OUR ORGANIC PLATFORM

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 10:53:00 +0000

ORGANIC VEG-EGG BURRITO ROLLS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 23 Apr 2016 10:49:00 +0000

This breakfast of burrito rolls recipe is filling food enhanced with proteins carbohydrates and vitamins giving energetic morning/evening time for kids.

Ingredients

 Organic Tortilla (type of soft and thin flatbread made from finely ground organic wheat flour)

 1-2 Organic Eggs beaten

 2 Tablespoons Finely Chopped Organic Parsley

 Organic vegetables finely chopped (carrot, beans, cabbage and onion spring)

 ½ teaspoon Lime Juice

 Shredded Organic Cheese

 1/2 a Cup of soy Sausage

 Organic Pepper and Onions

Directions:

1. Add organic canola oil (or any other) to pan over low heat. Add onions, pepper and stir until the veggies become tender. Add sausage and cook for another minute. Stir well by adding lime juice and parsley. Transfer everything cooked into a bowl. Now it’s time for the eggs.

2. While frying pan is on medium heat, add organic eggs. Stir occasionally.

3. When the eggs are nearly done, add vegetable mix and cheese. Allow the cheese to melt.

4. Add the final mixture in required quantity into a fresh organic tortilla, add salsa and wrap it in burrito roll style. Serve with organic tomato ketchup.

CHICKEN NOODLE POTAGE WITH DILL

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 18:13:00 +0000

Chicken noodle potage with dill is undeniably and aromatic healthy delicious food. Whole-wheat egg noodles adds fiber and nutrients and reduced-sodium chicken broth cuts the sodium by providing healthy protein in your diet.

Low Sodium Chicken Broth

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken pieces
2 stalks, celery includes leaves cut in large pieces
1 medium onion chopped
1 twig rosemary
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 inch sized ginger, chopped
1 tsp black pepper to taste
1.5 ltr water

Preparation: Place all the ingredients in a large stock pot. Bring it to boil, then reduce it on simmer for 1 hr.

Remove the meat from the bones and return the bones and skin to the pot. Save the meat for other recipe.

Allow again to simmer for 2 hours or more. If more concentrated broth required, leave the lid off. When finally done, strain out the vegetables, bones, etc. Makes approximately 10 cups.

Chicken Noodle potage with Dill

Ingredients:

 10 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth (preparation details given above)

 3 medium carrots, diced

 1 large stalk celery, diced

 3 tablespoons minced fresh ginger

 6 cloves garlic, minced

 3cups whole-wheat egg noodles

 4 cups shredded cooked skinless chicken breast

 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

 1 tablespoon lemon juice to taste

Preparation method:

 Bring broth to a boil. Add carrots, celery, ginger and garlic.

 Cook uncovered over medium heat until vegetables are just tender for about 20 minutes.

 Add noodles and chicken and simmer until the noodles are just tender for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir by adding dill and lemon juice.

Makes: 6 servings, about 1 1/2 cups each
Active Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

ORGANIC CHICKEN BROWN RICE WITH BROCCOLI

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 12:11:00 +0000

Organic chicken and brown rice contains lots of nutritive value where as broccoli is known as immune booster.

Ingredients

 200g trimmed broccoli

 1 chicken breast diced

 2 Tablespoon Organic olive Oil

 1 inch ginger shredded

 4 garlic cloves sliced

 1 White onion chopped

 1 Green bell pepper chopped

 3 Cups cooked brown rice

 1 teaspoon sea salt

 ¼ teaspoon pepper

Directions

1. Steam the broccoli florets for 10 minutes and set aside.

2. Cook soaked brown rice in a separate bowl and drain.

3. Heat the oil in a nonstick pan and add the onion and bell pepper.

4. Cook for about 10 min or till the onion turns translucent.

5. Add chicken and other ingredients and stir till the chicken is cooked.

6. Turn off the heat. Stir with cooked rice and broccoli.

7. Delicious chicken brown rice with broccoli is ready.

ORGANIC MILK

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 16 Apr 2016 13:58:00 +0000

Organic milk is defined by the USDA as milk from cows that have been exclusively fed organic feed without been treated with pesticides, fertilizers and hormones.

The health benefits of organic milk include having higher levels of omega 3 fatty acids and CLA, antioxidants and vitamins than conventional milk. Milk is one of the most important components of our diet as its consumption ensures healthy growth and development. Conventional dairies use different types of chemicals in milk production resulting contamination of these chemicals in milk alarming health issues.

Organic milk has higher concentration of antioxidants like vitamin E, lutein and zeaxanthin than non-organic milk. These antioxidants are effective in preventing eye diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Intake of organic milk provides symptomatic relief to those suffering from colon cancer.

Presence of Beta carotene is useful in increasing eyesight, resistance to infections, good skin, bone growth, reproduction and gene expression.

Organic milk also contains up to 70 percent more Omega-3 fatty acids than regular milk. Much of the organic cow´s diet consists of red clover, which is rich in Omega-3 and other valuable nutrients.

More Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) increases the body’s metabolic rate, immunity, and muscle growth. It also reduces abdominal fat, cholesterol, and allergic reactions. Human body cannot produce this substance and most of CLA intake happens through the milk and milk products that is consumed. Safer the milk higher the nutrient level found.

List of Top 10 organic milk brands 2015

1. Organic Valley

The Organic Valley is the popular brand all over the world offering wide range of products like protein shakes, cream, butter, cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, etc. Even in milk wide range of flavors like grass milk, lactose free, half and half, skim, low fat, chocolate, shelf-stable, whole milk, single serve, omega 3 are available. All the products are produced with proper care and attention ensuring quality of the products. Kids will love the creamy and tasty flavor of milk.

2. Trader’s Joe

The Trader’s Joe products are of great quality with reasonable price. It does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. Hence, great for children. These products are packed with latest technologies to preserve longer shelf life. Trader’s Joe gives 12 different delicious products out of its organic milk.

3. Darigold

People from all around the world are aware of Darigold as it is one among the most popular organic milk brands offering wholesome dairy products. The milk from Darigold contains nine essential nutrients that help in growth and development of children thus it could be finest choice for families. They provide excellent nutrition vital for the children to build immunity and strength. On the whole it serves all the important elements needed to the body to stay healthy and active.

4. Safeway

The Safeway organic milk products are one among the leading organic milk brands available in market which makes use of wholesome and natural ingredients to provide best for the consumers. They are tastier and nutritive enabling kids to gain all the vital elements required for their growth. They have wide range of products like cheese, frozen yogurt, butter, etc. They are produced with good care ensuring the quality and finest range of products.

5. Horizon Organic

The Horizon Organic milk products are popular among kids because of the tasty and creamy chocolate flavor. Horizon provides wide range of milk like vanilla flavored milk, whole milk, low fat, strawberry flavored, lactose free, reduced fat with DHA Omega 3, fat free milk, cream, cheese, egg, yogurt, butter. This organic milk brand can be a good choice for both adult and children.

6. Wegmans

The Wegmans is the popular Company offering organic dairy products all around the world. They produce milk with rich and creamier flavor thus kids love to consume. They are produced in the Midwest and bottled using ultra high temperature pasteurization to give milk a longer shelf life since it moves across the country. They are processed with proper care and attention ensuring the quality of the product.

7. Shamrock Farms

The Shamrock Farms is one of the leading organic milk brands in world market engaged in production and distribution of dairy products to different countries with hygienically packed. Their products include calcium plus milk, on the go milk, family size, specialty milk, cream, cottage cheese, frozen treats kid’s products etc. All dairy products are prepared using natural and wholesome ingredients promoting the nutritional content.

8. Stonyfield

The Stonyfield is one of the best organic milk brands available in the market that does not contain any artificial ingredients. This brand offers wide range of milk products such as whole milk, fat free, low fat, reduced fat, etc. These are delicious, creamy, tasty and rich in nutritional content.

9. Dean Foods

The Dean Foods is an American company that specializes in dairy products. The nation’s largest distributor of fluid milk which have more than 50 dairy brands. Dean foods survive in the market for more than 100 years offering wholesome, great testing dairy products. They have their manufacturing and retail units all over the world.

10. Clover

The Clover is one of the popular organic milk brands available in the market which offers wide range of products like cheese, eggs, butter, reduced fat milk, sour cream, fat free yogurt, low fat dairy products and more. They provide low sodium products ensuring safe in hypertensive patients. They are tastier and are rich in nutritional content.

HONEY GINGER MIXED COOKIES

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 15 Apr 2016 14:36:00 +0000

Organic ingredients in this recipe are filled with whole some nutrition and immune booster which gives a healthy start for kids.

Organic ingredients

 3 cups teff flour

 2/3 cup vegetable oil

 2/3 cup honey

 2 tablespoons finely grated fresh ginger

 1 tablespoon baking

 1 tablespoon arrowroot

 1 teaspoon vanilla

 1 teaspoon cinnamon

 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375˚C. Spread lightly oil on a cookie sheet and set aside.

2. Place all the ingredients in a large bowl. Stir well to form moist dough.

3. Knead the dough and shape into walnut sized balls. Place these balls on the cookie sheet

about 3 inch apart. Flatten them gently and give a slight prick with a fork.

4. Bake for 15 minutes or until they lose their shine and become slight brown crispy look.

5. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ORGANIC FOOD

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 12:17:00 +0000

Organic Food

Foods that are grown or raised without the use of synthetic chemicals like fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, additives, coloring agent, genetic manipulation, exposure to radiation and complying with the U.S.D.A. Standard National Organic Programme.

Organic consumption continues to increase as consumers seek healthier foods consisting greater nutritional value. Organic food varieties do provide greater levels of Vitamin C, iron, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus. They also tend to provide higher levels of anti-oxidant phytochemicals like flavonoids and carotenoids.

Organic food is gaining popularity for enhancing physical and mental health.In addition people with allergies to foods, chemicals or preservatives often find solution in organic foods.

Health benefits of organic food:

 Antioxidant effect

Researchers have found that organic fruits and vegetables are higher in natural anti-oxidants compared to conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. Plants acquire natural disease fighting abilities, which may lie muted by the use of germicides and pesticides. Since organic farming does not use any chemicals resulting in higher levels of anti-oxidant in organic foods rich in antioxidants such as lycopene in tomatoes, polyphenols and flavonols in other fruits, vegetables and honey.

Recent research suggests that choosing an organic food leads to increased intake of higher antioxidants and reduced exposure to toxic heavy metals.

 Effect on Heart

Increased amount of time grazing on grass also increases the amounts of CLA conjugated linoleic acid that can be found in the animal products. CLA is a heart-healthy fatty acid that can boost cardiovascular protection, and it is found in higher quantities in dairy products and meats in animals that have been raised organically. Organic foods containing CLA are nuts, olives,

Brussels sprouts, salmon, green tea, blue berries, whole grains, chia seeds, avocados, apples, spinach, raisin etc.

 Effect on Immune System

Research have proved that genetically modified food and chemical content in foods showed major reduction in immunity, increased birth mortality, certain sexual dysfunctions, cancers and allergies. Strengthening the immune system with organic boosting foods is vital in being able to fight disease causing cells.

The nutrients to be immune boosters are beta-carotene, vitamin C, E, spices and proteins which are found in higher levels in chemical free, non modified organic food.

 Antibiotic Resistance

People are very sensitive with their health by taking precautions to remain healthy, like taking vaccines and antibiotics as soon as new strain of bacteria arrives. However, non-organic food sources, particularly livestock and feed houses also use antibiotics to feed their animals to prevent them from diseases. This extra dose of antibiotics may actually weaken immune system by enhancing antibiotic resistance.

Hence Organic foods do not use antibiotics in their processes and are the ultimate choice to prevent antibiotic resistance.

 Effect on Mental health

Nearly all pesticides functions by harming the nervous system. Eating foods that were grown by agribusiness results in intake of neurotoxins and gradually poisoning nervous system.Organophosphorus is an unnatural mineral compound that is harmful to humans, but more than 80% of this in our bodies comes from ingesting pesticide-coated foods. Organophosphorus is a

pesticide which crosses blood brain barrier leading to developmental problems, including autism and ADHD in children.

Studies conducted on children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and adult ADHD recommend the use of organic diet. Since, organic food ensures that food products are herbicide, pesticide, and fungicide free and help eliminate the toxins in patients with ADHD, which lead to symptoms such as restlessness, aggressive behavior and lack of concentration.Organic food is free from additives such as artificial flavoring, sweeteners, preservatives,hydrogenated fat and phosphoric acid. These additives are some of the main culprits for hyperactive disorders amongst the children. With its high nutrient content, organic food improves mental health by promoting better alertness, sharper memory and fewer mood swings.

 Organic food in Weight Loss

Foods which are chemically treated and genetically modified may cause expanding waistlines and obesity epidemic in our modern world.Organic diet helps to keep these toxins controlled compared to toxins from various conventionally farmed foods is bound to affect body’s natural metabolism resulting in storing inorganic ingredients as fat and only the digestible organic food is used for fuel and energy.Consuming organic food is an essential to keep body metabolize easily resulting increased fitness levels.

 Calories in Organic Food

Organic food calories may not differ significantly from conventional produce per serving.However, food calories per serving are naturally more nutritive therefore; smaller quantities will fill up the calories improving health and fitness.

 Organic Food for Kids

Organic food for babies also includes milk and dairy products such as cheese, butter and yogurt, which provide them hormone free options. Children need higher nutritional foods to aid their growth and development. Growing children and teens require more food for energy and development compared to conventional foods which are more susceptible to toxins than adults.

Consuming organic foods assures additional vitamins, minerals, fiber and other necessary nutrients per serving and lack of toxins and additives makes organic food for kids less hazardous.Both physically and mentally, organic foods provide disease fighting abilities, stronger immune systems, healthy bones and muscles.For convalescing children and adults organic food is the best choice to improve their health.

HOW ORGANIC IS ORGANIC FOOD

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 07:22:00 +0000

Organic food is defined as food items that are produced without the use of synthetic substances such as Antibiotics, artificial growth hormones, artificial dyes, artificial sweeteners, synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, genetically engineered substances, irradiation etc, by following standards of USDA standard national organic program.

The development of organic standards is designed for consumers to provide standard process that establishes trust in consumer to reflect high quality standard in organic food production.

USDA certification:

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) certification is the process through which consumers are assured that a product marketed as "organic" is in compliance with production and handling requirements set forth by USDA regulations.
An organic food product is considered organic only when the following conditions are met;

1. Organic food contains USDA Organic Seal:

The USDA Organic Seal is the seal or label that is affixed to certified USDA organic food products.

There are two levels of certified products that are allowed for USDA Organic Seal.

 100% USDA certified organic products are made by 100% organic ingredients and display the USDA Organic Seal.

 Organic products made with at least 95% organic ingredients may wear the USDA Organic Seal. Any product mentioning less than 95% certified organic ingredients may not have USDA Organic Seal.

2. Organic food product has been certified organic:

To be certified as organic, food products need to come from farms and processing plants that are certified as an organic. Certified label ensure that organic farms are up to USDA organic standards inspected by certified government officials.

The National Organic Program (NOP) recognizes private business, organizations and State agencies who will certify organic producers and handlers. NOP helps to locate an agency by providing an easy search listing of all agencies.

3. Food products mentions organic ingredients:

Organic foods that are labeled as “100 % Organic” contain all organically grown ingredients except added water and salt.

Organic foods that are labeled as “Organic” contain at least 95 % organic ingredients except for added water and salt.

Label that claims “Made with Organic Ingredients” contain at least 70 % organic ingredients except for added water and salt. They must not contain any added sulfites, and up to 30 % of the ingredients may be non-organically produced.

Food products made with less than 70 % organic ingredients may state which ingredients are organic, but cannot claim to be organic food products.

Apart from knowing organic producer and food labels, here is some quick list on how to identify organic foods

1. They do not usually look flawless like supermarket varieties which have gone through a number of synthetic processes. Blemishes and uneven sizes are common in organic fruits and vegetables which do not mean that such food items are not fresh.

2. Organic fruits and vegetables usually have a stronger, bolder taste compared to conventionally produce ones.

3. Organic foods have a distinct and natural smell. At times the supermarket varieties smell faintly of chemicals.

4. Organic foods are usually more expensive than commercial foods or non-organic foods because they are not as readily available as other foods.

ORGANIC FRUITS AND ALMOND BUTTER PANCAKE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 10:37:00 +0000

This is an awesome healthy recipe filled with proteins and vitamin for kids who are constantly craving something sweet in the morning.

Ingredients

 1 Cup of Organic Almond Butter

 4 Organic Eggs

 1 tea spoon of vanilla extract

 ½ cup organic yogurt

 ½ tea spoon baking soda

 1 banana

 20 blue berries

 2-3 Tablespoons of Organic Strawberry Jam

 Organic Coconut Oil

Directions:

1. Mix the eggs, almond/peanut butter, yogurt, fruits, baking soda, vanilla extract and strawberry jam in a bowl.

2. Blend all the ingredients together until smooth and uniform batter is obtained.

3. Pour batter on nonstick pan and cook on both sides until lightly golden brown.

4. Serve with strawberry jam and blue berries as toppings.

ORGANIC ALMOND AND COCONUT BREAD WITH BANANA

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 08:05:00 +0000

Kids who love banana and almonds will enjoy this yummy bread. It is rich in protein, fiber and healthy fat.

Ingredients

 2 cups coconut flour

 ½ cup Almond flour

 1-2 cup organic dark brown sugar

 ½ teaspoon baking soda

 1 teaspoon fine salt

 ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder

 1-2 cup organic almond milk or organic coconut milk

 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar

 2 cups mashed banana

 ¼ cup canola oil

 1 table spoon maple syrup

 1 teaspoon organic vanilla extract

 1 cup fresh blueberries

 ¼ cup chopped almonds

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350˚C. Spray oil in loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond or coconut milk, coconut flour, almond flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and vinegar.

3. Mix mashed banana, canola oil, maple syrup, and organic vanilla extract, until they are well mixed. Stir blueberries and chopped almond pieces into the mixture.

4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

5. Bake until the tester (knife or a rod) inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean, or for about 1 hour. Cool for 15 minutes. Remove the loaf from the pan and leave it to cool completely.

6. Delicious cake is ready to serve.

ORGANIC BUSINESS IDEAS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 17:36:00 +0000

Organic business is an activity dealing with the manufacturing, supplying and distribution of commodities which are organically produced by following organic standards.

Criteria for starting an organic business:

An organic business consists of several core elements that are interlinked with each other. Basic requirements for organic business need farmers who are not only producers but also involved in post-harvest operations by bringing the product together and ensuring the organic integrity and the quality of production. Farmers are partners in business, depending on the set-up of the business and they can even be owners or shareholders of the business. An organic business requires a higher level of management than in a conventional agri-business of the same type and size.

Organic business is not a one-man/woman business. There must be a certain number of staff that needs to be managed (recruitment, employment contracts, training, incentives, etc.). The quality of staffs determines the success of the enterprise, whether it is cooperative or private company.The management has responsibility to ensure that the system works as per the plan implemented and is also responsible for the enterprise strategic development. Management also represents business to the outside world by developing linkage and alliances with other shareholders.

The most important thing when starting a business of any kind is by spending lot of time thinking about the kind of business to set up. Choosing any organic business from setting up an organic farm to selling organic foods, organic clothing, bedding or beauty products etc, is found to be more profit gaining business.

Types of organic products:

The types of organic products include crops (grains, vegetables, fruits, herbs) and animal products such as meat, milk, fish honey. Many other processed organic foods like oil, sugar, sweets, desserts, bread, wine, food additives, etc have gained importance in market.

There are non organic products includes animal feed, fertilizers, clothing fibers, natural pesticide, insecticides, dye, repellent, cut flower, potted flower, leather, wood and cosmetic products. Through all these items organic products covers all requirements of healthy lifestyle. The demand for organically grown foods and non organic products are growing rapidly thereby choosing an organic business is a profitable idea in this era.

Types of organic Business

1. Organic farming

Organic farming is a method of farming which primarily involves cultivating the land and raising crops, soil fertility health by use of organic waste from crop, animal and farm wastes, aquatic wastes and other biological materials along with beneficial microbes (biofertilizers) to release nutrients into the crops avoiding use of synthetic insecticides, pesticides, additives, etc, for increased sustainable production in an eco friendly environment.

The growing organic food and fiber market offers export opportunities for developing countries and plays an important role in reducing poverty in rural areas as well by increasing employment rate.Organic products includes all varieties of food products namely Sugarcane, Cotton, Oil Seeds, rice, Pulses, Spices, Tea, Fruits, Dry fruits, Vegetables, Coffee and their value added products. The production non-edible includes fertilizers, organic clothing fibers, leather, wood etc.

2. Organic poultry farming :

Organically grown foods are in high demand as people are becoming increasingly aware of the ill effects of synthetic foods. Many people are concerned on hygienic food especially non-veg because of diseases and illnesses linked to commercial non-veg foods

Organic chicken are believed to be healthier meat choice as non organic chickens are exposed to harmful chemicals harming human body by altering hormonal balance and increasing antibiotic resistance.

Hence, choosing an organic poultry business is profitable business across the globe where there is production of safe organic meat and organic eggs fulfilling increasing demands of the market.

3. Organic Fish Farming

Search for healthier food alternatives has created more demands even for organically grown fish. This demand for organic food extends to aquatic foods such as fish, shrimp and other sea foods. However, there is much attention given to organic fish farming in the last several years for producing organic fish oil.

Organic fish farming completely requires adherence to specific standards of farming in terms of location, production, health of the fish, breeding, nutrition and harvesting.

4. Organic Livestock Production

Organic production is one of the fastest growing sectors of the food and agricultural industry.

Organic livestock includes animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, bees, swine and poultry animals.Organic livestock is used for the production of food, fiber, feed or other agricultural based consumer products.

To start an organic live stock business qualification for organic certification is required.Livestock owners must follow a strict set of rules such as animals graze, organic land, feed and animals must be raised without the use of harmful antibiotics or hormones.When all the criteria are fulfilled the livestock production business would be the largest profit earning business.

5. Organic Food & Beverages

Organic Food (Fruits, vegetables, meat, fish and poultry products, dairy products, frozen, processed foods, etc) and Organic beverages (Non-dairy beverages, coffee, tea, beer, wine and others organic foods are produced using animals and environment friendly farming methods.

Almost all the foods and beverages with few exceptions can be certified as organic.Since organic food products are increasing its importance making its sale growing at an impressive rate.

Food and beverages that can be certified organic include whole fresh produced coffee, tea, edible flowers, wild crops, grains, meat, milk, egg, fish, alcohol, etc, and processed organic food items such as pizza, jam, breads etc, are increasing its demand in the business world.

6. Organic Herbs and Flowers

A home-based organic herbal business is a great business opportunity that benefits the environment while filling customers’ lives with good health, delicious flavors and great aroma.Many herbs can be easily and intensively grown. Hence it is possible to start a successful herb business with relatively a small plot of land such as suburban backyard.

There are many different ways to make business in herbs. Direct sales would be the most profitable in smaller business. Whereas selling fresh or dried cut herbs to local restaurants or grocery stores, selling potted herbal plants to local nurseries, selling directly to consumers at farms or at local farmers market would also be profitable.

In addition to cut herbs and herb plants, there are many business opportunities for value added products including herbs. These include essential oils and aromatherapy, herbal sachets, herbal bouquets, herbal teas, herbal seasonings and blends for cooking, food products such as pesto or herb-infused oils, herbal medicinal products etc.

Flowers and plants are becoming a popular category in organic business. Whether it is a wedding party, birthday, New Baby celebration, Passing of Life, Memorial Service or a thinking to gift someone and other eco-friendly events where people want fresh organic cut flowers with unique seasonal arrangements from locally grown flowers using organic flower gardening.

Few organic herbs and flowers are Artemisias, Basils, Butterfly, Mints, Oreganos, Rockroses, Rosemary, Roses, lily, Sages, Scented Geraniums, Strawberry Plants, Thymes, Vegetable Plants , Yarrow, wheat grass etc.

7. Organic Restaurants & Foodservice business

Organic restaurants are a growing class in organic business. Since organic food is gaining popularity, there is some good opportunity for growth in organic restaurant sector. In fact recent consumer survey shows that consumers are willing ready to pay more for organic and eco-friendly dining.

8. Organic Textile business

Organic textiles and eco-apparel fabrics have become a major trend in the world of fashion and home decor. From organic cloth baby diapers to all natural clothing, eco-friendly organic bedding and household upholstery has been a tremendous consumer shift in favor green products.

Organic baby clothes, bedding and other textiles are especially appealing for the delicate and sensitive skin. Some examples of eco-fabrics and organic textiles include organic cotton, linen, hemp, soy and bamboo textiles.

Today there is a rising need for chemical free clothes for new born to bring them up hygienically. Since it is made from organic fiber including dye and coloring are certified under Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS). Starting with an organic clothing business sector is a great idea.

9. Organic Toys

Organic baby toys is becoming very popular business as parents worry more about the chemicals their children are exposed from commercial toys. These toys are made from certified organic materials such as cotton and wool.

There is also demand on organic crafty toys, such as play dough and paints made from certified organic materials.

Blooming in organic baby toy business will also be a business of good income.

10. Body Care Products

Harmful ingredients used frequently in manufacturing common non-organic skin care products includes Mercury, Dioxane, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Alcohol, Isopropyl, Polyethylene Glycol.Most of these compounds are easily absorbed into the skin causing harmful effects to the body. Since organic products are popular for enhancing eco green living there is no wonder that organic skin care products are increasing in demand as well.

Increased awareness in health and wellbeing has created a great demand for organic soaps, lotions, skin care products and organic fragrances. Natural and organic skin care products packed beautifully makes them wonderfully appear.

Business of natural organic skin care products started slowly with minimal start up costs. Like any business, there are specific legal, marketing and accounting criteria that have to be cleared before a start up.

ORGANIC BROCCOLI AND ALMOND SMOOTHIE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 18:30:00 +0000

Organic broccoli and almond smoothie makes an excellent healthy and delicious food filled with wholesome protein, vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

 680g broccoli added with 1 tbsp salt/vinegar for disinfecting

 1⁄2 cup ground almonds

 3 cups vegetable stock

 1 cups almond milk

 Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Method

Cut broccoli into a small florets.

Boil water and pour over broccoli with salt/vinegar cover it for 10 minutes.

Drain water if broccoli is tender.

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C.

Spread ground almonds uniformly on baking sheet/tray.

Toast the almonds until golden brown. Reserve small part of the toasted almonds for garnishing.

Blend cooked broccoli, remaining almonds, stock and milk until smooth.

Season with toasted almond, salt and pepper to taste.

Makes: 2 servings, about 1 1/2 cups each

Total Time: 20 minutes

ORGANIC CLOTHING

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 03 Dec 2015 06:15:00 +0000

Organic clothing is natural clothing made from materials raised in or grown from organically grown crops in compliance with certified under The Global Organic Textile Standard.(GOTS)

Types of Organic clothing:

The most commonly used materials for organic fabrics include cotton, hemp, linen,wool,silk,bamboo, Kapok, Buckwheat, soy fiber etc.

These materials are from 100% naturally occurring resources, which do not harm environment, or the workforce as long as they are farmed according to sustainable and organic practices preventing from insecticide, pesticide, fungicide or other chemicals..

Organic Cotton

 Cotton is a plant-based natural fiber are obtained from organic cotton plants grown from non-genetically-modified seeds and are cultivated without the use of toxic synthetic fertilizers, fungicides and pesticides.

 Organic cotton is the most popular type of organic fabric. It is soft in texture, breathable, durable and absorbent in nature makes comfortable to wear in all climatic condition.

 Organic cotton is helpful for sensitive skin as it is free from allergens or toxic substances as found in conventional cotton.

 Organic cotton is naturally colored – they come in red, yellow, mauve and orange colour that doesn’t fade with time.

Organic Hemp

 Hemp is a plant-based natural fiber which is about 8 times stronger and 14 times more durable than cotton fiber and valued for its strength, durability and blocking ultra violet rays.

 Hemp is also more absorbent and mildew resistant compared to cotton. The hemp plant also grows much faster than the cotton plant

 Organic hemp has several colours like cream white, grey, brown, black and green.

 Organic cultivation methods are used to produce hemp fibers that are softer, more elastic and finer. Organic hemp clothing also sheds dirt readily makes washing hemp clothes easier.

 Organic hemp fibers can be spun and woven in a fine, crisp, linen-like fabric and used for apparel, home furnish and carpet making. Hemp has anti-mildew and anti-microbial properties making it as an excellent solution for shower curtains, rain apparel and floor coverings.

Organic Wool

 Organic wool is an animal-based fiber obtained mainly from sheep, goats and camels reared organically.

 Organic wool acts as an eco friendly clothing fiber having ability to maintain comfortable body temperature in all seasons.

 Another reason to choose wool is because it is hypoallergenic and resistant to bacteria, mold, and mildew, which trigger allergic reactions in some people.

 Wool is also a natural flame retardant as it requires a much higher temperature than cotton to catch fire,

 Wool has the added benefit of being fire-resistant as it requires a much higher temperature than cotton to catch fire, and when burnt, it forms a char which self-insulates and self-extinguishes. Wool is often used in uniforms for firemen.

Kapok

 Kapok fiber is silky cotton like substance that surrounds the seeds in the pods of the ceiba pentandra tree primarily found in Asia. These trees grow naturally in the wild making it a sustainable resource.

 The silky kapok fiber, or floss, is a tiny cellulose tube with air sealed inside and it is ideal

for stuffing life preservers and other water-safety equipment as it is not manufactured as thread or fabric as the fibers are too fragile.

 It is eight times lighter than cotton and due to its vacuum fibers it makes an extremely efficient thermal insulator.

 Kapok fiber is lightweight, non allergic, nontoxic, durable, odorless and hypoallergenic.

Buckwheat / Millet Hulls

 Buckwheat and millet grow extremely fast and are naturally resistant to insects hence doesn’t require pesticides during cultivation.

 Buckwheat or millet hull pillows are made into mold to contour the head, neck, and shoulders exactly.

 Sleeping with a buckwheat or millet hull pillow elevates head for proper alignment and holds neck or head with steady gentle support helps eliminating stiff neck, shoulder pain,back pain, restlessness, headaches etc.

 Buckwheat hull filling gives cooling effect in the summer and warmness in the winter and has insulating properties lasting for many years.

Organic Silk

 Silk is a fiber with remarkable 3,000-years of history in clothing.

 A silkworm that eats only organic mulberry leaves will produce much higher quality silk filament that is free of any harmful pesticide residues.

 Organic silk is most hypoallergenic of all fabrics because of its natural protein structure.

 Organic silk is warm and cozy in winter without being bulky underneath and comfortably cool in warm temperature.

 It is highly absorbent as it can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp, so it absorbs perspiration while letting skin breathe.

 It is relatively robust and strong as its smooth surface resists soil and odors well.

 It is durable and wrinkle free, and dries quickly.

 It takes colour well and mixes well with other animal and vegetable fibers.

 This strong and long-lasting fiber is used in making luxurious apparel, bed linens and pillow batting.

Soy Fibers

 Soy is another plant-based fiber derived from the hulls of soybeans. These hulls are in turn food-manufacturing by-products where the hulls left over from soybeans food production are actually used in making the soy fibers organically.

 Soy fabrics has soft, silky and elastic feel. They are moisture absorbent, anti-bacterial and UV resistant.

 Eco friendly clothing made from soy is also biodegradable hence minimize pollution when discarded.

Flax (linen)

 Linen is a material made organically from the fibers of the flax plant.

 Organic linen can absorb and lose water rapidly removing perspiration from the skin.

 It is good conductor of heat as in winter it keeps the heat in and during summer it feels cool to touch by creating coolness and comfort.

 Easy care, soft, durable, wrinkle free, temperature resistant, blocks UV rays and doesn’t fade with time...

 Organic linen is strongest vegetable fibers having 2 to 3 times the strength of cotton and long lasting.

 Linen possesses anti-bacterial and anti- fungal activity thus protecting the clothing by microbial attack and preventing skin diseases.

Bamboo Fabric:

 Heavily pulped bamboo grass is used in making bamboo fabrics as it grows faster without the need of pesticides or agrochemicals.

 Bamboo clothing is comfortable and breathable, wick away moisture at twice the rate of conventional cotton and dries quickly.

 Is hypoallergenic and has natural antimicrobial property designed to inhibit the growth of microbes that cause odor, helping to protect from perspiration, staining, and keeping clothing look great for longer.

 Is softer than cotton with a texture and luster similar to silk, it is washable and can be worn for long since it keeps cool in summer and warm in winter.

 Is easy to dye without using harsh chemicals and biodegradable.

LYOCELL (Tencel)

 Lyocell is a fabric mostly known by its brand name Tencel®. It is made from cellulose (vegetable matter) or wood pulp (typically a mix of hardwood trees such as oak,birch or eucalyptus) grown organically.

 It is soft, durable, robust and good absorbent.

 It is also wrinkle free, washable and fade free.

Characteristics of organic clothing:

 These are made from non-petroleum-derived fibers that are already occurring naturally in the environment and are biodegradable.

 These plant and animal sources are usually renewable and are cultivated under controlled settings organic farming techniques.

 These are not processed with any harmful or synthetic chemicals.

 Manufactured with less water and energy requirement by producing less waste and pollution.

 Organic clothing’s are manufactured in processes that use renewable energy sources like solar energy or wind energy instead of non renewable energy like coal, etc.

Benefits of Organic Clothing

 Skin is the largest organ of the body and toxins used on your clothes will be absorbed into your lymph system. Clothes that have been treated with chemicals and materials that were treated with pesticides can have quite a bit of toxins on them.

 Adults and children’s developing allergies and chemical sensitivities to these toxins are benefited from organic cotton clothing since conventional clothing can retain many harmful chemical residues.

 Skin allergies are becoming relatively common in babies as because babies have very delicate and sensitive skin. Babies skin loses moisture faster compared to adult skin and three times thinner making the skin more susceptible to harmful irritants and bacteria that can lead to infections and skin problems. Babies skin is also very porous and absorbs chemicals more easily therefore it is important to ensure the safe clothing.

 Organic clothing is ideal choice for any baby because they are not harsh on the skin and does not cause allergies, rashes or irritation to the skin.

 Organic clothing is the only clothing that will not put their developing mind and body at risk from toxic side effects caused by chemicals. Organic cotton kids and baby clothing is breathable and hypoallergenic.

 Babies could also be protected by using an organic crib mattress made with organically grown wool and mattress made with natural rubber instead of petroleum-based foam, which can release toxic gases into room potentially creating respiratory problems.

 Organic baby clothing’s are gentle, soft, lightweight, breathable, absorbent and anti-microbial in nature. Hence organic clothing’s are ideal choice for kids and babies.

ORGANIC FISH FARMING

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 14:53:00 +0000

Organic fish farming is a method of fish farming technique used to avoid the problems associated with conventional systems of fish farming. This method of fish farming avoids the use of inorganic chemicals, hormones, antibiotics etc, thus keeping fish safe and healthy.

Benefits of organic fish farming

 Organic fish farming keeps environment healthy to produce safe food & secure public health.

 To ensure safe organic fish production by avoiding food safety hazards caused by the use of organic fertilizers, agriculture lime, natural crop products as feed ingredients like rice bran, soya bean oil cake, mastered oil cake, rape seed meal, coconut oil cake, maize, wheat etc.

 It enhances use of organic preservatives during storage and prevents use of pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, DDT, formalin, matrix, zeolite, antibiotics, growth promoters,inorganic preservatives etc.

Methods of organic fish farming

The Cage method: This is a simple method of farming which many fish farmers use. In this method a cage or pen made of plastic pipes or net is tied into any body of water. The fish in the cages are kept separate from the rest of the pond, lake, or river and fed with organic feed until they reach the right size for harvesting.

Greenhouse aquaculture

Greenhouse aquaculture: If the area where the temperatures are extreme and too cold for fish farming, then this method of farming is employed. This method regulates and filters the water quality by adding plants to the system and helps in growing variety of different fish including catfish, trout, tilapia and bass. However, this method could be complicated and needs high supervision and management components such as water pumps, water heaters and organic nutrient supply and special care.

Flow-through aquaculture: This method of farming uses a flowing body of water such as streams or rivers and diverts the flowing water into raceways for raising and holding the fish.Even a small amount of water helps in growing and raising large amount of fish all year round.

Home re-circulating aquaculture: This is an ideal method for home fish growers who rely on their home pond and a hose pipe for growing and raising fish. This method helps the manufacturer to use an in-ground pond, an above ground vinyl lined swimming pool or an indoor swimming pool in the basement since vinyl lined swimming pools are durable and stable for few years.

Criteria for organic farming:

 The facility which is used in organic fishery production should be constructed in a region that is not affected negatively from conventional production units having strong water currents and are far from polluting and stressing elements.

 Beside the organic fish farming unit a part of the facility field should be kept for natural vegetation.

 The water sources like stream, river etc, should be of high quality and continues its ecological functions in its natural bed.

 It is need to take measures to prevent fish from entering the region from nature and fleeing. For this purpose, individual branding, cage and pool designing can be utilized.

 In organic fishery production, farm wastes should not be released in amounts that affect biological diversity negatively or cause pollution.

 The organic left over amount that come outs from feeding and excrements should be observed regularly and water released from system and water in the pool should be analyzed every 3 or 4 months.

 Another important aspect is the usage of hormone is not allowed in organic culture even if it is obtained from the same species.

 Usage of the hormones stimulating growth, synthetic appetizers, synthetic colouring and identical to natural pigments is prohibited.

 In the baits used in organic fishery production, synthetic products such as blood meal of animal origin, bone flour or baits having chemical treatments cannot be used.

 The baits and other foods shouldn’t include products having or obtained by charging it genetically or from them partly, additives and complementary substances.

 Baits should consist only of products produced organically and/or commodities received from nature.

 In organic culture use of fish flour obtained from same species, farm fish, terrestrial animals such as birds, mammals and from nutrients derived by solvent extraction (e.g.hexane) is forbidden.

 If the producer cannot supply all of the food substances from organic agriculture, it is allowed to use under the control of an authorized organization on condition that the rate of conventional baits will not exceed 20% and for a limited time.

Health Benefits of organic fish:

 Organic fish is highly nutritious food and an excellent source of nutrients.

 Fish is an important source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and B2 (riboflavin). Fish is rich in calcium and phosphorus and a great source of minerals such as iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium, potassium and selenium. These essential nutrients keep our heart and brain healthy.

 The essential fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

 These essential fatty acids are not synthesized by the body hence they should be obtained through food.

 Omega-3 fatty acids are found in all kind of fish, but are especially high in fatty fish such as salmon, trout, sardines, herring, canned mackerel, canned light tuna, oysters, etc.

 Organic fish are free from harmful chemicals, mercury and other non organic compounds as the organic fish farming is strictly follow the standard criteria during fish farming.

Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

 Helps to maintain a healthy heart by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart attack, strokes and death due to heart disease. Hence it is called as food for healthy heart.

 Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for growth and development because it accumulates in the
developing brain and eye for this reason, it is often recommended for expecting and nursing
mothers to eat enough omega-3 fatty acids.

 Omega-3 fatty acids present in fish helps in healthy brain function and provide protection against vision impairment and blindness in old age

 Fish consumption reduces the risk of autoimmune diseases, including type-1 diabetes, depression, ADHD, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

 It also prevents inflammation and reduces the risk of arthritis.

 Hence consuming organic fish are the ultimate choice as it is free from mercury and other harmful chemical residues.

ORGANIC COCONUT OIL

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 27 Nov 2015 18:48:00 +0000

Organic coconut oil is an edible oil and excellent source of energy. Research showed that it is the only food source that contains medium chain triglycerides. When coconut oil is consumed the triglycerides in it are absorbed into the liver thereby converting them to energy.

Organic coconut oil is highly nutritious and contains caprylic acid, capric acid, and lauric acid. These fatty acids are considered as healthier saturated fat because it is medium-chain triglycerides which are easily absorbed by the body. It is also rich in vitamins, fibers and minerals.

Coconut oil is praised for its various healing properties and believed to be the cure of all illnesses and is so highly treasured in referring coconut palm as “The Tree of Life.”

Organic coconut oil is extracted from the kernel of matured coconuts obtained from coconut palms raised only on organic manure without synthetic fertilizers, insecticides or genetically modified additives. The production of organic coconut oil avoids any chemical in extraction or processing.

Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Effect on Heart

 Organic coconut oil contains essential fatty acids that do not accumulate in heart or arteries and prevent increase in LDL levels.

 The medium chained triglycerides helps in lowering high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

 Organic coconut oil improves cholesterol ratio thus reducing risk of heart disease.

 It prevents atherosclerosis by protecting arteries.

 Organic coconut oil plays a key role in maintaining weight and losing weight in all areas of the body.

 Organic coconut oil is a natural blood thinner.

 High levels of bad cholesterol in bloodstream results in clogged up arteries with fatty buildup causing high blood pressure were heart works faster to move the blood through the arteries. This in turn can lead to heart attack or stroke.

 Use of organic coconut oil increases the amount of good cholesterol and reduces the amount of bad cholesterol at the same time. This in turn prevents the chances of getting a heart attack or stroke.

Effect on Immune System

 Anti microbial properties containing lipids, lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic strengthen the immune system by fighting against various diseases.

 Presence of lauric acid in organic oil gets converted into monolaurin in the body helps to protect against virus and bacteria causing herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus and HIV.

 It helps in fighting against bacteria, such as listeria monocytogenes and heliobacter pylori and harmful protozoa such as giardia lamblia.

 Strengthens the immune system by its anti-microbial activity against influenza, measles, hepatitis C, herpes, ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia and gonorrhea.

 Fights against fungi and yeast which cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete’s foot, thrush, diaper rash, etc.

Effect on Kidney

 It helps in preventing kidney and gall bladder diseases.

 It also aids in dissolving kidney stones.

Effect on Liver

 Presence of medium chain triglycerides and fatty acids gets easily converted into energy when reaching the liver by increasing metabolism thus reducing the work of the liver and preventing liver diseases.

 Increases energy and endurance enhancing athletic performance.

Effect on Pancreas

 Regular intake of organic coconut oil reduces appetite thus reducing intake of food and fewer calories. Fewer calories and less food helps to keep sugar level in blood under control.

 It helps in improving insulin secretion.

 Provides ketones as an alternative fuel to glucose.

Effect on Teeth

 Kills bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities

 Helps prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay

 Helps in tooth whitening.

Effect on Thyroid

 Organic coconut oil stimulate the activity and proper functioning of thyroid gland which provides energy, supports the health of skin and metabolism by keeping moods in balance.

Effect on Bones

 Helps absorption of certain nutrients such as calcium and magnesium which are good for the bone development thus preventing osteoporosis.

Effect on GIT

 Improves in digestive system by preventing gastro intestinal problems including inflammatory bowel syndrome.

 Its anti-microbial properties help fight against bacteria, fungi, parasites, etc. which cause indigestion.

 Helps in absorption of other vitamins, minerals and amino acids from GIT.

 It also improves bowel function.

Effect on Hair

 Increases healthy growth of hair and gives good complexion to hair.

 Prevents occurrence of dandruff and protects from lice.

 Helps in repairing of damaged hairs by providing proteins needed for nourishing the damaged hairs.

 Used in many hair oils, conditioners and dandruff creams as an important base.

 Gentle massage on scalp relieves stress.

Effect on Skin

 It is an excellent moisturizer on all skin types especially for dry skin due to its Vitamin E and protein content.

 Helps to relieve dryness and flaking of skin.

 It forms a protective layer from dust, air and microbes when applied over infections.

 Increases healing process of bruises by repairing damaged tissues.

 It has anti microbial properties which are effective in fighting infections by reducing symptoms of psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis and other skin conditions.

 Helps in fighting wrinkles, sagging skin and age spots by protecting skin from harmful UV rays which causes wrinkles.

 It is a protective antioxidant agent and maintains body’s antioxidant reserves whereas other oils deplete them.

 Helps in protecting against free radicals that causes premature aging and degenerative diseases.

 Used by skin manufacturers as base for soaps, lotions, creams, etc.

Other effects

 Helps in reducing problems associated with malabsorption syndrome, cystic fibrosis,gallbladder disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, stomach ulcers, hemorrhoids, benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement) chronic fatigue syndrome.

 Helpful in reducing inflammation.

 Protects body from cancer of breast, colon, etc.

 It also reduces epileptic seizures.

ORGANIC HONEY

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 09:23:00 +0000

Honey is organic when bees have only foraged from organically grown flowers in safe soil with no modifications and must stay away from conventional products. unnatural pesticides, bio-engineered genes or other synthetic products cannot be used in processing, collecting and storing the honey.

Organic honey is not only delicious to taste, this natural organic sweetener has nutritional value that makes it a great alternative to traditional honey as it doesn’t use antibiotics on their bees and are free from harmful pesticides. Whereas. Traditional honey farms use antibiotics on bees to keep them healthy and use pesticides leading to their contamination in honey.

NUTRITIONAL VALUES

Honey is comprised of approximately 80 percent natural sugar and 17-18 % water and remaining 2 % contains vitamins, minerals, pollen, and protein. The vitamins in honey include vitamin C, B6, riboflavin, niacin, and thiamine.The minerals present in honey include calcium,iron,copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, zinc and sodium. Honey also contains 22 amino acids. The nutritional value of honey can vary depending on the flowers that bees used for the nectar.

HONEY PROCESSING

Many species of bees collect nectar from different organically grown flowers convert it into honey and store as a food source. However, only the bees which live together in large colonies store significant quantities of honey such as bees of the genus Apis and some of Meliponinae (sting-less bees).

Bees prepare honey largely from the nectar of flowers, but other plant saps and honeydew are also used by them in collecting honey. As each bee sucks the liquid up through its proboscis and then passes into the honey sac, a small amount of enzymes are added and water is evaporated.The enzymes convert sugars into different types of sugars in the nectar.

Honey contains a wide range of sugars, varying according to the source of nectar. when liquid has been placed in the cell of honeycomb, bees continue to process it. The temperature of the hive is generally around 35°C and this temperature together with the ventilation produced by fanning bees with their wings causes further evaporation of water from the honey.

When water content reaches less than 20%, the bees seal the cell with a wax capping. The honey is now considered 'ripe' and will not ferment.

Processing Honey should be carried as soon as possible after removal from the hive. Careful precaution against contamination by ants and flying insects is required at all stages of processing.As Honey is food it must therefore be handled hygienically with all equipment perfectly cleaned. Honey is hygroscopic in nature and absorbs moisture therefore all honey processing equipment must be dried. Presence of excess water in honey causes it to ferment.

Honeycombs from top-bar hives or traditional hives:

Collect pieces of comb consisting only sealed and undamaged honeycomb and pack them carefully. Since the honey in the comb is untouched appears to be in pure form.
Honey which was not subjected to the air has a finer flavour than honey which was subjected to processing in any way.
To prepare strained honey, remove the wax capping of the honeycomb with knife and break the combs into pieces.
It is important to avoid unsealed combs as it contains unripe honey or pollen. Use a cotton cloth to strain the honey from honeycomb avoiding any trace of wax or other debris into a clean and dry container.

Glucose is the major constituent of honey and when it crystallizes (ie conversion of liquid to a solid state), the honey becomes solid (granulated). Some honeys are prone to granulation than others but almost all honey will granulate if temperature falls below 24°C. Granulation is a natural process and there is no difference in the nutritional value of solid and liquid honey. If honey is required in granulated form and granulation process is slow then addition of 20% finely granulated honey will cause it to granulate when kept at low temperature.

The taste and aroma of honey are its most important features, but honey is often judged by its colour. The colour of honey mainly depends upon the source of the nectar. Usually dark-coloured honey has a strong flavor while pale honey have more delicate flavor. Generally light coloured honey has more high value than dark. Colour can sometimes be an indicator of quality because honey becomes darker during storage and heating processes. If the water content of honey is greater than 19% the honey is likely to ferment. Low water content is therefore essential. Water content can be measured using refractometer.

Honey to be certified organic, manufacturers have to comply organic standards and conditions during the honey production, which include source of the nectar, honey bees foraging area, bees management, honey extracting process, transportation, processing temperature, and packaging materials. Honey that claims to be organic has to be tested to guarantee that it does not contain any residues of pesticides or environmental pollutants. Farming of organic honey is also supposed to meet rigorous and extensive monitoring and testing criteria of the certification body.

Land map of Organic Apiary: An organic apiary should be placed on a piece of land which is maintained organically. The nectar, honeydew, or pollen used by the honey bees should come only from organic sources. Generally honey bee travels up to 3 km for gathering honey. Hence,any chemical farms in the vicinity should be located outside a distance of about 3 km of organic apiary.

Organic Bee Hives: The bee hives used for organic apiculture must be made of natural timber or metal only. Treated timber cannot be used for making bee hives and lead-based paints should not be used and for plastics bees wax coating to be done.

Source of Honey Bees: The replaced or introduced honey bees can come from organic or non-organic apiaries. The apiary where new honey bees introduced can be included in organic honey production only after a period of about 60 days ensuring the replacement of bees and the management of the apiary has been carried out by organic means.

Feed for Organic Honey Bees: In organic honey farming, the bee hives should not be placed in or near farms where chemical farming is being practiced.

Caring Queen Honey Bees: The queen honey bees can be replaced as per requirement. A healthy queen is selected for replacement to ensure preventative disease management. Sometimes,artificial insemination too permitted. Cutting of the wings of the queen honey bee is prohibited.

Organic Honey bee disease Control: Following preventative methods of disease control, such as selecting healthy queen honey bees and replacement bees by avoiding antibiotics to prevent diseases. When antibiotics are used, the apiary must be isolated and kept out of organic honey production for at least a year.

Organic Honey Extraction: A live brood cannot be used for extracting honey. The surfaces that come in contact with the honey should be made of food-grade material or must be coated with beeswax.

Processing of Organic Honey: Organic honey should be heated below 35˚ C. Gravitational settling and filtration should be used for removing extraneous solids from the honey.

Labeling of Organic Honey: Every apiary should be properly managed and maintain the records of the apiary. There must be easy to trace the honey stored in an organic honey jar to the apiary it belongs.

Guide on how to grow Organic Carrots

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Sun, 12 Apr 2015 11:56:00 +0000

Carrot is designed with you in mind. It's a seamless experience, meticulously crafted, from beginning to end. It's not just a vegetable, it's what a vegetable should be.

Orange carrots are the traditional standard, but you can try growing white, yellow, crimson, or even purple-skinned carrots, too. More important than color, though, is choosing the right root size and shape to suit your soil. Carrot size and shape varies by type.

There are five major categories:

Ball-type, Chantenay, and Danvers carrots have blocky shapes that can handle heavy or shallow soil, while slender Nantes and Imperator carrots need deep, loose soil. All types are available in early and late cultivars; many are disease-and crack-resistant. Some catalogs don’t describe carrots by type, but will point out which cultivars do better in heavy or poor soil.

Planting: To produce the best crop possible, double-dig your planting area or build up a raised bed. Loose, rock-free soil is the goal. If you have heavy soil, add plenty of mature compost.

Start sowing this cool-weather crop 3 weeks before the last expected frost; plant again every 2 to 3 weeks after that. Most cultivars take 70 to 80 days to mature, so sow your last planting 2 to 3 months before the first expected fall frost. In Zone 8 and warmer, plant carrots in fall or winter.

Rake the soil free of lumps and stones. Broadcast the tiny seeds, or for easier weeding, plant in rows. Put a pinch of about six seeds to the inch. They will take 1 to 3 weeks to sprout (they germinate more slowly in cold soil than in warm), so mix in a few quick-growing radish seeds to mark the rows. Cover with ¼ to ½ inch of screened compost, potting mix, or sand—a little more in warm, dry areas—to make it easier for the delicate seedlings to emerge. Water gently to avoid washing seeds away; keep the soil continuously moist for best germination.

Growing guidelines: Thin to 1 inch apart when the tops are 2 inches high, and be thorough, because crowded carrots will produce crooked roots. Thin again 2 weeks later to 3 to 4 inches apart.

As the seedlings develop, gradually apply mulch to maintain an even moisture level and reduce weed problems. It’s best never to let young carrot plants dry out. However, if the soil dries out completely between waterings, gradually remoisten the bed over a period of days; a sudden drenching may cause the roots to split. Carrots’ feeder roots are easily damaged, so hand pull any weeds that push through the mulch, or cut them off just below the soil surface. Cover carrot crowns, which push up through the soil as they mature, with mulch or soil to prevent them from becoming green and bitter.

Problems: The biggest threats to carrots are four-footed critters such as deer, gophers, woodchucks, and rabbits. For controls, see the Animal Pests entry. Otherwise, carrots are fairly problem free.

Keep an eye out—particularly in the Northwest—for carrot rust flies, which look like small green houseflies with yellow heads and red eyes. Their eggs hatch into whitish larvae that burrow into roots. Infested roots turn dark red and the leaves black. Infestations usually occur in the early spring, so one solution is to delay planting until early summer, when damage is less likely. Or cover plants with a floating row cover to keep flies away.

Parsleyworms are green caterpillars with black stripes, white or yellow dots, and little orange horns. They feed on carrot foliage, but they are the larval stage of black swallowtail butterflies, so if you spot them on your carrots, try not to kill them. Instead, transfer them to carrot-family weeds such as Queen Anne’s lace, and watch for chrysalises to form, and later, beautiful butterflies!

The larvae of carrot weevils, found from the East Coast to Colorado, tunnel into carrot roots, especially in spring crops. Discourage grubs by rotating crops.

Nematodes, microscopic wormlike animals, make little knots along roots that result in stunted carrots. Rotate crops and apply plenty of compost, which is rich in predatory microorganisms. (For more controls, see Plant Diseases and Disorders.)

Leaf blight is the most widespread carrot disease. It starts on leaf margins, with white or yellow spots that turn brown and watery. If leaf blight is a problem in your area, plant resistant cultivars.

Hot, humid weather causes a bacterial disease called vegetable soft rot. Prevent it by rotating crops and keeping soil loose. The disease spreads in storage, so don’t store bruised carrots.

Carrot yellows disease causes pale leaves and formation of tufts of hairy roots on the developing carrots. The disease is spread by leafhoppers, so the best way to prevent the problem is by covering new plantings with row covers to block leafhoppers.

Harvesting: Carrots become tastier as they grow. You can start harvesting as soon as the carrots are big enough to eat, or leave them all to mature for a single harvest. Dig your winter storage crop before the first frost on a day when the soil is moist but the air is dry. Since spading forks tend to bruise roots, hand-pull them; loosen the soil with a trowel before you pull. Watering the bed before harvesting softens the soil and makes pulling easier.

Carrots are excellent to eat both fresh and cooked. Note that purple-rooted varieties will lose their purple pigment if cooked in water, but tend to keep it when roasted.

To save harvested carrots for winter use, prepare them by twisting off the tops and removing excess soil, but don’t wash them. Layer undamaged roots (so they’re not touching) with damp sand or peat in boxes topped with straw. Or store your fall carrot crop right in the garden by mulching the bed with several inches of dry leaves or straw.

How to Make Organic Soil

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Sun, 22 Mar 2015 15:09:00 +0000

Overview

Organic gardening starts with organic soil the way things grow in nature--without chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The best way to create nutrient-rich organic soil is to add organic matter such as compost and manure to the natural soil that is already in the garden. Great soil is composed of sand, silt (organic matter) and clay in amounts that add up to a rich, soft, spongy, sweet-smelling dirt that is ideal for growing and sustaining plant life.

Step 1

Purchase topsoil or gather it from an area that has not been exposed to chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Usually, the soil that is in your garden will suffice. If you are purchasing topsoil in bulk (by the dump-truck load) ask plenty of questions regarding the treatments that have been used on or near the sample over the past couple of years. Bagged topsoil may not have this information, so you may not know whether it is strictly organic.

Step 2

Sift through the soil, removing any rocks or pieces of sticks and debris that are larger than an inch or two .

Step 3

Test the soil by picking up a handful and compressing it firmly in your hand. Release the ball of soil. If it breaks up easily into smaller pieces it is close to being good soil; if it stays together in a tight clump, it has too much clay and should be mixed with sand and organics. If it doesn't clump together at all and simply sifts down like sand, it will require organic materials to be added.

Step 4

Add some sterilized sand to the mix, especially if the soil you tested came out too tightly clumped. The soil should be made up of about 25 to 30 percent sand. Mix the sand in well.

Step 5

Add ample amounts of composted materials. This can include compost you buy, compost from your own compost heap or manure that has been field-weathered for at least a few weeks. Mix in approximately 25 to 35 percent compost. Composted materials add nutrients and help to regulate the moisture and oxygen that flows around the roots, maintaining an optimal growing environment. If manure and composted materials are used, there should be no need for fertilizers and with the right mixture of water and oxygen, pesticides should not be needed either, as healthy plants are the best defense against pest damage.

Step 6

Two or three times per year, add shredded leaves, grass clippings or garden waste to the soil and turn it into the top few inches. This will add organic matter to the soil, which will decompose and add nutrients. Organic mulches can be used to help keep moisture in, and to add additional organic matter to the soil as it decomposes.

Things You'll Need

Composted materials
Sand
Top soil
Hand rake or shovel

Click on Image to know more on Composting

How to Make Dirt

BOKASHI Composting

Banana Pudding

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Sat, 21 Mar 2015 15:44:00 +0000

Banana Pudding

The refreshing taste of bananas, with sweet organic vanilla flavoring and cinnamon, combine to make this rich banana pudding. Garnish with gingersnaps for that extra spice and crunch!

Ingredients

2 fresh, whole eggs
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons Simply Organic Cinnamon

3 cups milk (skim or whole, your preference)
2 tablespoons Simply Organic Vanilla Flavoring

1 pound (approximately 3-4 medium) ripe bananas
3/4 pound gingersnap cookies (optional garnish)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, flour and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. In a blender, puree the bananas. Set aside.
3. In a heavy pot over medium heat, add 3 cups of the milk and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. Just as the milk begins to boil remove from the heat and whisk into the egg mixture in a slow, steady stream (this helps avoid lumps).
4. Return the milk and egg mixture to the medium heat in the heavy pot and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to avoid scorching. Stir in the vanilla flavoring, then the banana puree and pour the mixture into a clean bowl.
5. Chill for 2 hours and serve.

Chef Suggestions

For a decorative twist, layer into parfait glasses, alternating pudding and ginger snap cookies, then refrigerate 2 hours, and serve garnished with whipped cream and a mint sprig.

Organic Recipe - Slow Cooker Pizza

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Sat, 21 Mar 2015 15:22:00 +0000

Slow Cooker Pizza

Ingredients

1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts-non-marinated
1 can (4 ounces) sliced olives
2 small onions
1 red bell pepper
1 yellow bell pepper
1 (14.5 ounces) jar mushrooms
1 package Simply Organic Garden Vegetable Spaghetti Sauce Mix - Certified Organic

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cans (16 ounces each) pizza sauce
2 (12 ounces each) boxes spiral noodles, cooked and drained
1 (8 ounces) bag Italian shredded cheese
vegetable oil for sautéing

Directions

Sauté all of the vegetables in the oil until tender. Add Sauce Mix and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine sauce, cooked noodles, and pizza sauce. Spoon into the bottom of slow cooker and sprinkle with 1/2 cup cheese. Add another layer of noodles and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Continue until slow cooker is full.

Cook on high for 3 hours or medium for 5 hours.

Chef Suggestions

Modify vegetables to your tastes.

Organic Skin Care Products

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Sat, 07 Mar 2015 11:52:00 +0000

If you are concerned about the skin, then why go to artificial cream, use organic and be fresh and natural.

Era Organics Natural Skin Care (2oz): Advanced Healing 10-in-1 Face Cream with Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Manuka Honey, MSM, Coconut Oil and More. Superfood for Your Skin. Hypoallergenic, Non-greasy Formula for Oily, Dry, Damaged and Sensitive Skin.

Facial Moisturizer - Organic & 100% Natural - Best Facial Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive, Oily or Severely Dry Skin - Anti-Aging & Anti-Wrinkle - for Women & Men - Wont Dry Your Skin or Leave It Oily - Softens & Repairs Damaged Skin - No SLS, SLES, Parabens, PG, PG Derivatives or Harmful Chemicals.

Pure Body Naturals - THE BEST ORGANIC Vitamin C Serum for Face. 20% Vitamin C + E + Hyaluronic Acid Serum. #1 Anti Aging Serum Moisturizer with Natural Ingredients, Organic Aloe + Amino Blend. Professional Anti Wrinkle Serum & Facial Skin Care Shown to Boost Collagen, Repairs Sun Damage, Dark Circles, Fades Sun & Age Spots & Reduces Fine Lines. Leaves Firm, Radiant, Beautiful, Youthful & Glowing Skin

BEST NIGHT CREAM - Anti Aging Moisturizer Skin Repair Treatment with GREEN TEA - Hyaluronic Acid - Vitamin C E & A - Retinol - Advanced Night Moisturizing Peptides Firms and Lifts - Reduces Wrinkles - Dark Spots and use to Smooth Bumpy Complexion - Deeply Hydrating Therapy for even most dry - sensitive skin - or acne prone skin - Natural Organic Skin Care for Women and Men - backed by the ESS. No Risk, Money Back Guarantee

Go for organic and stay healthy

Calendula for skin care

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Sun, 01 Mar 2015 10:04:00 +0000

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula is kind of the go-to herb for skin care. It can help dry skin, acne-prone skin, aging skin, as well as help to heal wounds, bruising and other injuries. For an all-around skin care and healing product, soak one part dried blossoms to two parts olive or almond oil. Store in a warm, dark place for two weeks, shaking the jar occasionally. Strain and add a bit of vitamin E as a preservative (you can just puncture two vitamin E capsules and squeeze these into the oil; as an added bonus: for some reason, squeezing these little capsules is highly satisfying…).

This oil can be used on anyone for anything; use it on a baby’s skin to heal diaper rash and dry skin (test a small patch first for sensitivity, of course), use on yourself to heal acne, scars, wounds, rashes, eczema, and dry skin. Have sensitive skin? Calendula is soothing and cooling for any skin type.

For oily, acne-prone skin, try this cleanser: combine 3/4 cup strong calendula tea (follow guidelines for chamomile tea, above), 1/4 cup lemon juice (fresh, if possible), 2tbs baking soda, 1tbs aloe vera gel (check the ingredients–NO alcohol). Blend ingredients together and apply with a clean, wet washcloth, gently massaging into face and neck. Leftover cleanser should be refrigerated. Aloe vera gel can be massaged into the skin if it feels tight or can be placed directly on breakouts to treat them. If you are very acne prone, try drinking a cup or two of calendula and chamomile tea daily to help rid the body of toxins and aid elimination (this will be a slightly bitter tea, though not unpleasant).

Chamomile for your Skin Care

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Fri, 27 Feb 2015 18:40:00 +0000

Chamomile

The health of our liver is reflected in the health of our skin. Chamomile is an herb you can use internally to help tone the digestive system, liver, and kidneys. When these organs are working and healthy, wastes will be processed the way they were meant to be—through elimination—and not through the skin.

Chamomile is also a wonderful external addition to your skincare regime, especially:
1. if your skin is sensitive, mature, or irritated and chapped by the elements.
Apply cool chamomile tea as a toner to the skin. Search out a chamomile hydrosol and spritz this on the skin. For helping the skin heal from sun or windburn, try adding a few drops of chamomile essential oil to an ounce of jojoba oil. Apply sparingly as needed. This herb’s ability to ease inflammation as well as its ability to soothe the senses will calm the body and the mind.

2. To cleanse the skin:
(especially good for combination skin), try brewing a strong cup of chamomile tea (two tsp of loose herb or two teabags per 6oz of water, letting it steep 10 minutes). Blend this with one half cup of ground, whole grain oatmeal (rolled Scottish oats is what I use, then grind in a clean coffee grinder) and one tablespoon of raw (not pasteurized) honey (honey is a demulcent, which means it pulls moisture to the skin; it also fights acne and protects against damaging rays from the sun and regenerates skin, protecting against free radicals). Place a small amount of this in your palms and massage into skin. Rinse with warm water. Store the rest in the fridge–without preservatives, this cleanser won’t last long on the shelf. If parts of your skin feel tight after washing, try a little almond or jojoba oil massaged into dry areas.

3. To help heal burns, skin, ulcers and eczema:
You can apply chamomile externally as a paste to help heal burns, skin ulcers, eczema. To use, grind dried flowers with a (clean!) coffee grinder or a mortar and pestle, add some water and a bit of whole grain oatmeal (also soothing for the skin; you don’t need to grind it for this recipe) until you’ve reached a desirable consistency. Keep the paste moist by covering the area with a warm, damp towel. Allow the affected area to rest for fifteen minutes or so, then bathe in cool water until the paste is dissolved. Repeat as often as necessary—until comfort is achieved and the area has healed.

Spices plays role in Skin Care

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Sat, 21 Feb 2015 16:22:00 +0000

Cinnamon for a Glowing Complexion

Cinnamon adds a kick to cookies and hot drinks, but it's also packed with antioxidants — substances that fight skin damage. "Cinnamon has more antioxidant value than half a cup of blueberries," says nutritionist Keri Glassman, the author of The O₂ Diet. For an easy antioxidant boost, sprinkle half a teaspoon of cinnamon on your coffee grounds before brewing.

To ensure you're using the most potent spices, says Glassman, discard bottles that are more than two years old; also, store spices in a dark cupboard, because heat from the stove and sunlight will decrease their potency.

Green Tea for Sun Protection

Here's one more reason to go green: Green tea has a high concentration of catechins, which have strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging effects on skin. Says Wu, "Topical green tea can also help thicken the epidermis, speed the healing of wounds, and inhibit an enzyme in your skin that causes uneven pigmentation, which means fewer sun spots."

Studies have shown that using a lotion or serum containing green tea 30 minutes before going out in the sun can reduce DNA damage and the risk of sunburn. "If you're going to be outside for several hours and won't be able to reapply sunscreen as diligently as you'd like," says Wu, "then applying green tea on top of your sunscreen before you go out is a great idea."

Hot Peppers to Fight Wrinkles

Hot peppers like chili, paprika, cayenne, and jalapeño do more than put your taste buds on alert — they also defend your skin. "Vitamins A and C in peppers help combat free radicals, preventing the breakdown of collagen to maintain the integrity of our skin," says Marti Wolfson, the culinary director at Blum Center for Health in Rye Brook, N.Y. The colorful peppers also contain capsaicin, which acts like a sunscreen to shield skin from damage caused by UV rays.

You have to ingest peppers to enjoy their regenerative powers, though, as the capsaicin that works wonders for skin internally will burn if applied topically. Says Wolfson, "Hot peppers are so easy to add to any dish: Try jalapeño or cayenne in guacamole, and chili peppers in curry sauce. You can also make a rub for fish or chicken with paprika.

Red Clover to Ease Eczema

Medicinal herbalists have long used red clover to help soothe the red, scaly, and maddeningly itchy patches of skin that plague eczema sufferers. "Herbs like red clover help eliminate toxins in the bloodstream that appear to trigger inflammation," says Liz Earle, a holistic skin expert who herself suffers from eczema.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center's health reference library, red clover can be ingested as a tea or applied topically. If you're going to drink the tea, steep one to two teaspoons of dried flowers in hot water for half an hour, and sip two to three cups daily to reap the benefits. If you want to take red clover as a supplement, 40 to 160 mg per day is recommended. Ointments are also available that contain 10 to 15 percent red clover flower.

Turmeric to Reduce Inflammation

Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years; the herb has powerful anti-inflammatory benefits because of its high concentration of the antioxidant curcumin. Research has shown that curcumin may also help fight melanoma when the affected skin is treated topically with turmeric. "Curcumin inhibits angiogenesis, which is the growth of blood vessels," explains Susan Blum, MD, an integrative medical practitioner at Blum Center for Health. "A lot of cancer research is focused on 'starving' the cancer cells, and curcumin appears to be a potent inhibitor of tumor activity in animal studies."

Add turmeric to deviled eggs, pasta, and potato salads, as well as hearty savory soups, chili, and brown rice. Mixed with ginger, it also makes a tasty tea.

Organic Skin Care

noreply@blogger.com (BANDI FOUZIYA) — Fri, 20 Feb 2015 19:48:00 +0000

The skin is the largest organ of the body, with a total area of about 20 square feet. The skin protects us from microbes and the elements, helps regulate body temperature, and permits the sensations of touch, heat, and cold.

To help to regulate the natural process of the skin, we have to focus on caring skin. How to be natural and to encourage natural beauty? All this is not possible by using artificial skin care products. To achieve skin quality it is important to keep hydrated and eating a healthy diet.

You can have the best of both worlds, calm and clarified skin by Organic sources. I would like to list few of those sources which are highly useful for the skin care.

We have, with ilike rose petal cleansing milk. It removes all impurities from the skin, even makeup, as it hydrates, soothes, and regenerates the skin with Rose and Vitamins C and E.

RECOMMENDED FOR:

Ideal for those of all skin types, especially sensitive who want a gentle, yet highly purifying clean.

1. Rose Petals

We are familiar with the roses and its uses in our daily life s—as rose water, rose scented lotions and, of course, perfume. Are we aware of the rose petals, which has a great benefit in regenerating our skin.

Uses of Rose petals on various conditions:

1. An eye / mouthwash : You can use a cooled infusion (tea) of rose petals for an eye or mouthwash

2. Rashes, irritation or Acne-Prone Skin: Mix a toner of one part rose infusion and one part aloe juice. Use this after cleansing in the morning and evening. For longest shelf-life, refrigerate the mixture.

3. Mature and Aging Skin: Rose is also a natural and organic wonderful tonic for mature and aging skin. It contains vitamin C and also re-hydrates and soothe the skin. You can add a few drops of rose essential oil to the moisturizers you already use, or blend an ounce of jojoba oil (which is readily absorbed by the skin, as it so closely mimics the skin’s own sebum, or natural oil; it does not need to be refrigerated and has a long shelf life) with 8 drops of rose essential oil. Smooth this on your face at night, or anytime the skin feels tight and dry.

4. Dry Skin: Combine two tablespoons of rosewater or rose tea with two tablespoons of raw honey and 1/2 cup of almond oil. Massage a small amount into skin. Rinse well and pat dry. This cleanser can be stored in your medicine cabinet, no need for refrigeration. If your skin still feels dry after cleansing, massage in a little more almond oil.

5. Wounds, bruises, rashes and incisions: The antiseptic nature of rose makes it a wonder treatment for wounds, bruises, rashes and incisions. To use, take a clean washcloth, dip into the warm or chilled tea (1tbs per cup of water, steeped 10 minutes), depending on the nature of the injury, and place on the wound. For sore muscles, try rubbing the area with a rose-infused oil. Try two parts oil to one part herb. Grind the dry petals and infuse them in the oil. Let this sit at least two weeks in a dark spot, strain, and use, warming the oil as you wish.