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	<title>Natural Lifestyles</title>
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	<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog</link>
	<description>natural beauty, health and lifestyle</description>
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		<title>Exercise: Is It Good for Your Complexion?</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/exercise-is-it-good-for-your-complexion/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/exercise-is-it-good-for-your-complexion/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Sep 2010 03:43:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Skin Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[acne]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[anti-aging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[damaged skin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[collagen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[complexion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pycnogenol]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=167</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Something that we all know and hear about all the time, exercise can do a body good. It helps you to stay trim, tone muscles, and helps boost energy levels as well. What you’re probably not aware of, is that exercise can actually help you achieve that great complexion you’ve always wanted.
It’s true that regular [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Something that we all know and hear about all the time, exercise can do a body good. It helps you to stay trim, tone muscles, and helps boost energy levels as well. What you’re probably not aware of, is that exercise can actually help you achieve that great complexion you’ve always wanted.</p>
<p>It’s true that regular exercise will nourish the skin all over the body with fresh blood, oxygen, and nutrients. As well, the increased blood flow and circulation that come with working out will help to draw toxins out of the body and improve the condition of all your vital organs, including your skin.</p>
<p>A lot of people think that sweat can trigger acne flare ups. The fact is, sweating is great for any type of congested skin, as it helps promote the flushing of impurities from the epidermal layer and will clean out the pores. As well, vigorous exercise can actually correct the hormonal imbalances that can trigger blemishes, therefore reducing the likelihood of outbreaks.<span id="more-167"></span></p>
<p>Any physical routine that you like to do, such as yoga, running, biking, spinning, pilates, boxing, and such, will help lessen the stress that you encounter on a daily basis and help to prevent stress related acne. Keep in mind that exercise may not be a miracle cure for everything, as you may still experience breakouts from time to time although your acne will certainly be less severe and last for a much shorter length of time.</p>
<p>Exercise is also great for other skin conditions that may or may not have to do with the presence of acne. Your skin losing its elasticity or becoming thin and less resilient is something that we all encounter. This is a common problem for may of us as we get older.</p>
<p>As we all get older, we start to lose collagen, which will makes us look tired. As many of us don’t know, physical activity can actually help to promote the growth of collagen in your skin cells, which will plump up your facial skin and make you look younger and more vibrant.</p>
<p>If you are worried about wrinkles, you should consider relaxation that comes after you exercise. This has the effect of making your muscles, facial muscles included, soften up. What this means, is that your lines will appear less pronounced, helping to contribute to the youthful look that you are trying to achieve.</p>
<p>Regular exercise can help you achieve better muscle tone, a slimmer waist, softer skin, fewer blemishes, and an overall younger, more fresher look. If you’ve wanted to add or change to your complexion, don’t hesitate to exercise. It will help you feel more alive as well as improve your body.</p>
<p>Protect your skin from aging with Venus Cellagen cream. It  contains plant-derived collagen and essential oils to delay cellular changes associated with aging skin. It is a very original cell regeneration and wrinkle cream because it  uses  powerful ingredients such as <a title="Venus Cellagen anti-wrinkle cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/anti-aging-anti-wrinkle-cream.html" target="_blank">immortelle/everlasting</a> essential oil. Use it daily for a blushing, youthful complexion.</p>
<p>To prevent stress related acne,  an effective all-natural and safe solution for treatment and prevention of  flare-ups is the  <a title="Venus Acne Treatment System" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/acne-treatment.html" target="_blank">Venus Natural Acne Treatment System</a>.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">Francine, owner of Venus Naturals, has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop natural, effective solutions to <a title="Venus Cellagen anti-wrinkle cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/anti-aging-anti-wrinkle-cream.html" target="_blank">regenerate new skin cells</a>,  <a title="Venus Pycnogenol cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/pycnogenol-cream.html" target="_blank">repair damaged skin</a> and <a title="Acne Treatment" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/acne-treatment.html" target="_blank">treat acne</a>.</div>
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		<title>Exercise Tips for Healthy Aging</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/exercise-tips-for-healthy-aging/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/exercise-tips-for-healthy-aging/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Sep 2010 03:22:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Lifestyles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[anti-aging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[daily skin care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[damaged skin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[age spots]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hyper-pigmentation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pycnogenol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[scars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sun damage]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=173</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It’s a fact that we will all get older, though aging doesn’t have to be the specter looming on the horizon that many fear. You can keep your body healthy through exercise. Combined with diet, exercise is one way to age gracefully. As we age, we lose muscle strength. It is a condition known as [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It’s a fact that we will all get older, though aging doesn’t have to be the specter looming on the horizon that many fear. You can keep your body healthy through exercise. Combined with diet, exercise is one way to age gracefully. As we age, we lose muscle strength. It is a condition known as sarcopenia. Loss of muscle mass as well as strength can be a fatal combination in the aging population. Strength contributes to one’s balance and flexibility. Without it, a fall can result in a broken hip or arm instead of a possible sprain from catching yourself.</p>
<p>There are no quick fixes to getting into shape. But, you can begin an exercise program at any age and reap the rewards. For seniors, implementing an exercise program may help to reverse the effects of time on your joints, muscles and bones. For women especially, osteoporosis is a threat as you age. So, what types of exercises can you perform? Don’t worry – you won’t be doing any PT training any time soon. You can strive for that but not right away. When choosing your exercise, use these tips.<span id="more-173"></span></p>
<p>* Start slowly. This point can’t be stressed enough. There is nothing to be gained by hitting the ground hard. You are more likely to keep with regular exercise when you find it enjoyable and painless. The best thing about exercise is that it is cumulative. Ten minutes here and there add up in the end.</p>
<p>* Consider aerobic fitness. Aerobic exercise increases heart and lung health. Maybe now you are winded walking up the stairs. After a few weeks, this may change. The benefits of aerobic exercises stretch beyond the gym or walking path into all areas of your life.</p>
<p>* Increase your flexibility with slow movements. Popular exercises for that are yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi. Through slow controlled movements, the body is stretched and relaxed. You won’t sweat buckets but then, an exercise doesn’t have to leave you panting to be effective. Increasing flexibility may combat stiffness in the joints and increase your range of motion for easier movement.</p>
<p>* Don’t forget about strength training. Strength training means challenging the muscles with weights. It can even be your own body weight. Barbells are not the only weight instrument you can use. There are dumbbells, weighted bars, weighted balls, bands and exercise machines to name a few. It is important to hit all muscle groups for overall improvement in strength. Working the back and abdominals (the core) helps with balance and posture.</p>
<p>* The best exercises are sometimes the simplest. You don’t have to be a member of the gym to perform any of the above suggestions. Exercise DVDs are available. You can pop one in whenever it is convenient for you. Walking is a great overall exercise that can be performed in your neighborhood, at a park or even the local mall.</p>
<p>All of us will age. Learn to age gracefully and protect your skin from accelerated aging. All ages can benefit from all natural <a title="Venus Pycnogenol cream" href="http://venusnaturals.com/pycnogenol-cream.html" target="_blank">Venus Pycnogenol cream</a> containing Pure Pycnogenol  Extract.</p>
<p>Use it for repairing damaged skin (sun and scar damage). Use it to help  stop the development of wrinkles. Use it to help lighten dark spots that are the  result of hyper-pigmentation and use it for daily skin care as an excellent base  for foundation and make-up.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">Francine, owner of Venus Naturals, has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop natural, effective solutions to <a title="Venus Cellagen anti-wrinkle cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/anti-aging-anti-wrinkle-cream.html" target="_blank">regenerate new skin cells</a> and  <a title="Venus Pycnogenol cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/pycnogenol-cream.html" target="_blank">repair damaged skin</a> and to <a title="Acne Treatment" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/acne-treatment.html" target="_blank">treat acne</a>.</div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Your Diet and Arthritis</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/your-diet-and-arthritis/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/your-diet-and-arthritis/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Sep 2010 01:50:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Lifestyles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pain Relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weight Loss]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[arthritis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[back pain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[carpal tunnel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fibromyalgia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[inflammation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joint disease]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joint pain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rheumatoid arthritis]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=170</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are not the only types of arthritic conditions. Diseases such as gout, pseudogout, childhood arthritis and lupus fall into this category.
Treatment modalities for all methods of arthritis will include rest, exercise, medication, weight loss, joint protection and cold or heat. The goal is to decrease pain and inflammation, slow the progression [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are not the only types of arthritic conditions. Diseases such as gout, pseudogout, childhood arthritis and lupus fall into this category.</p>
<p>Treatment modalities for all methods of arthritis will include rest, exercise, medication, weight loss, joint protection and cold or heat. The goal is to decrease pain and inflammation, slow the progression of the disease, decrease the disability in the joints and improve your overall health.</p>
<p>Some individuals also find that while altering their diets to effect a change in their overall health they also improve the cartilage production and their pain and discomfort. By altering their diet to improve weight maintenance they also decrease the amount of stress placed on the large weight-bearing joints. Research has also proven that given the opportunity, correct nutrition, water and light, the body is able to do an amazing number of things to heal itself.<span id="more-170"></span></p>
<p>Recent studies have supported that individuals who enjoy a high cholesterol, high fat diet will contribute to the inflammatory process in their bodies and hinder therapies and treatments for arthritic conditions. However, arthritis is not the only medical condition that is at the root of an inflammatory condition in the body. Researchers also know that several forms of cancer, diabetes, and it’s vascular disease are also a result of increased inflammation in the body.</p>
<p>Dietary changes do not have to be strict but are rather guidelines for a healthy lifestyle that limits pain, disability and improves cartilage production. Below is a list of foods that individuals should try to include in their diet as well as foods they should try to avoid. Use these as a strategy in your meal planning and not a strict “diet”. Individuals can also try to keep a dietary diary which records the foods they eat and a ranking of pain of inflammation on each day. Using this method they may find a certain group of foods which causes them greater inflammation and pain.</p>
<p>Individuals should also recognize that dietary changes can take up to several weeks or a month to make a difference in the level of pain or swelling. Initially you should try to avoid all foods that aggravate arthritis and include foods that are good for the condition. As pain decreases over several weeks you can try to add back one or two of the favorite foods and treats to yourself while keeping an eye on your dietary diary.</p>
<p>Individuals usually find that the occasional milkshake or chocolate bar will be tolerated, but may also find that the increased pain and decrease in ability isn’t worth the extra chocolate or cheese.</p>
<p>Foods you should include are fruits that are high in vitamin C such as most of the berries, cantaloupes and apples. Vegetables that are high in both Vitamin A and C such as carrots, squash, spinach, broccoli and cabbage will help the body to fight the effects of arthritis.</p>
<p>Fish that are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, such as salmon and mackerel, have been shown to decrease inflammation throughout the body. Milled flax seed also has the same omega 3 fatty acids. In the oil form it is not very palatable but as milled seed it can be sprinkled over sweet potatoes or salad and doesn’t affect the taste.</p>
<p>Include nuts, seeds and whole grains in the diet as well. Use unsalted raw nuts and seeds to decrease the amount of chemical additions to the foods. Almonds, pumpkin seeds, chick peas (great in salads) and brown rice are high in nutrients that the body uses to repair itself.</p>
<p>Foods to avoid include red meat, milk products, caffeine products, sugar, salt, vinegar, butter, chocolate, white potatoes and tobacco. All of these foods have chemicals (natural and added) that affect the progression of inflammation and arthritic diseases.</p>
<p>It is also important to maintain an appropriate weight for height. Eating a variety of the listed foods that are beneficial and avoiding foods high in cholesterol and fats, sugar and sodium will change the way the body produces and breaks down cartilage.</p>
<p>Gradually, your overall health will improve and these changes will have a positive impact on lessening the effects of the disease. Once these positive effects are felt, the ability to maintain this lifestyle will become easier and easier.</p>
<p><a title="Pain-Eez arthritis pain relief cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/MSM-arthritis-pain-relief-cream.html" target="_blank">Pain-Eez</a> is the premier all-natural pain cream formulated with powerful herbals and essential oils (devil’s claw, arnica, MSM) to bring temporary relief from chronic pain conditions such as Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel, back pain and a host of other conditions.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">Francine, owner of Venus Naturals, has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop <a title="Pain-Eez arthritis pain relief cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/MSM-arthritis-pain-relief-cream.html" target="_blank">natural, effective solutions to reduce and eliminate painful conditions such as arthritis</a>.</div>
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		<title>Vitamin E can play a major role in your body&#8217;s health</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/vitamin-e-can-play-a-major-role-in-your-bodys-health/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/vitamin-e-can-play-a-major-role-in-your-bodys-health/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Sep 2010 03:54:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Skin Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[anti-aging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[damaged skin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stretch marks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[antioxidant]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[burns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rosa mosqueta]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[scars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skin conditions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stretchmarks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vitamin e]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=142</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
A variety of nutrients such as vitamins and minerals keep you feeling your best and provides optimal body function.   Vitamin E is one vitamin that’s good for your overall health and is especially mentioned in relation to the skin.
This vitamin is an antioxidant, which are substances in the body that fight the effects of free radicals.   [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 10px; float: left;"><img title="seeds and nuts" src="http://www.healthandfitnessoasis.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/seeds-nuts.jpg" alt="seeds and nuts" width="200" height="130" /></div>
<p>A variety of nutrients such as vitamins and minerals keep you feeling your best and provides optimal body function.   Vitamin E is one vitamin that’s good for your overall health and is especially mentioned in relation to the skin.</p>
<p>This vitamin is an antioxidant, which are substances in the body that fight the effects of free radicals.   Free radicals are produced from the environment through pollution, smoking, the foods we eat, chemicals we ingest and the simple process of aging.  Antioxidants neutralize these free radicals before they can do damage.    Free radicals can wreak havoc on your body, playing a role in various conditions like heart disease and cancer.<span id="more-142"></span></p>
<p>You can get vitamin E in lotions and cream for direct contact with the skin.  Supplements give you concentrated vitamin E to benefit the entire body.  Vitamin E is also found in foods like nuts, seeds, wheat germ and vegetable oils.  The best form of vitamin E to get is alpha-tocopherol in its alcohol form and not as acetate. The best source for vitamin E is food.</p>
<p>Be careful here, though.  Processing foods can cause the loss of vitamin and minerals including vitamin E.  Eat foods in their natural form with as little processing as possible for maximum benefit.</p>
<p>Why is vitamin E so important?  For one, it is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning that it can incorporate itself into the cellular wall.  Here it protects body cells from breakdown and thus the breakdown of other body tissues.  Getting your daily recommended dose of vitamin E can prevent or help in the treatment of:</p>
<p>* Heart disease<br />
* Asthma<br />
* Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease<br />
* Cataracts and other eye conditions<br />
* Different types of cancer<br />
* Metabolic conditions like diabetes<br />
* Menstrual cramps<br />
* Skin conditions</p>
<p><strong> Vitamin E helps to reduce the signs of aging</strong> such as dry skin (psoriasis), wrinkles, age spots and scars.  It  helps the skin to retain a balanced moisture level that can become unbalanced from the use of cleaning solutions on the skin.  With more water and oil in your skin, it appears plump and vibrant like a healthy organ should.</p>
<p><strong>Andean Rose Cream with Vitamin E</strong></p>
<p>Andean Rose cream contains precious Rosa Mosqueta from the rosehip seeds of one type of wild rose grown in the Andes of South America. It contains an extremely high percentage of essential fatty acids, Vitamin C and Vitamin E.</p>
<p>Scars even 20 years old respond well to this cream when other therapies fail, and burned skin heals faster because of its power to  regenerate tissue. Andean Rose cream with Rosa Mosqueta and Vitamin E is especially valuable in treating damaged skin preventing  sun damage.</p>
<p>Getting your vitamins from food is always best and the addition of all-natural creams containing  Vitamin E can play a major role in the health of your body.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">This article was written by Francine, owner of Venus Naturals. She has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop natural, effective solutions to reduce and eliminate skin damage. <a title="Andean Rose Stretch Mark Cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/stretchmarks-cream.html" target="_blank">Find out more about stretch marks.</a></div>
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		<title>Events that Trigger Osteoarthritis</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/events-that-trigger-osteoarthritis/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/events-that-trigger-osteoarthritis/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Sep 2010 03:47:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Lifestyles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pain Relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[arthritis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cartilage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fibromayalgia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joints]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[knees]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[osteoarthritis]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=148</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Although osteoarthritis usually accompanies old age, researchers have found that cartilage in the joint becomes chemically different than a joint that does not have the disease.
Researchers have also found that there are usually a series of events which lead to the development of the condition and that, while it is often associated with old age, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Although osteoarthritis usually accompanies old age, researchers have found that cartilage in the joint becomes chemically different than a joint that does not have the disease.</p>
<p>Researchers have also found that there are usually a series of events which lead to the development of the condition and that, while it is often associated with old age, that association isn’t enough to trigger osteoarthritis.</p>
<p>These particular events involve both the use and breakdown of the cartilage as well as the production and maintenance in the joints.  The joints which are affected are usually the larger weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips.  These provide the majority of the cushion when we are doing any weight-bearing exercise such as walking or running.</p>
<p>Athletes who perform repetitive motion exercises, such as rowing or tennis, will find that osteoarthritis can also develop in the elbow and shoulder areas.<span id="more-148"></span></p>
<p>Researchers believe that a genetic component may also be responsible for the development but have not yet conclusively found a link.  May have found a higher correlation in the development of osteoarthritis when a parent has the condition and a child subsequently developed it.</p>
<p>Individuals who suffer from osteoarthritis will also exhibit muscle weakness in large muscle groups, especially the quadricep muscles.  Researchers, however, are not sure if it is the arthritis in the knee which causes the individual to decrease their exercise and therefore muscle strength or if it is the arthritis which causes the decrease in muscle strength.</p>
<p>This weakness, especially in the quadricep muscles, predates the development of osteoarthritis and actually triggers the degeneration of the joints.  Researchers do know that the stronger the muscle mass, the better able the body is able to protect the joints.</p>
<p>Other anatomical reasons which may be involved in the development of this condition include individuals who are “bow legged” or “knock kneed”.  Researchers have found that these individuals are more likely to develop arthritis in their knees while other researchers have found that individuals born with knees that don’t meet smoothly have cartilage that isn’t formed correctly.  This predisposes them to the wear and tear associated with osteoarthritis.</p>
<p>Based on this previous research doctors also know that injuries play a large part in the changes that occur in large joints which lead to osteoarthritis.</p>
<p>Individuals who have knee injuries early in life have shown a 16% more likelihood to develop arthritis in the affected knee than those who had no injury.</p>
<p>Other medical conditions which have been found to play a part in the development of this condition is hemophilia, during which individuals have the potential to bleed into the joints and damage the cartilage, or individuals with chronic gout or pseudogout who have mineral deposits in the joints from the crystals.</p>
<p>Unfortunately individuals who already suffer from rheumatoid arthritis can also show the damaging effects of osteoarthritis because of the inflammatory changes caused to the cartilage.</p>
<p>Although the causes of osteoarthritis have have not been fully identified, triggers and predisposing conditions can be addressed to potentially delay the onset or stop the development of this painful disease.</p>
<p><a title="Pain-Eez arthritis pain relief cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/MSM-arthritis-pain-relief-cream.html" target="_blank">Pain-Eez</a> is the premier all-natural pain cream formulated with powerful herbals and essential oils (devil’s claw, arnica, MSM)  to bring temporary relief from chronic pain conditions such as Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel, back pain and a host of other conditions.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">Francine, owner of Venus Naturals, has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop <a title="Pain-Eez arthritis pain relief cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/MSM-arthritis-pain-relief-cream.html" target="_blank">natural, effective solutions to reduce and eliminate the painful conditions such as arthritis</a>.</div>
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		<title>Should you be Exercising While Pregnant?</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/should-you-be-exercising-while-pregnant/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/should-you-be-exercising-while-pregnant/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Sep 2010 03:21:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Lifestyles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Skin Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stretch marks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[all-natural cream]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[labor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[premature birth]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stretchmarks]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=138</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Exercise is very good for your health during pregnancy and can have many other benefits as well. Keep the exercise light, especially during your first few weeks of pregnancy while your body adjusts to the changes.
Any type of heavy exercise can divert the blood flow from crucial areas, and most women that exercise on a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 10px; float: left;"><img title="PREGNANCY" src="http://www.healthandfitnessoasis.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/pregnantflowers1.jpg" alt="PREGNANCY" width="200" height="133" /></div>
<p>Exercise is very good for your health during pregnancy and can have many other benefits as well. Keep the exercise light, especially during your first few weeks of pregnancy while your body adjusts to the changes.</p>
<p>Any type of heavy exercise can divert the blood flow from crucial areas, and most women that exercise on a regular basis should tone down   their workout regimen during pregnancy.</p>
<p>Swimming, walking, and yoga are two very popular exercise activities that are suitable for pregnant women.  There are other forms of exercise such as weight lifting that are acceptable as long as it isn’t too strenuous.  Most specialists recommend exercise 3 – 4 times a week, unless you have a medical condition that prevents it.  If you are ever in doubt, you should consult a physician first.</p>
<p><span id="more-138"></span></p>
<p>Below, you’ll find some of the best reasons as to why you should exercise during pregnancy.</p>
<p>1.  Exercise can help to reduce the length of labor and recovery time.  The right exercise routines will also increase stamina that is needed for delivery.</p>
<p>2.  Improved mental health.  Exercise can lower stress and improve your emotional health, making it easier for you to get through the new experience of becoming a mother.</p>
<p>3.  Exercise can also help with weight management after the child has been born.  A common concern with most mothers is the weight they need to lose after pregnancy.  During pregnancy, exercise can make postpartum weight loss easier.</p>
<p>4.  Exercise is very good for your unborn baby.  By keeping your body healthy, you are also looking out for your baby as well.</p>
<p>5.  Exercise can help reduce the side effects of pregnancy.  Symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, swelling, and constipation are all common with pregnant women. Studies have shown exercise to reduce the occurrence of these symptoms.</p>
<p>6.  Exercise can also decrease the risk of premature birth.  Exercise has been proven to decrease the risk of premature birth by at least 50%.</p>
<p>You should always make sure that you drink plenty of fluids before you exercise, follow a nutritious diet, and avoid over exertion.  Also,  listen to your body and if you start feeling sick you should immediately stop and rest.</p>
<p>If you exercise during your pregnancy, you’ll find it a lot easier to deliver when the time comes. Exercise will help your body strengthen up, which will make it very easy on you when you go into the delivery room.  Women who don’t exercise find it much harder when the time comes to give birth.</p>
<p>Pregnancy also makes you more susceptible to stretch marks. To accommodate a growing baby, elastic fibers beneath the surface of the skin can break down as the mother&#8217;s tummy enlarges. Dark scars may appear on hips, breasts, belly button, abdomen, back, and even on the buttocks during or after a pregnancy.</p>
<p><a title="Venus Andean Rose Cream " href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/stretchmarks-cream.html" target="_blank">AndeanRose cream</a> is the best companion for expectant moms to help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy.  It can even eliminate existing stretch marks that are 20 years old!</p>
<p>Andean Rose cream contains Rosa Mosqueta (Chilean rosehip oil, rich in Vitamin C) and cocoa butter  in a 100% natural cream that improves your skin’s elasticity and prevent stretch marks from forming. Being completely natural and free of synthetics AndeanRose cream is totally safe for you and baby.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">This article was written by Francine, owner of Venus Naturals. She has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop natural, effective solutions to reduce and eliminate stretchmarks, scars and burn marks. <a title="Andean Rose Stretch Mark Cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/stretchmarks-cream.html" target="_blank">Find out more about stretch marks.</a></div>
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		<title>The Power of Antioxidants for Staying Young</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/the-power-of-antioxidants-for-staying-young/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/the-power-of-antioxidants-for-staying-young/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 17:01:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[anti-aging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[damaged skin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[antioxidants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cellular metabolism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[free radicals]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=116</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Everyone wants to grow old gracefully.  Some go under the knife to get that youthful look while others opt for a more natural way to maintain that healthy glow.  The way to make peace with age can be found in the types of foods that we eat and the miracle ingredient they contain.
This [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Everyone wants to grow old gracefully.  Some go under the knife to get that youthful look while others opt for a more natural way to maintain that healthy glow.  The way to make peace with age can be found in the types of foods that we eat and the miracle ingredient they contain.</p>
<p>This hidden “miracle” is called antioxidants.  They have graced the pages of magazines, medical journals and every product from hand cream to supplement pills.  But what are antioxidants and what can they do to keep you looking your best?</p>
<p>Antioxidants are substances that fight the aging process that goes on in your body.  They are not produced by the body so to get the benefit of these power-packed substances you must ingest them.  A variety of foods contain antioxidants.<span id="more-116"></span></p>
<p><strong>Fight the aging process</strong></p>
<p>Let’s go back to the beginning.  The body continually replenishes its cells.  Through a process called cellular metabolism, the body produces energy, more cells and repairs any damage.  One by-product of cellular metabolism is unstable molecules called free radicals.</p>
<p>Free radicals are molecules that damage your body.  They are unstable because they are missing an electron.  To get another one and become stable, free radicals will steal electrons from cells.  That theft damages the cells in a variety of ways.</p>
<p>The results are visible and invisible changes to our bodies.  The development of diseases like cancer, diabetes, arthritis and neurological deficiencies may begin to affect you as you age.  Also, thinner skin, wrinkles and brittle bones are a problem.  Free radicals enter our body from outside sources as well: cigarette smoke, radiation and the sun’s UV rays.  The more free radicals we encounter, the greater the damage that can be done.</p>
<p><strong>Antioxidant substances combine with free radicals and neutralize them.</strong> Once they are neutralized, they can no longer do any damage.  Scientists don’t have any idea of a recommended daily dose of antioxidants to correct free radical damage and the diseases that come with age, but they do know that eating foods rich in antioxidants makes a huge difference in how we live.</p>
<p>Where do you find antioxidants?  They are all around us.  Look no further than your local farmer’s market or produce aisle in the grocery store.  Fruits and vegetables contain the principle sources of antioxidants.</p>
<p><strong>Examples of antioxidants include:</strong><br />
* Vitamin C<br />
* Vitamin A<br />
* Vitamin E<br />
* Lutein<br />
* Lycopene<br />
* Beta-carotene</p>
<p>Certain minerals like zinc and selenium also function in the body.  They are not antioxidants but they boost the immune system to fight against free radical damage.</p>
<p>Antioxidants are also found in nuts, legumes, cold water fish, seafood and red meat.  So, eating a varied diet of fruits, vegetables and the foods just named will increase the amount of antioxidants in your system and help reduce the incidence of disease.  Eating fruits and vegetables in their natural form instead of juices brings the benefit of other nutrients found in the foods.  Juices may contain a lot of sugar that is not needed by your body.</p>
<p>Venus Cellagen contains plant-derived collagen and essential oils to delay cellular changes associated with aging skin. It is a very original cell regeneration and wrinkle cream because it  uses  powerful ingredients such as <a title="Venus Cellagen anti-wrinkle cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/anti-aging-anti-wrinkle-cream.html">immortelle/everlasting</a> essential oil. Use it daily for a blushing, youthful complexion.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">Francine, owner of Venus Naturals, has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop natural, effective solutions to <a title="Venus Cellagen anti-wrinkle cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/anti-aging-anti-wrinkle-cream.html" target="_blank">regenerate new skin cells</a> and  <a title="Venus Pycnogenol cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/pycnogenol-cream.html" target="_blank">repair damaged skin</a>.</div>
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		<title>Decrease your pain with deep tissue massage</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/decrease-your-pain-with-deep-tissue-massage/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/decrease-your-pain-with-deep-tissue-massage/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:43:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Lifestyles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pain Relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chronic pain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep tissue massage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fibromyalgia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[injuries]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[massage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[muscle knots]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[muscle spasms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[osteoarthritis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[postural problems]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[repetitive strain injury]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Swedish massage]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=120</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you suffer from chronic tension, joint and/or deep tissue pain in areas of your body such as your neck, low back or shoulders,  deep tissue massage could be especially helpful for you. Massage has been giving individuals medical and health benefits for years.  At this time, over 30 different types of massage have been identified, having been used for [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you suffer from chronic tension, joint and/or deep tissue pain in areas of your body such as your neck, low back or shoulders,  deep tissue massage could be especially helpful for you. Massage has been giving individuals medical and health benefits for years.  At this time, over 30 different types of massage have been identified, having been used for the last 3000 years.  Deep tissue massage is one of those therapies that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.</p>
<p>Deep tissue massage uses some of the same motions and techniques as Swedish massage but the pressure will generally be more intense.  Deep tissue massage is a more focused type of therapy as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or knots, also known as adhesions.</p>
<p>Deep tissue massage should be done by a therapist who has been specially trained in the technique.  Although it does not hurt,  it is likely to be more uncomfortable than a classic  Swedish massage.  Using these deeper techniques for massage can help to break up and eliminate scar tissue and is usually focused on more specific areas of the body than an overall body massage.  Although there may be some soreness during or after the massage the participant should feel better than ever within a day or two.<span id="more-120"></span></p>
<p>Like other types of massage therapy individuals who experience deep tissue massage on a consistent basis will find the most benefits.  Individuals who consistently use deep tissue massage also find that their bodies stay in better alignment and in better shape which decreases their risk of injury.</p>
<p>One of the other big defining differences between deep tissue massage and a regular massage technique is the use of tools.  During a standard massage therapists usually only involve their own hands and lower arms.  However, during deep tissue massage, the  therapist will use elbows, fingers, penetrating tools such as ceramics, glass or wooden props in order to reach the deep muscles.  Those who are unfamiliar with the technique may go too quickly and cause the muscles to tense up which is not the desired reaction.  Some therapists also maintain very firm pressure in trouble spots for several minutes to help the muscle achieve release before moving onto the next area of the body.</p>
<p>Before a client gets deep tissue massage they should talk with their therapist about any outstanding issues they currently have and anything they would like to see specifically addressed during the massage.  Most therapists are very happy to concentrate on a single part of the body to achieve more lasting results that the client will truly appreciate.  At the end of any session the client should drink lots of water to help the body express and excrete the toxins which were released during the massage.</p>
<p>It is important for the client to be realistic about what one particular massage will be able to achieve.  Some people even ask for more pressure thinking that if the therapist pushes hard enough they can get rid of all of the knots in just one hour.  Unfortunately, this doesn’t happen and can actually hurt the individual more than it helps.  Undoing chronic knots and tension which have been built up over a lifetime is achieved more successfully with an integrated program that includes exercise, relaxation techniques, improved posture and a regular massage treatment.</p>
<p>Unlike classic massage therapy that can be used for relaxation, deep tissue massage is usually focused on specific problems such as chronic pain, limited mobility, recovery from injuries, repetitive strain injury, postural problems, osteoarthritis,  fibromyalgia and muscle spasms.</p>
<p>According to a report in Consumer Reports in 2005,  34,000 people ranked deep tissue massage more effective in relieving the pain of osteoarthritis than physical therapy, exercise, prescription drugs, accupuncture, glucosamine or over the counter medications.  In fact, deep tissue massage also received top rankings for individuals who suffered from fibromyalgia.</p>
<p>Deep tissue massage is not recommended if individuals are suffering from an infectious disease,  rash or open wounds,  immediately after surgery, immediately after chemotherapy,  individuals who are prone to blood clots and pregnant women.  Massage should never be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin,  tumors,  abdominal hernias or areas of recent fractures.  Before going in to see the massage therapist,  do not eat a heavy meal and, if it’s your first time, arrive at least 10 minutes early to fill out all the necessary forms.</p>
<p>This type of  massage, when used in the right way and on a consistent basis, can result in significant positive results in your overall health.</p>
<p><a title="Pain-Eez deep tissue pain relief cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/MSM-arthritis-pain-relief-cream.html" target="_blank">Pain-Eez</a> is the premier all-natural pain cream formulated with powerful herbals and essential oils to bring temporary relief from chronic pain conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, back pain stiffness, cramps and a host of other conditions.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">Francine, owner of Venus Naturals, has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop <a title="Pain-Eez deep tissue pain relief cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/MSM-arthritis-pain-relief-cream.html" target="_blank">natural, effective solutions for the temporary relief of pain</a> associated with arthritis and deep tissue related pain such as fibromyalgia.</div>
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		<title>Increase leg circulation and say goodbye to varicose veins</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/increase-leg-circulation-and-say-goodbye-to-varicose-veins/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/increase-leg-circulation-and-say-goodbye-to-varicose-veins/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:25:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Skin Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leg care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[calendula]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leg circulation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[spider veins]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[varicose vein cream]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[varicose veins]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=100</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Standing for long periods is hard on leg veins. It tends to cause poor circulation and can produce swelling and aching in the legs unless you are doing some activities or movements while your are standing.
It is necessary to take some precautions when you are on your feet a lot because when you are standing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Standing for long periods is hard on leg veins. It tends to cause poor circulation and can produce swelling and aching in the legs unless you are doing some activities or movements while your are standing.</p>
<p>It is necessary to take some precautions when you are on your feet a lot because when you are standing for a long time, the reduced blood flow sets up the perfect conditions for varicose veins and spider veins.</p>
<p>The deep veins inside your lower legs are encased by your calf muscles and connective tissues. These deeper veins need to be strong and contracting efficiently to pump the blood back up to the heart.</p>
<p>If your calf muscles are weak, your circulation will be weak. That is the reason it is so important to practice a few simple forms of exercise on a regular basis to strengthen your calf muscles and increase blood flow.<span id="more-100"></span></p>
<p><strong>Try these simple exercises and stop suffering from varicose veins:</strong></p>
<p>While standing, raise your heels and get up on your tip-toes as high as you can. Let heels down again. Do this 15 or 20 times, relax for a few minutes, then repeat.<br />
Walking causes a therapeutic reaction in the body that results in better circulation especially in the lower limbs. Take short breaks several times a day to walk. Increase walking time from 15 minutes to 45 minutes at least three times a week.<br />
Stretch leg muscles often and shift your weight from a sitting or standing position to do other physical activities that will improve your blood circulation.</p>
<p>If you do consistent, moderate exercises like these several times a week for several months, you will reduce the swelling of your varicose veins and prevent more from forming in the future.</p>
<p>Use circulation enhancers – check for therapeutic grade essential oils and natural herbs in leg veins products. The herbal extract Calendula is known to compensate for circulation deficiencies.  Calendula is known for its anti-inflammatory and regenerative capabilities. Gingko biloba and Horse chestnut are used to reduce varicose veins pain and swelling.</p>
<p>It is preferred to use these herbs externally in a <a title="Invisi-Vein Varicose Vein Cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/varicose-spider-veins-cream.html" target="_blank">cream or lotion</a> rather than internally to get quick and dependable results. According to the Mayo Clinic, “using these powerful herbs can significantly reduce pain and vein size and may actually be as effective a treatment as compression stockings.”</p>
<p>Your legs will feel great and you will have more energy, attractiveness and get-up and go!</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">Francine, owner of Venus Naturals, has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop <a title="Invisi-Vein varicose vein cream and Leg Energy" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/varicose-spider-veins-cream.html" target="_blank">natural, effective solutions to reduce and eliminate varicose and spider veins</a>.</div>
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		<title>Can Arthritis be Identified by a Blood Test?</title>
		<link>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/can-arthritis-be-identified-by-a-blood-test/</link>
		<comments>http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/can-arthritis-be-identified-by-a-blood-test/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 28 Aug 2010 19:04:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Natural Lifestyles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[arthritis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blood test]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joint pain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pain]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.venusnaturals.com/Blog/?p=104</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are over 100 different forms of arthritis.  Due to the variety and different ways in which the disease presents itself, there are conclusive tests to determine that an individual suffers from arthritis.  Arthritic conditions can affect the joints, bones, soft tissue and organ systems depending upon which condition is present.  When doctors piece together [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are over 100 different forms of arthritis.  Due to the variety and different ways in which the disease presents itself, there are conclusive tests to determine that an individual suffers from arthritis.  Arthritic conditions can affect the joints, bones, soft tissue and organ systems depending upon which condition is present.  When doctors piece together a diagnoses, they may use blood tests, imaging studies, a thorough history and a physical in order to determine an accurate diagnosis.</p>
<p>Arthritis does not usually exist in a vacuum.  This means that patients often have more than one medical condition or disease process going on at the same time.  Therefore, tests are used not only to identify the disease but to rule out other issues which may be causing the same symptoms.  Sometimes doctors have to use a diagnosis of exclusion.  This means the doctor will exclude everything else that the condition could be and will be left with the most probable diagnosis.<span id="more-104"></span></p>
<p>Blood tests are used to not only identify the disease but also evaluate the progression and to make decisions about a treatment plan.  After an accurate diagnosis is done blood testing can be used to evaluate the efficacy of the medications and therapies and the effects that they’ve had on the patient.</p>
<p>Doctors will usually draw blood at their office, using a nurse or phlebotomist.  The blood is put into different files that have different colored tops.  Each colored top represents a different type of preservative or reactive agent for the different types of blood tests being drawn.  Some tests can take up to 24 hours to get results and others may take up to two weeks.</p>
<p>In the first test, the physician will often order a complete blood count (CBC) which will help determine if the patient has a low red blood count and also the status of white cells used to fight infection.  A complete blood count will also give an indication of the level of platelets available to help in clotting.  Individuals who suffer from arthritis will often have minor abnormalities in these specific blood counts because of the increased inflammation in the body.</p>
<p>One commonly known test, the rheumatoid factor (RF) is a blood test which detects antibodies in the blood that some individuals with arthritis have. Doctors will use this test in combination with other results to make decisions about treatment protocols but not as an individual test result. The anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) are antibodies found in individuals who have arthritic conditions.  This test is used as a screening test also for Lupus because the test detects inflammation in the joints, soft tissue and organ systems.</p>
<p>Blood tests, or any other tests, are not conclusive for arthritis.  Doctors will use a combination of physical exams, a thorough medical history check of both patient and their family and also blood tests to identify any problems with arthritis.  They may also use imaging tests that include x-rays, bone scans, MRI, CAT scan and pulmonary function tests.  An accurate diagnosis is the only way to develop the best treatment plan that will combat arthritic pain and inflammation as well as slow down progression of the disease.<br />
<a title="Pain-Eez arthritis pain relief cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/MSM-arthritis-pain-relief-cream.html" target="_blank">Pain-Eez</a> is the premier all-natural pain cream formulated with powerful  herbals and essential oils (devil&#8217;s claw, arnica, MSM)   to bring temporary relief from chronic pain  conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, back pain and a host  of other conditions.</p>
<div style="border: 1px dotted black; padding: 10px; width: 375px; margin-bottom: 5px; clear: both;">Francine, owner of Venus Naturals, has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop <a title="Pain-Eez arthritis pain relief cream" href="http://www.venusnaturals.com/MSM-arthritis-pain-relief-cream.html" target="_blank">natural, effective solutions to reduce and eliminate the pain of arthritis</a>.</div>
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