Tools for Natural Living

These herbal balls may seem decorative and spa-trendy, but they also have function -- and a long history of use that spans thousands of years. The purpose of the compress is to deliver antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to traumatized soft tissue, as well as the stimulating benefits of acupressure. Originally, this ancient tool was used to speed healing and reduce pain in soldiers wounded during Thailand's Ayutthaya period, which began in the 14th centu

Summer is in full swing, which means that you need to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while having fun in the sun. The oils in this formula perform double-duty in that they nourish and moisturize skin while naturally providing protection from excessive sunlight. Sesame oil, for instance, is abundant in antioxidants and also blocks up to 30% of UV rays. Similarly, coconut oil blocks up to 20% of UV rays and hempseed oil is an ingredient in some commercially produced sun

Inhalation of lavender oil may reduce premenstrual symptoms. Lavender contains a number of compounds that are responsible for its healing properties. The distinctive aroma of the herb is owing to aldehydes and ketones, organic compounds that also contribute to the plant’s anti-inflammatory and mild sedative effects. Lavender also contains an alcohol called linalool, which is present in the essential oil of lavender in a concentration of up to 50%. Several studies on the eff

Move over olive oil, hemp seed oil is coming for dinner. Most people know what to do with olive oil. I mean, we’ve all heard so much about the health-giving benefits of olive and the Mediterranean diet over the last two decades that it’s become a staple in our kitchens. Hopefully, too, most of us have moved beyond tossing pasta and salad with the golden-green nectar and experienced the joy of dipping nan or a hunk of rustic peasant bread in warmed olive oil, preferably with a

The easy way to make homemade lavender soap. Lavender contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds called ketones and aldehydes that are soothing and healing to skin. These same phytochemicals also lend lavender its lovely fragrance, which produces a mild sedative effect on the nervous system. It's no wonder that lavender is one of the most loved scents for soapmaking! This simple recipe will let you indulge in the luxury of lavender soap without a long wait to "cure"

Rosemary, garlic and olive oil are an amazing combination in this comfort food. The potatoes crisp up beautifully in the oven. Or, if you're grilling tonight, simply double wrap the ingredients for this dish in foil and roast on the top rack while other foods cook. Easy cleanup! Ingredients 1 lb small red potatoes 10-12 cloves garlic (depending on taste), peeled and left whole ¼ cup olive oil 1 tbls fresh rosemary leaves (or 2 tsp dried) 2 tbls fresh parsley, chopped sa