Home Ideazz

Influenster

2012-12-13T20:14:00.001-08:00

I'm an Influenster

I'm an @Influenster and you can be too! Be a tastemaker for access to perks, products, and offers.
http://bit.ly/Q7ZOvM

Live Posts from my FACEBOOK PAGES

2012-10-29T07:23:00.000-07:00

I find so many interesting things and information for "live" posts please make sure you have put HOME IDEAZZ FACEBOOK on Like and add it to an interest list (or you may not see all the posts). Here is where you will find things that I find interesting as well as shares from other interesting pages and blogs that you may also find interesting.

Home Ideazz

Promote Your Page Too

I also do many posts for my other Facebook Page V3allNATURALWeightLOSS which are related to health diet, weight loss and in particular clean living recipes and information that assists with getting the best results with V3 the all natural weight loss supplement.

V3 All Natural Weight Loss

Promote Your Page Too

Between the two sites you get more of an overall feed of both "Home Ideazz" and "Natural Weight Loss". I hope to find you have joined me on either or both depending on where your interests take you. Feel free to give me input as to what things you would like to see or what information has caught your interest!!

Influenster has changed!!

2012-10-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

Influenster is an exclusive Community of Trendsetters using their Influence to Qualify for Complimentary Product Shipments, Rewards and Deals fit for their Lifestyles

The Influenster Makeover brings all new changes to this trendsetting community. Reviews, Influenster Scores, Public Profiles, LifeStage & Expert Badges, and Invite-Only Membership to name just a few changes.

Influenster Score:
Your score is the biggest measure of your standing within Influenster and will determine your qualification in programs. Scores go up by connecting your social channels and showing your social influence.MINE AT THE MOMENT IS 72

LifeStage & Expert Badges:
We're introducing two new types of badges - LifeStage & Expert. LifeStage represent where you are in your life, while Expert Badges are all about what you know, and are scored to show off your expertise in various areas. Leave reviews and complete other tasks to raise your scores and get higher chances of qualifying in programs. Influensters can earn up to five Expert Badges to start.

Reviews:
We know you’ve loved reviewing VoxBox products, but what about the millions of other products you use and love? In October, you'll be able to add any product to our review pages and leave reviews on everything!

Invite Only:
Our trendsetting community just became more exclusive. New members are now required to request an invite to join. Prior members will retain their memberships and can invite up to five few friends. The more influential your referrals, the higher your Influenster Score will rise.

Influenster is lots of fun and a great way to try new products and give your honest review of them.
Earning the badges is fun and you just follow the guidelines given. Here is an example of what went in to the Naturals Voxbox Badge. There is also extra tasks that you can do to be entered for brand challenges.

To join is simple and FREE... just go to the below link.

CLICK HERE and visit http://www.influenster.com/

Glade Expressions Fragrance Mist & Oil Diffuser REVIEW

2012-10-08T09:12:00.001-07:00

Glade Expressions^® Fragrance Mist

The first refillable fragrance mist from Glade^®
Squeeze-to-release a soft, light mist of true-to-life fragrance that lasts
Instantly enhances any room and eliminates odor
Refillable with your favorite Glade Expressions^® fragrance — so true-to-life, it's as if the ingredients are being cut open right next to you
With a removable label, the holder is artfully designed and chic enough to incorporate into any décor
Fragrance satisfaction guaranteed or your money back*

Glade Expressions^® Oil Diffuser

The best non-electric oil diffuser for living spaces, delivering 3x more fragrance**
Refillable with your favorite Glade Expressions^® scent — authentic, exotic ingredients like mangosteen and cardamom spice are unlike anything else in the fragrance aisle
Trendy holder (available in bamboo or white) matches home décor perfectly, allowing you to place true-to-life fragrance in any room
The intuitive snap-in-place setup makes the diffuser easy to assemble, refill and enjoy
The spill-free design fills living spaces with fragrance for 30 days
A wide and thin wick releases fragrance slowly, leaving you with consistent fragrance over time
Fragrance satisfaction guaranteed or your money back*

I purchased the Glade Expressions Fragrance Mist and Oil Diffuser as a BzzAgent.
I purchased them both in the Pineapple and Mangosteen fragrance.

They are both stylish in design and very simple to use. The diffuser you simply remove from packaging and place in with a snap sound. The spray its all set up ready to use and is refillable. I found the scent not overpowering and liked it fruity fragrance. The scent from the diffuser has remained consistent without being overpowering and you notice it when you enter the room. The spray also is not overpowering and left a fruity fragrance when used. I would recommend giving these a try as they also come in other fragrances.

Cotton & Italian Mandarin - Open your home with the bright, breezy blend of cotton and sparkling citrus, honeydew and sandalwood*
Fuji Apple & Cardamom Spice - A ripe, spicy blend of sweet pears and crisp apple with a dash of cinnamon and clove that warms and invigorates
Lavender & Juniper Berry - Lush lavender blends with fresh juniper berry, eucalyptus and rose to relax the senses and open your home
Pineapple & Mangosteen - Evoke a tropical paradise with the blend of freshly cut pineapples and hint of tangy mangosteen, creamy coconut and passionflower

for more information go to
the GLADE site at www.glade.com (CLICK HERE)

Clean Living Recipes

2012-10-04T20:32:00.000-07:00

Country Life Maxi Hair supplement - Influenster Naturals VoxBox 2012

2012-10-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

Country Life Maxi Hair supplement -
Influenster Naturals VoxBox 2012

This product has been coveted by loyal consumers for more than 20 years, and one of Country Life’s best-sellers. This supplement complex with focus on B-vitamins, biotin and MSM brings new meaning to beauty from the inside-out. Also available with higher biotin potency in MAXI-HAIR Plus.

Available at your local vitamin & supplement store that carries natural dietary supplements.

for more details: COUNTRY LIFE (CLICK HERE)

** These were included for some lucky people in the Influenster Naturals VoxBox 2012. Unfortunately I was not one of the lucky to have received it. I cannot give my opinion as I have not tried it but after reading other reviews I will be purchasing it for myself.

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

Desert Essence Coconut Shine & Refine Hair Lotion - Influenster Naturals VoxBox 2012

2012-10-04T15:15:00.000-07:00

Desert Essence
Coconut Shine & Refine Hair Lotion
- Influenster Naturals VoxBox 2012

• Infuses hair with moisture and restores healthy shine
• Strengthens hair
• Helps smooth damaged hair and reduce frizz without weighing hair down

Bring out hair’s natural beauty as you nourish it. This lightweight lotion helps smooth and defrizz hair naturally and without weighing it down. Infused with:

• Coconut Oil and Extract to provide essential nutrients to smooth damaged hair
• Cactus and Agave drench hair in moisture and help restore a healthy shine
• Vitamins A, E, and Panthenol strengthen hair

Available at select Whole Foods locations, natural independent retailers, and desertessence.com

for more details DESERT ESSENCE (CLICK HERE)

** These were included for some lucky people in the Influenster Naturals VoxBox 2012. Unfortunately I was not one of the lucky to have received it. I cannot give my opinion as I have not tried it but after reading other reviews I will be purchasing it for myself.

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

Parissa Face & Bikini Wax Strips - Influenster Naturals VoxbBox 2012

2012-10-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

Parissa Face & Bikini Wax Strips

Parissa® Wax Strips for Face & Bikini are a mess-free, express hair remover that are ready to use. Zip away unwanted hair on the upper lip, cheeks & bikini line instantly – keeping skin smooth for up to 6 weeks. Small wax strips are sized correctly for the upper lip or small areas around the bikini line and the kit includes a vial of Azulene Oil ot soothe and soften skin, preventing ingrown hairs.

2 Easy Steps: 1. press on 2. zip off
Ideal for: beginners, touch ups & travel.
Contains: 16 (8 x 2 sided) strips, easy to follow photo instructions, 8 ml vial of Azulene Oil.
Satisfaction Guaranteed: Read Instructions & cautions before use.

These were included for some lucky people in the Influenster Naturals VoxBox 2012. Unfortunately I was not one of the lucky to have received it. I cannot give my opinion as I have not tried it but after reading other reviews I will be purchasing it for myself.

For details CLICK HERE to go to PARISSA WEBSITE

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

EBOOST Review

2012-10-04T14:20:00.004-07:00

EBOOST

The Natural Energy Tablets that are loved by those on the go! These tiny but potent tablets are loaded with green tea, vitamins, super nutrients and Stevia, to give you the energy and immunity boost you need no matter where you are -- The secret to a jet set lifestyle, without the jet lag.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT THEIR WEBSITE

EBOOST (CLICK HERE)

AVAILABLE IN NATURAL ORANGE, ACAI POMEGRANATE and
PINK LEMONADE

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

SheaMoisture Baby Bar Soap Review

2012-10-04T13:49:00.001-07:00

SheaMoisture Raw Shea,
Chamomile & Argan Baby Bar Soap

This creamy, sulfate-free bar soap, enriched with luxurious natural and organic ingredients, is gentle enough for the sensitive skin of babies, children and adults. Use daily to cleanse and moisturize. Naturally soothes the symptoms associated with eczema such as inflammation, irritation and itching. Formulated with a special blend of unrefined, "raw" shea butter, argan oil, chamomile extract, frankincense and myrrh.

VERDICT: I love that this soap is great for all of the family. It leaves your skin feeling soft and hydrated. It's gentle enough for sensitive skins and has an enticing scent. I always prefer natural ingredients so there really isn't much that I don't love about this soap!!

for more details CLICK HERE TO GO TO SHEA MOISTURE

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

LypSyl Intense Protection LypMoisturizer Review

2012-10-04T13:17:00.001-07:00

LypSyl Intense Protection LypMoisturizer™

Created with pure Swedish beeswax, organic shea butter

and vitamins A and E for long-lasting, deep-penetrating moisture and lip care protection.

LypSyl Intense Protection LypMoisturizer™ helps moisturize, soften and protect your lips naturally.

The unique one-hand slide allows for quick application. And, the oversize application tip ensures this ultra- light formula spreads evenly for better lip coverage.

• Fresh minty flavor.
• Not tested on animals!

I received the LypSyl Intense Protection LypMoisturizer as part of the Influenster Naturals Voxbox2012. I am always putting gloss or lip balm on to prevent my lips from drying and this really lasts well. Even with the daily running around and lip smacking that goes on being a busy mom it was still there more than 2 hours later. I liked the packaging especially the little bug to move the balm. I love that it is organic and prefer to buy all natural products. I will definitely be buying this again and believe it to be value for money with how long it lasted as well as being organic.

LYPSYL WEBSITE (CLICK HERE) for more details and information

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

The Original™ Dish Drying Mat REVIEW

2012-10-04T12:01:00.001-07:00

For more details go to THE ORIGINAL DISH DRYING MAT (CLICK HERE)

They come in 4 different colors and a larger size - click above for details

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

CleanWell Natural Hand Sanitizer Wipes

2012-10-04T11:50:00.001-07:00

CleanWell

a patented formulation of natural thyme oil that kills germs yet contains no harsh chemicals. CleanWell truly is a better way to clean.

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

For more information visit CLEANWELL NATURAL HAND SANITIZER WIPES SITE (CLICK HERE)

Naturals VoxBox 2012 from Influenster REVIEW

2012-10-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

The Naturals VoxBox 2012 features all natural and green lifestyle products.

The Original Dish Drying Mat FULL SIZE

The new solution to the age old tradition of placing dish towels on the counter when hand washing pots, pans, dishes and glassware. Hand washing dishes uses less water than conventional automated dish washers.
Using the dish drying mat also conserves energy by allowing dishes to air dry.

Product Details
• Holds 4 times its weight in water
• Cushions delicate dishes and stemware
• Machine washable and highly durable
• Folds and stores easily
• Can be used in multiple ways including underneath your dish drying rack in place of the plastic drain board. Place it underneath your appliances (mixer, blender, etc.) to protect your counter top from scratches and scuffs. Also cleaning up big spills and messes normally cleaned with paper towels.

Care:
For best results, allow The Original™ Dish Drying Mat to thoroughly dry between uses. Frequently machine wash, with like colors, in cold water with a liquid detergent, and before first use. Tumble dry low. Do not iron. Do not use bleach, fabric softener or dryer sheets.

REVIEW: This is my favorite from the Naturals Voxbox and I love that its easily stored and have been using it since it arrived. I will definitely be getting more of these! The mat absorbs all of the drain off water and has a good cushion quality. Looks stylish and performs great. I use it everyday.

Geodeo Island 24HR Protection Deodorant FULL SIZE
"Don't fake it. Get real fresh. Under-the-palm-trees-with-a-fruit-drink fresh. GEODEO Island is what "ahh" smells like. The potent combo of bamboo and aloe organic extracts and antioxidant vitamin E gives your skin a mini-spa treatment with each application. Warning: May result in sporadic smiles.

Dive into deep freshness. GEODEO® Natural Deodorant Plus Detox Complex™ uses breakthrough eco-technology to help cleanse your pores, releasing the daily buildup of toxins. Reach a new level of purity which keeps you fresh from the inside out for 24-hour odor protection. Naturally-derived invisible solid goes on dry, clear and smooth, leaving no stains or residue.

- volcanic minerals + icelandic algae fights impurities
- enzymes neutralize odors
- bamboo + aloe nourish skin
- vitamin e fights free radicals

Specially formulated to be safe for your body and your world. The base ingredients in GEODEO® are 100% natural, allergen-free, vegetable based and derived from renewable resources. Main ingredient approved by NPA and EcoCert. This deodorant contains no harmful aluminums, phthalates, parabens or propylene glycol. GEODEO® uses eco-technology to reduce greenhouse emissions and reduce energy consumed up to 50% compared to other deodorant sticks.

REVIEW: Love the smell of it! This is the first natural deodorant that I have used and had last through the day. It left me feeling fresh and smells better than most natural deodorants I have used. Overall, I would say it worked well.

CleanWell All-Natural Hand Santizing Wipe SAMPLELife is messy, sticky and germy. CleanWell helps clean it up and kill germs without any unwanted ingredients. These convenient pouches are perfect to pack in a lunch box or carry in your backpack or bag. In a 50-count box, you'll find enough individually wrapped hand sanitizer wipes for a couple of months worth of lunches, to take along in your pocket for your next meeting or trade show (just THINK of all the hands you're shaking!) or just for your family to use while traveling. Their size and one-use packet make them ideal for taking them along when you're out in the world. They are great for both hands and faces. And CleanWell doesn't use alcohol or benzalkonium chloride - so no concerns about dry skin, skin irritation, or irritating Mother Nature. Our all natural hand sanitizing wipes are great for hands (and faces) large and small.

REVIEW: This is just a sample with one wipe included (I would have liked to try more). Its alcohol free and is used to kill germs naturally and can be used for hands and face. Whats great about this is that its safe for kids and is not tested on animals. Its moisturizing and has a citrus herb scent.

LypSyl Intense Protection LypMoisturizer FULL SIZE
Created with pure Swedish beeswax, organic shea butter and vitamins A and E for long-lasting, deep-penetrating moisture and lip care protection. LypSyl Intense Protection LypMoisturizer™ helps moisturize, soften and protect your lips naturally. The unique one-hand slide allows for quick application. And, the oversize application tip ensures this ultra- light formula spreads evenly for better lip coverage. • Fresh minty flavor. • Not tested on animals!

REVIEW: Loved this and will buy again. It's all natural, and it has a great minty tingle on your lips and does what it says. I only have to use once or twice a day to keep my lips from drying out!

EBOOST Natural Energy SAMPLE
EBOOST is "a proprietary formula of vitamins, minerals, and super-nutrients, that deliver a boost of energy and immunity in an easy to mix effervescent packet. Our packets contain no sugar, no artificial flavors and are low in calories. So go ahead, boost your day, everyday."

REVIEW: This product does give you a nice boost with out the crash the only bad thing is that the taste is not really desirable. Maybe different flavor would be better or improve on the orange flavor. I only had one to taste so going off the one sample.

Nectresse Natural No Calorie Sweetner SAMPLE
"100% natural, nothing artificial. Zero calories per serving. Rich, sweet taste of sugar. Deliciously Sweet Monk Fruit Extract. Made from the perfect blend of 100% natural ingredients: Erythritol, Sugar, Monk fruit extract, and molasses."

REVIEW: Love the taste and the fact that it comes from a plant is excellent! Little bit goes a long way.

SheaMoisture Raw Shea, Chamomile & Argan Baby Bar Soap FULL SIZE
This creamy, sulfate-free bar soap, enriched with luxurious natural and organic ingredients, is gentle enough for the sensitive skin of babies, children and adults. Use daily to cleanse and moisturize. Naturally soothes the symptoms associated with eczema such as inflammation, irritation and itching. Formulated with a special blend of unrefined, "raw" shea butter, argan oil, chamomile extract, frankincense and myrrh.

REVIEW: I love this product. The shea moisture really is not just for babies. It leaves your skin feeling soft and feeling great.

Disclaimer: The products I am reviewing have been given to me for free through Influenster (http://www.influenster.com). I am not paid to write this review and all opinions within are my own.

Covergirl & Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation & Powder Review

2012-09-17T10:32:00.001-07:00

COVERGIRL & Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation & Pressed Powder

COVERGIRL & Olay combine foundation and hydrating serum to cover fine lines and wrinkles and helps hydrate to improve skin tone over time.

Thank you BzzAgent and Covergirl!!

I was sent FREE COVERGIRL & Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation and COVERGIRL & Olay Pressed Powder to review as part of being a BzzAgent.

I have always used mineral powder prior to trying this as I did not like the feeling that cream foundations left on my skin. Coverage was great on a minimal amount of it so a little goes a long way. I tend to have reddish skin tone with no make up and it helped even this out as well as discolorations in my skin, blemishes, and dark eyes. There was no visible fine lines and it really evened out the tone of my skin. I got many compliments when wearing it!! It is scented but I actually liked the scent and did not find it over powering more refreshing. I really like this product and recommend trying it for yourself to see how great it looks and feels. It really is " luminous coverage for ageless, radiant looking skin".

As you can see I also completed the look with eyeliner, and lip stick, and COVERGIRL & Olay Pressed Powder.

To learn more about COVERGIRL & Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation and COVERGIRL & Olay Pressed Powder visit facebook.com/covergirl.

Thank you BzzAgent for providing me with FREE COVERGIRL & Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation and COVERGIRL & Olay Pressed Powder and coupons to facilitate my review. Opinions expressed in this post are that of my own.

Paper Towel Roll Flowers

2012-09-14T09:10:00.002-07:00

Paper Towel Roll Flowers

Tools & Materials

• paper towel roll core
• Scissors
• Button
• Paper Glue
• Page of Paper (can be recycled from an old book or magazine)
• Brown Paper Shopping Bag
• 28 Guage Wire
(or wire that you can bend and manipulate that is heavy enough to hold up a paper flower)
• Wire Cutters
• White Craft Paint (optional)
• Small paint brush (optional)

Step 1Cut Roll

Cut the paper towel roll lengthwise (fig. A)

Step 2Measure and Cut Again

From the cute, measure 1” and mark. Cut off the 1” marked area (fig. B).

Step 3

Cut four strips from the roll anywhere between a .5” and .75” wide (fig. C).

Take the remaining roll and measure, mark and cut 1.5” from one of the edges (similar instruction number two). Cut two strips from this roll approximately .5” wide.

Step 4Cutting the Petals

Take the six strips and free-form cut the petals similar to the shape shown in fig. D. These petals do not have to be exact, just make sure that the center tapers in.

Step 5Glue Petals

Glue two of the larger petals at 90* angles. Repeat with the remaining petals keeping the larger and smaller petals grouped together (fig. E).

If you would like to add a bit of texture or color to your flower, take some craft paint and dry brush some paint on the tips of the petals. On the smaller group of petals I added some paint to the center also.

Step 6Glue Flower Together

After the glue has dried, glue the groupings on top of each other, keeping the smaller petals for the top. Glue a button to the center of the flower (fig. F).

Step 7Starting the Stem

From a piece of recycled paper use the pattern from fig. G to cut the calyx for the flower. Curl the ends of the calyx by wrapping them around a paint brush, pencil, etc.

Step 8

Take the wire and cut it double the length that you would like your stem. Fold the wire in half and twist together. Take one tip of the wire and bend it about a .25 at a 90° angle (fig. H1).

Cut a strip or two from the brown paper bag. Starting at the straight end of the wire stem, glue the end of the paper to the wire and start to wrap the paper to cover the wire (fig. H2).

Make sure to add a dab of glue here and there to keep the paper secure to the wire stem (fig. H3). Stop wrapping short of the 90° bend.

Step 9Glue Calyx to Flower

* BEFORE CONTINUING TO THE NEXT STEP, please make sure the glue on the flower is completely dry.

Turn over flower and glue one of the calyx pieces to the bottom (fig. I). Let dry.

Step 10Attach Stem

Take the stem and glue the bend to the bottom of the flower by taking the second calyx piece and gluing it to the flower bottom sandwiching the metal bend between the calyx and the flower. It will be necessary to hold the wire in place until the glue dries (fig. J).

Step 11All Done!

Your flower is complete!

source: www.instructables.com Paper-Towel-Roll-Flowers

DIY - Mirrored Candle Holders

2012-09-14T09:05:00.000-07:00

DIY - Mirrored Candle Holders

Glass candleholders
glasses
picture frames with glass

spray bottle with water
mirror paint

Work on a protected surface in a well-ventilated area. Cover vessels exteriors with paper, or remove glass from frame. Spray interiors of vessels or frame glass lightly with water and then with mirror paint. The water will make the paint mottled. Turn vessels upside down on a drying rack (so air circulates inside). Let dry completely at least overnight. Repeat if too sheer. For Flowers, arrange in a glass and place the glass inside the vase. You can do this with glass bottles. Use sticker stencils or if you can draw the words yourself for the words or decorations on bottles. Use some black glitter.

source: couponcousins diy-mirrored-candle-holders

Marigolds and Chrysanthemums for Repelling Bugs

2012-09-14T09:00:00.001-07:00

Marigolds and Chrysanthemums for Repelling Bugs

Marigolds, like chrysanthemums, contain chemicals that repel bugs. If you plant them around vegetables that are prone to insect damage (tomatoes are a classic example), the flying critters often don’t bother trying to make their way through the flowers to find the vegetables. A bonus: Insects do not develop a resistance to this method of pest control.

Easy Flower Sugar Cookies

2012-09-14T08:54:00.001-07:00

Flower Petal Shaped Sugar Cookies Tip

Roll a ball of sugar cookie dough in colored sugar.
Snip it in half with scissors and then snip each half into three petals.
Gently spread the petals apart and lay flat.

Easy Flower Sugar Cookies

This is something the kids can even make for mom or grandma. You just take a ball of sugar cookie dough, roll it in colored sugar, and then cut it with kitchen shears to make a flower shape. You end up with a cookie that has a scalloped edge just like a flower.

Lavender

2012-09-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

Lavender

The Lavender plant has been held in high regard for centuries as a washing herb the name Lavender evolved from the Latin lavare, which means, “to wash.” It originated in the Mediterranean basin and it has been used in many ancient cultures. Today Lavender is found worldwide. The fragrance that arises from Lavender and the vibrant color of the flower brings joy to many individuals who encounter with the beauty that radiates from this particular plant.

The beauty of this plant lays many medicinal benefits. Today it is one of the highest used herbs in aromatherapy, herbal medicine, and flower remedies; it has a broad range of healing properties. This plant is a sturdy flowering perennial and is a unique gift to any autoimmune disease healing protocol. The plant, flowers, and seeds all have that distinct lavender smell yet the oil derived from the flowers is the most important medical component. Lavender oil is extracted mostly from the flowers of the lavender plant, primarily through steam distillation. The oil contains several chemicals with healing properties that compliment one another.

source: homesteadsurvival lavender-and-its-loveliness

Medicinal Qualities

The health benefits of lavender oil for the skin can be attributed to its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. It is used to treat various skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations. It helps heals wounds, cuts, and burns. Lavender oil is used for various respiratory problems the oil is either used in the form of vapor or applied on the skin of neck, chest, and back. Lavender is one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin undiluted. It can be added to Chamomile oil to treat eczema It is very effective on insect bites and is known to repel mosquitoes. Lavender essential oil is also an excellent remedy for various types of pains including those caused by sore muscles. A regular massage with lavender oil provides relief from pain in the joints.

Lavender in Aromatherapy

In aromatherapy, lavender is one of the most used essential oils. It can be used in treating depression, insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, and nervousness. It has freshened many beds and linen drawers in its time. Lavender’s antiseptic properties are provided by linalool, which effectively kills bacteria and viruses. The ketones from the oil of the lavender plant have the ability to effectively reduce pain and inflammation and even help induce sleep. The aldehydes in the oils of the lavender plant are responsible for the aroma and the soothing properties.

source: surrealgardening. lavender

Lavender Tea Bread-

Ingredients:

3/4 cup milk

2 Tbsp. dried lavender flowers, finely chopped, or 3 Tbsp. fresh chopped flowers
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
6 Tbsp. butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs

Grease a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Heat milk with lavender almost to a boil, then steep until cool.
Mix flour, baking powder and salt together in bowl.
In another bowl cream butter and gradually add sugar, then eggs, one at a time, beating until light and fluffy.

source: Old-Moss-Womans-Secret-Garden

Natural Mice Repellant

2012-09-14T08:24:00.003-07:00

Natural Mice Repellant

1. Peppermint
Place cotton balls soaked in oil of peppermint or citronella around your home’s foundation, at the spot where you suspect mice are getting in.

2. Dryer Sheets

Certain dryer sheets work well to deter mice like Bounce because of the oleander that the mice do not like, similar to mint and other items that mice dislike.

3. Mothballs
Mothballs also work as a mouse repellent. Place them on the floors in areas where mice commonly pass through such as along baseboards.

4. Clove and Mint
Sachets of clove and mint are effective at getting rid of mice. Be sure to use material that allows the aromas to seep out. Sachets with bay leaves also work wonderfully.

source: HomesteadingSelfSufficiencySurvival

Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

2012-09-14T08:17:00.002-07:00

Fall has arrived and with it, the pumpkin season.

There are always plenty of pumpkins to carve up around Halloween time and a great way to make use of the pumpkin seeds is eat them, salted and toasted. If they are toasted properly they are wonderfully crunchy and easy to eat. It helps if you are going to eat them with the shells on that you use seeds from sugar pumpkins, somewhat smaller than the mega-sized carving pumpkins (not really pumpkins but large squash). The trick? Boil the seeds in salted water first, and then toast them in the oven.

TOASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS

Ingredients

One medium sized pumpkin
Salt
Olive oil

Method

1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut open the pumpkin and use a strong metal spoon to scoop out the insides. Separate the seeds from the stringy core. Rinse the seeds.

2 In a small saucepan, add the seeds to water, about 2 cups of water to every half cup of seeds. Add a half tablespoon of salt for every cup of water (more if you like your seeds saltier). Bring to a boil. Let simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and drain.

3 Spread about a tablespoon of olive oil over the bottom of a roasting pan. Spread the seeds out over the roasting pan, all in one layer. Bake on the top rack until the seeds begin to brown, 10-20 minutes. When browned to your satisfaction, remove from the oven and let the pan cool on a rack. Let the seeds cool all the way down before eating. Either crack to remove the inner seed or eat whole.

SOURCE: http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/toasted_pumpkin_seeds/

Juicy Orange Body Scrub

2012-09-13T10:16:00.001-07:00

JUICY ORANGE BODY SCRUB

1 Cup ( ONLY ONE ) Sea Salt or Sugar
1/4 Cup Coconut Oil
1/4 tsp. Lemon Juice
8-12 Drops Orange Essential Oil

Pour your choice of either Sea Salt or Sugar into a bowl.
Mix in Coconut Oil
Add Lemon Juice
Add 8 drops of for a lighter scent

or 12 drops for a stronger blend.

Mix and put in an airtight container.

Rub in the exfoliating mixture to across your skin gently.

You can rub a little more vigorously over knees, elbows, heels, and any other dry spots.

Rinse with warm water and pat skin dry.

source:

http://homesteadsurvival.blogspot.com/2012/09/juicy-orange-body-scrub-recipe.html

Fats & Oils - Which to Eat

2012-09-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

Using the right fats and oils

is essential to good health

inside and out!

V3 All Natural Weight Loss
source: www.balancedbites.com

Sources of Protein

2012-09-13T09:47:00.003-07:00