November 14, 2012

Holistic Healing

I would consider myself a traditionalist when it comes to health and beauty. I’m quick to go to Bartell’s to meander their aisles for products and have no problem with a prescription or two when needed. But after 10 years of using the same stuff over and over again, I’m not seeing the results I’d like.

I’m not sure if this has to do with my age or with my face/hair/extremities getting used to what I currently use…..either way, I’ve starting looking into more holistic options in hopes that they might be able to keep me youthful, sharp and healthy 🙂 A girl can only dream, right?

Here are a few things I’ve picked up recently based on research I’ve found. Obviously, there are many opinions out there so find what works for you. *Note: I am not a professional or expert in regards to any of this. What works for me, may or may not work for you.*

Apple Cider Vinegar
A common folk remedy that seems to be the cure all for just about anything. Not sure exactly what I want to get from drinking this, but I wanted to give it a try for a few weeks. I’ve been mixing 2 t. vinegar with 1 T. organic honey, 1/4 packet of apple cider mix and hot water for my morning beverage. I’ve also heard mixing it in oj works too. I’d like to find a way to not to have to incorporate sugar with it, but I figure baby steps are better than no steps at all.

Tea Tree Oil

This is probably TMI, but I have had tinea versicolor, which is a superficial fungus in my underarms and chest area. I’ve had it for many, many years and no prescription from my dermatologist has seemed to fix it. It’s not contagious and it really doesn’t bother me, but it just ain’t pretty darn it! I’m hoping this oil mixed with olive oil will help clear it up for good.

Eucalyptus Aromatherapy
I’m a naturally a sleepy person – I seem to always run on a semi permanent level of tiredness to which no amount of coffee or exercise can fix. To keep my energy levels up at work, I’ve started spritzing eucalyptus around my office and so far, it does seem to perk me up a bit. Plus, it makes my office smell like a spa 🙂

Organic Coconut Oil
The BF has been sick this week and I found a recipe on Pinterest for GOOT, which is suppose to be a home cold remedy that includes garlic, coconut oil and olive oil that are all blended together and slathered onto the bottoms of your feet. This sounds nuts, but I’m very curious to see if it’ll work. I’ve also read a ton of other health benefits of coconut oil so it’ll be good to have on hand for future uses. *Note: I caught his nastiness over the weekend and did apply GOOT twice and I swear it helped. I feel a million times better.

Spirulina

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids, antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage. It also makes your smoothies turn a wicked green color if you use the powder form like I do! With all of the hype about dark green veggies, this seems right on board with that train of thought.

Chia Seeds

Rich in omega 3 fatty acids and fiber, these seeds have also been a new addition to my morning smoothie. At first I found it weird to be eating what are found on those Chia Head thingys, but I’m over that now. So far, I’ve noticed that they do seem to keep me fuller longer, which is a good start. And let’s just say, I’m um, feeling more ‘regular.’ TMI! I know, I know!

Are there any holistic remedies or supplements that you’ve found to work well? Are they all hype or is there actually more to them?