aside from the rich amount of antioxidants, pomegranates have been noted for their use in cancer research, to ease menopausal symptoms, for addressing the protein molecules responsible for osteoporosis, and as a being a wonderful heart helper by reducing plaque on artery walls and decreasing LDL (bad) cholesterol.

These are only a sample of antioxidants available on the market today. Some combinations of these powerful ingredients can be found in one capsule. For example, Kroeger Herb Products has created a product called Resveratrol Six that blends Japanese Knotweed (Resveratrol), Grape Seed, Ginkgo and Pomegranateto provide a potent combination of antioxidants to efficiently attack free radicals in your body. (Learn more about Resveratrol Six in a recent blog here).

While the popularity of antioxidants has soared lately, it’s important to make choices on which products are right for you based on their effectiveness, not popularity. The damage of free radicals are very real in our modern world today and being proactive with your health with the addition of an antioxidant supplement and antioxidant rich foods. Consider adding olives, rosemary, and pomegranate to your diet; these foods and their supplement counterpart are an integral part of good health.

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Remedies for Headaches

January 17th, 2012 by Sara Beth · Homeopathics for, home remedy

Understanding a headache

Find headache relief with home remedies!

Headaches are debilitating at times, whether it’s a migraine or a persistent pain that lasts all day, no one likes to suffer from the throbbing or discomfort. Understanding how headaches work and where the pain radiates from is a good place to start in addressing how to get rid of them and there are several herbs, home remedies and oils you can utilize to free yourself from the pain.

The Anatomy of a Headache

Did you know that brain tissue itself is not sensitive to pain because even though it is made out of nerve cells it lacks pain receptors? Maybe you’ve thought, “I just have a little headache and it will go away soon” but halfway through your day it feels like a vise squeezing your head. This sensation is a disturbance of pain sensitive nerves or sensory neurons in areas around the brain and we’ve all experienced it. There are several areas around the head and neck that have these trigger points which include but are not limited to the cranium, muscles, nerves, arteries, veins, eyes, ears, sinuses, and mucous membranes.

Herbal Remedies for Headaches

So what does this all mean and where can we find relief? We’ve got a few tips! In Hanna’s book “Ageless Remedies from Mother’s Kitchen” there are home remedies for a variety of headache pains.

For headaches radiating from one particular spot, drink one cup of black tea. The small amount of caffeine in the tea will constrict your capillaries and bring relief.

For headaches on the right side of the head peel and eat an orange, eat half and wait a half hour then eat the other half.

Remedies for headaches are easier to find than you think!

Remedies for headaches are easier to find than you think!

Wet a cloth with equal parts vinegar and water and place over forehead. (This remedy is also useful for feverish conditions).

Add a ¼ teaspoon of allspice to juice and drink twice daily for headaches on one side of the head.

Lavender is useful for headaches. We have dried lavender available to be made into a tea to drink for headaches as well as dipping a cloth into the tea and applying to your head to relieve local pain. Using lavender essential oils can soothe tension when rubbed onto your temples. (Read our blog about essential oils to learn more about essential oils and how they can bring healing and relief to other areas of your body and life.

Homeopathic Headache Remedies

  • My-GrastickTM is a roll-on stick that applies peppermint and lavender essential oil to soothe and cool the temples and forehead.
  • Hyland’sTM Cell Salt # 9 is a homeopathic remedy designed for headache relief.

    Homeopathic remedies for headaches.

    Homeopathic remedies for headaches.

  • For headaches with a cold, Belladonna
  • For headaches from constipation, Bryonia Alba
  • For headaches from menopause, Lachesis
  • For headaches from overeating, Nux Vomica
  • Headaches caused by muscle fatigue, Rhus Tox

While there is a time and situation for modern medicine, overdoing it with any over or behind-the-counter medication can cause trouble in the body. For example, if you’re using acetaminophen in large doses long-term to reduce headache pain, you could be causing damage to your liver. To learn more about how this could happen, see a recent blog here.

For additional information on headaches, visit our Learn Link for different types of headaches and their probable causes.

Headaches are unfortunately a fact of life but with these remedies and homeopathic products, we hope you’ll be able to get over them faster! What remedies do you use?

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Remedies for Constipation

January 16th, 2012 by Sara Beth · home remedy

Constipation isn’t exactly on the list of popular topics to discuss with your friends yet it’s a common issue that affects everyone at some point. Finding remedies, recipes, and natural avenues to relieve constipation is easier than you might think. Take a look at these constipation remedies to learn how you can address the discomfort without a prescription or over-the-counter medicine.

Food as a Constipation Remedy

  • Figs and Prunes: soak in warm water overnight. In the morning drink the juice and mix the fruit into oatmeal or eat alone.
  • Pears and Apples: from toddlers to adults, these fruits are effective in relieving constipation issues. Hanna recommended eating two pears or one apple at bedtime. Applesauce is also a helpful food for constipation.
  • Flax Seed: flax is not only a great source of Omegas for the body but is also beneficial to our digestive systems by
    Constipation Remedy: Your Food!

    Constipation Remedy: Your Food!

    assisting in clearing constipation as well as helping to clean and heal the colon. (Learn more about the importance of Omegas and how flax seed plays an important role in your health in a recent blog here).
  • Roughage and Fiber: normal bowel function can be promoted by focusing on increasing your intake of leafy green vegetables and high fiber foods. If constipation is a chronic issue for you, consider incorporating greens like kale, spinach, celery, broccoli and lettuce into each meal. High fiber foods like wheat and oat bran (either in breads or cereals) and most beans will assist in keeping you regular as well.

General Rules to Avoid Constipation

  • Drink Up: getting plenty of fluids throughout the day is beneficial for the overall healthy function of your body, especially your digestive tract. If constipation is an issue for you, note the amount of fluids you’re drinking. Try to avoid sodas or fruit juices that contain too much sugar and instead focus on water. Our bodies desperately need water to function, be sure you’re giving your system enough!
  • Eat Slowly: taking time with your meals allows you to enjoy them and can prevent problems in the lower digestive
    Water is key to avoid constipation.

    Water is integral to avoiding constipation.

    tract. As you eat, try to be mindful of chewing your food thoroughly so your body is able to break down your meals effectively.

  • Get on Schedule: whether you eat several small meals a day or stick to 3 squares, our systems appreciate a schedule. A midnight snack every now and then is fine but if your body is constantly guessing when or what your next “meal” will be, it puts a kink in the system.

Herbal Remedies for Constipation

  • Hanna blended Yellow Dock, Onion, Sage, Wahoo bark, and Rhubarb root to make her Herbal Combination Mover. This product is designed to gently assist with temporary constipation.
  • Enzymes and Digestive Enzyme are two additional Herbal Combinations that address your digestive process. These all natural supplements help keep your system moving without depending on over-or-behind-the-counter aids.

Homeopathic Remedies for Constipation

  • For straining during constipation, Alumina
  • Constipation during menstrual periods, Graphites
  • For the urge to move but being unable to, Nux Vomica
    Nux Vomica is a homeopathic remedy for constipation.

    Nux Vomica, homeopathic remedy for constipation.

While laxatives may promise a quick fix to your constipation issues, keep in mind that there are dangers associated with using them habitually. Laxatives irritate intestinal mucous, particularly those made with phenolphtaleine, and could potentially pose a dependency issue making it nearly impossible to have a movement without them.

Check here to see several products that gently address constipation, including our Bowel Cleanse Kit!

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