Essential Oils: Clove Bud

You probably know clove as a traditional holiday scent. But when distilled into essential oil form, you have one of the world’s most powerful natural antiseptics on your hands! You can use the essential oil from both clove buds and clove leaves. Yes, these are the same clove buds used in cooking. They come from evergreen trees found mainly in Indonesia and Zanzibar; the tree can bear cloves for a century or more. Clove bud essential oil has a component called eugenol that is often found in dental products. Both clove essential oil and eugenol alone are used for numbing … Continue reading

Should Menthol Flavoring in Cigarettes be Banned?

There is a bill before Congress right now that would ban some flavor additives in cigarettes: mint, clove, and vanilla. These flavorings are under fire because they’re seen as appealing to young people. One flavor that isn’t on the list? Menthol. According to government estimates, menthol is a pretty popular cigarette flavoring among certain groups of smokers. More than seventy-five percent of black smokers choose menthol cigarettes. That translates into nearly thirty percent of the entire cigarette market. Some members of the American Medical Association — including some who served as government health secretaries under several administrations — are opposing … Continue reading

Herbal Remedies In Your Pantry

Some common herbs used for cooking can also be used to treat some common health issues. Caraway seeds are thought to ease digestive troubles and relieve flatulence. Cayenne pepper is thought to be good for fever, fighting infection, and whole body cleansing. Cinnamon is a digestive aid, and was traditionally used to treat fever, diarrhea, and bleeding. Clove aids in digestion. Cumin aids in digestion. Fennel can be used as a digestive aid or to relieve flatulence. Fenugreek can help soothe respiratory irritations and relieve coughs. It is also an anti-inflammatory. Garlic may help reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood … Continue reading

Dealing With Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes a rash on the skin of the foot. It may appear between the toes, on the sole, on the heel, on the instep, or in multiple locations. The fungus is easily spread but can be easily treated at home. Natural remedies include: Mix fungus fighting essential oils like lavender, tea tree, clove, and eucalyptus into a carrier oil. Keep your feet dry — wear cotton socks and/or open shoes and use foot powder. Sweat and a lack of air circulation can encourage infection growth. Make your own foot powder from cornstarch with … Continue reading