Hoop houses are burgeoning across Nevada as local farmers continue to benefit from increased vegetable production and sales. Hoop houses are the newest trend in local agriculture. The simple greenhouse structures provide shelter from the wind and cold temperatures, resulting in a longer growing season, increased harvests and increased profits for commercial producers.

To meet demand for training in this innovative technique, the WNC Specialty Crop Institute offers a Low-cost Hoop House Construction Workshop on Friday, May 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at Smith Valley High School, 20 Day Lane, in Smith. Cost is $35 for those registering by April 25, $45 after April 25. Lunch is included. Seating is limited, and registration is required.

Featured speaker Ray Johnson of Custom Gardens Organic Farm will lead a hands-on demonstration of how to build a low-cost hoop house, constructed primarily of PVC tubing, precut rebar, greenhouse plastic and 2×4 boards. Developed by Utah State University, the design is popular among growers who are interested in hoop house production without a large financial investment. Johnson will also discuss growing techniques and planting schedules for hoop houses.

Information/registration: Ann Louhela -775-351-2551 or louhelaa@wnc.edu.

ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL- ALL NATURAL SKINCARE, HEALTH AND WELLNESS PRODUCTS. What makes Arbonne different from the other brands out on the market? It’s designed in Switzerland, and made in the United States. Scientists and Doctors have been developing botanical and all natural ingredients to make the best quality products since 1975. I am an independent consultant in Sparks NV. I offer consultations for anyone wanting to improve their skin or prevent the signs of aging for men and women. Also anyone wanting to lose weight with our get fit program using gluten free, vegan products. Angela Lively at 775-351-5191 or livelyskin@yahoo.com

NEVADA’S OUTDOOR LIFE COMES INDOORS. Nevada’s tradition of outdoor adventure is available all year long in Under the Stars. When guests enter this gallery they feel like they’ve stepped outdoors. They’re greeted by the sounds of nature and changing light treatment that takes them from day to night and back again. A tent and a vast cave set the stage for exploration of the natural history of the state and how to enjoy it. There’s also fishing for Cui-Ui and Lahontan Cut Throat Trout. To learn more go to: Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, 490 S. Center Street · Reno, NV, 775-786-1000

Written By Lisa Adele Campbell |

Of all the useful products derived from plants, perfume has played the most provocative role in human affairs for more than 5,000 years. But what are these sensual, exotic and fun scents that we dabble into, and how they are processed?

Natural fragrances, extracted without destroying or altering the scent, are the most desirable. The scented compounds derived from flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, wood, and resins, are oils and are not water soluble. They must be extracted by using substances into which volatile oils dissolve. The end ingredients used in perfumery, called odorants, are categorized by the way they were extracted.

Concretes are considered the purest of the natural odorants. They are obtained through solvent extraction. Fragrant plant parts are immersed into non-polar organic solvents, which yield–after removal of the solvent–a solid or semi-solid wax. Concretes make a lovely addition to natural products and can be shaved, melted and infused. Spring-like mimosa and frangipani are examples.

Absolutes result when a concrete is extracted to a more concentrated state, by alcohol or hexane, to remove waxes and most odorless materials, producing an alcohol soluble, or semi-liquid oil. Most perfumes are created with a blend of absolutes. Jonquil, and its sister narcissus, are used in high-end perfumery. But for personal use, they can be blended into base oil producing natural perfume oil or into distilled water for floral water such as rose. Solvent extracted oils are very concentrated and close to the natural fragrance of the material used.

There are two basic C02 extractions. One is using carbon dioxide, C02, as a dense liquid solvent, and the other using Supercritical Fluid (SC02) as a dense fog solvent. Low pressure CO2 is the most desired of solvents as it leaves no toxic residues behind, and is often the best method for obtaining high quality extracts, especially from fragile material such as jasmine flowers. Natural lilac, vanilla and St. John’s Wort can be found in these categories.

Steam distillation and expression (i.e. pressing of the peels of citrus fruits to obtain volatile oils) of organic, wild-crafted, and farmed botanicals, produces beloved essential oils. One will not find many floral scents as essential oils because delicate flowers do not hold up under steam or physical process. Their natural scents are found as C02 or SC02 extracts and absolutes. A new term, “therapeutic grade,” has been added to this industry, which means the oils have been tested for purity and strength.

Over 60 percent of the fragrant compounds involved in perfumery are synthetic fragrances, based on the chemical structure of natural fragrances. It is often cheaper to synthesize a compound then to extract it. Confusing enough, they are called “pure.” They may or may not smell like the natural version. Fruity, flowery, and perfume scents like Egyptian Musk are in this form. As with natural oils, synthetic oils are used in cosmetic crafting, incenses, candles, soaps, and other body products.

After smelling, pricing and playing with scents, one will begin to distinguish the differences. There is much to dazzle the senses with, as new natural fragrances are being developed with advanced extraction methods, and personal cosmetic crafting is growing. And so, perfumery and aromatherapy lives on, and continues to captivate us.

References:

1. Simpson, Beryl Brintnall and Conner-Orgorzaly, Molly. Economic Botany: Plants In Our World. McGraw-Hill Science/Engineering/Math; 3rd edition. December, 2000.

2. www.herbshealth.com.

Shopping organic on a budget isn’t always easy. It takes time to familiarize yourself with certain organic products, and the places you can find them locally. Here are some tips on how to get started:

-Don’t limit yourself to popular natural foods stores and organic pantries. Shop around and figure out where you’re comfortable spending your hard earned money. Conventional grocery stores often have relatively cheap and expansive selections of organics.

-Plan your meals and don’t over-shop. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. generates more than 34 million tons of food waste each year. Generating food waste has significant economic and environmental consequences, so make a list of ingredients you’ll need and try to avoid impulse buys. Websites like www.lovefoodhatewaste.com can even help you calculate proper portions.

-Save food, save money! Store your food so that it stays fresh, and learn recipes for leftover meals.

-Shop seasonally. Learn which fruits and vegetables are harvested during certain times of the year. In the fall, think root vegetables: potatoes, carrots, zucchinis, squash and corn. If strawberries are out of season, opt for frozen strawberries. If tomatoes are out of season, go with canned.

-Make connections with a local farmer and become involved. For a nominal fee toward a membership/part ownership, food Co-ops offer organics and other natural products, direct from local growers, at discount prices. There are many other programs you can get involved in and become familiar with Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). Check online for sites that list your local farmers and CSA programs: www.nevadagrown.com

-Buy organic if it doesn’t have a peel. Many fruits and vegetables are full of pesticides and other dangerous chemicals, even after they are washed. However, there are some fruits and vegetables that are safe to substitute organic for conventional, in order to save you some extra cash. Generally, produce with a peel, rind, husk or protective outer layer is less likely to be affected by pesticides and harsh chemical fertilizers. Here are some examples:

Oftentimes, produce that is grown organically isn’t labeled organic on the shelves because the application and inspection process to get it certified by a National Organic Program (NOP) accredited agent can be expensive. Farmers can even have their organic certified label revoked if organic produce simply comes into contact with a conventional produce.

*Skip the organic peanut butter and just go with conventional brands that are low in sugar and free of hydrogenated oils.

-Buy organic meats and animal byproducts. Livestock raised on conventional farms are often given antibiotics and recombinant growth hormones. These become present in the conventional beef, pork, and poultry we eat, along with the eggs, milk, and cheese that we get from these animals. Farmed fish are also a red flag as contaminants can be found in the food they are fed; buy wild-caught fish instead. Organic meats are almost twice as expensive as conventional meats, but the health benefits outweigh the cost.

-Purchase bulk items. Some stores have larger selections than others, but most contain essential foods that have high nutrient densities, like oats, whole grains, beans, nuts, rice, and snacks like trail mix and dried fruits.

-Don’t buy bottled water. It’s expensive and the bottling process is harmful to the environment. Buy yourself a tap filter and a reusable water bottle to take with you on the go. A Brita Faucet Filter shouldn’t run more than $30 anywhere, think of it as a simple investment that will save you hundreds of dollars in the future.

-Shop sale items. This might be stating the obvious, but everyday sale items are usually good buys because most stores have already shopped around locally for you to make sure they are giving you the best price around.

-Shop store brands for packaged foods. They’re cheaper and have the same great taste and nutritional value as big name brands (I.e. Whole Foods has their “365” brand).

-Don’t buy prepared foods. It’s cheaper and healthier to buy the ingredients needed to prepare them yourself.

-Browse coupons and use them! Coupons for natural and organic products are easy to find online, and many stores include them in their print newsletters and catalogues.

Personal Care

-Do some research and avoid dangerous chemicals that can slowly harm your body over time. Personal care products contain large volumes of chemicals, natural and synthetic. Some companies use ingredients that may cause cancer or that are associated with developmental problems. Many cosmetics ingredients penetrate the skin, and people ingest those used on lips and hands and inhale sprays and powders.

Again, shop around. Conventional stores like Target and CVS in fact have good organic personal care, bath and shower, health and skin care, and cosmetic products at affordable prices that are often less than half the cost of similar products found in popular natural health stores.

However, organic or “natural” products sometimes still contain the harmful ingredients we try to avoid. Just because a product label says “all natural” doesn’t mean it is safe. Even plant-based ingredients can be harmful to your body. That’s why it’s important to familiarize yourself with some of the major toxins found in personal care products. Here are a few:

• DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamiine) & TEA (triethanolamine): Hormone-disrupting chemicals, can form cancer-causing nitrates. Americans exposed 10-20 times per day with shampoos, shaving creams and bubble baths.

• Alcohol, Isopropyl (SD-40): drying, irritating solvent; strips skin’s moisture and immune barrier, makes you vulnerable to bacteria and viruses. Found in shellac, antifreeze and personal care products. Promotes brown spots and premature aging.

• Fragrances: Can contain up to four thousand ingredients (including animal urine), many toxic or carcinogenic. Causes headaches, dizziness, allergic rashes, skin discoloration, violent coughing, vomiting, and skin irritation.

Parabens: Act as preservatives; are present in moisturizers and deodorants. Chemicals in cosmetics can pass through the skin, into the bloodstream and internal organs.

Sulfates: All types of body care products may contain sulfates that have been shown to be highly irritating to the skin and have also been linked to toxicity of the biological systems of the body including cardiovascular (heart), digestive tract and the respiratory system.

-Make your own cleaning products. Baking soda, vinegar, borax, and other common natural household products are good homemade substitutions to expensive certified organic cleaners, laundry detergents and soaps. Many of the ingredients you already own can be used in combination to clean a variety of things:

• Multi-purpose cleaner: Mix a few drops of natural soap, 2 cups water, and 15 drops each of tea tree and lavender essential oil. You can spray this on all surfaces, like cutting boards, counters, toilets and walls.
• Remove indoor air pollutants: Houseplants such as chrysanthemums, English ivy, spider plants, and Boston ferns naturally freshen the air.
• Prevent mold and mildew from becoming a growing problem in the bathroom by keeping a spray bottle filled with 1 cup water and 1 drop tea tree oil handy, for zapping stains.
• Disinfect and deodorize the toilet bowl in a flash. Sprinkle the sides with baking soda, let sit for a few minutes, then drizzle with vinegar. Scrub with a toilet brush and flush.
• Take out tough stains from whites by dabbing spots with a mixture of one part borax and six parts water.

As you can see, there are numerous ways to make shopping organic affordable. Shopping within your budget is attainable. It takes sensible thought and consideration to know what you really need. Following these tips and suggestions will help you get there faster.

References:

1. http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/organics/food/fd-basic.htm

2. http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/ss/slideshow-to-buy-or-not-to-buy-organic

3. http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

4. Healthy Beginnings “Terrible Toxins” pamphlet

5. WOW Cleaning Services: www.wowcleaningreno.com

TOP 10 Past Article

Written by Jennifer Gray, Pharmacist |

Eczema comes in many shapes and sizes; but one thing is constant, the ITCH. It is always there taunting its victims, urging them to abandon all control and scratch. “It feels so good to scratch that I keep on doing it even though I know it will hurt more when I stop,” says one teenage sufferer.  What can be done about this increasingly common skin affliction?

First of all, education and understanding the reasons for the disease go a long way to treating it. Environment, diet and heredity all contribute to the development of eczema. It is estimated that 15 million people in the United States currently suffer from some form of this disease. The National Institutes of Health estimate that 10 to 20 percent of all infants will suffer from eczema at one time or another until age five.  Between the ages of five and fifteen there is a significant improvement in skin health.

Eczema covers a wide range of symptoms and characteristics. In children, the most common form is atopic eczema.  Like most eczema, the itch is the first symptom. Once the child begins to scratch, a rash develops and worsens as the scratching continues. Often an infection settles into the rash from the germs and irritants hiding under the fingernails. Common sites for childhood eczema are cheeks, forehead, scalp, inner arms, back of knees, and trunk. No skin area is immune to the rash, though. Treating eczema in children is often difficult and frustrating. Steroidal creams, antihistamines, and petroleum products are frequently prescribed to stop the itch and trap in skin moisture. Natural skin care products, like Nature’s Baby Face and Body Moisturizer, contains emollients aloe and Shea butter which sooth and moisturize the skin. While it cannot cure eczema, a regimen of moisturizing with products such as these can lessen the itching by increasing the moisture and make the skin look and feel better.

Adults may first notice skin, especially on exposed skin like the hands or feet, become dry and flaky with red patches. Eventually the patches begin to itch and burn. Sometimes the eczema is more of a red bump that may be filled with clear fluid. Scratching releases the fluid making the rash appear wet. Scratching, as in the case of childhood atopic eczema, leads to more irritation and itching, and the cycle goes on and on. Malcolm’s Miracle Hand and Body Treatment uses the natural healing powers of hemp seed oil to increase skin’s moisture and repair the affected patch. Rich in Omega-6 Gamma-Linolenic Acid, Malcolm’s Miracle absorbs easily and quickly into the skin. Essential oils, such as Lavender and Rosemary, soothe and cool the skin while encouraging dry skin to produce its own oil.

Once an eczema episode gets going, it is impossible to stop. Preventing one from beginning and regularly moisturizing the area are the best lines of defense. A healthy diet rich in Omega-3, limited stress, and avoidance of known allergens can help reduce the frequency and severity of eczema attacks.

References:

Malcolm’s Miracles.com/allproducts

www.aad.org, American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

www.nationaleczema.org, National Eczema Association (NEA)

www.skincarephysicians.com

www.isdionline.org, The Inflammatory Skin Disease Institute (ISDI) on patient education and public awareness

www.protopic.com/Understanding-Eczema

www.eczema.net

www.derma.org, Society of Dermatology Physicians Assistants

www.nlmnih.gov, US National Library of Medicine, National Institute of Health

www.fda.gov, Food and Drug Administration

Andrew Weil, M.D. “Therapeutic Hemp Oil”

www.csuf.com, Children’s Skin Disease Foundation

www.innvista.com/health/foods/hemp/hempoil.htm

For more information, contact Jennifer Gray at (775) 232-5766

Did you know that the skin is your body’s largest organ? The skin is responsible for ¼ of the body’s detoxification, and eliminates up to two pounds of waste acids daily. Dry skin brushing is a powerful technique to help our skin perform these and many more important functions. Even better, it’s inexpensive and enjoyable. In less than 10 minutes daily, you can improve you health and the condition of your skin, right at home!

The basic thought behind skin brushing is to brush dry skin, in order to boost circulation and remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin so that it may more effectively remove toxins from the body. Dry skin brushing is considered to be the most effective natural lymphatic cleanser available.  Lymph fluid delivers nutrients to cells and carries waste away from cells.  Unlike the circulatory system, which has the heart to pump blood and the digestive tract, which uses peristaltic action (contractions) to move waste; the lymphatic system relies on outside forces such as good circulation, bodily movement and effective breathing to properly function. Due to our sedentary lifestyles and poor diets, many people have sluggish lymphatic systems and don’t even know it.

The process of skin brushing is easy and enjoyable. Beginning with the soles of the feet and working in circular and stroking motions, the object is to move lymphatic fluids toward the heart region. The majority of lymphatic matter in the body drains into the thoracic duct, which is located near the heart. After working the lower part of the body toward this region, the process is repeated on the top half of the body by lifting the arms above the head and beginning with the palms of the hands, this time working down toward the heart area. Skin brushing is done with a dry brush and dry skin, prior to daily bathing. The entire body should be brushed in the process and although firm and vigorous motions should be used, the body should feel stimulated, not sanded, afterward.

Following a skin brushing session with a hot bath adding essential oils, powdered ginger or Epsom salts and baking soda is a wonderful way to rejuvenate the body.

The skin brush should be made of all natural materials and should be washed frequently and dried in natural sunlight. A good quality skin brush should last a couple of months or more with regular care and use. It is important when choosing a skin brush to pick one with bristles that are not too stiff, so that the skin will be stimulated but not overworked.

Having a properly functioning lymphatic system not only improves your health at a cellular level, but also improves your appearance. With regular skin brushing, people report that the skin takes on a natural glow and healthy appearance. People also report that their skin feels more hydrated and that they use less lotions that they did before which makes sense since the oil glands will be free from debris and able to lubricate the skin more effectively. It is also noted that skin brushing improves cellulite, which is in part a buildup of toxins in the blood that would be normally removed by a well functioning lymphatic system.

Dry skin brushing is considered to be an essential part of any intestinal cleansing program. By improving the ability of the skin to release toxins and improving lymphatic flow, skin brushing promotes the release of toxins in other areas of the body and enhances the effectiveness of Colon Hydrotherapy. It is even reported to cleanse mucoid deposits from cells directly into the colon.

With all these benefits, and the little amount of time and money needed to invest in this process, dry skin brushing may be one of the most effective detoxification processes available to us, and you can do it at home! Why not start a skin brushing ritual today?

References:

1. Watson, Brenda, C.N.C. The Detox Strategy. Free Press. March, 2008.

2. www.PureInsideOut.com

3. www.NaturalNews.com

For more info, contact Shelby Molchan at the Island Rainbow Wellness Center at (775) 762-2463 or visit online at www.IslandRainbowWellness.com.

For at-home remedies of burns, scalds, grease spatters and sun burns, try a vitamin C spray, one tsp. per pint of water; apply it directly to the burn. Aloe Vera gel, and the liquid squeezed from the plant, is another great home remedy. The same is true for Vitamin E complex liquid and Calendula ointment. However, the grandest remedy for burns that all homes should have is Pleo muc cream. Pleo muc is a homeopathic dilution of cell membrane fractions of Mucor racemosis friesen, the fungus that grows on corpses. It is what mummies are made of and can be re-enlivened from a 5,000 year old mummy, and can’t be destroyed by burning up to 500o F. It is an integral part of our internal fungal milieu, according to Doctor Gunter Enderlein, the great German botanist who observed them via dark field microscopy at the turn of the last century.

According to his theory, lately challenged by genetic issues surrounding pleomorphism, whose tenants’ tout several forms of beneficial fungi exist in our bodies, depending on the health of our protoplasm. Pleo muc, or Mucokehl from Sanum Kehlbeck in Hoya, Germany, as it is better known in Europe, has many wonderful uses to restore health to our system. Its overriding effect is to improve circulation and is great for eye diseases, circulatory disturbances, strokes, heart attacks, peripheral venous disorders, cirrhosis of the liver, wound healing, fibrotic problems and many more.

Burns Are a Heart Attack in the Skin

Burns disrupt the fine capillary circulation in the skin or more major vascular disruption. When coronary arteries do not provide enough oxygen to the heart, muscle angina (chest pain) ensues. Likewise, when the skin doesn’t have enough oxygen, pain and injury result. Pleo muc cream magically restores circulation and blood vessels and immediately stops the pain from burns. We always keep a tube in the kitchen. Our family and patients have countless cases of immediate pain relief from burns. I like to recall an incident from a dozen years back, when we were in Belize on a yoga trip. Our Swedish teacher had a couple of Norwegian ladies to help her teach the course and they decided to run into town, down the beach in their bathing suites. They were both platinum blonds with very fair skin and misjudged the distance into town from the hotel. It was more like two miles than one. On their return, they were lobster red and going into shock. We applied the pleo muc cream immediately and their pain was relieved, and again about twenty minutes later. They went to sleep for a couple of hours and we reapplied the cream. They participated in the activities the rest of that day and awoke the next day with no burns or peeling. Without this intervention, I believe they would have been very sick for a couple of days.

Don’t Forget About Frostbite

Frostbite is similar to burns in that it disrupts circulation in the skin. The current treatment of advanced frostbite, with amputation of the extremities, is certainly extremely harsh. About twenty years ago, one of the sons of an old patient was traveling from Los Angeles to Reno and decided to stop over at Mammoth Mountain resort for a jog up the mountain. Unfortunately, he got stuck in a blizzard half way down the mountain and his tennis shoes were no protection against the ice, snow and cold. I saw him later that evening; he had severe frostbite with dark purple and black toes, with numbness and extreme pain. I injected his toes with Pleo muc and procaine and had him apply pleo muc cream throughout the night. The next morning he had pink toes and no pain. That was one of my first “Wow” experiences with Pleo muc. In retrospect, I would have also bagged his feet with ozone gas, which also helps burns and circulation. More serious burns should be treated with Heparin, an anticoagulant, topically and intravenously. For more info, look up Dr. Michael Saliba, MD online.

References:

1. www.terramedica.com

2. Enderlein, Dr. Gunther. Bacteria Cyclogeny. Original
German edition 1916, Semmelweis-Verlag, German edition 1981.  Enderlein Enterprises, translated edition, January 1999. Publisher Enderlein Enterprises Inc.  Prescott, Arisona, USA.

3. www.salibaburnsinstitute.org

For more info, contact the Gerber Medical Clinic at  (775) 826-1900.

As touted by Dr. Oz, Tamanu Oil is a must for all cosmetic products. This most unique oil has been used for centuries by the Polynesians as cure all for skin aliments, as well infections. It is known as the “sacred oil,” promoting healing and regeneration of new skin.

Tamanu possesses significant antimicrobial qualities, as proven in antibacterial and anti fungal tests. It contains powerful bactericide and fungicide agents that defeat human and animal pathogens.

Tamanu Oil comes from the Tamanu Tree, which is native to the island of Tahiti but can also be found in other tropical areas. The tree blooms twice annually with a fragrant white flower; which later yields clusters of yellow skinned fruit. The fruit pulp tastes similar to an apple, within which a large nut is embedded. The nut contains an odorless pale kernel, called punnai. This kernel is dried in the sun for two months until it becomes sticky with a dark and thick, rich oil similar to olive oil.

Tamanu Oil also contains a unique fatty acid called calophylic acid, and a novel immune supportive and anti- inflammatory agent called calophylolide, which promotes the formulation of new healthy skin.

Tamanu Oil is a remarkable tropical healing agent. It is known to heal severe burns, acne, diaper rash, sores, swelling, rashes, scleroderma, sunburns, stretch marks, and severe dry skin; it is a great addition to a first aid kit.

So, read those cosmetic labels and look for this most unique oil. It will help prevent aging skin and leave the skin you are in with a youthful glow.

References:

1. Dweck, A.C. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2002, 24, p1.

Most of us have rosemary in our spice rack or herb garden, to add a distinctive woody flavor and a sweet piney aroma to our meals. What you may not know is that this delicious herb, from the mint family, has a multitude of medicinal properties as well.  From preventing certain cancers to improving your skin’s health, rosemary may be one of the most coveted herbs in the kitchen!

A fragrant, evergreen, needle-like plant, natively grown in the Mediterranean, Rosmarinus Officinalis (rosemary), translates to “Dew of the Sea.” The ancients were privy to the qualities of this fragrant herb as early as 500 B.C. Greek students would wear wreaths laden with the aromatic flora to stimulate and improve their memory. Recent studies established that the Greeks obviously had insight into the numerous traits of this amazing plant. The results showed that rosemary contains an ingredient (carnosic acid) that fights off free radical damage in the brain, and protects from contributors of stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. Published research in both The Journal of Neurochemistry and Nature Reviews Neuroscience reveals that CA (carnosic acid) activates a signaling pathway that protects brain cells from free radical damage.

Dr. Zhu, from the State University of New Jersey, conducted research on the benefits of rosemary extract to de-activate excess estrogen, which contributes to breast cancer. The research showed that a two percent concentration of rosemary extract significantly reduced estrogen production. The curative herb offers a healthy and safe alternative to the drug Tamoxifen, given as an estrogen blocker to women with breast cancer. Other studies reveal that properties in rosemary can de-activate toxins and eliminate them from the liver, before they incur damage.

As if all of this is not enough, further research indicates that rosemary can increase blood flow and can improve kidney function; it also helps lower blood pressure, promotes cellular respiration and detoxification, increases alertness, decrease anxiety, combats water retention, reduces swelling and it treats acne, dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis.

Moving your health from the inside out takes work, due to the harmful chemicals and additives that are loaded into most cosmetics and personal care items. On average, the American consumer is exposed to more than 10,000 damaging chemicals in personal care items alone. Everything from shampoo, soap, lotion and lip gloss can be full of nasty harmful ingredients. Nature provides us with healthy alternatives, and rosemary is one of safe choices in our arsenal. When applied topically, this incredible herb aids in the regeneration of skin cells, helping you maintain skin buoyancy. It tones and firms sagging skin, and also aids in preventing wrinkles.

Who knew that a common seasoning could do so much for one’s health, as well as keeping skin looking and feeling young and beautiful? Once again, nature’s own remedies prove to be best!

For more info, contact Mary Elizabeth at 530-263-3416

Ear Candling is an ancient practice, dating back to biblical times in Egypt, the Orient, as well as European cultures. This simple, gentle treatment removes wax from the ear, improving your sense of well-being, physical, mental and even spiritual. The candle is a long hollow tube made from unbleached muslin immersed in an aromatic herbal solution. After it dries, the cone is then dipped into beeswax. The cone or candle is then placed into the ear opening and the top of the cone is lit; soft warm white smoke billows down the tube into the ear and softens the wax. The flame on top of the cone creates a vacuum that pulls out built up wax, toxins, bacteria, dirt and residue from past medications. Ear Candling may also help with a dry hacking cough (a result of a sinus infection), sinus headache, tinnitus, and itchy ear. Today more people are seeking alternatives to digging in the ear with Q-tips or using a hydrogen peroxide flush to clean a blocked ear canal. Ear Candling is a relaxing, natural, non-intrusive treatment.

References:

Tatum, Anne. Ear Candling. A.P. Enterprises. 1995.

For more info, call Karen at Therapeutic Skin Care (775) 337-2525.

We often hear this word in skin care, but what is it exactly? Rosacea is a chronic and progressive disorder that might be first noticed as redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead; which may present itself and subsequently disappear. A susceptibility to Rosacea, called pre-Rosacea, can be detected in the teens or early twenties. Rosacea is even reported in children. According to medical research, the cause is unknown and incurable.

What causes Rosacea? There are many theories as to the cause, such as poor circulation, sluggish lymph, genetic predisposition, digestive disorders, bacteria, and even mites attached to cells.

Some factors that affect Rosacea flare-ups are weather, emotional influences, beverages, foods, physical exertion, temperature-related, prescription drugs, medical conditions and skin care products.

So you’re probably thinking, wow, is there anything that is good for people who have Rosacea? The good news is that there are products and facial treatments that really help, if used consistently. It will not take it away, but rather minimize flare ups, so you can look your best every day.

There are three stages of Rosacea and given that it is a progressive disorder, it is very important for you to be aware of what you should and should not do. Consult an aesthetician or practitioner who deals with skin disorders if you have questions about Rosacea.

References:

1. Rhonda Allison Professional Workbook at www.rhondaallison.com.

For more info, contact the Powder Room at (775) 327-4631.

Ear Candling is an ancient practice, dating back to biblical times in Egypt, the Orient, as well as European cultures. This simple, gentle treatment removes wax from the ear, improving your sense of well-being, physical, mental and even spiritual. The candle is a long hollow tube made from unbleached muslin immersed in an aromatic herbal solution. After it dries, the cone is then dipped into beeswax. The cone or candle is then placed into the ear opening and the top of the cone is lit; soft warm white smoke billows down the tube into the ear and softens the wax. The flame on top of the cone creates a vacuum that pulls out built up wax, toxins, bacteria, dirt and residue from past medications. Ear Candling may also help with a dry hacking cough (a result of a sinus infection), sinus headache, tinnitus, and itchy ear. Today more people are seeking alternatives to digging in the ear with Q-tips or using a hydrogen peroxide flush to clean a blocked ear canal. Ear Candling is a relaxing, natural, non-intrusive treatment.

References:

Tatum, Anne. Ear Candling. A.P. Enterprises. 1995.

For more info, call Karen at Therapeutic Skin Care (775) 337-2525.

We all suffer from clogged pores and acne at some point in our life, either as a teenager, in our late twenties and thirties and as women later in life when we start to experience symptoms of menopause. Acne is the most common skin disease, however is treatable. The medical definition of acne is “a genetic disease evolving from retention hyperkeratosis of the follicular epithelium.” Medically, the cause of acne is unknown.  Some theorize that there is a root cause that may stem from a hormonal imbalance, psychological aspects, nutrient deficiencies and genetics. There are several other factors that could affect acne.

•   Stress: when the adrenal glands are stimulated it causes an imbalance of hormones, which can cause the skin to flare. Usually occurring about 14 days following a stress response.

•   Nutrition: avoid foods with iodides; salts, processed foods, fast foods, excessive dairy, MSG, alcohol and caffeine. Drink six to eight glasses of pure water every day.

•   Picking and touching: improper squeezing and ill-attempted extractions may rupture the follicle wall and cause bacteria to spread. Touching irritates the skin and breeds bacteria from fingers and hands.

•   Drying: overuse of very drying skin care products may cause the sebaceous glands to produce more oil.

•   Excessive and abrasive scrubbing: over-cleansing and excessive scrubbing can over-stimulate the production of sebum in the follicle and worsen acne conditions.

•   Cosmetics: fragrances, dyes and preservatives are irritating to sensitive and acne-prone skins and should be avoided.

Don’t panic. Take a deep breath and know that this too will pass.

By using the correct products for your skin type, and having good habits with proper nutrition and skin care regimen, we can all have amazing, healthy and vibrant skin.

References:

1. Rhonda Allison professional workbook, www.rhondaallison.com.

2. G.M. Collin professional workbook, www.gmcollin.com.

There’s almost nothing worse than experiencing ear pain, itching, loss of hearing, or a sinus headache.

Ear Candling is an ancient practice, dating back to biblical times in Egypt, the Orient, as well as European cultures. This simple, gentle treatment removes wax from the ear, improving your sense of well-being, physical, mental and even spiritual. The candle is a long hollow tube made from unbleached muslin immersed in an aromatic herbal solution. After it dries, the cone is then dipped into beeswax. The cone or candle is then placed into the ear opening and the top of the cone is lit; soft warm white smoke billows down the tube into the ear and softens the wax. The flame on top of the cone creates a vacuum that pulls out built up wax, toxins, bacteria, dirt and residue from past medications. Ear Candling may also help with a dry hacking cough (a result of a sinus infection), sinus headache, tinnitus, and itchy ear. Today more people are seeking alternatives to digging in the ear with Q-tips or using a hydrogen peroxide flush to clean a blocked ear canal. Ear Candling is a relaxing, natural, non-intrusive treatment.

References:

Tatum, Anne. Ear Candling. A.P. Enterprises. 1995.

For more info, call Karen at Therapeutic Skin Care (775) 337-2525.

There are two factors that affect the aging of the skin: Intrinsic and extrinsic. Let’s talk about extrinsic or external aging. This is the natural process of biological aging compiled with exterior causes such as sun exposure, air pollution, smoking, lifestyle, cosmetics and other allergens and lack of care. It is extrinsic aging that affects the appearance of the skin. The most damaging of all of these exterior causes is sunlight. In fact, it has been said that ninety percent of the aging of your skin is due to sun damage. If this is true, think of the control one has as to how much the skin actually ages.

We must protect the skin from the sun. The most effective anti-wrinkle cream is sunblock. The best protection is a physical block that is natural, such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide and iron oxides. Avoid the chemical sunscreen ingredient octyl methoxycinnamate (OCM)

Equally valuable is the use of nutrients that infuse into the tissue and support healthy cell development. Antioxidants are an answer to a healthier skin, but a key consideration as to the effects of a topical antioxidant is its ability to penetrate. Important antioxidant ingredients are superoxide dismutase, plant derived antioxidants, resveratrol (wine extracts), grape seed extracts, d-alpha tocopherol, l-ascorbic and betacarotene.

Work on these and you are well on your way to having younger looking skin, and can potentially slow down the aging process all together.

For more information contact the Powder Room on West Liberty Street at (775) 327-4631.

There are many causes for hyper pigmentation and uneven skin tone, and there are different depths of damage in the skin. Systemic pigmentation is damage at the cellular level and has affected the cell itself. This is very difficult to correct at a superficial level, and sometimes even the most aggressive medical treatments will not be able to eliminate the problem. Surface pigmentation, discoloration at the superficial level, is generally more successfully treated. However, much can be done to overall brighten and lighten skin and protect from further damage. Beware of overuse of products that contain hydroquinone. This ingredient is in many over-the-counter lightening products and the skin may develop a resistance or immunity to it or may begin to darken skin even more.

Two main factors that affect hyper pigmentation are the sun and heat! So wear SPF 30 at all times and stay cool! From this, there are three types of pigment changes that occur with skin including 1) Hyper pigmentation- Darkened pigment,  2) Hypo pigmentation- No melanin and 3) Demarcation, which is uneven pigmentation from procedures, picking, or scratching

Some causes of hyper pigmentation include birth control pills, rashes, estrogen, abrasive scrubs, pregnancy, certain prescription medications, long-term sun exposure, chicken pox, acne, insect bites, eczema, chemical irritations, surgical procedures, among others.