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Posted by 'Hauzman' in a topic 'so lm sharing'. Join the discussion of this topic here:

Hello friends, You have certainly heard about the transformation of Earth's changing consciousness and things like that. I am not going there now discuss the truth or falsity of a variety of information, I decided on a practical step. Introduce you to that one day, one minute at the exact time most people will focus and a more beautiful world. They all stop, forget all our worries and problems and for a moment we will think positively and imagine a better and more beautiful world where we are all one, where there is no suffering, negativity, fear and agression. Dump prejudices and skepticism now and let us try this experiment, because only one minute and send this positive energy and helping the Earth as well as humanity itself. Certainly we all feel inside, that with today's world, something happens that major changes occur and that we all want a better world and finally to move somewhere else. I firmly believe that this feeling. If you would let us try to interest on 22.02.2012 at ...

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This section is devoted to the information that will be useful in the creation of a Kin's Domains.

Homeschoolers find university doors open

By Ana Beatriz Cholo, Associated Press Writer

David Sample, who was homeschooled as a youth, is seen Jan. 29, 2007, on the University of California, Riverside campus, a school he currently attends in Riverside, Calif. Last fall Riverside joined a growing number of colleges around the country that are revamping admission policies to accommodate homeschooled students.

LOS ANGELES - David Sample wanted to attend the University of California at Riverside but thought it was a lost cause because he had been homeschooled.

The University of California system is known for being tough on nontraditionally schooled applicants. For them, the best ticket to UC has been transferring after taking community college classes or posting near-perfect scores on college entrance exams.

"For homeschoolers, it was basically a shut door for us because of the restrictions," Sample said.

Last fall, however, UC Riverside joined a growing number of colleges around the country that are revamping application policies to accommodate homeschooled students.

The change came just in time for the 18-year-old Sample to apply and get accepted with a substantial scholarship.

Under UC Riverside's new policy, homeschoolers can apply by submitting a lengthy portfolio detailing their studies and other educational experiences.

Sample's package showed he had studied chemistry, U.S. history and geometry, rewired a house and helped rebuild a medical clinic in Nicaragua.

The U.S. Department of Education reports that 1.1 million, or 2.2 percent of all students in the nation, are homeschooled.

Some private colleges have eagerly recruited those students for years and tailored application processes to include them. Homeschoolers still face challenges when applying to many public universities, but their chances of being considered are improving.

In 2000, 52 percent of all colleges in the country had a formal evaluation policy for applications from homeschoolers, said David Hawkins, director of public policy for the National Association for College Admission Counseling.

Four years later, the number jumped to 83 percent. During that time, 45 percent of colleges reported receiving more applications from homeschoolers, he said.

Major schools that now post application procedures for homeschoolers on their Web sites include Michigan State University, Oregon State University and the University of Texas.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is also willing to consider homeschoolers. The highly regarded school does not require a high school diploma. As part of its admissions process, it considers scores from college entrance exams and asks applicants to submit a 500-word essay, detail five extracurricular activities and offer two teacher evaluations.

"We evaluate every student based on who they are," said Merilee Jones, dean of admissions at MIT.

UC Riverside is actively recruiting homeschoolers, said Merlyn Campos, interim director of undergraduate admissions.

"There are a lot of students out there that are very prepared for a college level education," she said. "They are kind of being forced into going into a community college."

Frank Vahid, a UC Riverside computer science professor, was among those who lobbied for the change, contending the school could gain a competitive advantage because homeschoolers have a lot to offer.

Vahid's own children are taught at home. His 15-year-old son also takes community college classes and will likely try to transfer into to a public university.

The homeschooling movement has its roots in religion, but families pull their children out of traditional schools for a variety of reasons. When many of those students reached college age in the 1990s, colleges began considering their qualifications and potential more closely.

"Colleges are far more familiar with the backgrounds of homeschoolers and their needs," said Ian Slatter, director of media relations for the Home School Legal Defense Association. "We have had fewer and fewer problems."

Harrison Hartley has been homeschooled in Burbank since kindergarten. Now 13, he will start community college classes this year and hopes to transfer to a university as a junior before he turns 18.

"I just want him to start out with taking a couple of fun classes," said his mother, Beverly Hartley. "Then we'll throw him into things that are more serious."

Sample lives in Redlands with his parents and three younger siblings, who are also homeschooled. He got acceptance letters from colleges in Illinois and Texas but wanted to attend UC Riverside, the local university.

Now a freshman, he is adjusting well to college classes and shrugs when his peers complain about the way a professor teaches.

"You are already used to teaching yourself," he said about homeschooling. "Forget the teacher, forget the class, I am just going to read the book and figure it out myself."

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The different ways kids learn

By Christine Langlois

Identify and nurture your children's individual learning styles.

All young children learn naturally by playing, by observing, and by association. Having unstructured time to play alone never loses its importance for kids to learn through experiences. The child who claims the floor of the family room for a dinosaur village may appear to be playing with no particular goal. But his journey is his destination - his carnivores are chasing herbivores; the feeding station near the waterfall is littered with bones; he is creating a rich mural in his mind that makes connections with his burgeoning network of knowledge.

But by the time a child is six, the adults in his world impose a formal structure on his learning that we call school, or our education system. There are dozens of theories about what is the best learning environment or educational structure for children at different ages. However, in most elementary schools in Canada, kids are grouped by age with one or more classroom teachers who are responsible for presenting the common curriculum devised by each province's ministry of education.

Learning stages

In developing curriculum and learning resources, educators follow the basic progression of how all children learn.

From simple to complex A child must understand the simpler idea of the number 2 standing for two objects before she can add 2 + 2.

From known to unknown A child can take in new information if it connects to what she already knows. A child has to understand what a noun is before he can understand how adjectives modify nouns.

From self to other Young children learn best about themselves and their own world. As a child matures, she can connect to what's outside her world.

From whole to part Children begin drawing figures that have little detail. As they mature, they add hands and feet and curly hair.

From inaccurate (approximation) to more accurate A child learns to spell by writing letters that approximate the sounds of the words, then gradually becomes more aware of different spelling patterns for words.

From concrete to abstract A child needs to understand how to cut an apple into two equal halves before she can understand the abstraction of dividing by 2.

From exploratory to goal-directed A child begins learning about money by holding and playing with coins before he develops the goal of saving some of those coins to buy a treat.

From impulsive to self-controlled A child learning to get along with others has to learn that she can't be the only one to play with the blocks in the classroom; she gradually learns to be less impulsive or selfindulgent as a way of getting along with others.

Learning to read

Long before your child begins school or learns her letters, she is on her way to reading. Educators tell us that reading is not a separate skill that a child acquires but rather part of her general language development, which includes listening, speaking, and writing. So your child's opportunities to tell stories, hear stories, have conversations, ask questions, answer questions are all part of helping her learn to read. Reading aloud to your child, even up to about twelve years of age, not only helps her to become a successful reader, but helps you maintain close connections.

Once your child begins to receive instruction in reading and writing in grade one, she will learn that both activities have a purpose: to inform (instructions), to entertain (stories), to direct (traffic signs). At the same time as she learns the letters and the sounds each letter or combination makes, she learns to use those letters to communicate. Her spelling will be inventive at first; she'll begin by approximating a word, perhaps with one letter - c for cat, then some months later ct may become cat, and finally she writes cat as c a t. The more opportunities she has to write, without feeling constrained by having to get the spelling right, the more opportunities she has to expand her knowledge of how letters and their sounds correspond. This comprehension supports her development of reading skills. To be a skillful reader, your child must learn to identify words quickly and accurately. To do this, she needs regular opportunities to read. She also needs to learn phonics, the relationship between letters and their sounds, so that she can decode new words. After much debate about the emphasis on phonics in reading instruction, most educators agree that inclusion of phonics instruction helps children develop skills in word recognition.

Discuss content

As your child begins reading picture books and simple stories, she brings her background knowledge into play to help her comprehend the characters, the setting, and the action. For example, in a story about a boy walking his dog, a child needs to know that dogs must be walked regularly in order to understand the story. Teachers may supply this background information during class discussion, but parents attuned to their child's needs can help provide the experiences and discussions about those experiences that give their child a context for reading and comprehending what they read.

Your child also needs many opportunities to read aloud to demonstrate her new abilities. It gives you a chance to evaluate her progress and to assess what reading errors she continues to make and why. When you're listening to your child read, ignore mistakes unless they prevent her from comprehending the text. Correcting every small error breaks her train of thought and will make her feel frustrated and unsure. When she makes a mistake that does affect the meaning, wait a second to see if she goes back and finds the right word. If she doesn't, help her to decode the word and pronounce it properly, and then have her reread the sentence to comprehend the meaning.

Your child also needs opportunities for silent reading. If you talk conversationally about the story after she has read it silently, she can demonstrate her comprehension of the material. Even after your child begins to read comfortably on her own, continue to read aloud to her. This gives you the opportunity to introduce books that she may enjoy but not yet have the ability to read herself. It is also a wonderful way to continue to share the joy of reading with your child.

Learning styles

Imagine your child making popcorn in a microwave for the first time. Would he: a) read the directions on the package? b) holler "How long do I zap it for?" at you? c) toss the packet into the microwave, hit a few buttons, and then watch to see what happened? Your answer will give you a clue to your child's learning style.

Most kids follow a favoured path when processing new information. This path becomes more apparent in the early years of school; by grade two or three, parents and teachers can often detect which children are visual learners, who learn by observing and seeing; which are auditory learners, who learn most easily by listening; and which are kinesthetic learners, who soak up knowledge through hands-on experience.

Most children, though, don't show a complete preference for one learning style over the others. Many draw on two of the three different styles, and those students who excel in school usually show facility with all three styles. You may have already identified your child's preferred way of learning, whether or not you use one of these labels. If so, you can probably help her both to take advantage of her strongest style of learning and to work on improving her ability to use the other styles. There are hot debates among psychologists over classification issues, and expert opinion do vary, but the labels and descriptions that follow offer a starting point for parents interested in exploring the topic further.

Learning styles chart

Visual learners:

learn by seeing; for example, by watching others, by reading. have a preference for the "look-say" approach to learning to read. have creative imaginations; daydream, draw detailed and/or colourful pictures. remember faces better than names. have good handwriting. tend to check out a new situation carefully before joining in. prefer art to music. often see a detail first rather than the whole. are often meticulous about their work.

Visual learners represent about 65 per cent of the population.

Auditory learners:

learn most easily by listening to explanations. have a preference for phonics instruction as part of learning to read. love to chatter and socialize. often talk to themselves while working. have strong vocabularies. are easily distracted by noise. may have a strange sense of fashion, mixing unmatchable colours and patterns. often see a detail first rather than the whole. prefer music to art.

Auditory learners make up about 15 per cent of the population.

Kinesthetic or tactile learners:

learn best through direct involvement in the action: modeling, building, producing. are adept at taking things apart and putting them back together. excel at some sports. are good dancers. fidget and touch things constantly. touch you to get your attention. respond well to touch. are poor spellers. have poor handwriting. have difficulty with verbal or written direction. read with difficulty and often don't enjoy being read to.

This group comprises about 10 per cent of the population.

Note that about 10 per cent of learners use two or three styles of.

To improve visual learning skills:

practise with flash cards and fill-in-the-blank worksheets. ask your child to choose a passage from a favourite book to copy out in his best handwriting. send notes in his lunch box and ask him for a written reply.

To exercise auditory skills:

ask your child to describe the plot development of a TV show. read stories and poems aloud to one another. have her describe a piece of art, a map, or a design aloud as she looks at it.

To practise the kinesthetic style of learning:
(by doing activities together, with your verbal explanations and instructions.)

cooking or baking from simple recipes. washing the car. cleaning the bathroom. sorting the laundry. spelling words in sand. working out math problems using coins, toothpicks, beads, buttons.

http://www.canadianliving.com/

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Home Schooling goes mainstream

Could this Spice Actually Help You Shed Pounds?

One of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to up the health ante of your meals is by adding herbs and spices, and in the realm of spices, turmeric and its active ingredient curcumin may be king.

If you're a fan of curry, you're probably also a fan of turmeric, as this is the yellow-orange spice that makes the foundation of many curry dishes. It's a great addition to your diet, but to get the full benefits curcumin has to offer, look for a turmeric extract that contains 100 percent certified organic ingredients and at least 95 percent curcuminoids.

Research is emerging showing that this potent spice may play a beneficial role in preventing and treating numerous chronic diseases, and may offer promise in helping people deal with obesity and obesity-related metabolic diseases.

Does Curcumin Boost Weight Loss

Research in the European Journal of Nutrition suggests that curcumin may be useful for the treatment and prevention of obesity-related chronic diseases, as the interactions of curcumin with several signal transduction pathways -- the process by which biological functions are recognized - also reverse insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and other inflammatory symptoms associated with obesity and metabolic disorders.

Curcumin is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, and chronic inflammation is the hallmark of most chronic disease, including diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. But many people are not aware that obesity contributes to a state of low-grade, chronic inflammation in your body that can trigger metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Curcumin appears to modulate several cellular transduction pathways that contribute to this damaging process.

As a result, researchers concluded:

"These findings might enable novel phytochemical treatment strategies as well as curcumin translation to the clinical practice for the treatment and prevention of obesity-related chronic diseases. Furthermore, the relatively low cost of curcumin, safety and proven efficacy make it advisable to include curcumin as part of a healthy diet."

Past research has revealed similar findings, including that curcumin reduces the formation of fat tissue by suppressing the blood vessels needed to form it. As the researchers stated:

"Our results clearly demonstrate that curcumin at cellular and whole organism levels displays remarkable potential health benefits for prevention of obesity and associated metabolic disorders."

Weight Loss is Just the Icing on the Cake

The benefits of curcumin go way beyond weight loss. The compound has been shown to influence more than 700 genes, and it can inhibit both the activity and the synthesis of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and 5-lipooxygenase (5-LOX), as well as other enzymes that have been implicated in inflammation.

But that's not all. Curcumin currently has the most evidence-based literature supporting its use against cancer than any other nutrient. Interestingly this also includes the metabolite of curcumin and its derivatives, which are also anti-cancerous. Best of all, curcumin appears to be safe in the treatment of all cancers. Researchers have found that curcumin can affect more than 100 different pathways, once it gets into the cell.

More specifically, curcumin has been found to:

However, much of curcumin's power seems to lie in its ability to modulate genetic activity and expression -- both by destroying cancer cells and by promoting healthy cell function. As such, evidence suggests curcumin may play a beneficial role in the following conditions:

Be Sure Your Weight Loss Strategy is Comprehensive

It can't hurt to add curcumin to your comprehensive weight loss program, but it should not be your only strategy for weight loss if you're currently overweight or obese.

You can read an in-depth explanation of the common factors that contribute to weight loss, but the key is the quality of your calories and exercise. Typically you will need to replace grains and sugars, including fructose, with high-quality protein and fats AND add in high-intensity exercise training.

http://www.naturalnews.com/

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Benefits to Eating Curry

Chlorella Reduces Body Fat, Total Cholesterol, and Blood Glucose Levels

By Barbara L. Minton

If you are interested in reducing body fat, getting your cholesterol level under control and staying clear of diabetes, chlorella may be just the perfect superfood. Researchers have recently investigated the effects of Chlorella on people with high-risk factors for lifestyle diseases and found that chlorella affects a positive outcome by controlling gene expression. Other new findings have also added to chlorella's impressive credentials.

Findings from the study

As reported in the September edition of the Journal of Medicinal Food, researchers in Kyoto, Japan fed chlorella to 17 subjects with high-risk factors for lifestyle-related diseases and 17 healthy subjects over a 16 week period. They conducted blood biochemical tests and gene profile expression analysis before and after the chlorella administration. They confirmed that in both groups, chlorella intake resulted in noticeable reductions in body fat percentages, total serum cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose levels.

Through gene expression analysis, they found that gene expression profiles varied with chlorella intake. They identified many genes affected by chlorella ingestion that returned to their pre-ingestion state when chlorella ingestion was discontinued. Among these were genes related to metabolic enzymes, signaling, receptors, transporters, and cytokines.

A difference in genetic expression level was found between the two studied groups at the start of the tests, and the researchers were able to identify genes with noticeable variance in expression levels resulting from chlorella intake in the high-risk factor group. These included genes involved in fat metabolism and insulin signaling pathways, which suggest that these pathways are physiologically affected by chlorella intake. There were clear variations in the expression profiles of genes directly related to the uptake of glucose following chlorella intake, indicating that the activation of insulin signaling pathways could be the reason for the blood sugar lowering effects of chlorella.

Chlorella reduces UVB degradation of the skin

The May-June edition of the European Journal of Dermatology reports that solar UV radiation damages human skin, affects skin tone and resiliency, and leads to premature aging. Skin damage by oxidants leads to activation of protein kinase C, increasing collagen degradation. Ingestion of chlorella has been shown to inhibit this activity. This degradation was evaluated following UVB irradiation in the presence of an aquaeous extract fraction of chlorella, in human skin fibroblasts. Expression levels of activity on elastin protein and pro-collagen mRNA were also investigated. The researchers found that premature aging-induced collagen degradation and gene expression were suppressed in the presence of the chlorella fraction. The fraction also appeared to counteract the negative effects of UVB exposure on elastin protein and increased pro-collagen mRNA expression following UVB exposure.

Chlorella decreases dioxin and increases immunoglobulin concentration in breast milk

One of the big sales pitches for the use of infant formula in place of breast milk has been that breast milk contains dangerous levels of dioxin. A study reported in the March, 2007 edition of the Journal of Medicinal Food analyzed dioxin levels in breast milk and maternal blood samples from 35 pregnant women in Japan. They measured immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentrations in breast milk and investigated correlations with dioxin concentrations. In addition, 18 of the 35 women took chlorella supplements during pregnancy, and its effects on dioxin and IgA concentrations in breast milk were investigated.

The researchers found that toxic equivalents were significantly lower in the breast milk of the women taking chlorella tablets than in the control group. These results suggest that chlorella supplementation by the mother may reduce transfer of dioxins to the child through the breast milk. No significant correlation was identified between dioxin and IgA concentrations in the breast milk of the control group. IgA concentrations in breast milk in the chlorella group were significantly higher than in the control group. Increasing IgA levels in breast milk are considered to be effective for reducing the risk of infection in nursing infants.

New studies also document the powerful chelating properties of chlorella

Also reported in the September Journal of Medicinal Food is a study in which 40 rats were divided into one control group and three groups that were treated with cadmium. One cadmium group received no chlorella, one received 5% chlorella, and one received 10% chlorella. After 8 weeks, the relative liver weight was significantly lower in the group receiving no chlorella compared with both groups receiving chlorella, indicating severe liver damage in the no-chlorella group. This group also displayed significantly higher hepatic concentrations of cadmium than the groups receiving chlorella. Hepatic RNA had a higher expression in the chlorella treated groups than in the no-chlorella group. Researchers concluded that chlorella has a protective effect against cadmium induced lever damage by reducing cadmium accumulation and stimulating the expression of RNA in the liver.

The July edition of Food Chemistry Toxicology reports another study in which the chelating ability of chlorella was assessed. Levels of interleukin -6, an important stimulator of red blood cell production, were assessed along with investigation of the number of adherent and non-adherent cells. Mice that had been drinking water containing 1300ppm of lead acetate were treated with chlorella daily for 10 days. The researchers found that chlorella improved cellular function, increased the ability of cells to produce interleukin-6, and restored the reduced the number of non-adherent cells. Monitoring of lead poisoning demonstrated that chlorella treatment significantly reduced lead levels in blood and tissues, completely restored the normal levels of ALA in the liver, and decreased the abnormally high plasma levels of ALA.

The findings of these two studies underscore the powerful chelating ability of chlorella and suggest that chlorella would be useful for pre-treating before consuming any food or drink in which the presence of heavy metals is suspected, such as fish. Chlorella has also been shown in previous studies to be an effective chelator of mercury and is an excellent supplement for anyone with dental fillings containing mercury, as well as anyone undergoing the removal of fillings.

What is chlorella?

Chlorella is tiny, single-celled water-grown green algae that contain a nucleus and an enormous amount of readily available chlorophyll. It is composed of about 58% highly digestible protein, and carbohydrates. It is a good dietary choice for people who do not eat meat. It contains all of the B vitamins, vitamins C and E, amino acids, beta-carotene, iron, zinc, macro-minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, rare trace minerals, essential fatty acids including GLA, and polysaccharides. One teaspoon of chlorella contains 90 mg of RNA and 8 mg of DNA. Chlorella has more vitamin B-12 than liver. It is virtually a complete food and considered one of the superfoods, delivering a wind fall of nutrition to the body.

Chlorella contains thousands of phytochemicals, most of which have not yet been identified.

Chlorella is nature's answer to the multi-vitamin pill concept, offering a broad array of nutrients in highly bio-available form with perfect synergy. It has shown to be effective at reversing degenerative diseases such as all types of cancers, diabetes, liver disorders, high blood pressure, and obesity. People with poor digestion are able to easily digest chlorella.

Chlorella is perfect for body detoxification. Its fibrous outer cell wall binds with heavy metals and pesticides that accumulate in the body and ushers them out. It's high content of chlorophyll makes it an ideal cleanser for the blood stream and the elimination channels, insuring that metabolic wastes are carried away from the tissues. It cleanses the breath and reduces body odor.

Chlorella has been shown to accelerate healing, protect against radiation, help in the treatment of Candida albicans and relieve arthritis pain. It is effective against anemia and its stimulation of red blood cells assures proper transport of oxygen to the brain and body.

Chlorella is a potent cancer fighter

Chlorella stimulates the immune system and the production of interferon, one of the body's greatest natural defenses against cancer. Increased interferon production is thought to stimulate macrophages, T-cells and tumor necrosis factor. This results in the immune system being able to combat foreign invaders whether they are viruses, bacteria, chemicals or foreign proteins. Chlorella's DNA repair mechanism has been documented.

Numerous animal studies have documented chlorella's effectiveness against cancer. One such study involved mice given chlorella prior to being transplanted with breast tumors. The results indicated a 70 percent survival rate in the chlorella fed group and a control group survival rate of zero.

In another study, fifteen glioblastoma patients were treated with high levels of chlorella, in some cases combined with chemotherapy and radiation. Glioblastoma is the type of deadly brain tumor recently diagnosed in Senator Kennedy. Their health and immune status increased immediately, and they experienced a 40 percent two-year survival rate, compared to the normal two year survival rate of 10 percent for this type of cancer.

Chlorella helps balance the body's pH

It is believed by many that disease starts and thrives in an acidic body environment. Any diet that is deficient in fruits and vegetables will be acidic in nature. The consumption of soft drinks and processed fruit drinks are particularly acid forming as are diets high in meat and uncultured dairy products.

Proper pH balance is critical for health, and the body goes to great lengths to maintain the proper pH of its blood, by increasing respiration and by pulling alkaline minerals out of the bones to use to buffer any excess acidity. This is why consumption of soft drinks is linked to osteoporosis.

Chlorella is an alkaline food, which means it counters acidity. This promotes increased bone mass since the body is not sacrificing minerals from the bones to create proper acid/alkaline balance. Metabolic function is therefore improved. The consumption of alkaline foods has been linked to improved immune function, kidney function, higher energy levels, and lower allergic response levels.

Recipes:

BANANA-CINNAMON SMOOTHIE

Ingredients (for 1 person):
5 ice cubes
1 banana
1 small yogurt
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
2-4 chlorella tablets
If you like your smoothie more "runny" add rice or almond milk

Preparation:
Blend ice cubes and the chlorella in a blender then add the rest of the ingredients and blend again for a few seconds. Drink out of a big glass with a straw and enjoy!

SPINACH-PINEAPPLE SMOOTHIE

Ingredients (for 1 person):
5 ice cubes
1 banana
1 handful of fresh spinach
A broccoli floret
1/2 pineapple
1/2 glass of water
2-4 chlorella tablets

Preparation:
Blend ice cubes and the chlorella in a blender then add the rest of the ingredients and blend again for a few seconds. Drink out of a big glass with a straw and enjoy!

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Recipes: http://www.doctorsnatural.com/

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Jewelry and skin allergy

The allergy that occurs by wearing original or artificial jewelry is referred as Nickel dermatitis or Contact dermatitis or Nickel allergy. It is basically a contact allergy. It can happen anytime at any age. Every single human body reacts to different degree with nickel depending upon the tolerance and susceptibility level.

Jewelries are treasured all over the universe. It is but true, that many people cannot wear jewelry inspite of their deep desire to wear it. Jewelry allergy is a common complaint from many people. Few even mention that they are allergic to gold/silver. The main cause of these allergies is the nickel content present in the gold and silver ornaments. Pure gold and silver metal are too soft to be mounted into any form therefore, jeweler mix nickel, zinc and copper into the pure metal to make it little hard enabling to give the desired shape to the metal. Zinc and copper do not harm the skin but skin is always sensitive to nickel. People wearing jewelries are allergic to nickel and not with the jewelry.

Gold itself is reactive and causes allergy but, mostly nickel is the main reason. Gold of any karat would contain nickel like 14K, 18K etc. Less the karat value more shall be the nickel content and so more problems therefore, it is always better to wear high karat gold jewelry. Some people have very sensitive skin thus, as soon as the skin comes in direct contact with nickel it results in allergy. In the same way silver is also mixed with nickel and copper to attain hardness and durability required to make the jewelry items.

Nickel is also used in jewelry made up platinum and white gold. Metal used in artificial jewelry contains nickel too. The platinum and white gold jewelry is quite expensive and beyond the affordability of the common man therefore, cases of allergies to this metal is heard less. Moreover, another reason is platinum and white gold are hardened by palladium that do not cause any allergies. Palladium is more expensive than nickel. Nickel is commonly used for gold and silver jewels as it costs less, gives better hardness and has strong lustrous effect.

The allergy that occurs by wearing original or artificial jewelry is referred as Nickel dermatitis or Contact dermatitis or Nickel allergy. It is basically a contact allergy. It can happen anytime at any age. Every single human body reacts to different degree with nickel depending upon the tolerance and susceptibility level. The allergy is caused when the skin comes in contact with the metal viz. white gold/yellow gold/silver/platinum consisting nickel. Through the pierced nose or ear hole, nickel penetrates inside the bloodstream of the body where the cells react in opposition to the presence of nickel. Once the cells react negatively, every time the skin comes in contact with the jewelry it causes the skin to erupt. As a result body develops allergy. This entire process may happen within few months or even take couple of years. It is different for all.

Another reason for the allergy is sweat. During the sunny days, when jewelry is worn for a longer duration, skin perspires under the jewelry. This perspiration comes in the contact with the jewelry metal, dissolves the nickel present in the metal and form nickel salts. Salt reacts with the skin and leads to the allergy. Women suffer more with this allergy than men. The symptoms of these allergies are :

1. Bleeding.
2. Pierced hole in ear or nose swells and yellow coloured liquid known as pus comes out.
3. There is a constant itching and burning sensation around the area where the skin comes in direct contact with the jewelry item. For example: Gold chain in the neck, earrings in the ear etc.
4. Few people get a blue coloured patch in their finger, which is visible after the ring is removed. And also skin discolouration takes place.
5. Rashes or patchy red marks appear on the skin under the jewelry.

It is a common practice to pierce nose and ears with a very thin gold wire. As the skin is tender and sensitive, it gets exposed to nickel present in gold and leads to allergy. In order to avoid the pain caused due to metal allergy, stainless steel needle must be used for piercing. And till the time entire healing of the pierced area takes place, only stainless steel jewelry should be worn. Stainless steel also contains nickel but as it is bound tightly, it seldom comes in direct contact with the skin.

Few other precautions that can be taken to avoid allergy are : apply talcum powder before wearing the jewelry to prevent the moisture. Do not wear tight earrings or rings or chains, leave little space so that air passes through it. Change the jewelry items more often. Keep the jewelry clean and dry.

http://www.e-jewel.co.il/

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How to Wear Accessories when You Have Metal Allergies

Walk into any department store and you will most likely find an entire section devoted to accessories like necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings and more. Finding the perfect accessory really can make or break your outfit and can help to add an extra touch to you personal style. If you have an allergy to the metals used in low end jewelry like me, you know that accessorizing can be a real drag. I hated looking at the cutest necklaces and earrings knowing that just a few minutes of wear would cause me days and days of itching, irritation and discomfort. Luckily I discovered a few tips along the way.

Look for wooden, plastic or fabric pieces

Sure metal and chains look cool but you can find awesome pieces that do not irritate your skin. Wooden bracelets are excellent options when trying to remain trendy. You can get them painted in different colors and prints that can really complement your outfit. Plastic pieces are also a possibility. I found that some plastic pieces can tend to look a bit tacky but every once in a while you can find cute ones that won't destroy your skin. One of my favorite options when choosing irritation free accessories is scarves. Scarves come in an endless variety of colors and prints and can mimic the vibe of a necklace. There are so many different ways to style and tie scarves and you can even wear them as a head piece or turban to add extra flair. If you insist on opting for an actual necklace try to find some with fabric or string like cords that will go around your neck.

Paint It!

Sometimes alternative pieces just won't do. There are many times that I have found myself buying something that I know will be perfect for my outfit even though it will really mess with my skin. Instead of suffering through a break out I use a clear nail polish to paint the metal that will be touching my skin. From belt buckles to earring posts to bracelets applying a few thick coats of clear nail polish will create a barrier between the accessory and your skin allowing you to wear what you want without regretting your choice hours later.

I would not recommend wearing things you have painted everyday because the nail polish does contain chemicals.

Invest in quality pieces

Yes lower end pieces are much more affordable and you have the option to buy several pieces at one time. On the flip side you are spending lots of money on things that you most likely can't even wear regularly. Instead, I sometimes opt to save up for a while until I can afford to purchase some more quality jewelry that will not affect my skin. Sure you may not have a whole drawer full of cute accessories but you will have a few staple items that you will feel comfortable wearing daily.

Fake It

Once I have invested in a few quality chains for my necklaces I can still get the cute looks of the lower end necklaces simply buy switching out the pendants. I often times put a low end pendant or charm on my higher end necklace or chain as long as the low end piece will not have contact with my skin. This works best for longer necklaces which will hang over your clothes instead of rubbing against your neck.

See? You are not hopeless after all. Incorporating just a few of these tips can send you on your way to fashionable looks without the itching and irritation.

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No-Till: the Quiet Revolution

By David R. Huggins and John P. Reganold

The age-old practice of turning the soil before planting a new crop is a leading cause of farmland degradation. Many farmers are thus looking to make plowing a thing of the past.

John Aeschliman turns over a shovelful of topsoil on his 4,000-acre farm in the Palouse region of eastern Washington State. The black earth crumbles easily, revealing a porous structure and an abundance of organic matter that facilitate root growth. Loads of earthworms are visible, too — another healthy sign.

Thirty-four years ago only a few earthworms, if any, could be found in a spadeful of his soil. Back then, Aeschliman would plow the fields before each planting, burying the residues from the previous crop and readying the ground for the next one. The hilly Palouse region had been farmed that way for decades. But the tillage was taking a toll on the Palouse, and its famously fertile soil was eroding at an alarming rate. Convinced that there had to be a better way to work the land, Aeschliman decided to experi¬ment in 1974 with an emerging method known as no-till farming.

Most farmers worldwide plow their land in preparation for sowing crops. The practice of turning the soil before planting buries crop residues, animal manure and troublesome weeds and also aerates and warms the soil. But clearing and disturbing the soil in this way can also leave it vulnerable to erosion by wind and water.

Tillage is a root cause of agricultural land degradation - one of the most serious environmental problems worldwide - which poses a threat to food production and rural livelihoods, particularly in poor and densely populated areas of the developing world. By the late 1970s in the Palouse, soil erosion had removed 100 percent of the topsoil from 10 percent of the cropland, along with another 25 to 75 percent of the topsoil from another 60 percent of that land.

Furthermore, tillage can promote the runoff of sediment, fertilizers and pesticides into rivers, lakes and oceans. No-till farming, in contrast, seeks to minimize soil disruption. Practitioners leave crop residue on the fields after harvest, where it acts as a mulch to protect the soil from erosion and fosters soil productivity. To sow the seeds, farmers use specially designed seeders that penetrate through the residue to the undisturbed soil below, where the seeds can germinate and surface as the new crop.

In its efforts to feed a growing world population, agriculture has expanded, resulting in a greater impact on the environment, human health and biodiversity. But given our current knowledge of the planet’s capacity, we now realize that producing enough food is not enough - it must also be done sustainably. Farmers need to generate adequate crop yields of high quality, conserve natural resources for future generations, make enough money to live on, and be socially just to their workers and community. No-till farming is one system that has the potential to help realize this vision of a more sustainable agriculture. As with any new system, there are challenges and trade-offs with no-till. Nevertheless, growers in some parts of the world are increasingly abandoning their plows.

Plowing Ahead

People have used both no-till and tillage-based methods to produce food from the earth ever since they started growing their own crops around 10,000 years ago. In the transition from hunting and gathering to raising crops, our Neolithic predecessors planted garden plots near their dwellings and foraged for other foods in the wild. Some performed the earliest version of no-till by punching holes in the land with a stick, dropping seeds in each divot and then covering it with soil. Others scratched the ground with a stick, an incipient form of tillage, to place seeds under the surface. Thousands of farmers in developing countries still use these simple methods to sow their crops.

In time, working the soil mechanically became the standard for planting crops and controlling weeds, thanks to the advent of the plow, which permitted the labor of a few to sustain many. The first such tools were scratch plows, consisting of a frame holding a vertical wooden post that was dragged through the top soil. Two people probably operated the earliest version of this device, one pulling the tool and the other guiding it. But the domestication of draft animals - such as oxen in Mesopotamia, perhaps as early as 6000 B.C. - replaced human power. The next major development occurred around 3500 B.C., when the Egyptians and the Sumerians created the plowshare - a wedge-shaped wooden implement tipped with an iron blade that could loosen the top layer of soil. By the 11th century, the Europeans were using an elaboration of this innovation that included a curved blade called a moldboard that turned the soil over once it was broken open.

Continuing advancements in plow design enabled the explosion of pioneer agriculture during the mid-1800s; farmers cultivated grass-dominated native prairies in eastern Europe, South Africa, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the U.S., converting them to corn, wheat and other crops. One such region, the tall-grass prairie of the Midwestern U.S., had resisted widespread farming because its thick, sticky sod was a barrier to cultivation. But in 1837 an Illinois blacksmith named John Deere invented a smooth, steel moldboard plow that could break up the sod.

Today this former grassland, which includes much of the famous Corn Belt, is home to one of the most agriculturally productive areas in the world. Agricultural mechanization continued through the early 1900s with the development of many tools that helped farmers cultivate the earth ever more intensively, including tractors that could pull multiple plows at once. Tillage practices were about to undergo profound scru¬tiny, however. The Dust Bowl era between 1931 and 1939 exposed the vulnerability of plow-based agriculture, as wind blew away precious topsoil from the drought-ravaged southern plains of the U.S., leaving behind failed crops and farms. Thus, the soil conservation movement was born, and agriculturalists began to explore reduced tillage methods that preserve crop residues as a protective ground cover.

Spurring the movement was the controversial publication in 1943 of Plowman's Folly, by agronomist Edward Faulkner, who challenged the necessity of the plow. Faulkner's radical proposition became more tenable with the development of herbicides - such as 2,4-D, atrazine and paraquat - after World War II, and research on modern methods of no-till agriculture began in earnest during the 1960s.

Considering the pivotal role the plow has come to play in farming, conceiving a way to do without it has proved quite challenging, requiring the reinvention of virtually every aspect of agricultural production. But specially designed seeders have been evolving since the 1960s to meet the unique mechanization requirements of no-till farming. These new seeders, along with chemical herbicides, are two of the main technologies that have at last enabled growers to effectively practice no-till on a commercial scale.

Signing Up for No-Till

Farmers today prepare for planting in ways that disturb the soil to varying degrees. Tillage with a moldboard plow completely turns over the first six to 10 inches of soil, burying most of the residue. A chisel plow, meanwhile, only fractures the topsoil and preserves more surface residue. In contrast, no-till methods merely create in each planted row a groove just half an inch to three inches across into which seeds can be dropped, resulting in minimal overall soil disturbance. In the U.S., no-till agriculture fits under the broader U.S. Department of Agriculture definition of conservation tillage. Conservation tillage includes any method that retains enough of the previous crop residues such that at least 30 percent of the soil surface is covered after planting. The protective effects of such residues are considerable. According to the USDA's National Resources Inventory data, soil erosion from water and wind on U.S. cropland decreased 43 percent between 1982 and 2003, with much of this decline coming from the adoption of conservation tillage. Soil protection is not the only benefit of no-till. Leaving crop residues on the soil surface helps to increase water infiltration and limit runoff. Decreased runoff, in turn, can reduce pollution of nearby water sources with transported sediment, fertilizers and pesticides. The residues also promote water conservation by reducing evaporation. In instances where water availability limits crop production, greater water conservation can mean higher - yielding crops or new capabilities to grow alternative crops.

The no-till approach also fosters the diversity of soil flora and fauna by providing soil organisms, such as earthworms, with food from the residues and by stabilizing their habitat. Together with associated increases in soil organic matter, these conditions encourage soils to develop a more stable internal structure, further improving the overall capacity to grow crops and to buffer them against stresses caused by farming operations or environmental hazards. No-till can thus enable the more sustainable farming of moderately to steeply sloping lands that are at elevated risk of erosion and other problems.

Wildlife, too, gains from no-till, because standing crop residues and inevitable harvest losses of grain provide cover and food for upland game birds and other species. In a study published in 1986, researchers in Iowa found 12 bird species nesting in no-till fields, compared with three species in tilled fields.

Furthermore, reducing tillage increases soil carbon sequestration, compared with conventional moldboard plowing. One of agriculture's main greenhouse gas mitigation strategies is soil carbon sequestration, wherein crops remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, and nonharvested residues and roots are converted to soil organic matter, which is 58 percent carbon. About half of the overall potential for U.S. croplands to sequester soil carbon comes from conservation tillage, includ¬ing no-till.

In addition, no-till can offer economic advantages to farmers. The number of passes over a field needed to establish and harvest a crop with no-till typically decreases from seven or more to four or fewer. As such, it requires 50 to 80 percent less fuel and 30 to 50 percent less labor than tillage-based agriculture, significantly lowering production costs per acre. Although specialized no-till seeding equipment can be expensive, with some sophisticated seeders priced at more than $100,000, running and maintaining other tillage equipment is no longer necessary, lowering the total capital and operating costs of machinery required for crop establishment by up to 50 percent.

With these savings in time and money, farmers can be more competitive at smaller scales, or they can expand and farm more acres, sometimes doubling farm size using the same equipment and labor. Furthermore, many farmers appreciate that the time they once devoted to rather mundane tillage tasks they can instead spend on more challenging aspects of farming, family life or recreation, thereby enhancing their overall quality of life.

Betting the Farm

No-till and other conservation tillage systems can work in a wide range of climates, soils and geographic areas. Continuous no-till is also applicable to most crops, with the notable exceptions of wetland rice and root crops, such as potatoes. Yet in 2004, the most recent year for which data are available, farmers were practicing no-till on only 236 million acres worldwide - not even 7 percent of total global cropland. Of the top five countries with the largest areas under no-till, the U.S. ranks first, followed by Brazil, Argentina, Canada and Australia. About 85 percent of this no-till land lies in North and South America. In the U.S., roughly 41 percent of all planted cropland was farmed using conservation tillage systems in 2004, compared with 26 percent in 1990. Most of that growth came from expanded adoption of no- till, which more than tripled in that time, to the point where it was practiced on 22 percent of U.S. farmland. This no doubt partly reflects the fact that U.S. farmers are encouraged to meet the definition of conservation tillage to participate in government subsidy and other programs. In South America, adoption of no-till farming has been relatively rapid as a result of coordinated efforts by university agricultural-extension educators and local farm communities to develop viable no-till cropping systems tailored to their particular needs.

On the other hand, adoption rates are low in Europe, Africa and most parts of Asia. Embracing no-till has been especially difficult in developing countries in Africa and Asia, because farmers there often use the crop residues for fuel, animal feed and other purposes. Furthermore, the specialized seeders required for sowing crops and the herbicides needed for weed control may not be available or can be prohibitively expensive for growers in these parts of the world. Meanwhile, in Europe, an absence of government policies promoting no-till, along with elevated restrictions on pesticides (including herbicides), among other variables, leaves farmers with little incentive to adopt this approach.

Changing from tillage-based farming to no-till is not easy. The difficulty of the transition, together with the common perception that no-till incurs a greater risk of crop failure or lower net returns than conventional agriculture, has seriously hindered more widespread adoption of this approach. Although farmers accept that agriculture is not a fail-safe profession, they will hesitate to adopt a new farming practice if the risk of failure is greater than in conventional practice. Because no-till is a radical departure from other farming practices, growers making the switch to no-till experience a steep learning curve. In addition to the demands of different field practices, the conversion has profound impacts on farm soils and fields. Different pest species can arise with the shift from tillage-based agriculture to no-till, for instance. And the kinds of weeds and crop diseases can change. For example, the elevated moisture levels associated with no-till can promote soil-borne fungal diseases that tillage previously kept in check. Indeed, the discovery of new crop diseases has sometimes accompanied the shift to no-till.

Some of the changes that follow from no-till can take years or even decades to unfold, and farmers need to remain vigilant and adaptable to new, sometimes unexpected, situations, such as those that arise from shifts in soil and residue conditions or fertilizer management. During this transition, there is a real risk of reduced yields and even failed crops. In the Palouse, for example, some farmers who attempted no-till in the 1980s are no longer in business. Consequently, farmers looking to switch to no-till should initially limit the converted acreage to 10 to 15 percent of their total farm.

Farmers who are new to no-till techniques often visit successful operations and form local or regional support groups, where they share experiences and discuss specific problems. But the advice they receive in areas with limited no-till adoption can be incomplete or contradictory, and gaps in knowledge, experience or technology can have potentially disastrous outcomes. If the perception that no-till is riskier than conventional techniques develops in a farming community, banks may not underwrite a no-till farmer's loan. Alternatively, growers who are leasing land may find that the owners are opposed to no-till because of fears that they will not get paid as much. Improving the quality of information exchange among farmers, universities, agribusinesses and government agencies will no doubt go a long way toward overcoming these obstacles.

Yet even in the hands of a seasoned no-till farmer, the system has drawbacks. No-till crop production on fine-textured, poorly drained soils can be particularly problematic, often resulting in decreased yields. Yields of no-till corn, for instance, are often reduced by 5 to 10 percent on these kinds of soils, compared with yields with conventional tillage, particularly in northern regions. And because the crop residue blocks the sun's rays from warming the earth to the same degree as occurs with conventional tillage, soil temperatures are colder in the spring, which can slow seed germination and curtail the early growth of warm-season crops, such as corn, in northern latitudes.

In the first four to six years, no-till demands the use of extra nitrogen fertilizer to meet the nutritional requirements of some crops, too—up to 20 percent more than is used in conventional tillage systems—because increasing organic matter at the surface immobilizes nutrients, including nitrogen. And in the absence of tillage, farmers depend more heavily on herbicides to keep weeds at bay. Herbicide-resistant weeds are already becoming more common on no-till farms. The continued practice of no-till is therefore highly dependent on the development of new herbicide formulations and other weed management options. Cost aside, greater reliance on agrichemicals may adversely affect nontarget species or contaminate air, water and soil.

Integrating No-Till

No-till has the potential to deliver a host of benefits that are increasingly desirable in a world facing population growth, environmental degradation, rising energy costs and climate change, among other daunting challenges. But no-till is not a cure-all; such a thing does not exist in agriculture. Rather it is part of a larger, evolving vision of sustainable agriculture, in which a diversity of farming methods from no-till to organic - and combinations thereof - is considered healthy. We think that ultimately all farmers should integrate conservation tillage, and no-till if feasible, on their farms.

Future no-till farming will need to employ more diverse pest and weed management strategies, including biological, physical and chemical measures to lessen the threat of pesticide resistance. Practices from successful organic farming systems may be instructive in that regard. One such technique, crop rotation - in which farmers grow a series of different crops in the same space in sequential seasons - is already helping no-till's war on pests and weeds by helping to break up the weed, pest and disease cycles that arise when one species is continuously grown.

To that end, the capacity to grow a diverse selection of economically viable crops would advance no-till farming and make it more appealing to farmers. But the current emphasis on corn to produce ethanol in the Midwestern Corn Belt, for instance, is promoting monoculture - in which a single crop, such as corn, is grown over a wide area and replanted every year - and will likely make no-till farming more difficult in this region.

Experts continue to debate the merits of growing fuel on farmland, but if we decide to proceed with biofuel crops, we will need to consider using no-till with crop rotation to produce them sustainably. Development of alternative crops for bioenergy production on marginal lands, including perennials such as switchgrass, could complement and promote no-till farming, as would perennial grain food crops currently under development. Today, three decades after first attempting no-till on his Palouse farm, John Aeschliman uses the system on 100 percent of his land. His adoption of no-till has followed a gradual, cautious path that has helped minimize his risk of reduced yields and net returns. Consequently, he is one of many farmers, large and small, who is reaping the rewards of no-till farming and helping agriculture evolve toward sustainability.

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No dig growing

Many gardeners are discovering the benefits of growing healthy food without any soil cultivation. As well as saving the effort of digging, rotovating, 'forking through' or whatever, you will find that weeds eventually grow much less, that vegetables grow just as well, or better, and that soil sticks less to your boots - which may seem a small point but it makes a big difference to the pleasure of being out in the plot.

The first step is a process of patient mulching, to clean soil of existing weed growth and to either smother or exhaust the reservoir of weed seeds. Once this is achieved, in 6-18 months depending on the current weed situation, gardening becomes significantly easier with less germination of new weeds.

If you are in a hurry, soil can be dug initially to remove roots of perennial weeds and turned over to bury annual weeds, leaving a surface of clean soil to sow and plant into, but annual weeds will germinate in this soil, and some hoeing will probably help at this stage, see below.

There is no need to double (or single!) dig before starting, or to incorporate manure at depth. Placing any organic matter on top is the best way to bring soil alive because that is how soil organisms work, searching for and eating organic matter at the surface, then digesting it in the soil, excreting and building a permanent structure in so doing. After a year or so of no dig, your beds will have a more stable soil structure than if you were regularly loosening them. From this point onwards, you can walk on them when needed. Occasionally to take a short cut I even push a heavy wheelbarrow across my beds (clay soil!) and theere is no sinking in or ill effect.

WEEDS and MAINTENANCE

After digging, soil recovers from the disruption by re-covering with weed growth. It also needs time to recover in a more general way. By contrast when left uncultivated it grows less weeds - but there will always be some, mostly from seeds blowing in or brought in with manures, and they must be kept on top of at all times. It is a little and often approach, without a grand dig to bury all the trouble. Vegetable growing is more bountiful and much easier in the absence of weeds!

There are three different stages to pass through in reclaiming weedy soil for growing vegetables:

1. Initial composting and/or mulch of weedy and grassy plots. Any organic matter can be applied on top at this stage and used as a light suppressing mulch. Sheets of cardboard and/or manure, compost, leaves, grass mowings, half rotted manures and composts and so forth are all good for feeding worms which get busy under dark mulches. So soil is improving at the same time as weeds are dying off. You can also use black plastic mulches, preferably with some organic matter underneath.

2. Patience is key at this stage, allowing enough time for weed roots to be exhausted under whatever mulch has been used. Annuals need two to three months, many perennials take six months and up to a year for their roots to be exhausted by trying to grow in darkness.

AN EXCEPTION is when six inches or so (15cm) of manure and compost have been used to cover weeds because this is enough to prevent re-growth of all weeds (except bindweed and marestail) so you can sow and plant straightaway, see below.

3. The third stage is normal growing, but with less weeds than one often sees on dug plots. All sowing and planting is into the dark surface layer, with plants then rooting into undisturbed soil below, which is firm but NOT COMPACT. Do bear this difference in mind at all times. Firm is good! My soil is clay and I find that all vegetables send roots into and through my walked-on, wheelbarrowed-on pathways of dense, firm but not compacted soil. Undisturbed soil develops and maintains a honeycomb structure of small air passages, especially when it is fed annually with an inch or so of compost on top. Compost can be animal manure that has been stacked for six months or more.

NO DIG IS EASY?

Yes, because of not needing to dig, and having less weeds; but no dig does not mean no work! The input of time is in other ways that lead to higher fertility and less weeds. No dig can be practiced without spreading much organic matter, but an annual dressing of compost helps accelerate the improvement in soil structure and is definitely worthwhile for growing good vegetable crops.

I aim to spread an inch or two of my own compost, or composted animal manure, or purchased compost every autumn, so that winter weather can break its lumps into a tilth by spring, with some help from my rake. The organic matter is placed on beds only, about three fifths of the total area.

Organic matter can be spread at any time of year! The most practical season is autumn, when soil is moist and still warm, so that worms can access it. Then some ground becomes clear in spring after winter leeks, cabbages and so forth, and can be composted then if there is no remaining organic matter on the surface.

Where to find the organic matter you need? Compost is becoming more available, and often cheaper, thanks to recycling of green waste, and there are surplus quantities of animal manure to be found in many localities, in addition to any compost you can make.

WHY NO DIG

No-Dig, with compost spread annually on the surface, makes soil more fertile, plants more healthy and helps reduce weed problems Fertility building from compost and manure on top is a copy of natural processes (forest floor, animal excretion on pastures) and works really well for vegetable growing. Worms and soil fauna are encouraged, then as they increase the soil becomes better aerated, without the disadvantages of digging (loss of moisture and tilth, extra weeds, expense of time and labour). In time, the soil surface, even on sticky clay, becomes darker and crumbly with a consistently good tilth of fine but stable soil crumbs. Throughout the soil, there is a proliferation of beneficial fungi, such as mycorrhizae, and bacteria. These help plant roots to find the nutrients they need, which may often be present already, but can remain unavailable to roots because of a lack of biological activity. Growth of plants in undisturbed soil with a mulch of compost is generally healthy and vigorous, and the healthy topsoil becomes easy to sow and plant into. Time is saved, moisture is conserved, and weed growth diminishes - once perennial weeds are removed (by initial mulching or digging) and providing annual weeds are not allowed to spread their seeds. I run a dig / no dig experiment and find that vegetables often grow more strongly and more healthily on the un-dug beds. Total yields are similar but the quality of harvests is noticeably and intriguingly different. This photo shows the four experimental beds, of which each pair are cropped the same. In summary, soil has it's own life and structure, it benefits us to encourage and respect it.

HOW

Remember that vegetables are hungry plants and require a soil that is well structured and full of life. First year dressings of organic matter may seem a lot but will repay the effort for years to come. Until the advent of chemical fertilizers, larger amounts of compost and manure were always used than has been the case since about World War Two. Since then, more emphasis has been placed on chemical nutrients, but they cannot provide soils with food for all its myriad of inhabitants who are so necessary in growing healthy plants. An initial dressing of 3-6" (7-15cm) of reasonably well rotted compost and animal manure, helps kill existing weeds and lifts soil fertility to a higher level for many years. One-off, six inch (15cm) dressings of compost in deep beds, well-trodden down, are enough to kill existing grass and many perennial weeds such as buttercup, dandelion, and even small amounts of couch grass. Cardboard under the compost makes no difference as weeds are killed by the 6" of compost. AVERAGE AMOUNTS OF COMPOST USED ANNUALLY are one to two inches and this on beds only. Using less compost is possible but creates more work through weeds growing in impoverished soil, less healthy growth and smaller harvests Soil which has enduring perennials such as couch, bindweed and marestail will require a year of light-excluding mulch such as cardboard or black polythene, preferably above a dressing of organic matter, all sitting on top of the weed growth. In the absence of enduring perennials, vegetables can be sown and planted into compost-rich dressings as soon as they are spread. The combination of growing plants above and increasing soil life below starts an ongoing process of soil improvement. Even root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips will find their way down, unless the soil below was seriously compacted: in such a case, it may take up to two years for worms and other organisms to develop a good structure. An initial dig would speed this up if you are in a hurry. In my garden I have always grown extremely long parsnips on heavy clay, except in the year when I took on a new patch of compacted soil. Sowing small seeds into clods of compost and manure is unlikely to succeed, so keep the most crumbly organic matter for your surface layer. An excellent time to spread compost is in autumn, as soon as the previous crops finish. Then there is time for frost to break up any lumps and for worms to start taking it down, leaving a fair tilth by spring. It also helps, when the surface organic matter is lumpy, if you knock it around in February or March with a fork, just on the surface, to smooth out the lumpy bits. Fine compost can be spread at any time of year, while lumpy compost or manure can be used in the summer as a mulch around established plants such as courgettes, or between rows of growing vegetables, even parsnips.

When plants are harvested, remove all debris to the compost heap, tread down any lumps caused by pulling roots out, and then for any harvests before the end of August you can sow or plant again, with vegetables such as autumn salads.

http://www.charlesdowding.co.uk/

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Sustainable living:No dig gardening

Valentine's Day is just a blink away!

Open your heart and let your love shine on everything and everyone that surrounds you. Enrich your life and the life of others with special moments that will forever be treasured in your hearts.

Exchange the warmest smile, a tightest hug, or the most passionate kiss. Be kind, be caring, and show you love deeply through a Gift sharing:

Gift 1: Cedar Wood Pendant and Romantic Songs by Barda Olga

It is believed that those who wear the Pendant heighten their mental senses and physical strength, through a powerful connection to the bioenergy of the universe. The Siberian Cedar is one of the most beautiful and majestic trees on the Earth. It was noted, since the ancient times that natural substances, that are part of the Cedar Tree's structure, help human organism to regain its health and functional balance. The Tree also has a certain effect on the live cells and tissues, at the same time balancing the processes within the whole human organism as well as within each cell. Virtually everything in a Cedar Tree possess medical power, and that power is retained in the Cedar Pendant.

Combined with a spiritual, calming and romantic collection of songs in Russian language by barda Olga, Cedar Wood Pendant in any shape would be a lovely way to express the power of your love.

Please note, that all DVD's and CD's that we carry are made by eco villagers. Ringing Cedars Of Russia offers support to eco settlements through the sales of these products.

Gift 2: Bright Tiding, Rodnoe 2 and Slavnoe 1 DVD

For all supporters of Ringing Cedars of Russia's movement this collection of DVD's would make an ideal gift this Valentine's Day.

"Bright Tidings" DVD includes a comparison of traditional schooling systems to the school of Mikhail Petrovich Shchetinin. In our world today the whole educational curriculum is divided up into divergent layers, isolated from each other. The world of perception is transformed into isolated 'corridors' to such an extent that it is sometimes hard for the pupil to believe that they are all part and parcel of a single whole. Art draws its very strength from the fact that it synthesizes fractionalized phenomena, offers a holistic system of education and child-raising, and inculcates a holistic world-view.

But art cannot fully address this question if children are not immersed in an atmosphere where genuine life values are affirmed - an atmosphere of shared labour and searchings, where every lesson is permeated with a sense of creativity.

"Slavnoe" and "Rodnoe" DVD will take you into the lives of people in kin's settlements. These settlements were organized by people who left their successful and relatively quiet modern lives in the city, and went off to rural areas to set upon a hectare of land. What drove them? Are they happy about the change? How they deal with the land and growing plants? How does one build an adobe house? How do villagers survive in winter, and how to preserve what has been created during the summer? How to live in harmony with Mother Nature? You will find the answers to all these questions and more.

Please note, that all DVD's and CD's that we carry are made by eco villagers. Ringing Cedars Of Russia offers support to eco settlements through the sales of these products.

Gift 3: Cedar Nut Oil, Essential Oils and Fresh Feet Creme

Planning on a relaxing evening this Valentine's? Our line of Essential Oils would be excellent for those thinking of a cozy bath or in a sensual healing through a massage/aromatherapy.

Simply add 5-10 drops of the oil in a bath, and while in the water massage the body in circular motions. The Oils are best absorbed into skin with hot water, as the pores are open. After aromatherapy bath your skin will feel moisturized, calm, and its texture will start to improve. While in the bath inhale the rich aromas of the Cedar Oils, to infuse your body with energy of Cedar Forest from within.

All the essential oils have the same properties and are equally great; therefore simply choose an aroma that you think you or your loved one would favor most.

In addition to being an effective internal natural remedy for treating ulcers, gastritis, and acid reflex, the Siberian Cedar Nut Oil can also be applied onto your skin. The oil is a rich source of nutrients, fatty acids, and vitamins. Many use the oil as a facial application, and have reported it to be a highly effective in reducing skin discoloration, irritation, age spots and wrinkles. It rejuvenates the skin, makes it supple and smooth, and is suitable for all skin types.

An average person walks approximately four times around the world in their lifetime, so it is evident that there is a lot of pressure on our feet. Engage in reflexology and treat yourself or your other half with a relaxing massage. Fresh feet creme contains all natural ingredients of cedar nut oil along with other plants that will add moisture and nourish your heels. The resin ingredient provides it with anti-septic, purifying and anti-inflammatory properties.

Gift 4: Pillow

The Pillow is made from a thin film that exists in between the cedar nut and the shell of the nut. This film is known to be very rich in essential oils, which have a tendency of getting absorbed into your blood steam with every breath you take, and expend your arteries; which as a result allows for a much quicker blood circulation; and therefore is wonderful for prophylactics of various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

When placed in a room, it will not only disinfect the air, but also provide comfortable support, which will result in restful, deep and healthy sleep, and protect from harmful electromagnetic waves emitted from electronics.

The wonderful aroma of the Essential Oils emitted by the cedar film; will provide the feeling of deep relaxation, and the sensation of being surrounded by the purifying nature of Cedar Forest.

Furthermore, the Cedar Pillow has remarkable orthopedic properties, while at the same time being flexible enough to provide firm but yet comfortable support to the neck and spine.

Wishing you all to love and be loved,
Ringing Cedars Of Russia

Cedar (Pine) Resin:
Unique Balsam

5% Turpentine Balsam

Now available 5%, 10% and 20% extracts.

This unique balsam effectively copes with the majority of gastrointestinal diseases, quickly heals wounds and sores, aids in cases of colds, calms the heart and nerves, and increases vitality. It is a wonderful product for skin care.

Composition: "Cedar resin in cedar nut oil" contains 3% cedar resin dissolved in natural cedar nut oil.

Indications for use: diseases of the skin, the gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, and locomotor system, and bronchopulmonary diseases.

Contraindications: individual intolerance.

"Siberian Cleanse"

This unique system for the restoration of the body was imparted to a woman by a female Siberian shaman many years ago. She said, "If you do this every year, you will never grow old." To what extent this is true is complicated for us to judge at the present. But we can tell you what happens in the human body when resin is ingested.

Over the course of your life you have most probably been on some fashionable diets or specialized cleanses. And you know very well that this was "not your thing"! To do this, you need both the appropriate mood and desire. But what do you do when the mood is not there? Can a method of cleansing be used to achieve the advertised result without any strain? You will probably laugh, but such a method exists, and it is provided by this very same turpentine balsam.

The "Siberian cleanse" is very simple and, unlike other cleanses, does not cause stressful situations for the body. Gently and slowly, including the process of cleansing and improvement on the cellular level, a person's chromosomal chain begins to be restored! Such a deep effect is rarely achieved with the use of complicated special homeopathic systems of healing.

When you begin to drink turpentine, your immunity increases, since resin is a most powerful antiseptic. The blood shows an increase in the content of phagocytes, which destroy viruses, parasites, and foreign pathogens. The result is the release of the energy potential that previously protected the life of these bacteria and parasites. All the glands and organs of our body begin to work more intensively and more effectively.

Cedar Nut Oil Press This equipment and method of pressing Siberian Cedar Nuts brings the difference in the quality of "RINGING CEDARS OF RUSSIA" Siberian Cedar Nut Oil

Further, the cells of all the body's tissues begin to regenerate, that is, there is a cleansing of all the old material (residue) that the cells could not get rid of earlier. At this moment, the exacerbation of some "old" internal disease is possible. For that reason, in this situation you need to get a sense of yourself: if you begin to feel extremely unwell, then the cleanse must be stopped and begun anew after a couple of months. The second time, the cleanse will proceed much more easily. During the cleanse, there will be a cleansing of the liver and blood vessels, which become more elastic, as a result of which for many people the self-regulation of blood pressure will be restored. There is a complete recovery from cholecystitis, colitis, enterocolitis, hepatitis, gastritis, and ulcers of the stomach and intestine, the microflora of the intestine is restored, and regulation of the metabolism occurs. The general tonus increases, and the person's energy becomes greater.

The sole condition for the effectiveness of the "Siberian cleanse" is this: it is essential to consume more fresh food of plant origin and to lower, preferably to omit entirely the consumption of food from slaughtered animals. When discarding residues, cells should instead receive healthy and pure materials for their renewal and new development. And then, with the aim of the complete improvement of the body, you are entirely able to tolerate two months without the consumption of meat. Whether you allow your body to continue to suffer all depends on how much you truly love yourself.

DIRECTIONS:

The first day, early in the morning on an empty stomach, take 5 grams (1 teaspoon) of cedar resin, following which you must not eat or drink for 30 minutes. If you cannot tolerate the bitter taste, you can take it with water. Over the course of ten days, increase the quantity of cedar resin to 15 grams (1 tablespoon) as follows: during the first three days take 5 grams daily, during the second three days take 10 grams (2 teaspoons) daily, and during the remaining four days take 15 grams each morning 30 minutes before eating.

During the next 10 days, take 1 tablespoon of cedar resin with cedar nut oil in the morning 30 minutes before eating, and 1 tablespoon at lunchtime, 30 minutes before eating. During the following 10 days, take 1 tablespoon of cedar resin with cedar nut oil in the morning 30 minutes before eating, 1 tablespoon at lunchtime, 30 minutes before eating, and 1 tablespoon at suppertime, 30 minutes before eating.

After thirty days, the first half of the course of treatment has been completed. During the next thirty days, take cedar resin with cedar nut oil, reducing the dose. In the first ten days of the second half of the course of treatment, take 2 tablespoons of cedar resin with cedar nut oil per day, 1 tablespoon in the morning and 1 tablespoon at lunchtime. In the next ten days take 1 tablespoon of cedar resin with cedar nut oil in the morning 30 minutes before eating.

During the final ten days, for four days take 1 tablespoon of cedar resin with cedar nut oil in the morning 30 minutes before eating, in the next three days take 2 teaspoons in the morning 30 minutes before eating, and during the final three days take 1 teaspoon in the morning 30 minutes before eating.

In total, the course of treatment is 60 days in duration. The dosage is calculated for a person of average build.

In order to consolidate the results, the course of treatment may be repeated in two months. It is recommended to take the treatment twice a year, in the autumn and spring.

Baths and Soaks

Haven't you ever wondered why Russian beauties are always so ravishing and amazing? You see, this is all because their grandmothers and grandfathers, great-grandmothers and great-grandfathers constantly bathed in rivers and lakes that contained all the dissolved substances that were beneficial for their health and beauty: minerals brought by springs from secret caves; rains that bring ozone and free oxygen from the upper layers of the atmosphere; pollen, petals, and flowerheads that fall into the water from an infinite number of various flowers and plants; and the fruit, leaves, branches, and trunks of mighty trees, which have absorbed an enormous quantity of energy over many years.

Today, nothing prevents us from arranging, even on a daily basis, exactly the same type of bathing for ourselves, for our loved one, and from the bath obtaining an unbelievable return in energy, the strength that good health brings, and a ton of delightful pleasure when your body begins to transform itself into a song of amazing beauty....

Run a full bath of warm water (38-40C). Add 15-30 grams (2 tablespoons) of 3% turpentine balsam. Mix it throughout the water, and immerse your divine body into this artificial cedar lake. If you feel a chill, make the water warmer, but do not get carried away -- the bath should be pleasant and comfortable, but not hot. The most important thing is that you should not be cold. If for some reason you cannot take a bath, you can make a bath like this only for your legs. Only in this case, it is essential to make the water cooler, 34-35C. Nothing prevents you from using other salts or herbs together with the turpentine balsam. This will only intensify the effect.

When preparing a steam bath for the face, add 1 tablespoon of 3% turpentine balsam to the hot water. Cover your head with a thick towel and take the bath for 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to close your eyes!

A bath has a wonderful therapeutic effect in insomnia, increased nervous excitability, as well as in skin diseases, abscesses, gout, rheumatism, sciatica, acute respiratory diseases, asthma, and lung diseases. A bath tones and strengthens the heart and nervous system, assists in the restoration of strength in recovering patients. A bath can also be used by healthy people as a means of maintaining their forces.

Facial Skin Care
Creme Balms with addition of Cedar Nut Oil

Cedar nut oil prevents the loss of moisture by the skin and strengthens the natural lipid barrier. Resin accelerates and restores the function of intercellular interaction and accelerates cellular metabolism tenfold. Both of these cedar components are perfectly absorbed by the skin, do not provoke allergic reactions, and because of this, turpentine balsam may be used by children and people with sensitive skin. Balsam supplies the skin with energy, the life force, and "building blocks" in the form of vitamins. The skin is restored and becomes smooth, soft, supple, and pleasant to the touch. And the face acquires a tender, natural blush.

By the way, for your information: for many who dream of an instantaneous result from these preparations or others, turpentine balsam provides an effect in the form of a pleasant warmth practically immediately, and the feeling of having a "new face" after even two to three procedures! And note, completely naturally -- without chemicals or any other artificial garbage!

Cedar balsam is also very simple to use: it is sufficient to wash your face well and, with circular movements, rub several drops of 3% turpentine into the skin until it is fully absorbed. This procedure may be done in the evening, for the night. What is even better is in the morning, to provide your skin with natural protection for the entire day!

Once a week, on Saturday, for example, a mask may be done for the face: take a handful of peeled cedar nuts, grind them to the consistency of a paste, add 2 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of 3% turpentine balsam and mix. Using circular motions, place a small quantity on your face and let it dry for 4 to 5 minutes, wipe it off with a tissue and rinse your face by splashing water on it (from 30 to 50 times). If you do not have cedar nuts on hand, then turpentine balsam should be applied to clean skin according to the standard cosmetic routine in the form of warm oil compresses on the area of the neck and face for 5 to 7 minutes, two to three times a week. Even after two to three procedures you will feel the effect from the application of the cedar balsam.

Delicate and Seductive Lips

The lips are one of the most expressive features of the face. Velvety lips emphasize the uniqueness of a smile and the enigmatic nature of a look. The lips are extremely sensitive, thanks to their great number of nerve endings. They have no sebaceous glands or melanin, and the epidermis in the tissues of the lips is extremely thin, and has an incomplete set of layers. For these reasons, the lips have always been noted for their particular dryness and the pigmentation that is unusual for skin. Lips are vulnerable to seasonal changes in the weather, they are subject to a great deal of wear and tear in daily life: they actively participate in conversations and in the processes of eating and drinking. For lips to remain young, smooth, and glistening, they must be cared for daily.

Each day, using a soft, moistened toothbrush, massage your lips with circular motions for a minute. This will increase their elasticity, and will also help to remove dried particles. Then rub 1 to 2 drops of 3% turpentine balsam into your lips. Once a week, apply a layer of a mixture of honey with 3% turpentine balsam (1:1) to your lips, and leave it for 15 to 20 minutes. Then the mixture may be either washed off with water, or simply "eaten," since honey and 3% turpentine is very good for the health. Rich in vitamins A and E, turpentine balsam prevents peeling and the appearance of fine cracks in the lips, spares them from the "chewed areas" in the corners of the mouth. In moistening the lips, balsam makes them soft, natural, and attractive. Turpentine does not present an obstacle for esthetic cosmetics. It is fully absorbed into the lips over 5 to 10 minutes, and you can freely apply lipstick, it will not smear and will not begin to run.

D. Fedorov Ph. D.
Novosibirsk State Medical University
Novosibirsk, Russia

http://www.RingingCedarsofRussia.org/
Used by permission
Copyright CedarInfo.info

Therapeutic properties of cedar resin

Cedar Resin Chewing Gum

The inhabitants of Siberia believe that the resin of the Siberian cedar has great healing power, and has rightfully been called zhivitsa - related to zhizn, the Russian word for life - for its ability to heal wounds. The inhabitants of Siberia and the Urals long ago discovered the therapeutic anesthetizing properties of this resin. There is information that, as far back as 1638, the governor of the Tobolsk region, "pursuant to an official deed," assigned the tasks of gathering, simultaneously with St. John's wort, cedar resin for use "in wounds and in bruises." The successful use by folk medicine in the past of cedar resin for therapeutic purposes for snake bites and for the healing of wounds was reported by V. M. Florinskiy (1880). At the present, scientists have established that cedar resin in fact possesses bactericidal and balsamic properties. It is less inclined to drying out in comparison with pine resin, and is less subject to crystallization.

It has been established that cedar resin has a great therapeutic effect. According to the data from the physician I. I. Yukolis, it possesses a powerful bactericidal, epithelializing, anti-inflammatory, adsorbing, and deodorizing action. "Natural cedar resin (turpentine-balsam) has a great therapeutic effect in the treatment of chronic ulcers of the shin of different origins (varicose, trophic, pustular), in purulent diseases of the skin and as an epithelializing agent in various ulcerous and erosive processes of differing etiology."

During the Great Fatherland War (World War II), cedar resin was used to produce turpentine-balsam (purified and strained resin, the balsam is first dissolved, mixed with inert oils or vaseline, and a bandage is made), which was successfully used in military hospitals. It contributed to shortening the periods of hospital treatment for injured soldiers, returned healthy warriors to the army, and saved the lives of many. Tampons soaked in cedar balsam helped doctors stop gangrene that had already begun, protected wounds from festering and infections.

Folk medicine in its centuries-old practical work always used cedar resin. Cuts and wounds were covered with resin. The most serious and most chronic tissue injuries, up to gangrene, were treated using cedar resin. It was applied to abscesses as a softening, extracting, and healing remedy. In fractures, the area of the injury was rubbed with resin - and the bone knit more quickly. Resin was used in the treatment of purulent wounds, boils, and burns. In contrast to resins of other coniferous species, cedar resin does not crystallize for a long time, and does not lose its bactericidal qualities.

In Siberia, cedar resin was once used to treat toothaches by applying it to the teeth and gums.

Sometimes fairly strange methods of treating the teeth were used. To illustrate, an enormous cedar grows on the territory of Sozursky, one of the monasteries of Arkhangelsk Oblast. Its bark is badly damaged. It is said that believers who suffered from diseases of the teeth gnawed the trunk of this cedar. There was a legend that, by touching the resin escaping from the cedar with one's teeth, a person could be cured from diseases of the teeth and gums, would get rid of a toothache.

Larch Resin Chewing Gum

Local people also used Cedar Resin internaly - in ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, pulmonary tuberculosis, and pneumonia. The literature contains information how Russian healers used resin for treating cancer. Cedar resin is of very high-quality, it contains approximately 30% turpentine and 70% rosin. The turpentine (essential oil, turpentine oil) obtained from the resin contains 80% pinenes, which are the source material for the synthesis of camphor - a remarkable substance that stimulates the activity of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Camphor is used in the treatment of diseases of the nervous system and schizophrenia, it is a constituent of many modern medical preparations, including those that stimulate nervous activity. Turpentine finds an even wider application, especially in folk medicine. It is used in massages in cases of rheumatism, gout, neuralgia, catarrhal diseases of the respiratory organs, in the treatment of wounds, and in a number of other cases.

Turpentine baths are prescribed by Russian doctor Zalmanov for the purpose of removing salts from the joints in cases of arthritis and polyarthritis; inhalations with the addition of turpentine to water are indicated in cases of putrid bronchitis. Heel spurs may be treated using local turpentine baths, in this case contrasting baths are alternated: cold-hot. After the end of the procedure, a compress from the boiled broth of the needles is placed on the heel spur for the night. In diseases of the respiratory organs, it is good to inhale the vapor of cedar resin that is burning slowly on coals.

In the old days, cedar resin was gathered when it flowed out of a trunk or branches that had been damaged naturally. It was precisely this turpentine that was considered to be the most medicinal, the healer himself did not cause any harm to the tree. Cedar possesses a very high capability of healing its wounds by itself. According to the reports of cedar researchers, in circumstances of tapping, the wound becomes overgrown with wood beginning with the first year of tapping. With time, the wounds are completely overgrown as well along the entire periphery, and the trees do not differ outwardly from those that have not been tapped.

The first stocks of cedar resin were kept in Gorny Altai beginning in 1932. In Tomsk Oblast the first production area was laid out in 1947, and already a year later forest holdings for the extraction of resin began to be created. From 40 to 60 kg of resin may be obtained from a hectare of cedar forest yearly. In the opinion of scientists and according to their observations of many years, tapping does not harm the cedars. On the contrary, it quickens the growth of the needles and increases the leafiness of the shoots. As a result of tapping, the cedar begins to accumulate in its crown the nutrients that ensure normal fruit bearing. However, researchers also associate a negative fact with tapping: the quantity of full-sized seeds decreases.

Resin also finds use in industry. Thus, immersion oil is obtained from it, essential for special microscope technology, which helps to determine the refractive indices of the smallest particles of a substance. Cedar balsam is used in the optical industry. It is used to produce abietic acid, glycerin esters, and plasticizers.

Valeriy Seleznev
Naturapath, City Orel, Russia

http://www.ringingcedarsofrussia.org/
Used by permission
Copyright CedarInfo.info

Cedar Resin Essential Oil

Siberian Cedar Resin Essential Oil

The essential oil of cedar is obtained from the resin of the Siberian cedar (in Russian this resin is known as zhivitsa). Essential oil of cedar is a natural product of plant origin.

Because of its medicinal properties, resin has been known to humanity for many millennia. The dried needles of the cedar and fir, which contain resin-balsamic substances, and the essential oil of the cedar were used in ancient Egypt for compresses and poultices, in cases of hemorrhages and for treating wounds. In the 16th century of our era, resin was widely used for treating the plague, since the vapors of the essential oil of cedar have a bactericidal effect.

In 1868, in the Manual of Folk Medicine, it was indicated that "fir resin has a slightly irritating, stimulating effect, while siberian cedar resin is used to treat wounds, and in cases of rheumatic pains in the joints, and gout." During the Russo-Turkish War of 1877, the great Russian surgeon N. I. Pirogov actively used resin to treat wounds that remained unhealed long after an amputation - this was the basic topic of his scientific work.

For a long time, essential oil of siberian cedar was used for medical purposes only externally in the form of ointments and massages.

D. Ternenko, Biologist
Kiev Polytechnical Institute, Ukraine

http://www.ringingcedarsofrussia.org/
Used by permission
Copyright CedarInfo.info

Our Unique Production Technique:

Cedar Nut Sheller This equipment and method of shelling Siberian Cedar Nuts brings the difference in the quality of "RINGING CEDARS OF RUSSIA" Siberian Cedar Kernels and Siberian Cedar Nut Oil

Cedar Nut Oil Press This equipment and method of pressing Siberian Cedar Nuts brings the difference in the quality of "RINGING CEDARS OF RUSSIA" Siberian Cedare Nut Oil

The brand name "THE RINGING CEDARS OF RUSSIA" stands for business integrity, decency and the highest possible quality of product. All products marketed under this brand name convey the primordial power of Nature and the warmth of our hearts. We offer:

A variety of high-quality cedar products, including cedar nuts and cedar nut oil.

Huge plantations of cedar trees grow in the Siberian taiga, said to be the ecologically purest area of the world. The virgin forest of the taiga has never been treated with any chemicals or artificial fertilisation, nor abused by agricultural machines.

Cedar nuts (the seeds of the cedar tree) take two years to mature, during which time the tree accumulates a huge volume of positive cosmic energy. Crops of nuts are harvested manually by people lovingly devoted to this task, working in a pleasant environment without undue haste to create unique products full of positive energy reflecting the infinite powers of Nature. Specific preparations include:

We pick only cedar cones which fall naturally from the trees, thus ensuring that only ripe cones are selected. We always avoid hitting the trees to shake unripe cedar cones down (as happens with some other commercial operations) -- a practice which causes the nuts to lose their healing power.

Cones are then manually shelled with the help of wooden shell-removers. Nut centres are separated from their shells using wooden rollers.

Cedar nut oil and cedar nut flour marketed under our brand name are obtained by the cold-pressure method, using manual wooden oil-presses.

Cedar nut oil is then stored in special containers and packed in a small village near Novosibirsk by name "Kandayrovo" using unique technology to avoid any contact with metal. The whole process is strictly supervised to ensure it complies with all sanitary requirements.

Final products are placed in special packaging to prevent daylight penetration, and stored at a temperature of 0C to +5C to better preserve the product's natural components. The resulting product is a bright gold-coloured liquid with the pleasant smell of cedar nuts. It is a 100% natural product with strong healing powers.

SIBERIAN CEDAR NUT OIL

Siberian Cedar nuts (cedar nuts) contain about 60% oil. They are therefore pressed to obtain Cedar nut oil, which is available on the market as a very expensive gourmet cooking oil. Cold pressing in all-wooden presses is preferred to retain the nutritional properties of nuts and derive the oil of highest quality.

The Cedar nut oil bearing "The Ringing Cedars of Russia" brand comes exclusively from wild-harvested Siberian Cedar nuts - one of the most nutritious Cedar nuts in the world. In comparison, other Cedar nut oils are usually pressed from the Italian pignolia Cedar nuts, which are not nearly as potent and are often harvested from trees growing in plantations. Our Siberian Cedar nut oil is extra virgin (100% cold pressed from freshly shelled raw Siberian Cedar nuts), whereas most Cedar nut oils on the market are either not cold pressed or even pressed from roasted (!) Cedar nuts, which significantly decreases the oil value. Finally, "The Ringing Cedars of Russia" Siberian Cedar nut oil is the only one which is available on the market anywhere in the world pressed with wooden presses in accordance with traditional techniques described in Vladimir Megre's life-changing book "The Ringing Cedars of Russia". In contrast, all other Cedar nut oils are pressed using steel presses, which immediately degrades them (contact with steel oxidizes some of the Cedar nut oil's most important ingredients such as vitamins, and is known to remove the 'life force' from the oil).

Cedar nut oil has also traditionally been used in ancient Russian and European natural medicine to cure a wide array of ailments - ingested (decreasing blood pressure, boosting immune system resistance, etc.) or applied externally (a range of dermatological disorders). It is also used in expensive cosmetics.

Cedar nut oil contains pinolenic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid, and is marketed in the U.S. as a means stimulate cell proliferation, prevent hypertension, decrease blood lipid and blood sugar, and inhibit allergic reactions.

Copyright: http://www.RingingCedarsOfRussia.org/

TABASCO AND ASPARAGUS QUINOA

Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
25 drops Tabasco sauce
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon fine grain sea salt
1 pound asparagus, cut into 1-inch segments
4 cups cooked quinoa
1/3 cup cedar nuts, toasted
scant 1/4 cup creme fraiche - optional
more Tabasco sauce to taste

Preparation:

Start by making the Tabasco butter. In a food processor, or with a hand blender, whip the butter until it is light and airy. Add the mustard, Tabasco sauce, lemon juice and salt. As I mention above, you can make it stronger if you like, adding more hot sauce to taste.

Boil the asparagus in a large pot of well salted water, for just a minute or so - depending on the thickness of your asparagus. Drain. If you are serving this immediately you can leave the asparagus hot, but if you are going to wait to serve this, or think you'll have leftovers I recommend you stop the cooking with cold water or a dunk in an ice bath, then drain well before using.

To cook quinoa: Combine 2 cups of well-rinsed dried quinoa with 3 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 25 - 30 minutes or until quinoa is tender and you can see the little quinoa curliques.

Take the 4 cups of hot cooked quinoa and toss with 3 tablespoons of the tabasco butter. You'll have leftover butter - you can serve that on the side or use it for other purposes. Stir in the asparagus, cedar nuts, and dollop with creme fraiche. Serve with more Tabasco sauce on the side.

Serves 4 - 6.

STRAWBERRY RHUBARB CRUMBLE

Ingredients:
butter for greasing skillet/pan (about 1 tablespoon)
3/4 cup spelt flour
2/3 cup cedar nuts, lightly toasted
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup natural cane sugar(for topping)
1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup natural cane sugar(for filling)
1/2 lb. hulled medium strawberries, cut into quarters
12 ounces trimmed rhubarb, sliced into 3/4-inch pieces
1/4 cup port wine (optional)

Preparation:

Preheat the oven to 375F / 190C, with a rack in the middle. Butter a 10-inch round gratin dish, or a 9x9 square baking dish.

Combine the flour, cedar nuts, oats, sugar, salt, and pepper together in a bowl. Use a fork to stir in the butter, squeeze into a few patties, then place in the freezer to chill at least ten minutes.

Make the filling by whisking together the cornstarch and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the strawberries and rhubarb, and toss until evenly coated. Wait three minutes, add the port and toss again. Transfer the filling to the prepared pan, remove the topping from the freezer, and crumble across the top of the filling - make sure you have big pieces and small.

Bake for 35 - 40 minutes, or until the topping is deeply golden and the fruit juices are vigorously bubbling. You'll want to let things cool a bit before serving, 20 - 30 minutes.

Serves 8 - 12

CURRIED APPLE COUSCOUS

Ingredients:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 medium apple, cored and chopped
3 green onions, washed, trimmed, and thinly sliced
1 cup whole wheat couscous (or regular)
1 3/4 cup water
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup cedar nuts, toasted
Small handful of mint, chopped

Preparation:

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat add 3 tablespoons of the butter, the curry powder, and a couple generous pinches of salt, and cook for a minute or until the spices are fragrant. Stir in the chopped apples and cook for about 3 minutes, enough time for the apples to soften up a bit and absorb some of the curry. Scoop the apples from the pan and set aside in a separate bowl.

In the same pan, again over medium-high heat, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir in the green onions, let them soften up a bit and then add the water and salt. Bring to a boil, stir in the couscous, cover and remove from heat. Steam for 5 to 10 minutes and then use a fork to fluff up the couscous. Stir in the apples, cedar nuts, and chopped mint. Season with more salt and curry powder to taste.

Serves 6

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This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
These articles come directly from researchers and are passed on to everybody. The company assumes no liability for any content in these articles.

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ESSENTIAL-OILS.PRO

History of Aromatherapy

For millenniums humanity has been discovering mysterious properties of plants. Knowledge obtained through experiments and researches and its systematization resulted in a new science - Aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is an art of healing by means of plant aromas. Aromatherapy emerged long before it was thought as a science. Have you noticed how easily you breathe when you are walking in a forest? How nice it is to feel piny wood scent and redolence of green pine needles and resin! This is a natural aromatherapy.

According to the first manuscripts with fragrance recipes aromatherapy has been used for 6000 years! In Egypt the use of aromatherapy is confirmed by earthenware tablets that described embalming process by means of aromatics.

Ancient people perfectly understood aromatic and therapeutic properties of plants. Contemporary civilization just begins to uncover the value of aromatherapy hidden treasures.

In the ancient times aromatic, antiseptic, antimicrobial and wound-healing properties of essential-oil plants were known and widely used from Babylon and Persia to India and China. In the old medical texts of these countries, written around 3000 years ago, many herbs and their utilization were described. Plants whose aromas were able to impact on consciousness were burned during religious ceremonies.

The resins that were used for incense were highly therapeutic; they influenced on respiratory system and immersed priests into meditative state. Egyptians applied fragrances from perfumery and cosmetics to medicine and mummification. Some perfume jars still smell with fragrance that was kept there 3200 years ago. Also Egyptians used aromas for skin care, washing clothes, added them into vine and food. Frankincense oil used to be burned in honor of Egyptian God Ra, it also was a great component in skin care recipes. Cedar and Myrrh oils were used for embalming. As it turned out essential oils of cedar and myrrh contained elements with strong prophylactic and antiseptic properties, which allowed mummies be preserved for a very long time. Egyptians acquired a reputation of perfume experts; however, they were not familiar with essential oil extraction methods and used only infusions and ointments.

Greeks continued researches in aromatherapy. They found new uses for essential oils in medicine. Ancient thinker and pharmacologist Pedanius Dioscorides wrote a book about healing with herbs "De Materia Medica". This book had been very popular in Europe for 12 centuries. Many recipes offered in this book are still useful today. Another Greek physician Hippocrates - the founder of contemporary scientific medicine composed a work where 236 plants and their medical use were described. Reflecting Greek philosophy of his time, Hippocrates approached patient as a unified whole and as a part of nature. He believed that plants contain medical elements in optimal combination and thus they heal better when unprocessed or as natural juices.

Romans based their knowledge on Greeks' aromatherapy achievements. Their innovation was in bringing aromatic plants and ingredients from Aravia and Eastern India. With new plants more deceases could be cured. Romans paid a lot of attention to the aromatic properties of plants. In antique Rome and Greece perfumery with floral scents was booming, the essential oils were widely used in steam baths as a daily ritual. Many Greek doctors served in Roman army and carried their aromatherapy knowledge through different countries. Ancient Greek philosophers believed that essential oils were given to people by Olympus Gods as a means of supreme light, awakening love.

After the collapse of Roman Empire, Arabic perfumers improved aromatherapy knowledge. They were the first who applied steam distillation for extracting essential oil from rose petals. This invention is believed to belong to Avicenna, philosopher and a physician of Middle East. He described more than 800 medical means that were mostly of botanical origin. In his book "The Canon of Medicine" he described steam distillation method which is used nowadays as well.

European aromatherapy was developing in medieval times. During crusades Arabic fragrances were spread over entire Europe. Plant's medical properties were intensively studied at the times of pestilence spread. Branches of lavender and cypress were burned on the streets. It was the only protection against Black Death that people knew.

In the ninetieth century with the development of synthetic pharmacology the importance of aromatherapy began to decrease. However, when it was noticed that synthetic products caused multiple complications the interest in aromatherapy arose again.

In 1930, French scientist-chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse put into practice a term of Aromatherapy. His family owned a perfumery fabric, and, according to the legend, Maurice, working in a laboratory, burned his hand badly. By reflex, he dipped his hand into lavender oil that was standing by. Later he was so amazed watching mystical recovery and disappearance of scars on his hand. As a result he dedicated his live to researches about essential oil cosmetic and dermatological properties.

French physician Jean Valnet significantly expanded uses of aromatherapy. He was using essential oils for disinfection of wounds and for internal organs spasms relieving. In 1964 he published a book "Practice of Aromatherapy" triggering the aromatherapy practice in Europe. Homeopathic clinics, practicing aromatherapy were build in Paris, Sveden and England where obvious rejuvenation properties of essential oils were studied.

Contemporary aromatherapy is first of all a prophylactic and healthful method of maintaining good psycho-emotional and physical fitness. It is a therapy that relieves everyday stress and prevents development of infirmity. In Canada, US, Europe and Japan thousands of aromatherapy clinics operate, aromatherapy books are published and scientific laboratories are working, continuing the tradition of aromatherapy use.

With the growing popularity of aromatherapy many people get familiarized with therapeutic properties of essential oils and start using them at home on a daily basis.

On the current market the world leading Essential Oil company is Young Living Essential Oils. Young Living's line of pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils and essential oil blends are sourced from the world's finest plants. They are not diluted with chemical and synthetic additives and are carefully prepared to maintain plant integrity. This commitment to purity makes Young Living products the world's highest-quality essential oil line.

Part of the proceeds go to the creation of an Eco-Village.

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Message submitted from: Radha Theresa,

Address: 83 Cassilis St Coonabarabran NSW Australia Phone number: 0268424778
Email: capricorndancer@live.com.au
Title: Vedruss Kins Oasis
User classifieds ad:
Calling Vedruss! A Kin's Village is called into being in Coonabarabran, Australia. If you feel called to participate, please email Radha or Chris for more details - capricorndancerlive.com.au

Shambhala-Shasta

SUCCESS!!!
The Anastasia Eco-settlement project has found its home in North America on Sacred Motherland!

Many great thanks to all of you who contributed to this success and to many who have supported this dream and vision with your love from near and far.

Shambhala-Shasta community has taken back 466 acres of prestine motherland. Free and clear. No debt. No Encumbrances. No liens. Free and clear!!!

To freedom, independance and sovereignty!!!

The community will steadily grow out from here as we are bordered on the east and north by national forests.

More to come soon after our visit to our motherland in the next few days.

We have several settlers who have begun the intake process and purchased their domains. If you are ready and feel the beat in your heart, come and join!!!

http://shambhala-shasta.org/become/

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