Shebolith Says...

SHEBOLITH SAYS--SKYDIVES ON YOU TUBE!

2012-07-03T09:28:00.000-05:00

Shebolith took to the skies with SKYDIVE SAN MARCOS at the Fentress Airpark located at Fentress, Texas. Shebolith Says..."IT WAS WONDERFUL! I WANT TO GO AGAIN!" I posted the video for all to view on YouTube . Thank you, Jason, for keeping me safe and making my skydiving experience such a thrilling and memorable event. (Jason was my Tandem Master) Thank you, Joshua, for sharing your birthday with me. (Joshua is my son) And, thank you God for letting me live to tell the tale! (God is...)

Homemade Flea Traps Successfully Control Flea Infestations

2012-05-24T13:09:00.002-05:00

Homemade Flea Traps Successfully Control Flea Infestations

The summer of 2011, Oklahoman’s temperatures soared over 100 degrees F for well over 100 days. The long, hot summer was following by a short, mild winter. These two combined to create a flea outbreak not seen in this part of the country in many years.

The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service made a fact sheet available to the public on the subject of fleas at http://osufacts.okstate.edu. The fact sheets bottom line reads: “Pet owners should consult a veterinarian before attempting flea control treatment.” And, “…a veterinarian can design a control program that is comprehensive and fits your pet’s problem.”

Shebolith Says…Forget about the Vet, forget about the spot-on, spray-on, liquid and powdered flea killers. Forget about the dips and the foggers, all this poison will make you and your pet sick while deflating your pocketbook. However, the poisons will not be of much help in treating and curing a flea infestation.

I have been using homemade flea traps for many years and have fallen back on this time-tested protocol for control of fleas this summer.

You will need a Brooder Clamp Light, a 40-watt incandescent light bulb and a white dinner plate. Load the trap with water treated with drops of liquid Joy dishwashing detergent to break the surface tension of the water. (Use 3 or 4 drops of Joy in 2 cups of water.)

Clamp the brooder light to anything sturdy enough to hold it. Place the white dinner plate under the light. Set the traps up in areas where your pet spends most of its time. Our house requires six traps, one per room. We have five cats in varying degrees of health and age. Poisons are not an option.

Maintain your traps. Top off the water in the plate every 12 hours with Joy treated water. After 2 to 3 days empty the trap, scrub the plate and refill with freshly treated water.

You may have to maintain the traps all summer.

Movement, light, pressure, any of these will cause an adult flea to emerge from its cocoon where it has developed from larvae to pupae stage. This transformation inside the cocoon takes an average of one to four weeks. (If not stimulated by movement, light, pressure) the pre-emerged fleas can survive in a dormant state for approx. 140 to 170 days.
The adult flea begins feeding on a blood meal within seconds after landing on a host and will begin laying eggs approx. two to four days later. The eggs are deposited on the host and some drop off into the environment.
The eggs will hatch in a warm (75 to 85 F) and humid (50 to 90 %) environment in one to ten days. The eggs hatch out into larvae, they look like small, white worms and they can move about their environment. The larvae will feed on organic matter and flea feces for 5 to 12 days then they spin a cocoon around themselves and start the pupae state of their life cycle.

Read more about fleas at http://pods.dasnr.okstate.edu/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-2681/VT. Carolynn MacAllister, DVM, an OSU Extension Veterinarian wrote this fact sheet.

Shebolith says…Bottom line… Clean and vacuum the premises daily. Bathe your pet/pets regularly with Joy dishwashing liquid keeping as much of the pet (as possible) submerged in the water for at least 10 minutes. Set and maintain flea traps. Be consistent and diligent.

WES WATKINS RESERVOIR 2012 Permits/Fees UPDATE!

2012-04-25T17:17:00.000-05:00

WES WATKINS RESERVOIR 2012 Permits/Fees UPDATE!

All are enjoying boating, camping, fishing and swimming at North Deer Creek Recreational Area at Wes Watkins Reservoir, located at McLoud, Oklahoma.

Chief Gary D. Roe, the Chief of Police for the City of McLoud was kind enough to give Shebolith Says… an interview on April 2, 2012.

The Chief found us standing in the rain furiously jotting down notes on the back of an old Google map print out. With pride and much pleasantry, he created a glowing verbal report of Wes Watkins Reservoir as it is today.

Lake Use Permits

Children under age sixteen can fish for free if they are in the company of a paying adult.

All boat permits required are issued by the City of McLoud or person designated by the City of McLoud. No fees can be prorated.

You cannot transfer your permit to someone else.

Seasonal permits expire on the thirty-first day of December following the date of issuance.

Daily permits will expire 24 hours after issuance.

Daily permits for boats must be in possession and produced on demand while on the reservoir.

“Annual boating permits must be displayed visibly on any watercraft on the port side aft near the stern just under the gunwale line at all times.

The seasonal boat permit shall be designated by proper tag on the port side near the stern end of the boat, which must be plainly visible for a distance of at least one hundred feet from said boat. Such tag shall be furnished with the permit by the City of McLoud.”

Types of Permits

Individual

Watercraft, daily and seasonal

Vehicle, daily and seasonal

Camping, daily only

Daily Fees

Daily fishing, $2.00

Daily boating, $5.00

Picnic Pavilion Rentals

Rental for ½ day $25.00

Rental for full day $50.00

Seasonal Passes

Annual fishing, $15.00

Annual boating, $35.00

Annual fishing/boating Combo, $48.00

Camping Fees

Full Hookup, $18.00 per night

Primitive/Tent, $5.00 per night

Each additional for adults, $5.00 per night

Tents for children under 18 years, FREE

(All vehicles must be street legal in order to be operated on Recreation Area (Reservoir) streets.)

Pets, Livestock, Animals

Word for word according to the Rules

1—62.01 PHYSICAL RESTRAINT OF ANIMALS: No person shall bring or allow dogs, cats, or other pets or animals into any area of the recreation area unless penned, caged, on a leash under six (6) feet in length (in hand) or otherwise physically restrained.

1—62.02 SWIMMING: All animals and pets are prohibited in swimming areas and in the waters of the Reservoir.

1—62.03 LIVESTOCK: No person shall bring or allow horses, cattle or other livestock in camping, picnicking, swimming or any other area of the Reservoir except when and where authorized by the CITY OF McLOUD.

1-62.04 LIVESTOCK USE OF LANDS AND WATER: Ranging, grazing, watering or allowing livestock on Reservoir lands and in water is prohibited unless written permission is given by the CITY OF McLOUD.

1—62.05 IMPOUNDMENT OF ANIMALS: Unclaimed or unattended animals are subject to immediate impoundment and removal in accordance with Local Ordinances and an impoundment fee levied. This fee shall be paid before the impounded animal is returned to its owner(s).

1—62.06 ANIMAL WASTE: Persons bringing or allowed pets or animals in designated areas shall be responsible for proper removal and disposal in sanitary facilities of any waste produced by these animals.

This is a partial report ACCORDING TO:

RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NORTH DEER CREEK RECREATION AREA

(WES WATKINS RESERVOIR) ADOPTED MARCH 9, 1999

BY THE CITY OF McLOUD

Chief Roe said, “You may not be up-to-date with the work we have completed on the pavilions. All (three) of the pavilions now have electrical hook-ups and rent for $50.00 per day.” He went on to say that maintenance and upgrades continue at Wes Watkins.

Chief Roe was also proud of the fact that during the first year of management by the City of McLoud the reservoir had a total of 7,400 guests. He confided that the fishing was not that great last summer because of the heat and drought, but he is looking forward with optimism that a change in the weather will lead to a change in the fishing at Wes Watkins Reservoir.

City of McLoud

http://www.mcloudok.us/

Shebolith Says...stay safe and have fun!

MAGICAL, BLUE SKULLCAP, BEST SEDATIVE

2012-02-20T07:38:00.000-06:00

MAGICAL, BLUE SKULLCAP, BEST SEDATIVE

Nv-wo-ti Ga-go-ti means Medicine Herb in Phonetic Cherokee Language

Blue Skullcap is a Native American herb and a member of the mint family. It is best known for its sedative and antispasmodic properties. The Cherokee and other indigenous tribes made use of the herb for the purpose of female comforts. It was often used to promote menstruation and to relieve menstrual cramps. Young girls were often given an infusion of Blue skullcap to help ease the child into her first season and into “womanhood.”

Today we are using Blue skullcap for the treatment of muscle spasms, jangled nerves, tension headaches, anxiety, insomnia and seizure disorders. A diagnosis of ADHD does not mean you are doomed to treat your child with harsh pharmaceutical drugs. Now studies show that Blue skullcap is a natural treatment for ADHD, it increases the ability to focus and reduces hyperactivity. Commercially, you will find dried Blue Skullcap in teas, capsules, tablets and as a tincture.

Overdose Symptoms

Blue skullcap, although not listed as a dangerous herb or an herb to avoid, should be treated with much respect. An overdose of skullcap tincture is said to produce giddiness, stupor, mental confusion, twitching, irregular heartbeat and epileptic-like symptoms. Skullcap can cause miscarriage, a spontaneous abortion of a fetus and should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Referenced Books

In the book “Herbal Cures for Common Ailments,” by Jim O’Brien, skullcap is listed along with Balm, Catnip, Chamomile, Evening Primrose Oil, Lavender, Motherwort, Passionflower, St. John’s Wort and Valerian as treatments for anxiety, stress and insomnia. The most potent of these anti-anxiety herbs are used for insomnia; these are Passionflower, Skullcap and Valerian.

O’Brien also lists Peppermint as a curative for insomnia, saying the menthol in peppermint relieves muscular tension that can cause insomnia. Peppermint is a digestive aid and decongestant. Relieving a case of indigestion or being able to breathe helps considerably when trying to get a ‘good nights sleep!’

In the book “Nature’s Medicine”, by Gale Maleskey, Priscilla Evans, N.D., a naturopathic doctor at the Community Wholistic Health Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, states, “When your head is in the viselike grip of a tension headache, take small doses of an herbal supplement that includes a mixture of valerian, passionflower and skullcap. This trio of herbs can help relax muscles in your shoulders, neck and scalp. Valerian is great for relaxing the nervous system, relieving tension and providing general pain relief. Passionflower and skullcap help to calm stress.”

In the book, “The Green Pharmacy” by James A. Duke, Ph.D. skullcap is referenced as a sedative/tranquilizer that might help relieve the nervous tension and irritability of PMS.

Be Careful

Passionflower, Skullcap and Valerian may cause drowsiness and often come with the warning, DO NOT DRIVE OR OPERATE MACHINERY while taking this product. Herbs are serious medicine and should not be used without caution. They can be just as dangerous as prescription drugs.

A Bit of Trivia

In the late 18^th century, professional/scientific/allopathic practitioners were eager to discover remedies for mysterious ailments, such as hydrophobia. In 1733, one of these medical doctors began treating his hydrophobia patients with Blue skullcap. The doctor submitted a report touting his success in treating rabies to his peers; however, the good doctor and his report were soon in discredit. Never the less, skullcap was used for this purpose long enough to receive the well-known monikers, Mad-Dog Skullcap, Madweed and Mad Dog Weed.

In Oklahoma

There are 11 counties in the State of Oklahoma where you can go to gather wild Blue skullcap, Ellis, Garfield, Osage and Ottawa in northern Oklahoma. In central Oklahoma, the counties are Oklahoma, Cleveland, Creek, Muskogee and Wagoner and the southern counties are Brian and McCurtain. Lucky folks who have wooded, wetland areas on their property can harvest wild growing Blue skullcap in the early summer.

From the Net

The Blue Skullcap is described as an erect, widely branched perennial that grows to 30 inches in height. The stem is slender and four-sided. The leaves are thin, one to four inches long, ovate, pointed, coarsely serrated and opposite. The flower shaped, as little helmets are blue, two-lipped and arranged along spikes in each of the upper leaf axils.

There are 45 skullcap species. Only one species has the one variety that is the topic of this story: Scutellaria lateriflora L. var. lateriflora – blue skullcap.

From referenced site:

“Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) is a related species to Blue Skullcap. The species Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi is native to eastern Asia. The root of this species is used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its Chinese name is huang qin. Chinese skullcap is sometimes called Baikal, baical skullcap root, scute and scutellarea. Another species used in Chinese medicine is Scutellaria barbata, whose Chinese name is ban zhi lian.

Both American Blue Skullcap and Chinese Skullcap are used as remedies for anxiety, nervous tension, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), insomnia, stress headaches, muscle spasms and seizures. Chinese skullcap is also an ingredient in herbal compounds used for disorders involving high cholesterol and triglycerides levels, high blood pressure, allergic diseases and inflammatory skin conditions.

Skullcap can be used in the treatment of withdrawal from alcohol and tobacco. Skullcap is included among the herbal ingredients in a tincture that people take to quit smoking. Other herbs in this tincture include mullein, St. John’s Wort and licorice.”

Reference: Swain, Liz; Frey, Rebecca. "Skullcap." Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine. 2005. Encyclopedia.com. 19 Feb. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

Shebolith Says…

Remember, use common sense and moderation with all applications of alternative health care and herbal remedies. As usual, we must say… “This story is for entertainment purposes only. Please consult a professional for advice about diagnosis of illness and remedies available.”

MILK THISTLE THWARTS LIVER DIS-EASE!

2012-02-12T11:30:00.000-06:00

Blessed Milk Thistle for Liver Dis-Ease

Traditional Medicine

Traditionally, milk thistle is known to be useful in gallbladder diseases, gallstones, fatty liver and as a liver protectant. It is the only known treatment for Amanita phalloides (Death cap) mushroom poisoning.

True Preventive Medicine

In Europe, Milk Thistle is often added as extra protection when patients are given medications known to cause liver problems. Numerous medications can injure or inflame the liver. Evidence strongly suggests that Milk Thistle might protect against liver toxicity caused by drugs such as acetaminophen, alcohol, phenothiazines and phenytoin (Dilantin).

Intensive research into the liver-protecting properties of the Milk Thistle plant began over 50 years ago in Germany.

[In 1968, a research team at the University of Munich was successful in isolating a compound termed silymarin. Improved chemical separation methods later revealed that silymarin was not a single component but a complex of chemicals known as flavonoligans. This complex includes silybinin, silydianin and silychristin.] Empowher.com

Natural Curative for Liver Ailments

The therapeutic efficacy of silymarin is based on several separate mechanisms of action. This alone will make it difficult for our (USA) current system of medicine to duplicate in the laboratory. Thus, the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will never have a good thing to say about this natural curative.

Ancient Greek physicians first wrote of the usefulness of Milk Thistle while serving the Roman armies during the first century. One thousand years later a German manuscript, written by a woman, the Physica of Hildegarde of Bingen lists uses of the roots, the whole plant and the leaves of Milk Thistle. Then Culpepper notes in the 18^th century that Milk Thistle is an effectual treatment for obstructions of the liver and spleen, thereby making it useful for jaundice.

Over 2,000 years after its first known use, a report was requested in the United States by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), a component of the National Institute of Health (NIH), and sponsored by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Two areas are addressed, the effects of Milk Thistle on liver disease and adverse effects associated with ingestion of Milk Thistle.

Currently, there are openings in clinical trials studying the safety, metabolism and antioxidant activity of silymarin (found in Milk Thistle) and Green Tea Extract in patients with chronic Hepatitis C.

A panel designated Commission E was established by Germany’s equivalent to the U.S. FDA to develop acceptable uses, contraindications and dosages for Milk Thistle along with other well-defined herbal medicines. Commission E’s findings serve as the basis for regulation of herb products in Germany and serve as the model for European Union (EU) harmonization of laws on phytomedicines.

According to the report issued by this panel on Milk Thistle, preparations can be made from the seed that are supportive treatment of chronic inflammatory liver disorders and cirrhosis of the liver, such as chronic hepatitis, and fatty infiltration of the liver by alcohol and other chemicals. The report notes that pretreatment with silymarin will inhibit alcohol induced liver damage, thus making it useful as a preventive medicine as well as a curative.

In the mid1990s it was thought that a full 20% of liver intoxication was caused by psychopharmaceuticals, another 11% was caused by industrial exposure to chemicals leaving the remaining caused by the consumption of alcohol. All of these can be treated with or prevented by the judicious use of Milk Thistle along with abstaining from the consumption or use of all drugs/pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals as well as alcohol.

Shebolith Says…after much re-search into the subject of Milk Thistle we are convinced, my husband and I, that it is time to start taking this supplement because of compromised liver function that is the result from years of ingesting medications that include, but are not limited to, acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Dilantin.

Disclaimer and Personal Opinion

This story is for entertainment purposes only and is not meant as advice for any medical disease. Common sense will tell you when you need to see your professional health care provider. We, as individuals, are the first line of defense and are responsible for our own health and well-being. We should not be coerced by insurance companies or government in the decisions we make for our own health care. Instead, healthcare should be affordable and available to those who need and want the service. Further, we should not be denied information or education about traditional and alternative remedies.

Reference sites:

http://archive.ahrq.gov/clinic/epcsums/milktsum.htm

http://nccam.nih.gov/health/milkthistle/

http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?term=Milk+Thistle&recr=Open&spons=NCCAM

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/silymarin/NS_patient-milkthistle

http://www.empowher.com/media/reference/milk-thistle

About Worms__Tapeworms, Roundworms, Pin Worms, Hookworms...

2012-02-01T13:04:00.002-06:00

Intestinal worms; this subject was whispered about when Shebolith Says...was a young child because everyone knew you had to be a dirty little kid to get infected with worms! However, the truth is that it is quite common for humans (especially children) to host these parasites. The most common of these parasites are roundworms, pin worms, thread worms, hookworms and tapeworms.

HOW WORMS INVADE OUR BODIES

How worms invade our bodies

The eggs of Tapeworms enter the human host traveling (via consumption) of undercooked meats and consuming foods and water contaminated by domestic dogs and cats. Eating foods with dirty hands (or eating dirt, as was my case) can result in a case of Roundworm infestation. Hookworms enter the body of the host, (human or animal) through the skin from infected water.

WORMS PROPAGATE IN SUITABLE HABITAT

These worms can only propagate if they find a suitable habitat in the intestine. Suitable habitat is; intestinal tracts clogged with morbid, undigested food particles and systemic debris. This condition is widely known as constipation.

SYMPTOMS OF WORM INFESTATION

You will know when to suspect an infestation by the symptoms produced. The most usual symptoms of hosting intestinal worms are diarrhea, foul breath, a constant desire for food, restlessness at night accompanied by bad dreams, anemia and headache.

In the case of roundworms, the symptoms may present as inflammation of the intestine and lungs, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, fever, nervousness and irritability. Pin worms and thread worms may cause intense itching of the anal area. Thread worms can cause alternately bouts of diarrhea and constipation, weight loss, cough and fever. Hookworms can cause anemia and nutritional disorders.

TREATMENT FOR INTESTINAL WORMS

Intervention for intestinal worms always begins with diet. Begin by excluding fatty foods such as butter, cream, oil, refined foods and all meats. Adhere to a diet of fresh fruits for five to seven days followed by a well-balanced (light diet) of fruits, vegetables, milk and whole wheat bread. The all-fruit diet may have to be repeated at regular intervals. This diet should be continued until the worms are eliminated.

A more aggressive intervention is to fast on raw fruit and vegetable juices. During this fasting period, the bowels should be cleansed daily with a warm water enema. Always consult with a naturopath for extended fasting. Supervision is advisable.

A PROFUSION OF HOME REMEDIES

Early Native Americans treated intestinal worms with Mayapple roots, Lady’s Slipper and parts of the Pine tree. Mayapple roots contain a substance that acts as a natural laxative. Native Americans used it for ridding the body of worms. Lady’s Slipper, like the Mayapple, has been used by Native Americans to rid the intestine of worms. Pine—including needles, cones, rosin, kerosene, turpentine and pine tar—has been used to treat everything from colds, aches and fevers to bed wetting, chapped hands, lockjaw and worms. (Kerosene was has been used in POW camps by prisoners to rid themselves of intestinal worms.)

From all continents of the world comes an abundance of home remedies beneficial in the elimination of intestinal worms.

Repeat this process daily until the cure is complete. Grind fresh coconut, take 1 tablespoon at breakfast, three hours later take a dose of castor oil.

Both fresh garlic and garlic oil are effective for expelling intestinal worms. For those who do not like the taste of garlic, try this method. Place a clove of fresh garlic in each shoe. As you walk, it is crushed and the worm-killing garlic oil is absorbed by the skin. Alternatively, just apply garlic oil to the soles of the feet. Garlic oil is absorbed by the skin and carried by blood into the intestines.

The carrot is offensive to all parasites. It is valuable in the elimination of thread worms from children. A small cup of fresh, grated carrot eaten every morning, with no other food added to the snack, can clear these worms quickly.

A tablespoon of the milk-juice of unripened papaya fruit with an equal amount of honey should be mixed with three to four tablespoons of hot water and taken as a dose by an adult. Two hours later follow with a dose of 2 to 4 tablespoons of castor oil mixed in 8 to 12 ounces of lukewarm milk. This treatment should be repeated for two days, if necessary. Children should receive only half of this dose, with children under three years, one tablespoon is sufficient.

Papaya seed is rich in a substance called caricin, (“Analysis has revealed in the seeds the presence of a resinous oil, an oleaginous material of disagreeable odor and taste called caricin, a fatty acid, papayic acid and a resin.”) which is effective for expelling roundworms. The Papaya leaf contains the alkaloid Carpaine. Carpaine has the power to destroy or expel intestinal worms. These are usually given with some pure, locally produced honey.

The bark from the root and stems of the Pomegranate tree is a well known for it ability to destroy parasitic worms. The root-bark is preferred over the stem-bark as it contains the greater quantity of the alkaloid, Punicine. Punicine is highly toxic to tapeworms. Make a cold decoction of fresh bark. Take 3 to 6 ounces of the decoction three times at intervals of one hour for an adult. Castor oil should be given after the last dose. The dose for children is 1½ to 3 ounces. This decoction is used for expelling tapeworms.

Tapeworms do not care for the seed of ripe pumpkin. An infusion, prepared from the seeds after they are peeled and crushed, will kill parasites and help in expelling the tapeworm. It is necessary to fast for a day and empty the intestines by taking the juice of boiled dry prunes. The next day, drink three to four glasses of pumpkin seed infusion.

In conclusion, Shebolith Says…

Without the expertise of traditional or scientifically trained healers, experimenting with herbal drugs can be dangerous. As always, Shebolith Says…recommends the use of common sense and moderation. Do your homework before beginning any treatment with herbs.

This website and the stories contained herein are for entertainment purposes only.

NOPAL CACTUS_MEDICINAL USES_RECIPES

2012-01-31T09:52:00.001-06:00

Nopal cactus__Medicinal Uses__Recipes

The Prickly Pear is the fruit of the medicinal Nopal cactus plant, (Opuntia cochenillifera (L.) Mill. ‘cochineal nopal cactus). Nopal means cactus in Spanish. Nopales means "cactus stem" and the term Nopalitos refers to the pads after they have been cut up and prepared for recipes. Jelly is made from the Prickly Pear fruit of the Nopal cactus plant. Slice the cooked (boiled or grilled) pads in long slices or in pieces or leave whole depending on the dish you will prepare. See recipes below...

Medicinal Uses of the Nopal Cactus Plant

IN SCIENTIFIC SPEAK

An excerpt from Medicinal Use of the Latin Food Staple Nopales - The Prickly Pear Cactus--By Miguel Angel Gutierrez

"The nopal has been used as a medicinal plant and is a hallmark vegetable in the Latin American diet. Various studies have demonstrated Opuntia’s ability to affect blood glucose and hypercholesterolemia. The intake of prickly pear pectin decreases plasma LDL levels, increases expression of apolipoprotein receptor expression, increases hepatic LDL turnover and affects cholesterol homeostasis in guinea pigs. Prickly pear pectin, however does not affect absorption of cholesterol in guinea pigs. The prickly pear cactus demonstrates the ability to decrease blood glucose levels as well the hyperglycemic peak during glucose tolerance testing. In addition, Opuntia has demonstrated the ability to control experimentally induced diabetes. Similar studies, along with domestic surveys have prompted international evaluation of the prickly pear cactus to determine its ability to regulate glucose utilization. Currently, homeopathic industries have begun to incorporate opuntia into supplements intended to help regulate plasma glucose levels."

IN LAYMAN SPEAK

Nopal cactus in its extract, powder and juice forms is widely claimed to be an antioxidant, it stabilizes blood sugar, it counteracts the effects of overindulgence (alcohol), it cleanses the colon, soothes the stomach, lowers cholesterol, protects the liver, and scrubs the walls of blood vessels.

Nopal has long been a staple in Mexican cuisine.

Prickly Pear Jelly

About 15 large prickly pear fruits

Lemon or limejuice

Powdered pectin or Sure-Jell

Sugar

Use only fully ripe fruits. Slightly green fruits add an unpleasant sour flavor to the jelly. After removing the spines, cover the fruit in water and boil until tender, about 20 minutes. Mash the fruit and strain it through cheesecloth to produce the juice. Measure the juice.

(For every cup of juice, you will need 1 1/2 tablespoons powdered pectin or Sure-Jell, 2 tablespoons lemon or limejuice, and 1 to 1 1/2 cups sugar. The smaller amount of sugar yields a slightly tart jelly.)

Pour the juice into a clean pot, add the pectin and bring to a quick boil, stirring constantly. Add the lemon juice and sugar. Bring to a rolling boil, and cook for 3 minutes or until it passes the jelly test.

Pour the jelly into jars.

Nopales Salad

To one 24 oz. jar sliced or diced prickly pear cactus add

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

1 small onion, chopped

2 Tbs. snipped fresh cilantro

3 Tbs. Olive Oil

4 tsp. white wine vinegar or lime/lemon juice

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. dried Mexican oregano leaves

Dash of black pepper

Place the cactus, tomatoes, onion and cilantro in a glass bowl. In a separate bowl whisk together the rest of the ingredients, pour over vegetables and toss. Chill for several hours (at least 4) before serving. Makes about 6 servings.

Grilled Nopal Stems or Nopales Asados

Grill over medium-hot bed of charcoal.

To prepare pads, scrape off thorns, cut off blemishes, rinse well and dry.

12 whole cactus pads/stems

3 Tbs. Olive Oil

Brush pads with olive oil and grill in 2 batches, turning occasionally, until softened and lightly charred, 3 to 6 minutes. Make 5 lengthwise cuts in each whole pad, almost to stem, so that it resembles a hand. Serve on a platter with grilled jalapeño peppers, Roquefort cheese and warm corn tortillas. Wrap strips of grilled cactus, cheese and peppers in tortillas as for taquitos (little tacos). Alternatively, slice each pad into bite size pieces and top with a piece of Roquefort Cheese and a drizzle of agave nectar. Appetizers for 12.

In conclusion, Shebolith Says…a revival of knowledge about “The Laws of Nature”, reveal natural laws of healing utilizing that which is available to us in our environment. If we take care of our environment, it will in turn take care of us by providing all the fresh air and sunshine, good clean water, vibrant nourishment and healing herbs the body requires to mend its self. We must distance ourselves from the chemicals, drugs and surgeries of allopathic medicine. These practices are detrimental to good health savagely assaulting the human body.

Home Remedies in an Eggshell Membrane

2012-01-15T12:31:00.001-06:00

Home Remedies in an Eggshell Membrane

“Eggshell Membrane, discovered as a wound healer soon after woman discovered that eggs were good to eat. Imagination takes us to the campfires of nights left far behind by history. The newly discovered “fire” created pain, along with the red skin and fluid-filled blisters. Necessity was the driving force and woman learned that the membrane of the eggshell is a natural “home remedy” applying it to burns, cuts, scratches, spider bites and insect stings.”

The egg white has long been used as a facial exfoliant. However, the eggshell membrane acts as a drawing agent with antibacterial properties making it useful for treating boils, pimples and blackheads. It will also draw splinters out of the skin; whether wooden, metal or glass.

Boils: In the evening crack open an egg and remove the contents. Then remove the thin membrane that lines the inside of the eggshell. Place the membrane, wet side down, on the boil, and cover with a clean, dry bandage. After about 12 hours, check the bandage if the boil has not come to a head and burst repeat the process. Sometimes it takes two or three nights of treatment.

Spider Bites: Treat spider bites and blisters caused by fire or friction with eggshell membrane. Simply cover the affected area with the membrane, wet side to bite, and then place a bandage over the membrane. Repeat treatment as necessary until the bite or the blister has healed.

Cuts and Scratches: Place eggshell membrane wet side down on cuts and scratches, then allow the membrane to dry and fall off on its own. The process helps wounds to heal very well and leaves little scarring. As the membrane dries it pulls the sides of the cut together holding it until the skin begins to knit itself in repair.

Blackheads and Pimples: For problem spots of acne and blackhead removal, place the membrane, wet side to skin, allow the membrane to dry. Rinse the membrane off with tepid water and an exfoliating pad then pat with a towel to dry.

From the net: Boils

Excerpt: (Herbs such as Echinacea purpurea, Astragalus membranaceous, Inula helenium and Withania somnifera are well documented for their antiviral, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, and their ability to strengthen and assist the immune system.

These herbs not only help to treat current infections, but work well as a preventative measure so that the boils do not reoccur. Other herbs such as fennel and dandelion also help to detox the body and prevent reoccurring boils.) Read more about boils

From the net: Spider Bites

Excerpt: (Tea tree essential oil: tea tree essential oil is a good remedy for most bites; it manages the pain, burning and itching effectively. Add 5 drops of tea tree oil to a cup of water. Wash the area with this water. Tea tree is medicinal and prevents infection.

Ice compress: Keep the area moist for at least 2 hours. Use an ice compress for 15 minutes, every hour, and then place a wet cloth over it.

Baking soda: mix one spoon of baking soda, 1 spoon of baking soda, and one spoon of water. Apply this paste to the bite site. Baking soda is an excellent home remedy that successfully treats mild cases of bites). Read more about spider bites.

From the net: Blisters

Excerpt: (Symptoms of Burn Injury -

Pain, Swelling, Redness, Blisters, Peeling of skin and white charred skin. Second-degree burns usually cause burn blisters. You may experience blisters few minutes after the burn injury. If the blisters are of minor size, they can well be treated at home, where the blisters are larger, it is necessary to consult your doctor immediately.) Read more about blisters.

From the net: Tissue Adhesive (Super Glue) Wound Closure

Excerpt: (For several years, there has been increasing interest in the midwifery community regarding the use of commonly available “Super Glue” types of adhesives for wound closure. Midwives who have done a little research have found that the cyanoacrylate glue (Super Glue) sold over-the-counter and medical cyanoacrylate glues are apparently identical in composition and rumored to the be same as the tissue adhesive used extensively during the Vietnam War. Some midwives have even used over-the-counter Super Glue (Krazy Glue) successfully in lieu of suture to close the perineum. Read more about tissue adhesive wound repair.

Shebolith Says…

This website and all its posts are meant for entertainment purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. When in doubt, always seek the advice of a health care professional.

DANDELION - NATURAL DIURETIC

2012-01-10T20:35:00.000-06:00

Dandelion - Natural Diuretic

Opinions differ on whether the Dandelion is a wild and tenured herb with nutritional and therapeutic value or an obnoxious weed. The very word Dandelion finds its origins in Medieval Latin. This tells us the Dandelion is a very old plant indeed and endowed with an excellent reputation in the concerns of well-being and good health.

In the United States and Europe dandelion plants are grown commercially, the leaves and roots are used in the herbal supplement industry. At the same time, the herbicide industry would have us believe that the dandelion is simply an obnoxious weed that needs extermination from the farmed fields, as well as, the family yard. In truth, the lowly dandelion is loaded with vitamins and minerals.

Loaded With Vitamins and Minerals

Dandelion leaves, as a food, find their way into fresh salads and are used to make tea. The dandelion is a plentiful source of vitamins and minerals. The leaves have a very high content of vitamin A as well as moderate amounts of vitamin D, vitamin C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, zinc, and manganese. Dandelion leaves offer an abundant supply of potassium, making them a natural potassium-sparing diuretic.

Therapeutic Value

Dandelion is known for its therapeutic value in the treatment of a variety of ailments, including constipation, indigestion, heartburn and water retention. Drink tepid Dandelion tea for dyspepsia with constipation, fever or insomnia.

In Chinese herbalism, dandelion is useful for liver problems, jaundice, hepatitis and gallstones. It is purported to increase the activity of the liver, pancreas, and spleen, especially if there is enlargement of the liver or spleen. Dandelion will increase the flow of urine in people who have liver problems.

Dandelion promotes the formation of bile and removes excess water from the body. The dandelion root affects all forms of secretion and excretion from the body. Dandelion acts as a stimulant and a tonic by removing poisons and toxins from the body.

It is also useful in all kinds of kidney problems, diabetes, edema (water retention at the cellular level) related to congestive heart failure, inflammation of the bowels and fever. Most kind is that dandelion has beneficial effects on the female organs and will increase the production of mother’s milk.

Make Tea-Infusions, Decoctions and Cold Extracts

To treat chronic rheumatism, gout or stiff joints follow an 8-week dandelion detoxification plan using one or more of the following recipes:

To make a tea or infusion steep 2 tsp. of plant or root in 1-cup boiling water. Take ½ to 1 cup tepid or cold tea per day.
A decoction is a bit stronger and is made by using 4 oz. of fresh dandelion in 2 pints of water. Gently boil down to 1 pint and strain. Take 3 tbsp. 6 times per day.
Make Sun Tea or something called a Cold extract using 2 tsp. fresh plant with 1-cup water. Let stand at room temperature for 8 hours.
The fresh juice is thought to be the most effective. Use a juicer to extract the milk from the dandelion. For a springtime tonic, take 1 tsp. Juice, 1 to 3 times a day.

Use the whole plant before it flowers; use only the leaves after the plant flowers. Use the dandelion roots only during the fall. Because the dandelion is closely related to chicory, the roots of the dandelion have often been used to make a coffee substitute.

When to Avoid Dandelion

Persons with gallbladder/gall stone problems may have blocked bile ducts. People with blocked bile ducts should avoid dandelion, as Dandelion increases secretions of bile. Likewise, those with stomach problems, such as ulcers or gastritis should avoid dandelion, as dandelion increases secretions of stomach digestive acids.

Shebolith Says…

Always be wary of allergic reaction to this and any other herbal supplement. Always use herbal supplements with common sense and in moderation.

This information is for entertainment purposes only and not intended to diagnose or cure any medically recognized and protected disease. When in doubt, seek the advice of your personal physician.

SOUTHERN PEAS, GREENS AND CORNBREAD = GOOD LUCK

2011-12-30T13:37:00.000-06:00

Black-eyed Peas, Greens and Cornbread

In the

United States

, New Years Day reminds some of us of an old southern tradition of eating black-eyed peas with a side dish of greens; both seasoned with salted or smoked pork, as a means of bringing good luck to the family in the coming year.

Preparing the traditional meal has become fast, simple and easy compared to the days of our grandparents who picked the peas and greens from their vegetable gardens or were gifted the produce from family truck farms in the community. In addition, many wild greens were available, such as asparagus, Burdock, clovers, Chickweed, Curled dock, Dandelion, Polk salad and wild onion.

Here is what you need to serve dinner for 2 or 3 very lucky people!

2 15oz. cans of Allens Black-eyed Peas

2 15 oz. cans of Wylwood collard greens

½ lb of JC Potter thick sliced bacon

1 6 oz. package of Shawnee Cornbread Mix

1 small yellow onion, peeled and diced

1 bunch of green onions, cleaned and cut in1/2 inch pieces

salt and pepper to taste

You will need two heavy 1-quart saucepans and a small baking pan.

Method

Cut the bacon into small bits and pieces, sauté half of the bacon in each saucepan (this will season the pans). Remove from heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan. Pour the bacon fat into a cup; then measure 2 tablespoons of the rendered fat back into each pan. Set pans and bacon bits aside.

Prepare the corn bread mix as directed on the package. It should take about 20 minutes to bake the cornbread. While the cornbread is baking, sauté (in the 2 tablespoons of bacon fat) the diced, yellow onion in one of the saucepans and sauté the green onions in the other saucepan.

Add the black-eyed peas to the sautéed yellow onion and add the greens to the sautéed green onions. Add ½ cup of water to each saucepan and let both pans simmer slowly, reducing the liquid (about 20 minutes).

Incorporate ½ of the crispy bacon bits into the peas and ½ into the greens just before serving.

Serve the meal with butter and Trappey's Hot Pepper in Vinegar. Or other condiments of your choice.

SHEBOLITH SAYS...

Make knowing and using moderation a New Year's Resolution!

PEPPERMINT & PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL

2011-10-27T07:32:00.000-05:00

Peppermint & Peppermint Essential Oil

Common Sense Home Treatments for Everyday Aches & Pains

Peppermint, Mentha x piperita, is another of excellent home remedies fallen from favor in the current market place. Indeed, they have fallen from common knowledge, no longer handed down from one generation to another, as has been the fate of most common-sense home treatments for everyday aches and pains.

Peppermint & Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint grows throughout the United States, Italy, Japan and Great Britain; however, it is a native of the Mediterranean. It is a natural hybrid cross of the watermint, M aquatica and spearmint, M. spicata. The U.S.A. is said to be the largest producer of peppermint oil even though the European oil is regarded as a superior product. The plant has a history of use, at least since the time of recorded history and mentioned in Pharmacopoeias of the 13th century.

In Greek mythology, the mint plant was once the nymph Mentha, whom Pluto found extremely attractive. Persephone, his jealous wife, pursued Mentha and trod her ferociously into the ground! Pluto then changed Mentha into a delightful herb.

Much has been written about peppermint. It is mentioned in Bancken’s Herbal and written about by such notables as Nicholas Culpeper, Joseph Miller and William Whitla.

Peppermint oil has a refreshing taste and aroma that is familiar to most. Its taste is a combination of sweet, bitter and sour. Most noticeable in its taste and when applied to the skin is its cooling effect, yet it is traditionally described as heating and drying. Like Camphor, peppermints warming effect is really the reaction of the body to a cold stimulus. Menthol is its principal constituent, and is responsible for most of its therapeutic value.

Use peppermint instead of aspirin. Large amounts of peppermint oil must be used for its analgesic, sedative and cooling sensations to be effective. It is ideal for most types of fever, colds, influenza, etc.

Peppermint is the primary remedy for all digestive disorders including indigestion, colic, flatulence, stomach pains, diarrhea (for which it is also a very good antiseptic.) It is an excellent remedy for nausea and vomiting; it relieves nausea almost instantaneously, and is good for sea or travel sickness.

“These aromatics are rapidly absorbed into the system, and behave as mild diffusible stimulants. Exposed to the gastric mucous membrane, they implement at first a stimulating and afterwards a local sedative effect, dispelling nausea, and correcting uneasiness.” William Whitla

(Peppermint Essential Oil applied to the forehead and temple relieves a sinus headache almost immediately. For tension-headaches in the back of the head and extending down the neck massage the peppermint oil into the base of the skull and apply to muscles leading away from the neck.) For headaches and migraines related to digestive or hepatic phenomena, it is an exceptional remedy.

Excerpt from the book, “The Art of Aromatherapy” by Robert B. Tisserand, Healing Arts Press, Rochester, Vermont, ISBN 0-89281-001-7:

Peppermint is cooling; antiseptic, antispasmodic expectorant peppermint oil is very useful in respiratory disorders. It is a good antibacterial agent in tuberculosis. It is very good for a dry cough.

It is especially good for sinus congestion, infection or inflammation, and for congestive headache. If you think too much, or have a hot head, it will cool you down. If you feel faint, it will stabilize your head and dispel nausea.

As an analgesic-emmenagogue, it is very good for dysmenorrhoea and for scanty menstruation. Applied externally it relieves the breast of curdled or congested milk, and prevents infection. Taken internally it will discourage the flow of milk to the breast.

It strengthens and numbs the nerves, and in large doses will put you to sleep. It is valuable in many nervous disorders such as hysteria, palpitations, trembling and paralysis.

It helps to break up gallstones, and may be good for kidney stones… (‘esteemed by some to be an excellent remedy against the stone and gravel’ Joseph Miller)

…Peppermint oil will relieve any kind of skin irritation or itching, but should be used in moderation (less than 1%) or the irritation will be made worse. It may be used for skin redness due to inflammation, or acne; it cools by constricting the capillaries, and is a very refreshing skin tonic.

Peppermint is effective against ringworm and scabies, and is used in homeopathy for shingles. It makes very invigorating and refreshing bath oil, which helps to cool down the body in summertime. It is a mosquito and rat repellent.”

Today peppermint is popular in commercial use for flavoring teas, chewing gum, candies, toothpastes and mouthwashes.

Shebolith Says…recalls the peppermint candies given to her by her grandfather for ailments of the tummy. As the candy dissolved, the flavors and aromas of peppermint would always be associated with an uplifting of the spirit. We have used peppermint essential oil to relieve headaches for 15 years or more. Be careful not to get the pure oil to close to the eyes, the menthol odor wafting from the oil will make the eyes sting and water.

Peppermint is strong medicine and should never be used on infants or children under the age of two.

General Safety guidelines according to “Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand and Tony Balacs, published by Churchill Livingstone in 1995.

· Keep essential oils where small children cannot reach them.

· Use less rather than more and, if necessary, gradually increase the amount applied.

· Do not take essential oils internally unless prescribed by a primary care practitioner, such as a medical doctor or medical herbalist.

· Do not apply undiluted essential oils to mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, vagina, rectum).

· Do not purchase undiluted essential oils unless the bottles have integral drop-dispensers and/or child-resistant tops.

· Avoid essential oils which are poorly labeled (e.g. only the name of the oil on the label) and which have no safety guidelines (e.g. keep out of reach of children).

· Do not purchase undiluted essential oils if they are in clear bottles (Light damages them).

· Do not use essential oils, which are more than one year old (after first opening), or two years if they have been kept in a refrigerator.

Robert B Tisserand is an excellent author. Find more information about this author and essential oils at www.InnerTraditions.com.

UMCKALOABO, SERIOUS NATURAL ANTIBACTERIAL

2011-10-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

UMCKALOABO, SERIOUS NATURAL ANTIBACTERIAL

Umckaloabo (Pelargonium sidoides) is a medicinal geranium-like plant from southern Africa with antibacterial properties. The root is used for the treatment of acute and chronic infections of the throat, nose and ear cavities, for sinusitis, acute and chronic bronchitis and tuberculosis. Research in Europe is verifying what traditional medicine men of Lesotho and South Africa have long known about this herb.

Englishman, Charles Henry Stevens claimed the Umckaloabo plant cured his tuberculosis back in 1897. Stevens built a business selling the root powder in Europe without revealing the origin of the medicine, and finally in 1972 German research identified the plant. Now Umckaloabo products are widely sold in Germany.

This wild geranium is adorned with trailing stems, grey foliage and deep burgundy-black flowers. California nurserymen have called it one of the best silver foliage perennials. Sow seeds anytime in the spring, perhaps a few seeds every week until the end of spring. Germination of the Umckaloabo is said to be moderate in nature, meaning is does not germinate easily. It is a hardy perennial in zones 10-11+.

http://herbalafrica.co.za/HerbsPelargonium.htm

The following is a very informative site for Umckaloabo, it outlines as follows:

Umckaloabo (Pelargonium sidoides)

Related Terms

Background

Uses

Tradition

Dosing

Safety

Interactions with Drugs

(And an impressive list of) Attributions

http://www.health24.com/natural/Herbs/17-666-676,65779.asp

Shebolith Says…on occasion something on TV prompts her to begin research on a subject. Such is the case in this instance. Dr. Oz recommended Umckaloabo on his TV show a couple of weeks ago. After looking through his site this morning and not finding, anything about the plant, Umckaloabo, or its medicinal properties Shebolith Says…thinks Dr. Oz is not that serious about promoting Alternative Health Care using Herbs and other natural remedies.

HEALTHY PUMPKIN PIE RECIPES

2011-10-11T14:06:00.000-05:00

PUMPKIN PIE RECIPES

Pumpkin pie is made from the pulp of the Field Pumpkin, which is a member of the Gourd Family. In addition to pie pumpkins, this particular species, (Cucurbitaceae), of the gourd family includes such squashes as crookneck, straightneck, zucchini, acorn and marrow. The species name comes from the Greek word pepon, meaning, “sun ripened”.

FOLK MEDICINE --- PUMPKIN SEEDS & OIL

The pumpkin is from tropical America. It arrived in, what came to be, the southern states of the United States long before the Vikings visit. Several indigenous native tribes, including the Yuma Tribe, the Catawbas and the Menominees cultivated the plant for medicine as well as food. The Yuma Tribe made an emulsion from a mixture of pumpkin and watermelon seeds for healing wounds. The Catawbas ate the fresh or dried seeds as a kidney medicine, and the Menominees drank a mixture of water and powdered squash and pumpkin seeds to ease the passage of urine.

Later on settlers began grinding the stems of pumpkin to make a tea thought to treat “female ills”. The ripe seeds were made into an edible preparation to dispel worms. Today’s home remedies no longer suggest the use of ground pumpkin stems for “female ills”, however, modern folk healers advocate the use of pumpkin seeds for ridding the body of intestinal worms. It is also noted that modern healers believe pumpkin seed oil is helpful for healing burns and as a dressing for wounds.

GROW YOUR OWN PUMPKINS

The Field Pumpkin grows on an annual vine with tendrils and a creeping stem that can reach up to 30 feet in length. The vine has large, rough, dull-green leaves, ½ to 1 foot wide, with a triangular shape and three to five lobes. The bright yellow, funnel-shaped flowers bloom in June through August, are followed by the familiar orange fruit, which is furrowed when mature in late summer or early autumn and contain numerous flat white seeds. Recipes follow...

FAVORITE PUMPKIN PIE RECIPE

LIBBY’S 100% Pure Pumpkin makes the best Pumpkin Pie. It comes in 15 oz. cans and has this recipe on every can.

LIBBY'S® Famous Pumpkin Pie

Ingredients

3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 large eggs
1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin
1 can (12 fl. oz.) NESTLÉ® CARNATION® Evaporated Milk
1 unbaked 9-inch (4-cup volume) deep-dish pie shell
Whipped cream (optional)

Directions

MIX sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in small bowl. Beat eggs in large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.

POUR into pie shell.

BAKE in preheated 425° F oven for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350° F; bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate. Top with whipped cream before serving.

http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/18470/LIBBYS-Famous-Pumpkin-Pie/detail.aspx

Shebolith Says…

The next recipe was collected from BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS in the 1970’s; it is still a great recipe after all these years…

PUMPKIN-APPLE PIE

Ingredients

· ½ cup packed brown sugar

· ½ cup water

· 2 tablespoons butter or margarine

· 1 tablespoon cornstarch

· 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

· ¼ teaspoon salt

· 4 cups sliced, peeled cooking apples

· 1 tablespoon lemon juice

· 1 slightly beaten egg

· 1 cup canned pumpkin

· ½ cup granulated sugar

· ½ teaspoon ground ginger

· ¼ teaspoon salt

· 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

· 1 51/3-ounce can (2/3 cup) evaporated milk

· Unsweetened whipped cream

· 1 9-inch (4-cup volume) deep dish pie shell

Directions

Bake the pie shell for 5 minutes in a 450 oven. Cool

For filling, in medium saucepan combine brown sugar, water, butter or margarine, cornstarch, cinnamon, and ¼-teaspoon salt. Cook and stir over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes or until apples are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice. Spread the hot apple mixture evenly in the bottom of the partially baked pastry shell.

In mixing bowl combine egg, pumpkin, granulated sugar, ginger, the remaining ¼-teaspoon salt, and cloves; mix well. Stir in evaporated milk. Carefully pour pumpkin mixture over apples. To prevent over browning, cover edge of pie with foil. Bake in 375 oven for 20 minutes. Remove foil; bake for 20 to 25 minutes more or until knife inserted off-center comes out clean. Cool pie thoroughly on rack. Serve with whipped cream. Cover; chill to store.

Happy Autumn Days to All - Enjoy the Harvest!

ECHINACEA FOR ALLERGIES & CANDIDA

2011-09-20T11:15:00.000-05:00

ECHINACEA FOR ALLERGIES & CANDIDA

In 1987, Humbart Santillo, MH, N.D. stated, “Echinacea is an herb that is a specific lymphatic cleanser. It is an excellent herb to use to combat allergies in combination with enzymes because it stimulates the production of white blood cells, and is used to treat inflammations, lymphatic swellings and infections.”

Echinacea angustifolia is known to have been used by at least 14 North American Tribes for a variety of maladies, including coughs, colds, sore throats and infections. Echinacea is reported to have been used by the Dakotas as a veterinary medicine for their horses. Archeology reports indicate that Native Americans may have used Echinacea for more than 400 years to treat infections and wounds and as a general "cure-all”

In 1887, doctors of allopathy began using the herb. By the early 1900’s Echinacea was the most popular, top selling herb in America. Throughout history, people have used Echinacea to treat scarlet fever, syphilis, malaria, blood poisoning and diphtheria. When penicillin came on the market Echinacea’s popularity waned. In 1935, or there about, the newly formed American Medical Association (AMA) dismissed Echinacea as worthless.

During the 1930’s a German native, Dr Gerhard Madaus began researching and working with Echinacea purpurea. By default, Echinacea purpurea became the subject of modern pharmacological studies by Madaus. Some of the best scientific studies for Echinacea purpurea have taken place in Germany. Because of Madaus’ studies, a product was developed called Echinacin. This preparation is still available today in the United States. Echinacin is a preparation of juice expressed from the flowers, leaves and stems of the Echinacea plant.

Today, people use Echinacea to shorten the duration of the common cold and flu and reduce symptoms, such as sore throat, cough and fever. Herbalists also recommend Echinacea to help boost the immune system and help the body fight infections.

Herbs contain active substances that may trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements or medications. For these reasons, people should take herbs under the supervision of a practitioner knowledgeable in the field of botanical medicine. People with tuberculosis, leukemia, diabetes, connective tissue disorders, multiple sclerosis, HIV or AIDS, any autoimmune diseases, or, possibly, liver disorders should not take Echinacea. There is some concern that Echinacea may reduce the effectiveness of medications that suppress the immune system. For this reason, people receiving organ transplants who must take immunosuppressant medications should avoid this herb.

Antigens, bacteria, yeast, and other toxins enter the body through the digestive tract. Allergens also enter the body simply through the air that we breathe. Most antigens, bacteria, viruses and yeasts are proteins. Often bacteria secrete toxins that also contain protein substances; these secretions often cause allergies and infections. Digestion of protein is done by protease (protein digestive enzymes). If digestion is not properly, accomplished, undigested substances can be absorbed thought the digestive tract. Antigens that cause allergies attach themselves to these proteins in the blood, deposit in the walls of tiny capillaries and secrete substances that cause inflammations that result in swellings, sneezing, hay fever, hives, asthma, etc.

In order for the body to rid itself of the allergen, it must be separated from the protein molecule. Enzymes that digest the protein and release the allergen so the body can eliminate it via the lymphatic system accomplish this. This is why it is so important to keep the lymphatic system clean. Eating larger amounts of raw foods that have the enzymes still present, taking supplemental enzymes and using Echinacea will cleanse the lymphatic system.

Echinacea purpurea is a perennial of gardens in Virginia to Iowa and south to Georgia and Louisiana. Also called purple cone flower, it is drought tolerant, has daisy like flowers in pink or pink purple and blooms in early to late summer. Echinacea angustifolia grows best in high elevations where the winters are cold. This is probably why the Northern Native Tribes were more familiar with the latter Echinacea.

In the spring when the soil warms to 55-70 degrees F. sow seeds on the surface of the soil in part shade or full sun. After the seeds begin to germinate, cover them with about 1/8 of an inch of soil. Germination should occur within 10 to 20 days. The plants grow quickly. Thin the plants to grow 18 to 24 inches apart.

Echinacea Tea…Use 1 to 2 grams of dried root or herb to brew a cup of tea. Boil water, cool slightly, pour water over herb, cover and let steep 3 minutes. Sweeten tea with Stevia or use lemon juice if desired. Drink a cup of Echinacea Tea 3 times daily for 7 to 10 days to shorten the duration of the common cold and flu…

ShebolithSays…offers this information for entertainment purposes only. As always, use moderation in all things, do your own research and see your health care practitioner on the subjects of diagnoses and treatment of disease.

References: FOOD ENZYMES The Missing Link To Radiant Health by Humbart Santillo, MH, N.D. A Practical and Concise Guide That Explains Why Food Enzymes From Fruit & Vegetable Sources Are Essential For Vitality And Immunity. ISBN 0-934252-40-8 (pbk.)

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/echinacea-000239.htm

http://natsci.edgewood.edu/wingra/management/raingardens/Echinacea/History%20Page.htm

How Did You Die? by Edmund Vance Cooke

2011-08-30T06:47:00.000-05:00

Gaylene reminded ShebolithSays…of this Memorable Memory. She and I were privileged to attend a young ladies finishing school back in the 60’s. The drama class was tasked with giving a poem recital one Sunday afternoon. Gaylene stood on the stage, stern and somber, beside her was a gurney and on the gurney laid a body covered with a white sheet. Gaylene’s presentation of this poem was quite dramatic her voice resonate and somber but the “corpse” stole the show when an arm flopped out from under the sheet during the second stanza and the laughter erupted from the audience!

How Did You Die?

Did you tackle that trouble that came your way

With a resolute heart and cheerful?

Or hide your face from the light of day

With a craven soul and fearful?

Oh, a trouble’s a ton, or a troubles an ounce,

Or a trouble is what you make it,

And it isn’t the fact that you’re hurt that counts,

But only how did you take it?

You are beaten to earth? Well, well, what’s that!

Come up with a smiling face.

It’s nothing against you to fall down flat,

But to lie there--that’s disgrace.

The harder you’re thrown, why the higher you bounce

Be proud of your blackened eye!

It isn’t the fact that you’re licked that counts;

It’s how did you fight--and why?

And though you be done to the death, what then?

If you battled the best you could,

If you played your part in the world of men,

Why, the Critic will call it good.

Death comes with a crawl, or comes with a pounce,

And whether he’s slow or spry,

It isn’t the fact that you’re dead that counts,

But only how did you die?

By: Edmund Vance Cooke

Gout - High Uric Acid - Hyperuricemea

2011-08-27T14:19:00.004-05:00

Gout - High Uric Acid - Hyperuricemea

Diagnosing Gout

Uric Acid tests cannot definitively diagnose gout, however, a test for monosodium urate in synovial fluid can. Synovial fluid is drawn from the affected joint and tested for a diagnosis of Hyperuricemea. Doctors say diagnostic testing is required for those seeking medication to alleviate the need for dietary restrictions in reducing the crystal/stone producing levels of purine. Purine is described in biology-based chemistry terms; it occurs at the cellular level.

Genetic Link

Purine and purine derivatives occur naturally in the human body, thus it is said high uric acid levels in some people can be said to be genetic.

Rich Man’s Disease

In the United States, gout was often considered a “rich man’s” disease. As an example, plantation owners and their families consumed “rich” foods that are high in purine and cause symptoms of gout.

Foods to Avoid

People who have uric acid kidney stones or gout should avoid foods that are high in purine content. Foods that cause the most trouble in people suffering from gout are;

hearts, herring, mussels, yeast, smelt, sardines, sweetbreads. Foods moderately high in purines include; anchovies, grouse, mutton, veal, bacon, liver, salmon turkey, kidneys, partridge, trout, goose, haddock, pheasant, and scallops. Ultimately, diets shown to be connected to gout are the same kinds of diet linked to cardiovascular disease. The difference is that cardiovascular disease is linked to high fat content and gout is linked to high protein content. Alcoholism and/or the consumption of alcohol will exacerbate and aggravate symptoms of gout, as will many prescription drugs.

Medications to Avoid

More than 500 medications can contribute to dryness that is noticed most often in the eyes, mouth, kidneys and bowels. Medications that cause dryness can affect the urine output of the kidneys. When urine output is decreased, you will develop symptoms of gout. Chronic constipation is a sign the body is low on fluids. Medications known for these side effects include antihistamines, anti hypertensive medications, decongestants, pain medications, diuretics and antidepressants. All diuretic Thiazide drugs will cause symptoms of gout. Aspirin and all drugs containing salicylates will exacerbate and aggravate symptoms of gout.

Diseases Leading to Gout

Gout can be caused by Liver disease, Kidney disease and Wilson disease. Cancers, including Metastatic cancer, multiple myeloma and leukemia can cause symptoms of gout, as can chemotherapy. Chronic renal disease, including Acidosis and Toxemia of Pregnancy can also cause symptoms of gout. Finally, it should be noted that fasting, starvation diets, stress and strenuous exercise can cause symptoms of gout.

ShebolithSays…

In conclusion, ShebolithSays…Good health begins with the individual and the decisions the individual makes in self-healthcare. Know your own family medical history. If there seems to be gout, kidney stones, cancer and even alcoholism that run through the family tree, one can reasonably assume that extra care is needed in dietary preferences. As always, ShebolithSays…recommends moderation in all things including the diet, alcohol consumption and medication consumption.

TEA TREE OIL, GERANIUM OIL AND GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT COMBINE TO KILL MRSA

2011-08-23T13:24:00.001-05:00

TEA TREE OIL, GERANIUM OIL AND GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT

COMBINE TO KILL MRSA

PRO’S

In December of 2004 a journal article describes a study using Patchouli, Tea tree, Geranium, Lavender essential oils and Citricidal (grapefruit seed extract). These were applied singly and in combination to evaluate their anti-bacterial activity against three strains of Staphylococcus aureus: “A combination of Citricidal and geranium oil showed the greatest-anti-bacterial effects against MRSA, whilst a combination of geranium and tea tree oil was most active against the methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (Oxford strain). This study demonstrates the potential of essential oils and essential oil vapours as antibacterial agents and for use in the treatment of MRSA infection.” http://highwire.stanford.edu/cgi/medline/pmid;15555788

CON’S

The Mayo Clinic agrees with Natural Standard that there are not enough High-Quality studies published on the antimicrobial, antiseptic and antifungal properties of a traditional alternative in health care medicine, Tea tree oil.

They say...Tea tree oil is purported to have antiseptic properties and traditionally used to prevent and treat infection…They say numerous laboratory studies have demonstrated antimicrobial properties…They say human studies have focused on antifungal properties…Still, there is no definitive evidence published and further study is warranted…so they say.

“NOW” LABEL DESCRIPTION OF TEA TREE OIL

The warning on the label reads: “Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. If pregnant or lactating, consult your healthcare practitioner before using. Not for internal use.”

Also plainly stated are suggested uses: “For aromatherapy use. For all other uses, carefully dilute with a carrier oil such as jojoba, grapeseed, olive or almond oil prior to use. Please consult an essential oil book or other professional reference source for suggested dilution ratios.

Bold print states: “Natural essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with care

RECIPE FOR ROOM FRESHENER

Additionally the label tells me the ingredients of the bottle, 100% pure Tea tree oil; it says the aroma is potent, warm and spicy. The benefits of Tea tree aromatherapy are cleansing, purifying and renewing. They offer a recipe for a purifying room blend, (Add 1 drop each of tea tree oil and grapefruit oil, along with 10 drops of lemon oil to a diffuser and enjoy.)

TRADITIONAL USES FOR TEA TREE OIL

MedlinePlus has this information from the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health. “Tea tree oil is applied to the skin (used topically) for infections such as acne, fungal infections of the nail (onychomycosis), lice, scabies, athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), and ringworm. It is also used topically as a local antiseptic for cuts and abrasions, for burns, insect bites and stings, boils, vaginal infections, recurrent herpes labialis, toothache, infections of the mouth and nose, sore throat, and for ear infections such as otitis media and otitis externa. Some people add it to bath water to treat cough, bronchial congestion and pulmonary inflammation.” http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/113.html

SHEBOLITHSAYS’ PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

ShebolithSays’ personal experience with Tea tree oil began while entrepreneuring in animal husbandry. It became our most trusted antiseptic and wound dressing. The Tea tree oil mixed with olive oil makes a great antiseptic rub for the skin after a bath or after washing the hands. Working with poultry, goats and guinea pigs in a natural outdoor setting, one often worries about strep and staph infections. When our favorite Billy stiffened with lockjaw, we became even more convinced of the benefits of continuous use of Tea tree oil.

At present ShebolithSays has in her first-aide kit a 1 oz/30-ml. bottle of 100% pure Tea tree essential oil purchased at a local health store for about $10.00.

For all those little nicks and cuts picked up in the pasture, chicken pen and even the kitchen I always wash first with soap and lots of water, dry, apply straight tea tree oil, sprinkle with white sugar and bandage (keep the dressing dry). By the next day, you will find the skin knitting together and the cut healing nicely, pain and inflammation free.

Kerosene, Panacea of Medicine, 160 Yrs Ago

2011-08-21T19:54:00.002-05:00

Kerosene, Panacea of Medicine, 160 Yrs Ago

Back during the years of folk medicine, folk lore and superstition, about 160 years ago, kerosene was the new magic potion in healthcare. Folk medicine saw kerosene mixed with molasses and used to treat coughs in Newfoundland. One recipe reads, make cough drops by boiling a mixture of molasses, kerosene oil and ginger, let it cool until it solidifies and cut into candies.

First Aid

Kerosene is often used as a replacement for alcohol to treat cuts and burns, stop bleeding, and reduce the swelling and bleeding of hemorrhoids. Folk medicine sees kerosene as a powerful antidote for snakebites. Home health representatives of yore often used kerosene; it was a popular rub/liniment for rheumatism. Cold sores have long been treated with kerosene. Dip a clean cloth or paper towel in Kerosene and dab it on your cold sore.

More Serious Ailments

A teaspoon of kerosene and a sweetener for whooping cough, along with onions fried soft in chicken fat, wrapped in a fat-soaked cotton cloth and applied to the chest and back. Kerosene was early recognized as good medicine: The 1918 Flu pandemic left many convinced that a level Tablespoon full of sugar, kerosene and a dab of Vick’s Vapor Rub would stave off the flu and colds, both viral infections.

Internal parasites

Many accounts by Vietnam POWs say they would as often as possible secretly grab a kerosene lamp and swallow a slug of the fuel to fight the intestinal worms they got from
the food and water they lived on in the prison camps. Grandmothers offered a teaspoon of kerosene, taken internally for parasites. Drink 2 tablespoons of kerosene but no more. If necessary, you can repeat this treatment in 24 to 48 hours. Be careful not to inhale the fumes. The fumes may cause lung irritation. Take a soup spoon of caster oil with 3 drops of kerosene to treat infestation of tapeworms.

Insecticide

In New Zealand, pioneers consumed lump sugar dipped in kerosene which, when exuded through the pores kept the hordes of sand flies away. Kerosene was once widely used to kill head and body lice. It has been used to prevent mosquito breeding in malaria-ridden areas. Kerosene is known as an excellent bedbug wash. Wear a kerosene soaked thread around your ankles to repel chiggers

Kills Fungus

For Athlete’s Foot, some believe soaking your feet in Kerosene will kill fungi involved in Athlete’s Foot, moccasin fungus and toenail fungi.

Cleaning product

A 19^th century Ogilvie book advises homemakers that a spoonful of kerosene oil added to a kettle of hot water will make “windows, looking glasses and picture glasses bright and clear”. Ogilvie claimed that kerosene would accomplish other little miracles around the house as well. For example: “When your kitchen sink is rusty, rub it over with kerosene; kerosene will clean your hands better than anything else; squeaky shoes are cured by dipping the soles in kerosene; the white spots appearing in the spring on the lining of your refrigerator will disappear if you rub the zinc with kerosene.”

Cosmetic Kerosene

Cosmetic kerosene is sold today on the internet. http://www.kosmed.pl/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=61&Itemid=83&lang=en

It is described as folk medicine, with the addition of castor oil, egg yolk and a few drops of lemon juice, to strengthen the hair. The same site touts cosmetic kerosene that is used on the skin of the scalp acts against static electricity in the hair, facilitates combing and modeling. They go on to say that vitamins added to kerosene, chamomile oil, trace elements and castor oil improves the appearance and condition of hair. The cosmetic kerosene being sold is called: nafta.

In the UK, kerosene is called 'parafin.' They also have a medicinal product called 'liquid parafin'. These are two different products.

[Use of petroleum distillates as medication is not common but some cases are documented. A study (Crowder, 2001) showed kerosene sugar and candy ingested for colds, kerosene application for toothache and kerosene vinegar and pepper for rheumatism. Inhalation because of an unusual use of kerosene as folk medicine for upper respiratory tract infection was shown to result in pneumonia combined with contact dermatitis (Nussinovitch et al, 1992)…]

Today in Africa, limited studies have been conducted on people who are using petroleum products as medicines. Kerosene seems to be the most popular product for sore throat; a cube of sugar is placed in a teaspoon of kerosene and slowly sucked. The second most popular use is to dress wounds; it is applied full-strength and directly on the wound. Other illnesses, such as whitlows, toothaches, poisonings, sores, boils, conjunctivitis, swollen lymph nodes and diarrhea have also been treated with Kerosene. http://www.ispub.com/journal/the_internet_journal_of_health/volume_11_number_1_10/article/petroleum-distilates-use-in-folk-medicine-in-south-eastern-nigeria.html.

Shebolith’s personal experience with the use of kerosene as a home remedy began in the early 1950’s, down around Asher, Oklahoma. The grandparents had a massive vegetable garden, not a piece of ground lay bear during the growing season. Following the planting, growing and fruiting of the vegetables were a plethora of crawling and flying insects. It was inevitable that the grandchildren who came to visit would be bitten or stung by some creature. Kerosene was the first line of defense after a bite or sting. However, some bites and stings were treated with saliva wet snuff or chewing tobacco.

In my opinion, Kerosene alleviates pain almost instantly; it relieves itching and reduces swelling in all kinds of insect bites and stings. I also remember having the warmed flannel cloth, treated with Vick’s Vapor Rub and Kerosene tied around my neck during bed rest while recovering from colds, coughs and sore throats. Shebolith does not ever recall ingesting Kerosene. Although in the 1990’s a denturist did say, I should rinse my mouth in Kerosene to kill gum disease. I did and it worked. One must be so careful though not to inhale the fumes and not to swallow the kerosene. Kerosene ingestion can cause great injury and even death. As always, Shebolith encourages moderation in all things.

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be relied upon or used as a substitution for advice from your physician or other health care professional.

French bread and the Oster Bread Machine

2011-08-14T12:34:00.001-05:00

French bread and the Oster Bread Machine

Why call it “French bread”? There are two reasons why it is called French bread. The first reason has to do with the ingredients; French bread usually always incorporates water, olive oil, flour, salt, sugar and yeast with white all-purpose flour or bread flour. The second reason goes to the shape of the loaf. French bread dough is shaped into an elongated roll; and allowed freedom to rise on an oiled sheet pan.

Shebolith owns the Oster Bread Machine, Model #5838. It has provided faithful service for several years. When I think back to the Alaskan logging camp days and remember the loaves of bread, my friend, Penny and I hand mixed and kneaded every Monday, week in and week out, I feel blessed to own this bread machine. No longer do I toil through the mixing and kneading and rising, the machine does it all for me in about 1 ½ hours after setting to DOUGH/PASTA.

A truly classic French bread recipe will call for olive oil instead of butter. Butter is my favorite for all bread, however, in a pinch I have been known to use pure lard just like grandma used pure lard to make her bread and wonderfully flakey piecrust. At any rate, we are talking about two tablespoons of olive oil, butter or lard. You may choose your own favorite for this recipe.

Lesson learned: It is of paramount importance when using the bread machine to load the ingredients in the proper order. The proper order for this recipe is given below. Let the flour mound in the middle, sprinkle the salt and sugar over. With two fingers, create an indentation in the top of the mound, measure your yeast into this hole and gently push the flour back up and over the yeast. The yeast should not touch the water until it is thoroughly mixed by the machine with all the dry ingredients.

Shebolith’s Never-Fail French Bread Recipe:

Place ingredients in pan in the order given: makes a large 1 ½-pound loaf

1 Cup plus 2 T.	Warm Water
2 tsps.	Salted Butter, softened
3 ¼ Cups	Shawnee’s Best All Purpose flour or your favorite bread flour
2 T.	Sugar, white, granulated
1 ½ tsps.	Salt, Iodized Table Salt
1 ¾ tsps.	Fleischmann’s Bread Machine Yeast or quick-acting active dry yeast

The method, step by step:

Remove bread pan from the machine; attach the kneading blade. Place all ingredients in bread pan in the order listed. Insert bread pan into machine, close the lid and plug it in. Select bread type by pressing the arrow key until dough/pasta is blinking. Wait for 130-minute time to show then press start. Do anything you want for an hour and a half while the machine does all the work for you.

After 1 ½ hours the timer will sound, it is time to remove the dough from the machine. On your clean counter top, sprinkle a thin layer of flour. Take the bread pan out of the machine and turn the dough out onto the flour. Punch down and hand-knead the dough one last time to remove all the air bubbles. Shape into a French-style loaf, brush with butter and place on a buttered sheet pan to rise for the last time. Rising time depends on temperature of kitchen; time can be 30 minutes to an hour.

Meanwhile, tidy up the counter and preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Preheating the oven is important when baking breads. The initial burst of a hot oven causes a phenomenon known as oven spring; oven spring insures a nice tall loaf of bread. Bake bread for about 25 minutes.

NICOTINE DERIVED FROM TOBACCO PLANT HELPS SOME

2011-08-04T12:20:00.001-05:00

NICOTINE DERIVED FROM TOBACCO PLANT HELPS SOME

Tobacco was “discovered” in the Americas along with the indigenous peoples. Columbus and other sailors carried the tobacco seed along with dried tobacco leaves back to Europe. In Europe, it became all the rage to smoke dried tobacco in pipes newly manufactured just for that purpose. A new industry had begun. Later on, the upper class of society in Europe began dipping snuff as an alternative to smoking tobacco through a pipe. Americans in the United States became enamored with cigars, especially Cuban Cigars in the nineteenth century. The years between 1900 and 1950 cigarettes became popular. When Shebolith began smoking in the mid 60s, ‘decent’ women were not allowed by society to smoke in public. We hid behind closed doors to feed our newly found friend, called addiction.

Big Pharma claimed nicotine, the psychoactive ingredient found in the Tobacco Plant, in the 1980s. It was known even then that nicotine played a big role in the stimulation of release of neurotransmitters, serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Low levels of these neurotransmitters cause symptoms of depression. Dr. Christopher Dattan confided in us in the mid 80s that smoking cigarettes would interfere with his prescribed medication protocol and its ability to regulate these neurotransmitters. We have long since learned that manipulation of these neurotransmitters controls behavior in the human research subject.

Research on mice (and humans, Shebolith suspects), indicates nicotine is especially protective of the neurotransmitter, dopamine. A lack of dopamine causes expression of the symptoms of Parkinson disease. In our experience, some of the anti-depressants used in the 80s and still in use today cause Pseudo-Parkinson disease. When the uncontrollable shaking began, we were terrified. Doctors tried to control these symptoms with Ativan, the drug used by emergency technicians for gran mal seizure. We believe our smoking addiction saved us from a lifetime of tremors caused by prescription drugs that manipulate neurotransmitters.

New research into nicotine and nicotine-like DRUGS will encourage the development of new treatments for all kinds of brain maladies, including, depression, schizophrenia, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Another positive to come out of earlier research is that nicotine enhances learning and memory. The fact remains that people with depression are self-medicating by smoking cigarettes. It is established that people prone to depression are twice as likely to be smokers and are less likely to succeed in quitting smoking.

There has been a complete reversal of some research findings. Earlier research indicated that nicotine prevented or at least limited the formation of new blood vessels. New research indicates that the opposite is true; nicotine actually causes new blood vessels to form. This information should be extremely useful to people who have restricted blood flow to any part of their body. Nicotine will grow new blood vessels to reroute and improve blood circulation. The down side to this is if you have a cancerous tumor, nicotine will generate new blood vessels in the tumor and cause it to grow.

About the time ‘Big Pharma’ began its endeavor to take control of the Tobacco Plant; ‘organized religion’ began a crusade against cigarette smokers. Our son was 12 years old when he came home from a non-denominational church revival; he burst through our front door and said, “Mom, you are going straight to hell”. I was slightly startled and even more amused at my son’s edict. I asked him why I was going to hell. He said because I smoke cigarettes. It was not long after that when as was his habit he went next door to catch a ride to the local church. One of the other boys told him that he stank of his mother’s cigarette smoke. He still thinks his mother stinks after all these years.

Nicotine is poison. Shebolith’s grandparents used the juice or tea made from tobacco to make a spray that would destroy unwanted garden pests. Nicotine is also a medicine. They used a saliva soaked wad of tobacco for a poultice to relieve the burning and stinging caused by encounters between insects and grandchildren. If one of us became unlucky enough to be stung by a scorpion, we would run to grandpa and his magic healing poultice.

Shebolith does not encourage the use of tobacco in any of its forms. However, she does advocate moderation in all things. She also advocates tolerance between smokers and non-smokers. Be courteous and thoughtful of the needs of others. There is no excuse for rude behavior.

Reference Sites:

http://dukechronicle.com/article/duke-study-nicotine-may-reduce-depression

http://www.fasebj.org/content/25/8/2563.abstract

http://www.jneurosci.org/content/30/41/13808

http://articles.sfgate.com/2001-07-03/news/17610335_1_nicotine-new-blood-blood-vessels

This last website has the most exhaustive chronological history of tobacco from its discovery in the Americas to the full-blown battle against its use that is taking place today.

http://www.tobacco.org/resources/history/Tobacco_History20-2.html

MENTAL ILLNESS CONNECTED TO HUMAN RESEARCH SUBJECTS

2011-07-27T06:22:00.001-05:00

Mental Illness Connected to Human Research Subjects

The mentally ill, spirited away to so-called Insane Asylums in the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries were some of our earliest victims of human research by Orthodox medicine in the United States of America. Then our penal system began delivering up human research subjects in Orthodox medicine. The United States Armed Service Members are often subjected to new medications and vaccines not yet available to the public and may be considered human research subjects. University and College students are lured monetarily into being human research subjects. However, even more alarming, is that the Food and Drug Administration is currently allowing testing of new medications and vaccines on the population at large.

We cannot have expectations that the Government or Big Pharma or Orthodox medicine have the best interest of the individual in mind. Research subjects were not protected by any kind of law up until 1991, this shows a total lack of interest in the health and well-being of individuals who do or do not fair well after participating as human research subjects.

Get involved today. Too many people have been harmed by past and current medical research practices. Read this news release by the Press Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and let your conscience be your guide.

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 22, 2011

Contact: HHS Press Office
(202) 690-6343

HHS announces proposal to improve rules protecting human research subjects

Changes under consideration would ensure the highest standards of protections for human subjects involved in research, while enhancing effectiveness of oversight
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced today that the federal government is contemplating various ways of enhancing the regulations overseeing research on human subjects. Before making changes to the regulations – which have been in place since 1991and are often referred to as the Common Rule – the government is seeking the public’s input on an array of issues related to the ethics, safety and oversight of human research. The changes under consideration can be found in an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM), Human Subjects Research Protections: Enhancing Protections for Research Subjects and Reducing Burden, Delay, and Ambiguity for Investigators, published in the July 25 Federal Register. The proposed changes are designed to strengthen protections for human research subjects.
“The adoption of the Common Rule two decades ago was a landmark event to ensure ethical practices and the safety of those individuals who participate in research,” said Howard K. Koh, MD, MPH, HHS assistant secretary for Health. “This regulatory review effort is primarily about enhancing protections for human subjects. The changes under consideration offer the promise of updating and enhancing those protections to keep pace with current challenges.”
The current regulations governing human subject research were developed years ago when research was predominantly conducted at universities, colleges, and medical institutions, and each study generally took place at only a single site. Expansion of human subject research into many new scientific disciplines and venues and an increase in multi-site studies have highlighted ambiguities in the current rules and have led to questions about whether the current regulatory framework is effectively keeping up with the needs of researchers and research subjects.
Revisions to the current regulations are now being considered because HHS believes these changes will strengthen protections for research subjects in a number of important ways.
Comment is sought on the following:

Revising the existing risk-based framework to more accurately calibrate the level of review to the level of risk.
Using a single Institutional Review Board review for all domestic sites of multi-site studies.
Updating the forms and processes used for informed consent.
Establishing mandatory data security and information protection standards for all studies involving identifiable or potentially identifiable data.
Implementing a systematic approach to the collection and analysis of data on unanticipated problems and adverse events across all trials to harmonize the complicated array of definitions and reporting requirements, and to make the collection of data more efficient.
Extending federal regulatory protections to apply to all research conducted at U.S. institutions receiving funding from the Common Rule agencies.
Providing uniform guidance on federal regulations.

The public’s input on these matters will be critically important to the government’s efforts to ensure that regulations keep up with today’s changing research environment, and will be considered by HHS as it develops new proposed rules, which will also be made public for comment.
To view the ANPRM, please visit http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp.
To submit a comment, visit http://www.regulations.gov, enter the above ID number, and click on “Submit a Comment.”
For additional information about the changes under consideration, visit
http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/humansubjects/anprm2011page.html.

BLACK SALVE DEMONIZED BY FDA

2011-07-26T05:50:00.001-05:00

Black Salve Demonized by Food & Drug Administration

Shebolith has discovered an excessive glut of discussion either vulgarly dismissing or highly acclaiming Black Salve. In this instance, we speak of Bloodroot with zinc chloride incorporated. It is alleged to be a highly sought after alternative treatment for skin cancers.

Research shows Sanguinarine has long been a focal point in cancer research. You can read what Dr. Sanjay Gupta and other researchers have discovered at: http://clincancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/6/4/1524.full#ABS

The consensus is Sanguinarine, derived from the root of Sanguinaria Canadensis (Bloodroot), does possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Sanguinarine used in the dental industry treats and removes plaque. Commercial uses find Sanguinarine in toothpaste as well as dental mouth washes.

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria Canadensis) is indigenous to North America. It grows wild from Nova Scotia, Canada down the east coast to Florida. Native American Indians discovered long ago that the root of the Bloodroot plant contained a red liquid and used this liquid as a dye in the process of weaving color into the designs of their hand-woven baskets.

With the following edict from the FDA, Shebolith notes Black Salve is illegal as an OTC in the United States.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning concerning purported cancer cures. The article “187 Fake Cancer “Cures” Consumers Should Avoid” lists Bloodroot extract and all forms of Black Salve. Several businesses, including pharmacies, have been sent warning letters and notice of violation letters from the FDA. Black Salve is an unapproved drug and does not have FDA approval. http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/EnforcementActivitiesbyFDA/ucm171057.htm

The FDA has had its own war on drugs since the late 1980’s. The FDA declared war on the alternative health care industry at the behest and with the assistance of bureaucrats in orthodox medicine and in turn by their cronies and lobbyists in congress. Never the less Americans are turning more and more to alternative health care.

Since the FDA has ruled that Bloodroot extract and Black Salve is a drug, those in search of Black Salve will find it difficult to locate a reputable source of the product. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) teamed up with the FDA to do an Internet Surf. They netted hundreds of internet sites and as a result, some received warning letters, some have been sued and some simply fined for not following FDA regulations. Many sites closed and many more removed claims of treating or curing disease from their products.

Informing consumers of an alternative health care remedy for any condition deemed a disease by the FDA is punishable by law and carry hefty fines along with long-term imprisonment. Any natural remedy or herb deemed a drug by the FDA is off limits to the world of consumers seeking alternative health care.

Shebolith encourages individual responsibility and personal research into remedies long known to have curative and healing properties. We believe the amateur should restrict self-diagnosis and self-medicating to the most inconsequential of maladies and remember to employ moderation in all things. Shebolith recommends the following website for those interested in learning more about the history and uses of Bloodroot Salve and the many Black Salves. http://bloodrootblacksalve.com/

FRUIT COMPOTE / ELEGANT DESSERT / FAVORITE RECIPES

2011-07-23T11:26:00.001-05:00

FRUIT COMPOTE / ELEGANT DESSERT / FAVORITE RECIPES

When grandmothers canned and dried their own fruit, compotes were served as a warm side dish to the traditional oven roasted turkey or grandpas slow smoked ham dinner at family reunions, church pot lucks on Sunday and all holidays. Every cook produced an original, secret recipe! The fruit compote, served in marvelously designed glass compote bowls, adds an attractive touch to any table setting. Recipes follow:

MIXED DRIED FRUIT COMPOTE Serves 4

Prep 5 minutes / Cook 9 minutes

12 oz.	Mixed dried fruits (peaches, pears, apricots, prunes)
½ cup	Dried apple slices
2 Tb.	Dried currants
1 cup	Water
1 cup	White wine
2 Tb.	Super fine sugar
1 Tb.	Minced fresh ginger
½ tsp.	Vanilla extract

Combine mixed fruits, apple slices and currants in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Mix the remaining ingredients in a separate bowl, pour over fruit and stir thoroughly to combine. Cover with microwave-safe plastic wrap.

Microwave on HIGH 2 minutes; remove plastic, stir and cover. Microwave for 3 minutes. Stir once again and cover with plastic. Microwave 4 minutes longer. Fruit should be soft. Stir and serve warm.

BLUEBERRY-PEACH COMPOTE Serves 4

Prep 5 minutes / Cook 4 minutes

1 16 oz. bag	Frozen unsweetened sliced peaches, thawed
½ cup	Water
6 Tb.	Or juice of one orange
2 Tb.	Sugar
1 tsp.	Orange-flavored liqueur
½ cup	Fresh or thawed frozen blueberries
1 Tb.	Julienned orange zest (colored part of peel)

Combine peaches, the water, orange juice, sugar and liqueur in medium microwave-safe bowl. Cover with microwave-safe plastic wrap. Microwave on HIGH 2 minutes. Remove plastic, stir and cover. Microwave 2 minutes longer.

Stir in blueberries and orange zest. Cover with plastic and let stand 2 minutes. Serve warm.

HONEY-PEAR COMPOTE Serves 4

Prep 10 minutes / cook 3 minutes

1 cup	Water
2 Tb.	Honey
2 tsp.	Fresh lemon juice
4	Paper-thin slices lemon
3	Ripe medium pears, pared, cored, sliced
2	Dried pear halves, cut lengthwise into thick strips
1	Stick cinnamon (21/2 inch)
3	cloves

Mix the water, honey and lemon juice in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Add remaining ingredients and stir thoroughly, Cover with microwave-safe plastic wrap.

Microwave on HIGH 3 minutes. Dried pears should be soft, Remove cinnamon stick and cloves and serve warm.

FIG-APRICOT COMPOTE Serves 4

Prep 10 minutes / cook 3 minutes

1/3 cup	Pine nuts
2 cans	(17 oz. size) Kadota figs
1 can	(5 ½ oz.) apricot nectar
1/3 cup	Thin strips dried apricots

Toast pine nuts in a small skillet over low heat. Drain figs and mix with apricot nectar and dried apricots in medium microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap. Microwave on HIGH 3 minutes. Dried apricots should be soft. Sprinkle with pine nuts and serve warm.

Shebolith Says…The best memories were born in the early 1950’s when grandma’s warm fruit compote and grandpa’s fresh homemade ice cream was served (in the same bowl) late in the evening when the cicadas begin to sing their raspy lullabies and the fireflies mesmerize the gaze…

POISON IVY & HOME REMEDIES

2011-07-22T09:03:00.001-05:00

Poison Ivy & Home Remedies

All and sundry have a home remedy for a case of Poison Ivy. Do not believe everything you hear and do not use every remedy you hear about. These home cooked remedies usually come from friends and acquaintances as well as co-workers, with all the best intentions. The remedies are often their notions of personal family tradition. Remember, what works for someone else may not work for you, and in severe cases may not work at all. Do your own research and be very careful. See your doctor if you are unsure of what to do after the rash begins.

Our first advice is to avoid Poison Ivy altogether. Usually, the vines of these plants have groups of three shiny leaves, the source of the couplet “Leaves of three - let it be.” Other regions of the country, however, may have different varieties. In the winter, there are no leaves to let be, but the poison lies in wait in roots and stems, waiting to seize upon the first hapless soul to walk by...

William L. Epstein, M.D., chairman emeritus and professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco, School of medicine suggested in 1990 to spray your favorite deodorant or antiperspirant on your arms, legs, clothes, and pets before venturing out. He says antiperspirants and deodorants work because they contain two ingredients, aluminum chlorohydrate. and organoclay. Both of these have been found by Dr. Epstein to be highly effective at neutralizing the toxic urushiol oil.

Urushiol Oil is the active ingredient in poison ivy and is said to be one of the most potent external toxins we know. It is wicked and relentless. The torment of the itching rash can last up to two weeks.

Soon after contact with poison ivy, it is of supreme importance to try to remove the urushiol oil from your skin. Water inactivates urushiol oil if you rinse yourself off immediately. Washing your exposed skin in lots of rubbing alcohol takes the urushiol oil out of your skin (use alcohol one time only.) Use pure and natural lye soap to bathe with before the rash and during the rash and even after the rash.

After the eruption of blisters (DO NOT), rub the skin with a washcloth or anything else. The ooze continues to transfer the toxic oil and new eruptions will occur on newly contaminated skin. Instead, use cotton balls or gauge pads and treat each blister separately disposing of each ball or pad after use on each blister.

An emergency exists if a highly sensitive person breaks out in a rash and begins to swell in 4 to 12 hours instead of the normal 24 to 48 hours. Eyes can swell shut and blisters will erupt. A shot of corticosteroids will bring the swelling down. Over-the-counter cortisone creams are reported to be too weak and insignificant when trying to treat a large rash. However, Dr Epstein recommends them as “pretty good about two weeks into the rash, when it’s healing and scaling and itching.”

Calamine lotion seems to be the most time-honored and popular treatment used for poison ivy rashes. Calamine produces cooling and distracts your skin from the itching sensation. In poison ivy, the blood vessels develop gaps that leak fluid through the skin, causing blisters and oozing. When you cool the skin, the vessels constrict and do not leak as much.

Another remedy for the tormenting itch is antihistamines. The generic version of Benadryl, diphenhydramine, is less expensive and just as effective as the name brand. Follow the directions on the package for dosing schedule. Diphenhydramine is the (PM) in Tylenol PM. The generic version of Tylenol, acetaminophen, is less expensive and just as effective. Follow the directions on the package for dosing schedule. The two used together produce pain and itch relief as well as relaxation and drowsiness. The body heals itself while we sleep. It is important to stay out of the sun and rest while recovering from a poison ivy rash.

There are several drying agents to choose from. Calamine remains number one on the list. Some drying agents have too much alcohol in them and sting when applied. Use these only until the oozing stops. They can make a rash too dry causing it to crack and cause more itching. Some common topical drying agents are Zinc oxide, witch hazel, Burow’s solution (Aluminum acetate) and baking soda.

Anti-itch creams may contain menthol and phenol. These are called counterirritants. They confuse the nerve endings in the skin and give that all-important cooling sensation. If nothing else is available, place a cotton cloth soaked in cool water over the rash while allowing the breeze of a fan to blow over it. Replace with a clean cloth as needed. The cloth will soak up the oozing and leaking of fluids from the rash.

An old time oatmeal bath can bring soothing comfort for itching skin. Wrap a cup of rolled oats in a washcloth and tie it closed. Take the oatmeal bundle into a cool bath. The oatmeal will provide healing soothing properties to the bath water. An over-the-counter remedy involving colloidal oatmeal is Aveeno. It comes with easy to follow instructions. You can apply it to individual blisters or use it in the bath water. Oatmeal bath treatments will be messy and slippery. Be Careful.

Some say the most popular herbal treatment is jewelweed. Jewelweed is also known as impatiens or touch-me-not. Jewelweed is as effective as some prescription cortisone creams. Just cut a slit in the stem of the impatiens and apply the juice to the blister. U.S. Department of Agriculture economic botanist James A. Duke, Ph.D., said he uses impatiens to stop the rash from developing. He balls up the whole plant and makes a sort of washcloth from it to wipe the poison sap off.

Other natural plant remedies include the leaf of the black nightshade plant (not to be confused with the deadly nightshade) and milkweed. Chop, grind, or crush the leaves of the black nightshade and mix it with milk or cream to apply to the rash. The juice of the milkweed is applied by dripping the milky latex directly from the plant onto the rash.

Stay away from forest fires and do not burn poison ivy in the back yard. Burning poison ivy will release the urushiol oil into the air. Droplets of oil can be inhaled; inhaling the oil causes serious lung infections, fever and body-wide rashes. Burning poison ivy is very dangerous, making a trip to urgent or emergency facilities inevitable. Use a commercial weed killer to spray the ivy with early in the season to control the growth of this noxious plant.

Dr Epstein says, “Organic solvents like ammonia, paint thinner and acetone are very good for getting the urushiol oil out of your skin before the rash occurs.” Other solvents that work are hypo sulfite, used in photographic darkrooms, and bleach. However, Dr Epstein warns that they should be used (sparingly) only as a last resort and never (ever) used everyday. Solvents extract all the natural protective skin oils and you can get a worse rash than poison ivy. Using too much bleach or other solvent of this type can cause what looks and acts like a chemical burn over the primary rash. Solvents of this type are extremely dangerous and must be used with care.

ENZYMES FROM RAW FOOD & SUPPLEMENTS ESSENTIAL

2011-07-18T21:09:00.001-05:00

ENZYMES FROM RAW FOOD & SUPPLEMENTS ESSENTIAL

Enzymes are your best friends. They can help you live longer with a better quality of life giving the vitality felt when the body is fresh and full of energy.

Aging Accelerates With Enzyme Deficiency

Food enzymes provide the initial working energy of the body at the molecular level, needed for every chemical action and reaction in the body. A medical journal written in the 60’s states, “Each of us, as with all living organisms, could be regarded as an orderly, integrated succession of enzyme reactions.” Enzymes do an incredible amount of work and are essential, without them life cannot exist. Enzymes digest all of our food and make it small enough to pass through the walls of the intestines into the blood. Thirteen hundred enzymes have been identified since 1968.

Enzymes are Essential

There are all types of enzymes pre-programmed to take prepared and digested food and build it into muscles, nerves, blood and glands. They help in the storage of sugar in the liver and muscles and they turn fat into fatty tissue. Without enzymes urea could not be eliminated from the body, another enzyme helps attach iron to red blood cells. Enzymes in our immunity system attack waste and poisons in the blood and tissues. Enzymes are legion yet each one has its own task to do, this is called enzyme specificity, a protein digestive enzyme will not digest a fat, a fat digestive enzyme will not digest a starch and so on.

Life Cannot Exist Without Enzymes.

There are only two ways to preserve and replenish the enzyme levels. You must eat raw food or take an enzyme supplement. There are zero enzymes in fermented foods. There are zero enzymes in processed, refined, any food cooked over 60 degrees C for ½ hour, or microwaved foods. Enzymes are destroyed in all foods that are canned, pasteurized, baked, roasted, stewed or fried. At 129 degrees F, all enzymes are destroyed. Baking bread kills enzymes. Pasteurized butter has no enzymes. Bottled or canned juices and roasted breakfast cereals are devoid of enzymes.

Heat Destroys Enzymes

Babies inherit an enzyme reserve at birth. I hope that it is a rich inheritance because this quantity can be decreased as we age by eating an enzyme deficient diet. Our Creator has placed enzymes in food to aid in the digestive process instead of forcing the body’s enzymes to do all the work. By eating most of our food cooked, our digestive systems have to produce all of the enzymes causing a metabolic deficit and manifesting as an enlargement of the digestive organs.

Leads to Leaky Gut Syndrome

“Researchers show that cooked food with the fiber broken down passes through the digestive system more slowly than raw foods. A Part of all cooked food ferments, rots and putrifies in the intestine, throwing back into the body toxins and gas that cause heartburn and degenerative diseases.” All this poison is reabsorbed into the blood stream by a damaged and leaking intestine, well known as Leaky Gut Syndrome.

Reference: Food Enzymes - The Missing Link to Radiant Health - by: Humbart Santillo, MH, N.D.

“A PRACTICAL AND CONCISE GUIDE THAT EXPLAINS WHY FOOD ENZYMES FROM FRUIT AND VEGETABLE SOURCES ARE ESSENTIAL FOR VITALITY AND IMMUNITY”

Library of Congress Card No. 93-078887 ISBN 0-934252-40-8 (pbk.)

Shebolith Says recommends this book. FOOD ENZYMES is packed full of interesting and useful information. It is an easy read; it is easy to understand making it easy to put the principles into practice in your daily life. Eat well and be healthy.