Monday, February 18, 2013

How to Make Hemp Shampoo



Recognized as one of the most versatile plants on earth, hemp is grown and harvested for its fiber, seeds and oil. It is used to make clothing, food, paper, coffee, vitamin supplements, soaps and creams. And because of the extraordinary balanced ratio of omega-3, omega-6 and gamma linolenic acid, hemp is believed to offer healing, soothing and strengthening benefits to skin and hair. Try these recipes for hemp oil soap and shampoo and begin to reap the benefits.


Ingredients
     1 cup grated castile soap 
   1/4 cup  hot distilled water
  4 tsp hemp oil
    2 tsp  Jojoba oil
 2 tsp Tea Tree Oil essential oil
2 tsp Burdock root oil
    2 tablespoons vegetable glycerine
10 Drops of the Essential oil fragrance of your choice
   
Directions
·      Dissolve the soap in the hot water.
·      Stir in the hemp oil.
·      Add the glycerine and any essential oils you might want. You can add more if more fragrance, if desired.
·      Pour the shampoo into your bottles and seal the caps tight. 

Combine all ingredients in an old shampoo bottle or jar of some kind (pump soap dispensers and even foaming dispensers work well for this. If you use a foaming dispenser, add 1/4 cup of distilled water)

Shake well and let them sit for 24 hours before use. Shake gently before each use to blend the oils through the shampoo


Always use distilled water. Always. Not tap water. Not bottled water. Distilled water. This way you are ensured there is no contamination. (Distilled water is available from your local pharmacy or big box store with a pharmacy for about $2 for 4 litres. Good value for the price!)







This is an easy, mild  Hemp  olive oil soap, good for beginners.

Recipe: (Makes 8 lbs.)
16 ozs. Hemp Oil
24 oz. olive oil
24 oz. coconut oil
38 oz. vegetable shortening (Crisco)
12 oz. lye
32 oz. distilled water
3-4 oz. any essential or fragrance oil  


                                       click here to







Saturday, February 16, 2013

how to treat calluses,corns and bones spurs in Feet



 You have to think  your Feet as the foundations of a  House or Building
they support you from the moment you take your first steps. and we abuse them by walking and running and not being good to our food  

4 of the most common feet problems are 


Calluses 













A callus (or callosity) is a toughened area of skin which has become relatively thick and hard in response to repeated friction, pressure, or other irritation. Rubbing that is too frequent or forceful will cause blisters rather than allow calluses to form. Since repeated contact is required, calluses are most often found on feet because of frequent walking. Calluses are generally not harmful, but may sometimes lead to other problems, such as skin ulceration or infection.
information Source Wikipedia 




Corns 









The scientific name for a corn is heloma (plural helomata). A hard corn is called a heloma durum, while a soft corn is called a heloma molle.

A corn (or clavus, plural clavi) is a specially-shaped callus of dead skin that usually occurs on thin or glabrous (hairless and smooth) skin surfaces, especially on the dorsal surface of toes or fingers. They can sometimes occur on the thicker palmar or plantar skin surfaces. Corns form when the pressure point against the skin traces an elliptical or semi-elliptical path during the rubbing motion, the center of which is at the point of pressure, gradually widening. If there is constant stimulation of the tissue producing the corns, even after the corn is surgically removed, the skin may continue to grow as a corn.


The hard part at the center of the corn resembles a funnel with a broad raised top and a pointed bottom. Because of their shape, corns intensify the pressure at the tip and can cause deep tissue damage and ulceration. 

The location of soft corns tends to differ from that of hard corns. Hard corns occur on dry, flat surfaces of skin. Soft corns (frequently found between adjacent toes) stay moist, keeping the surrounding skin soft. The corn's center is not soft however, but indurated.
The specific diagnostic workup and treatments for corns may differ substantially from other forms of calluses
information Source Wikipedia 






Heel Spurs











The heel bone is the largest bone in the foot and absorbs the most amount of shock and pressure. A heel spur develops as an abnormal growth of the heel bone. 
When a foot bone is exposed to constant stress, calcium deposits build up on the bottom of the heel bone. Generally, this has no effect on a person's daily life. However, repeated damage can cause these deposits to pile up on each other, causing a spur-shaped deformity, called a calcaneal (or heel) spur. Obese people, flat-footed people, and women who constantly wear heels are most susceptible to heel spurs
 Heel spurs can cause extreme pain in the rearfoot, especially while standing or walking.
This stretching of the plantar fascia is usually the result of over-pronation (flat feet), . Women have a significantly higher incidence of heel spurs due to the types of footwear often worn on a regular basis
Bone spurs can be treated  with herbs   but sometimes they must be treated with surgery to remove them

information Source Wikipedia 

Cracked Heels 













Cracked heels are a common foot problem that are often referred to as heel fissures. Cracked heels are commonly caused by dry skin (xerosis), and made more complicated if the skin around the rim of the heel is thick (callus). For most people this is a nuisance and a cosmetic problem but when the fissures or cracks are deep, they are painful to stand on and the skin can bleed - in severe cases this can become infected

information Source Wikipedia 





Choose footwear for comfort, not for looks. Some jogging shoes can be very comfortable. Adding heel cushions to footwear helps to relieve pain.



Now before we continue please before you  consider the natural treatments we are suggesting
please check with your Doctor or Medical professionals  We are not Doctors  we are just providing information and everyone is different what works for me and vadora may not work for you

Always consult your Doctor  before using herbs for this purpose. use this list to talk to your doctor or medical professional if these can help you   

I am not saying any of the herbs will Cure  you  but they may help







ICE
 Ice massages on the bottoms of the feet can be helpful.  Ice sooths and cools and is the cheapest and easiest way to help reduce the pain and inflamation   Ice Gel Packs  used every day can help the pain and aching 

Pumice Stone
 Pumice powder and stones are used for scouring pans and are very useful for sloughing away dead skin. After soaking your foot in warm water for about 20 minutes, use a pumice stone to rub away those corns and calluses

Ginger,Lavender,Sage,Rosemary 
They are a very good remedy for swelling.anti-inflammatory properties  get them in your diet to maximize  
the health benefits  and help reduce pain and inflammation 


Arnica
Arnica, or Arnica montana, is an herb well known for its use in combating inflammation. Arnica can be used topically, along with chamomille, in a poultice applied directly to the corresponding sore spot on your heel,

Lemon,Limes,Orange,Grapefruit
members of the Citrus family contain natural enzymes that fight pain and inflamation and swelling and help the body be used to keep  clean and powerful antibacterial and anti fungal 
use sliced citrus fruits  in a foot bath or in rubs   also injesting the citrus fruits  helps build a level of  good chemcials in the body that helps fight swelling and inflammation from the inside




Hot Linseed Oil Packets
Linseed oil packets are an herbal way to heal bone spurs. Pour linseed oil into a pan and heat it but do not boil it. Dip a piece of cheesecloth or other white cotton material into the oil until the cloth is saturated. Then apply the cloth to the affected area and cover it with a piece of plastic that is larger in size than the cotton cloth. Place a heating pad over the plastic and use it to keep the pack warm. Keep the pack in place for 1-1/2 to 2 hours, as needed. This will reduce swelling and not only soften the foot itself but also the bone spurs themselves.


Willow Bark
Willow bark is one of the oldest recorded herbal pain relievers. Willow bark is harvested during early spring and dried for use as an herbal remedy. It contains salicin, a precursor of salicylic acid, which is found in aspirin products. Salicin, which is converted to salicylic acid by the liver, acts to reduce pain and inflammation. It works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, the chemical produced by the body in response to injury and irritation. You will have to take willow bark a bit longer than aspirin to feel its effects, but its effects last longer with fewer side effects.


Baking soda.
 One of the best ways you can treat corns and calluses is with a warm-water soak. This loosens the dead skin and helps with healing. Add 3 tablespoons baking soda to a basin of warm water and soak. Or massage calluses with a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.


Chamomile tea.
 Soaking your feet in diluted chamomile tea can be soothing and will temporarily change the pH of the skin to help dry out sweaty feet. The tea will stain your feet, but the stain can be easily removed with soap and water.




Lemon juice / Aspirin 

Crush several aspirins and mix them with water and lemon juice to create a paste. The paste should be thick enough so that it does not slip off when applied.

Apply the paste to the callus/ corn. Place your foot or hand in a plastic bag and wrap a damp towel around it. Leave the paste on the callus for 15 minutes.

Remove the bag and towel from your foot or hand. Peel the paste off the callus/ Corn. Use a pumice stone to gently rub the callus, which should now be softer. Note how soft the callus became and adjust the amount of lemon juice and time you left the plaster on the skin the next time you use this application.



Horsetail
Horsetail, also known as bottle-brush and shave-grass, is another herb that can be used to alleviate pain and inflammation stemming from heel spurs. Its above-ground parts, which resemble the tail of horse, are harvested for medicinal use. Horsetail possess some anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Horsetail contains a high concentration of silica and a smaller amount of calcium, both of which are beneficial for bone and connective tissue repair. When taking horsetail, ask your doctor about taking B vitamin supplements as well, as horsetail can cause a deficiency in thiamine


Tea Tree Oil 
Tea tree oil is derived from the tea tree, or Melaleuca alternifolia, an evergreen shrub native to Australia. According to Drugs.com, which provides peer-reviewed information to consumers, tea tree oil was used as a wound cleaner in World War II, and has documented antimicrobial and antifungal qualities. Tea tree oil can irritate your skin; discontinue use if you experience redness, itching or pain. Ask your doctor before using tea tree oil. If you are pregnant or breast feeding, you shouldn't use tea tree oil at all



Cinnamon 
Cinnamon is an amazing herb  used internally as food or externally  used in a wrap or in a foot massage  or foot bath can reduce  pain  and swelling 

Molasses
The mixture of molasses with apple cider vinegar and baking soda is also considered as the home remedy for external treatment of heel spurs.

Apple Cider Vinegar / Sesame seed 
both Apple Cider Vinegar and Sesame seeds have anti inflammatory agents  and relieve pain and swelling and help with breaking down 
what I do is  Soak 1/4 cup  sesame seeds in apple cider vinegar with 2 tsp honey and 1 tsp cinnamon overnight. Drink the mixture  next morning,  


Aloe Vera 
Aloe vera gel, the sticky latex from the Aloe barbadensis plant, is often recommended by herbalists to soften and help dissolve calluses. two of aloe vera's constituents, the anthraquinones aloin and emodin, not only have antimicrobial effects, but help to break up lifeless cells. In addition, aloe vera gel contains substances called lignins that can penetrate and soften thick, toughened skin.

Copper
 Copper has been used as a treatment for helping the body repair for centuries
Copper is also considered a solar emblem, and corresponds with the radiant features of the sun. This combined with a myriad of other meanings, the symbolic meaning of Copper deals with bright ideas, fresh perspectives, and incorporating these new thoughts with our existing framework. By combining the old with the new we find our lives expanded and new directions to our path 

Copper reflects new beginnings, and purity. The symbolic meaning of Copper is further clarified when we understand that it represents both kinds of action, physical and mental. 

this mean it is time to exert our natural forces, take action, and start a new venture. Copper gives us encouragement that our actions will be rewarded in kind. 

wrap your feet in Copper ( Pennies or copper coins/ stones and soak your feet repeat )

also a copper anklet or bracelet may help with pain and inflammation 



Coconut oil
The massage of coconut oil, along with intake of coconut capsules, is helpful in relieving the heel from pain and discomfort.

Burdock Helps with swelling and pain and inflammation 

Meadowsweet 
 possesses anti-inflammatory action and has traditionally been used in treating inflammation in various tissues, including your muscles, nerves and skin. The leaves and the flower tops of the meadowsweet plant contain numerous medicinal ingredients that are incorporated into herbal supplements, including herbal supplements for heel spurs.

Pineapple 

Bromelain is a mixture of protein-digesting enzymes, or proteolytic enzymes. Bromelain supplements are derived from pineapples and contain active proteolytic enzymes that aid digestion, nutrient absorption and control inflammation. Bromelain reduces swelling, bruising, healing time, and pain following surgery and physical injuries. Many surgeons recommend taking bromelain in the weeks prior to surgery to have the enzyme readily available for use in the body. Bromelain supplements can be as effective as some other anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, for reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis and plantar fasciitis. It has been suggested that this enzyme may be helpful as part of the treatment for other connective tissue disorders including scleroderma (the build up of tough scar-like tissue in the skin), bursitis, and tendinitis.

calcium and magnesium supplements
Bone spurs can be prevented and effectively treated with calcium and magnesium supplements. A proper balance of these nutrients prevents abnormal calcium deposits from forming. The digestive enzyme betaine HCI helps the body absorb these nutrients.

Natural anti-inflammatory supplements which may be of help are whole leaf, cold processed aloe vera juice, glucosamine sulfate, shark cartilage, bromelain, evening primrose oil, and kelp.


Turmeric
Curcumin is a spice found in turmeric and helps reduce swelling. About 400 to 600 milligrams should be taken every day. The herb white willow bark extract has anti-inflammatory properties. The natural herb bromelain contains anti-inflammatory enzymes that have been proven to suppress inflammation and pain.
Turmeric has long been used as a powerful anti-inflammatory in both the Chinese and Indian systems of medicine. Turmeric is available as a spice and can be used when cooking for benefits. Even more potent than its volatile oil is the yellow or orange pigment of turmeric, or curcumin. Curcumin is thought to be the primary pharmacological agent in turmeric. In numerous studies, curcumin's anti-inflammatory effects have been shown to be comparable to the potent drugs hydrocortisone and phenylbutazone as well as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory agents such as Motrin. 



TEA TREE OIL

Tea tree oil, which can be purchased at any health food store, is an essential oil that treats bacteria, fungi  and viruses. For this reason, it is a natural treatment for many skin ailments, including acne, blisters, burns, warts and calluses. A callus is a thickened mass of dead skin cells that form a bump on the skin when an object repeatedly rubs against the skin. Calluses are most common on hands and feet, and can be unsightly. Before trying a dangerous method of removing the calluses, such as cutting them off with a blade, try removing it with tea tree oil.


Combine five drops of tea tree oil with 1 tsp. of olive or almond oil.

Massage the oils onto the affected area. Continue massaging the area three times a day until the callus is soft.

Remove the callus with tweezers when it becomes soft.

Add three drops of tea tree oil to the area and cover it with a bandage until it is healed.

Soaking method 
Combine five drops of tea tree oil and ½ oz. of almond, olive or grapeseed oil in a small plastic basin. You can also choose to add five drops of tea tree oil to a plastic basin filled with warm water.

Soak the affected area in the mixture twice a day, patting the area dry afterward.

Remove the callus with tweezers when it becomes soft. Add three drops of tea tree oil to the area and cover it with a bandage.


Cabbage leaves
 The green fresh cabbage leaves are also recommended as a useful remedy for the treatment of heel spurs at home. You may wrap these leaves around affected area in a wrap with herbs and let it sit 30 minutes


Cayenne
 is a circulatory stimulant herb that improves blood flow within seconds of taking it. Capsaicin is the active ingredient in cayenne, and the herb is best taken in powder form. It is best to begin with small amounts of cayenne and build up to a desired dosage. Add cayenne powder to food, you also can add half a teaspoon to warm water for immediate results.

Alfalfa tea
You may take alfalfa tea on regular basis and more than twice a day. By doing so, you may experience decrease in pain and discomfort level.



Dandelion
The Bitter Herb Dandelion  provides excellent relief for water retention. The natural diuretic action flushes excess water from the body, relieving swollen feet caused by fluid retention. You may consume dandelion as a tea, tincture, or in capsule form.



Ginkgo
Ginkgo improves circulation, which in turn reduces water retention to the feet and legs. 


Yarrow
 is another bitter herb that ignites the digestive fire, and it also has resins with astringent properties that help with inflammation.  yarrow lowers blood pressure but stimulates the circulatory system by enhancing blood circulation


Peppermint
Peppermint energizes, refreshes,improves circulation and inflammation  used as food or oil  and used on the foot in wraps or foot bath can help with pain and suffering
 add a few drops of the essential oil to a basin of warm water and soak your feet. This will soften calluses and prevent cracking.




BORAX
Borax solution: Borax solution is found to be an effective home remedy for treating heel spurs. You may soak your feet regularly in this solution to feel the difference in pain and inflammation within few days.
1 teaspoon  of borax is all you need in a hot foot bath  


Listerine & Vinegar foot soak
To soften super-dry areas, soak your feet in original Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash  with Vinegar 
Listerine contains Thymol, an ingredient that does kill some bacteria and fungi.  Vinegar  is acetic acid

simply  do 1 cup Listerine and 1 cup Vinegar 
in a 1 gallon container  soak your feet 30 minutes
once or twice a week.

Coating feet in a cream like Burt’s Bees Thoroughly Therapeutic Honey & Bilberry Foot Creme, which is loaded with moisture-replenishing honey and jojoba oil, and wearing socks to bed is an excellent way to lock in moisture for softer feet. If you can’t stand to sleep in socks, place a humidifier at the foot of your bed to keep feet hydrated. Treat thick, dry patches on your feet by massaging them with Vicks Vaporous topical ointment in the p.m. to battle bacteria while you sleep 






ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. Confessions of Crafty Witches DOES NOT WARRANT, GUARANTEE, OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE INFORMATION ON THIS SITE OR THE USED, OR RESULTS OF THE USE, OF ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE INFORMATION, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY REPRESENTATION THAT THE INFORMATION IS CORRECT, ACCURATE, RELIABLE, CURRENT OR OTHERWISE. You Accept All Responsiblity for all Magical Spells and Rituals and Ceremonies and Herbal Remedies and Homeopathic Ideas and Crafts

NOTE: The information contained here on Confessions of crafty witches is for educational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for seeking the advice of a qualified physician and/or naturopathic doctor, and the information given within is not meant to replace modern medicines or established medical treatments without the proper guidance of a qualified health practitioner. It is only meant for educational purposes.





























Monday, February 11, 2013

Lemon Vinegar for your Health


The Lemon a Fruit of Vast uses in food 
but everyone Throws away the Peels 
But the Peels have many uses including making your own Lemon Vinegar

To make Lemon Vinegar 
Simply Add  3 Lemons Cut up 
in a Mason Jar with  Apple Cider Vinegar
(I do Apple Cider Vinegar but you can do White Vinegar if you wish)
Let it Sit 2-4 Weeks 
Strain out the Lemon and Use 


Becauses using Lemon Vinegar for Cooking
use it for your Health 


Bug Be Gone  Naturally
Mix Equal parts lemon Vinegar with Water in spray bottle and Spray along thresholds, windowsills, around door entrances, and near any cracks or holes where ants or pests may be entering. Ants do not like lemon and will not enter your home. Lemons are also effective against roaches and fleas.
Mix Mint and Lemon Together and you will keep them out all the time and have a Fresh Clean Smell


Household Cleaner 

Put about one cup of the lemon vinegar into a spray bottle and fill the bottle with water. Spray on surfaces like counter tops to clean them. I use this solution to clean my kitchen floor and everything else imaginable.  I even spray it into the air to freshen the room up.
Also Kills Mold  leaving a Fresh Lemon Smell behind  
You will at first smell a lot of vinegar, something .The vinegar smell quickly evaporates leaving only the lingering but subtle scent of lemons!
you can also add Cinnamon, Rosemary, Thyme and Mint to the Vinegar



Lemon Hair Rinse
Mix   1 cup Lemon Vinegar with  1 tsp Honey  and Massage it into your Scalp and hair to give it a tingly good Clean Great for cleaning your scalp Add Mint to the Vinegar to get rid of Dandruff

Lemon Foot Soak
Mix 1 Cup Lemon Vinegar  with  Mint  leaves and a few drops of  Tea Tree oil and hot water 
Soak your feet  30 minutes  to sooth tired aching Feet
also helps with  Bone Spurs  

Lemon Pet Odor be Gone 
Is your Pet Spraying  or Peeing and leaving odors
Mix  Lemon Vinegar with  Mint to Clean up Deodorize  and its non toxic to Animals  and Animals do not like the smell  Keeps  Stray Cats away if sprayed outside
Bathe your Pet in 1 Cup Lemon Vinegar and 1 Gallon Water to get rid of Skunk Smells   

Weed Killer
Weeds Weeds Weeds 
What to do?
Mix 3 Cups hot Water with 1 Cup Lemon Vinegar
Mix it into a spray bottle
Spray the Weeds 
Kills them and Kills the Roots and non Toxic to the Enviroment 

Lemon Vinegar Fat burner
 So are you trying to Shed some Weight need some help?
Try Adding Lemon Vinegar in Recipes to Dishes that Require  Vinegar
Great in Vinaigrette  in Salads   just a few Teaspoons is all you need 
The Acid in the Vinegar combined with Lemon are Fat burners  to help you feel full and energized and help you burn fat and Calories  

Detox Lemon Vinegar Tea 
Mix 1 Tablespoon Lemon Vinegar
and a Piece of fresh Ginger or Mint to a hot cup of Tea
add Honey to sweeten


Skin Problems, eczema,skin rashes
Wash your Skin with a Lemon Vinegar Scrub
First Clean your skin  with hot water to open your pores
then  mix 2 tablespoons Lemon Vinegar to 1 cup  Sugar and add Lemon juice
5 Tablespoons hot water  and  
Scrub and repeat Daily    



                                                          Sinus congestion
                                     Take 3 cups hot water
                                                            mix  1 cup Lemon Vinegar
                                         Place Towel overhead   and  Breathe Deeply



                                                                                

                                         Get Spring Fresh Laundry
       When your big washing day comes around, toss in a 1/2 cup of Lemon  vinegar. 
                            Your colors will come out bolder and your whites whiter.

                                                       

        Menstrual Cramps, Pulled muscle, foot leg Cramps 
Mix 1 tablespoon of Lemon vinegar, 1 teaspoon of honey and a cup of hot water. Then drink before bed. Yummy!


                                 
                                                 Urinary Tract Infections
                     Having UTI  is not fun for Women or Men so prevent it and help fix the problem
               Drink  1 Tsp  Lemon Vinegar  mixed with  your Favorite Tea with honey to sweeten
                                               add to cranberry Juice for Extra boost  to your health

any member of the Citrus Family you can do this as well   


                                                 
                                                              Grape Fruit  Vinegar 

       

                                         Lime with Rosemary or Mint  as well
                                                              
                                   orange Vinegar







ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. Confessions of Crafty Witches DOES NOT WARRANT, GUARANTEE, OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE INFORMATION ON THIS SITE OR THE USED, OR RESULTS OF THE USE, OF ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE INFORMATION, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY REPRESENTATION THAT THE INFORMATION IS CORRECT, ACCURATE, RELIABLE, CURRENT OR OTHERWISE. You Accept All Responsiblity for all Magical Spells and Rituals and Ceremonies and Herbal Remedies and Homeopathic Ideas and Crafts

NOTE: The information contained here on Confessions of crafty witches is for educational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for seeking the advice of a qualified physician and/or naturopathic doctor, and the information given within is not meant to replace modern medicines or established medical treatments without the proper guidance of a qualified health practitioner. It is only meant for educational purposes.